X 






x 



HISTORY 

•a OF i^; 

^ COUNTIES 

OF • 

McKEAN, ELK and FOREST, 

PENNSYLVANIA, 

with 

BIOGRAPHICAL SELECTIONS, 



INCLUDING 



THEIB EARLY SETTLEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT; A DESCRIPTION' OF THE HISTORIC AND 

INTERESTING LOCALITIES; SKETCHES OF THEIR CITIES. TOWNS AND VILLAGES; 

PORTRAITS OF PROMINENT MEN; BIOGRAPHIES OF REPRESENTATIVE 

CITIZENS; OUTLINE HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA; STATISTICS, ETC. 



ILLUSTRATED. 




CHICAGO : 

J. H. BEERS & CO., PUBLISHERS, 

1890. 



-fir / 




PEEFACE. 



■*<- 



Go fix some weighty truth; 
Chain down some passion: do some good; 
Teach ignorance to see or grief to smile; 
Correct thy friend; befriend thy greatest foe; 
Be just in all things; make amends 
For follies past, and, with warm heart, 
Forgive, and be forgiven. Let work not words 
Thy virtue prove. Go act as well as prate, 
And then thy counsels will be strong, 
Thy reprimands avail.— Anon. 

THE province of the historian is to gather the threads of the past ere they 
elude forever his grasp, and weave them into a harmonious web to which 
the '"art preservative" may give immortality. Therefore he, who would res- 
cue from fast-gathering oblivion the deeds of a community, and send them on 
to futurity in an imperishable record, should deliver a plain, unvarnished tale. 
In such a spirit have the compilers of the following pages approached the work 
of detailing the history embodied therein, and trust they have been fairly 
faithful to the task imposed. It has been their honest endeavor to trace the 
history of the development of this section from that period when it was in the 
indisputed possession of the red man to the present, and to place before the 
reader an authentic narrative of its rise and progress to the prominent position 
it now occupies in the Keystone State. 

This volume has been prepared in strict accordance with the announce- 
ments made in the prospectus issued more than a year ago. The publishers 
were fortunate in securing the services of Prof. M. A. Leeson, whose many years 
of labor in the Held of local history have especially fitted him for the work. To 
him was assigned the task of preparing the general histories of these counties. 

The biographical sketches, which are an important feature of the work, 
were prepared, for the most part, by a special corps of writers, who gathered 
the facts from those immediately interested, to whom they were submitted, in 
type-written form, for revision and correction. The personal and family his- 
tories given in these sketches chronicle much interesting and valuable matter 
which, through death and the ravages of time, would otherwise be lost, and it is 
believed that in succeeding years they will be found to possess an additional 
interest and value. 

The volume is believed to contain a larger and more varied amount of his- 
torical materials than was ever before embodied in a local history; but he who 
expects to find it entirely free from errors or defects has little knowledge of 
the difficulties attending the preparation of a work of this kind. To procure 
material for its compilation, official records have been carefully examined; 
newspaper files searched; manuscripts, letters and memoranda have been 
sought, and hundreds of citizens interviewed. In some cases it was necessary 
to reconcile contradictory statements. Some errors are unavoidable. The pub 
lishers trust that the book will be received in that generous spirit which is grati- 
fied at honest and conscientious effort, and not in that captious spirit which 
refuses to be satisfied short of unattainable perfection. 



Throughoul the pages of the history of the counties literary credit is given 
to those, who, in earlier years, did so much for the cause of history in this 
district ; acknowledgment is made to others for the ready assistance given in 
the prosecution of the work. The number who have assisted by suggestion, 
relation or written testimony to render this volume what it is. is too large to 
warrant individual mention here, hut the aid and courtesy of each one are fully 
remembered and appreciated. 

Si ial thanks are tendered to the prothonotaries, commissioners' clerks 

and recorders, and to all other officials of these counties, for their co-opera- 
tion with the writer in searching the public record books and documents. To 
the clerks of the boroughs and the record keepers of religious, secret, benevo- 
lent, temperance and military organizations, acknowledgement is gratefully 
made for their material aid. 

To the members of the newspaper circle of McKean county, who not only 
permitted the examination of their most valuable tiles, but also suggested many 
interesting historical points, hitherto unpublished, much of the complete char- 
acter of this volume must be credited. The files examined comprise the Miner, 
in possession of Lucius Rogers; the Reporter, of A. J. Hughes; the Era and 
older papers, as well as tin ( HI News, of the Era Publishing Company, through 
Editors P. C. Boyle and A. L. Snell; the Star, of the Star Publishing Company, 
through Editor H. F. Barbour: the Eldred Eagle, of A. D. Gould; the McKt an 
Democrat, of Clark Wilson; the Kane Leader, of Ada C. Malone, and the 
Oswayo Valley Mail, of J. P. Herrick; while a thorough summary was made 
of the old newspaper files of 1832—42; of the King survey books of 1799-1805, 
and historical papers of Orlo J. Hamlin, published in 1832, all in possession of 
Byron D. Hamlin. The reminiscences of Loyal Ward, and the private docu- 
ments in possession of Henry Hamlin, proved very valuable. 

To the editors of Elk county an equal measure of thanks is extended. The 
old files of the Advocate, in possession of Jerome Powell, the uew o 
Editor Baker, the files of the Democrat, of George R. Dixon; the Gazette, of 
the Wilmarth Brothers, and the Herald, of F. A. Jacob, yielded up a wealth 
of local history. The pamphlet entitled Our ('"ennui) Schools,b) George R. 
Dixon, the papers by Erasmus Morey, Jefferson L. Brown and George A 
Rathbun, with short sketches by Henry Souther and Dr. C. R. Barley, con 
tributed largely to render the history of Elk county complete; while the collec- 
tion of old school records and documents in possession of Charles Luhr, and 
the reminiscences of Ignatius Garner, were invaluable contributions to the 
sketches of Benzinger township and St. Mary's borough. From copies of the 
Clarion Bret • accounts of modern Johnsonburg and vicinitj an' taken. 

Forest county is Bingularly fortunate in its possession of citizen- who have 
always taken a deep interest in her history. In 1876 Samuel 1). Irwin wrote 
his Centennial sketches, a valuable collection of pioneer memoirs. Daniel Bar 
rington' s contributions to the Spectator were equally valuable. To .Tame- B. 
Muse, of the Democratic Vindicator, the writer is indebted for the Ha 
ton reminiscei s; and to Mr. Jacob E. Wenk, of the Foresi Republican, for 

the Irwin history; and to both editors much is due for their BUCCessful efforts 

in preserving historical farts. The tiles of the National Democrat, of J. M. 
Kepler, have also afforded valuable data for tl ion 

Co all people, whose intelligent e>> operation renders this work successful, 
is sent a message of hope and belief that this volume will prove authentic 
and be acceptable. 

THE PUBLISHERS 



CONTENTS. 



History of Pennsylvania. 



Pace. 
Introductory. — Firsf Settlers Along the 
Delaware -William [Vim His Early Diffi- 
culties— Dissensions in the Colony 'ivim's 
Second Visit to tin- Province Accession 
of Governor Keith -French and Indian 
War Franklin's Mi>sicm to England— The 















Page. 


Boundary 


,111 


Sll 


igglefor 


Indi 


tend 


■nee 


Convenl 






- Const! 


lltlOl 


nt i 




Whisky Ii 


— . T t ■ 




i SI 


Colli 


1 !01 


\ i-n- 


Hon "I 18 


7 




ylvania i 


i fchi 


W.'i 


■ of 


tin- Rehell 


on 


Sill 


equent E 


vents 




!, ! 



History of McKean County 



CHAPTER I.-Ti.i-iii;i;.vi-iiv ami NATl 
ral History.— Boundary and Area Land 
Cessions and Purchases- Population As- 
sessment Statistics— Oeneinl Description— 
Topography- Creek N'omeiK-lature— Vege- 
tation— I. umlii-r Manufacture Caiin- ahil 
Fish— Fossils— Coal Mines Gas Wells 53-58 

CHAPTER CI.— On, Fields.— Early Discov- 
eries of oil - c,,al oil .Mills ami oil Wells 
oil Companies Wells of tin- Pioneer period 
-The Bradford < »il Field "Slmt In" l.v 
Producers- Pipe Lines and Companies 
Well Drilling. Past and Present oil Semits 
—Well Torpedoes Miscellaneous., 68 at 

s ami Pioneer 



dian Land Pi 



and Floods- First Court-house First Ball 
—Early Wedding — Early Incidents and 



CHAPTEB IV. 



-Tk 



i Jbmpany's 
lity— Smeth- 



of tin- County Ho 
Land- John Keati 
port, the i nniitv T,>\ 
tion — County Build 
Bridges— Poor Fan 
ed Lands 



CHAPTEi: v.— Courts and Bar— First 
Courts— Character of tin- E.-n-Iv Bench and 
Bar, with Hates of Admission ol M, 'mines 
Prior to 1878 Celeh rated Can-.es Judges 



mittod tot he McKeun County Bar sine May, 
1878, Term— Orlo J. Hamlin— John W. Howe 
112 its 

i iiaptfi; VI.— Political Affairs.— In- 



CHAPTEB VTI.— Military History.— 

Forty-second Regiment il'.ncktailsi Col. 
Kane-Fiftv-cighth Regiment. P. V. I.— 
Eighty-third Regiment, P. V. I. one Hun- 
dred and Fiftii tn Regiment, P. V. I. One 
Hundred and Seventy-second Regiment, P. 
V. I.— Two Hundred and Eleventh Regi 
ment, P. V. I.— Miscellaneous l -js 144 

Addendum. -List of soldiers buried in 
the vicinity of Bradford 

CHAPTEE VIII— Newspapers— Si hools 

— Physicians. — .V, icsycij,, rs Introduc- 
tory Journals and Journalists -Bradford 
Newspapers Bradford Press Chili Miscel- 
laneous Journals. Softools Grant of Land 
and Money l.\ John Keating I irst Schools- 
Primitive Eieeniosynnr, institution Farh 
School at Smethnort Education Law 

School Conillllssinnor.s and Delegates 

School Tax statistical P. port for lsss. 
Mnlicul Physicians. Past and Proscul 
Early Practitioners -Indian Doctors - Ke 
markahle Cure -Itinerant Disciples of ,Fs- 
CUlapius -McKcan County .Medical Associa- 
tion—List of .Medical Men Who Have I, v 
tered in McEean County since 1881 144-154 

CHAPTEE IX.— EAILROADS.-The Kinzua 

\ iadii"! -The Warren Railroad! onvention 

— Sunburv & Erie It. [;. Bu'i ,■■. I -oi-l 

& Pittshu'rgh P. It. Tln-Tui-1-. ■■ I an, -ac 
of the Western New York \ I'-ei.a-'. cam:, 
i: P. 01, -an. Bradford & Warren II. It. 
Bradford & Foster P.rook II. II. The ■• Peg 
Leg " Line Bradford, Bordell .V Kinzua 
E.E.— Bradford, DeOolicr & Smethnort It. 
E.— Pittsburgh, Bradford \ Dun. I" P-. .and 
Big Level & Bradford R. P. Bi : .1 I i 
Kinzua II. II. Bradford II. II. and Kin 1:1 
E. K. -Bradford & state Line II. 1;. 1 ,,, 
P.iillalo Division of Rochester & Pittsliurgll 
It, It. 1 '<>. Miscellaneous : 



\ Brad 



. To 



Early 
panic 



CONTENTS. 



First Things— Bradford Village in 1875- 

Township officers Elected in nan- Villages. 

i //./ at Bradford I'ii • i- i ni-in of the 

Town "ii B etc. Fires Municipal 

Affairs — light and Heat Companies 
Banks, Etc. Oil Exchanges Post-office— 
Hotels— Schools— < hurdles — ( emeteries— 
Hospital — Societies, etc. - - Manufacturing 
and Other Industries— Conclusion 162 

(II Vl'l EB XL FOST] l: TCH K8HIP— BOB- 
OCGH OF KlM'U.I.-(.el:lI'"S TOWN- 

sine— Fosttr ToiriMi/iiji— Formation— Cen- 
sus— Kires— Township Officers Kleeted ill 

1890— Villages Borough ol Kendall— Loca- 
tion Pi i ! ;■ on Bui Peg-Leg Line 

-In, .:. ots Fires, et. ! le.t.ons-Schools 
— Churches Cemetery- Societies. Cot ydon 

1..,: n..li.|;-lM|,i, : i;i|.ii\. . tc— population— 
Seated Tax pavers. ls:a; ::7— Early Mills— 
Township Officers Kleeted in 1890 214-: 

CHAPTEB Ml. anmn Township- 
Ceres Township.— Amrtn Township— 

Topography and Natural History— Papula 



Hon 

Point— Newell ('reel, 
terj Ceres Townsl 
Wells— Populatton- 
1890— First Justice o 
tiers Resident 



iship, 
\ Set- 
Be 



N, 



Village— First Arrivals- 1'ost-oliieo — Mer- 
chants Scl Is— Churches— Military Rail- 
road! — Industries. 226-! 

CHAPTEB XIII.— Eldred Township— 

Boboi Q Eldred.— Eldred Township 

—Topography— Oil Wells— Population— Offi- 
cers ol the' rownship. nan-First Settle- 
ments— Kesident Tax-pavers, tsia +1— First 
Shingle-mill Villages, etc. Borough a) 
/•.'M/vd-mi 'ii ..I \ one I arlj History— 



Gn 



Council — Officers sen m 1890— Hurri- 
canes, Fires, etc. I Ire I ompany— Schools 

and ( 'hmviies — Societies — Banks— Water- 
works— (las Company— Industries— Miscel- 
laneous 231-5 

CHAPTEB XIV.— Hamilton Township— 
Hamlin Township.— Hamilton Township 

lopo-rapliv-ile.ilouv-l'opiilatii.n-ltesi- 
dent Ta\-pa\'ers. l-:a; :,7 < nn.-.-r- Fleeted in 
l-.;i \ :'! _■,'■- II, -niUil '/'mco/nyi— BOUI 
dai\ lop.. ,,iph\ nil \\ i lis— Discover} ol 
I.iineMime I most — Population Resident 
Tax I'.iy. -rs. 1..47 is— Mount JciceU Its Rise 
and Growth Natural Gas— [ndustrli s 
l'o-t oiiiee i 1 In- and Cemetery— Soci- 
ety— Klnzua Bridgi Oil I ompanles. 244 . 

CHAPTEB XV.— Keating Townshii — 
Borough op Smethpobt. — Keating 

Toirnxlli/l TopomnphV Oology Oil 

Wells Population Township Officers in 

1890— Port of Entrv Early Settlers The 
Forester Solomon 'Sartwell and others 
Resident Tax pavers, is: a; ::7 Karly Mer- 
chants in the Tow ilsllip \ illagos. lim-mtgh 

,,< sntitiiiiiirt — Population, etc.— Officers 
Elected In 1890 First Cabin and Hi 

ii.es of ,\-a Sartwell Early Set- 



tle 



lit Properly 



lipaJ 

251 276 



ell vl'TFR X\ I. -Lai nun 1"" n-iiip. 

'I'opom;ipli\ Minerals oil Wells Coal 

Mines ;,,„! ( |< I'opi.l .-Elec 

I - I, man. I «> Resident Tax pay 

ers. 1843 n stale Road Stores Disasters 

in. I I nes Miscellaneous -W-'JM 



Pag i 
chapteb xvii.— llbebts township— 

BOB ii Ol POBl Ai .i.n. .\sy . Li 

Township Topographs ( leologj i oaJ 

Measures and Mines Oil Well Farlv set- 
tlers, etc. -Resident Tax-payers, 1836 37 
Early stores Population Offli ers FJ icted 

ill I'eliliiarv. IS'.HI- I llllivlies I emetery 

—Fires. Borough a) Port Allegany— Intro- 
ductory i anoe Place Pioneers, etc. Pop- 
ulation Fires and Floods Municipal Mat- 
ters—Industries Ranks ( euieterj Asso- 
ciation Hotels i hurches Public Si I Is 

—Soei.-ties. Associations, etc 

CHAPTEB XVUI.— NOR-H II B 1 ■ ■ xx SSBIP.— 

i ipi el f— I oal Mines- 

oil Wells ' Population miioers tol 1890 

\ssessineilt. Is: 17 KlilU Settlers The Old 

Norwich Church— The Old Norwich I eme 
ten Association— Stoles in 1S47— Mineral 



CHAPTEB XIX.— Otto Township. Otto 

I'-'iii.'/ni' I opographv— Population— Otii- 

cels Fleeted ill 1 si II I Resident TaXpaUUS. 

1854 55 yitliui Prentiss' Vccount^-S 

Early Settl rs S - and I i Church 

— Society at Rixford Mlsci laneous. Dn i 

c, nin S 1 nst rhings— I he Place in 

1879 Postmasters— Population— Charter 
Flection, issi Gas Company — Bank — 

ChUrCheS Societies 101 306 

en yp'i fr XX. Sebgkani Towwship.— 

l..)..._-raphV.etc. Coal Mea-lire— Oil Wells 

lation— The cooper Lands— Town ol 

IllStallter The Rlaee 111 1810 13 17 Asses, 

ment of Sergeant Township foi 1836 37 
Villages. Clermont Some First Things- 
Fire Has Weils Cemeterj Association 
Societies . OB a 

CHAPTEB XXL— Wetmore TOWNSHIP 
Bobough hi Kane. — Wetmori Township 

— (leneral I'opoar.iphv Oil Wells and 
Lands I. mm. or Company— on Fields and 
Enterprises— Population— Ollieers Elected 
in 1890— Gen. Kane— The Seneca Hunten — 
Forest Fnes Town "i Jo-Jo Large sale 
of oil Interests. Borough of Kam Ori- 
gin of Name Col. Kane a ml I MMd ( ..melius 

- Population- The Place in lsiu 71 I 
tion— Scl I — The P.oaid ol Trade— Nat- 
ural lias Companies Walei ' -nipanj 
Bank and Industrie. — Hotels i lunches 

Societies Miscellaneous 

CHAPTEB XXII. BlOGRAPHU IJ 

Ski' 1 1 II lis.— I'.i ad foul lowiislnpandCitJ ol 
P.ra.lf 327 41:; 

CHAPTEB XXIII. — BlOGR APHIi n 
Sketches Keating Township and Bor- 
ough oi Smethpoi i U3 165 

CHAPTEB XXIV. — BlOGB IPHIC u. 
Sketches i ostei i o« uship and Borough 

of Kendall 165 184 

CHAPTEB \w BlOGRAPHU vi 
Sb i n bes.— Eldred Township and Borough 

of Eldred Otto Township isl 515 

111 VP'I ER XXVI. BlOGRAPHU VI 

ski i. in..-. Liberty rownship and Bot 

ougll Oi I'ei l Mi. - tny— Annin and ' l 

I'oW ll-lllps . 51 i ' ■ 

CHAPTER XXVIi BlOGRAPHU \i 
-in rcHES. — Norwich, Hamlin, Lafayette 
and Sergeant row nships 

■ II Mil K XX\ III. - P. rOOBAPHIl VI 

-i . i i . ii i - — w . iin.i. Township and Bor- 
ough "1 Fane i orydon and Hamilton 
lowiis|ii|.s ,v,l 569 



J5ioo-rap2iica/ Sketches. 



Page. 

Aimin Township 527 

Bradford Township and City of Bradford :;■_•: 

(Vies Township 5::1 

Corydon Township 567 

Eldied Township and Borough of Eldrcd ls4 

Foster Township and Borough of Kendall. . .. 465 

Hamilton Township 567 

Hamlin Township 541 



Page. 

Keating Township ami Benumb of Smethport 413 

LaTayette Township 549 

Liberty Towiishipahd Borough of PI. \llcgniv .".1." 

Norwich Township '. 536 

Otto Township 503 

Sergeant Township 553 

Wetmore Township and Borough of Kane 554 



I'ortrtiit s. 



Alfonl, B 307 

Arnold, A. S 119 

Baker, II. s.. M. l> 169 

Barbour, II. F 2ll 

Benton, A. M 129 

Brown, William Wallace Pi'.i 

Campbell, <;. \V 261 

Chrismali. Win. 1... M. 1> 233 

Cdleman, O.D 297 

I la vis. Joshua ■. 267 

Dennis, Reuben 255 

Foster,*:. H 159 

Griffith, J.T 317 

Hamlin, Byron D 59 

Hamlin, Delano K 199 



Hamlin, Henry 79 

Hamlin, orlo.1 49 

Hazelton, B. F 245 

Hughes, A. .1 217 

Jones, J. T 139 

Kane. Ma). -Cen. Thomas 1 69 

Keyes, D. J 287 

Lillibridg 



ell. Ail 
Lu 



W, 



1411 
179 



Sprague, F. W 239 

St R.B 189 

Taylor, A. x 89 

Walnman, T. C 275 



History^ of Elk County. 



CHAPTER I. Topographs and Nat- 
ural History. — Formation — Judge 
Ce.ldes- Report Coneial Topograpl i y - 
Population— Area and Natural Pesoiin-es 
—nil and lias Wells anil Pipe Lines— Coal 
Deposits, etc.— Lumber Resources — Fires 
and Floods— Wild Fruits, Animals, etc. .573-579 



CHAPTER II. 



The Alii 



Of .11 



KYle 



-Piiini 



ttle 



id Others— Irishti 

First Declarations of Citizenship — The 
German Union Bond Society— Some First 
Things in the County— Reminiscences of 
John Brooks 579 589 

CHAPTEE 111. -Cm ins lto Bab.— First 

Courts. Where Held— First B in lot Courts 

in Elk County— Business Transacted in the 
Courts of ls44— Karlv Admissions to the Bar 



Court-house and Jail— Law Libraries 590-i 

CHAPTEE IV.— Transactions of the 

Commissioners. — Introductory — Estab- 
lisl nt of Elk County— Its Boundaries- 



County Contracts, etc. — Doings of the Com- 
missioners from Dates of Appointment — 
County Officials — Court-hous< — First < lourt 
—Mew Jail, etc 596-602 

CHAPTEE V.— Political History.— Polit- 
ical status of Elk County from 1843 to 1889 
—Vote on the Prohibitory Amendment In 
1889— Returns by Boroughs' and Townships- 
Elections in 1889 602-610 

CHAPTER vi.-.ioi rnalism— Schools.— 
Jimnittlisin— St. Mary's Republican— The 



Elk County Adv 

The Daily' Dem. 

zette - Other Journals. School*— First 

School in Elk County and Early Teaching- 
Township Schools— First Public School- 
Statistics, lsss x9— School superintendents 
—County Institutes 613 619 

CHAPTEE VII. -.Military Affairs.— 
Some Veterans of the War of isi2— Elk 
County in the civil War— The Forty-sec- 
ond Regiment iliucktailsi— Xames of Sol- 
diers— The Elk County tluards— Sixteenth 
Regiment, P. V. 1.— Company II of Ridg- 
way, and its Record 620 625 

Railroads.— Philadel- 

id— Sunburv & Erie Rail- 
k Railroad— 



CHAPTEE VIII 

phia & Erie Railroad—: 
I— Pittsburgh & X 



nth, 



Ri 



dents 



CHAPTEE EX.— Medical. — The Pioneer 
Physicians of the County and Later Prac- 
titioners—Record of Physicians Who Regis- 
tered under the Act of 1881 628 631 

CHAPTER X.— Benezette TOWNSHIP.— 
Elevations — Minerals — Population — Elec- 
tions — Resident Tax-pavers, 1844 — The 
Township in 1850— Village of Benezetti — 
Miscellaneous 631-633 

CHAPTER XL— BENZINGBB TOWNSHIP— 

Borough <u St. Mary's. —Benzi/nger 
ToumsMp — General Description — Early 
Land Purchases— Resident Tax-pavers in 
1844— Elections— Voters in 1846— Population 
—Business. Borough of St Mary's— Locar 
tion.etc p.. gmnuigsof the Tow u — Reminis- 
cences of Charles Luhr— .Municipal Affairs 
— Fires - Industries — Bank — Hotels — 
Churches— i 'on vents and Convent Schools — 
Academies— Public Schools— Societies— Mis- 
cellaneous 634 657 



CONTENTS. 



Page. 
'li \rn.l; XII.— Fox Township.- G 
al Desci iption Settlemi nl - Some l Irs) 

Tilings i;fsi,ifnt lax-payers, in 
i uit.-cl Stairs [.'ami Hi-.-ils 

and 'Ml i |iann — \ illau'' — i "liur«-lii-s — 

Industries, etc 



Highland Ti 

i ; 
T 



Ml 



Bus 



imship lis Conformation— 
ness — Elections. Horton 
i. . ii Desci iption— Minerals 



I hun lies— Elections, i 
' fp— Streams— Elevations, etc.— 1 

dfiil Tax-payi t» in IM(— Biisiiii-ss in 1.V1O— 
Coal and OllComiianii's— t'rnsiis statistics— 

Misi-fllnnrmis i;i;7 i;7l 



ki 
chapteb mv.-.i.. 

era! Conl 

-Kesiflenl Tax-pay. 
Sketch ol i 



rs T 



iWNSHl : 

asins and IVIlnes 

■ linns— 
f tin- Town- 



ship—Villages, i-ir. n .(.■'... w w.a tin- 
Town Is Notcil inr I'nst-niii. r— I'.nsiness, 
etc.— Population— Churches— Societies .674 681 

CHAPTEK \\ .— Ridgv L-s Tovi nship— 

Boki 'i '.ii OF Ridgvi ii .— Ridgway Town- 

ship Sii.-ains. Klmitiuns. i lr— Coal— Fil'Sl 
Comers— Kli-rti. ins— 1,'rsiilint l.i\ |invi-i's in 
1SI1 — Population \ '"'.."r- ■Misi'i-llain-iins. 

Borough o] Ridgway - Location, etc. 



I dgways and ntin-r i'i n.- 

Iliini — Post-.iM' li.ipal 

■i Bank! — 

Churcli C'oi ' r i<m — 

Schools — Societies, etc B82-7I2 

ill LP! EH \\ I. Mill STONI hoi NSHIP 

Spring i b To-h nship. - u. 

-■ n.-inent 

- Population - Elecl 

i/i— (icneral Conformation— 
'■!•■. Sunn- First 



Things— \ illams— Misiciianeous 



C 11 A l'TKK \ VI I.— BlOG RAPHII ll 

in-. R m i\ TOM NSHIP IND 

BOROI .;n '.1 KlDGM \>. 717 745 

CHAPTEK Will. -Bio.; raphii ii. 
Sketches.— Jones Township., 746-759 

I'll A I'TKIJ X 1 X.— BlOG R I in i ■ u 

Sketches Fox i.m nship Hi 

Tim NSB ii- ..... .... 760 77:; 

CHAPTER XX, Biographii u Sk] a BBS 
BEN] /l l l l. !'■>» \siur-.l i\ |,,\\ N- 

77 I 788 

I'll A PTEB X X [.— BlOG RAPHII A L 

5b is. Benzinoeb Township inh 

Bob n oi St. m w.\ 's 789 sii 



Biog rapZiical Sketches. 



Benezette Township 774 

ml Borough of st. 

Mail's 789 

Fox Township. ... . 760 



Horton Township. 769 

nship 7*i 

' I I I s I I | 1 I 

way. 717 



F*or( mil Si 



Bardwell J. S., \i. D. 

Beadle, J. Henrj 689 

Brown, Rass. las w 576 

Briiwn, Mrs. Kassolas \\ 
Kaolin, Isaa ■ I'. . 

Brown, J. 1 ... 1111 
1 artwrl ht, Bui r 1 

Chamberlin. C. 1. SGO 

1 lickinson, 1 leorge. 

hixon. i:™i;r 1; 671 

Ely, Byron I' 665 

Ernhout, John. .... W7 

Gardner, .1. K.. 7117 



Uouk, J. V".... 587 

Unit, Ml. ||, Z . 

Horton, \. S. 

Horton, \V. II 641 

Jones, Julius 683 

Kanl. Andrew.. 593 

Luhr, Charles. 699 

Osti n 1. W\ II. 617 

ster, I). C. 



Robi 

Williams. \V. I... M. |i 



635 



History of Forest County, 



ropi iGE irin i\n N \ 1 1 
ii History. — Boundarj and Area— 

I i.rrsls Sli'i-alns i 

H 11 , - 1 'ii 1 [elds, etc.— Oil Litigation 
til Mysterii s -Seo I -Lum- 

ellan is . 

LPTEE H.— Indians vnd Pioni 

n Hlstorj a Cen 
10 — David Zeisberger— Indian Le 

Mllll'l H. 

.mi's \ count oi Tin in - Some First 

' us 111 I anil lllliris - Karli 

Hills. .Mr. Dan H 
(1 His Experiences- .Remlniscen 



Abnei I a Settlement— Other 
Pioneers— Hunting Adventures and Casual- 
ties, etc 828 858 



Pati'Uli'is— listal.lislnn 

anil lis 1; , 

ami ism;— First 
• M li.'milli — ivtitin 



■ Landsol 
ie "i the 

■st ('.unity 



theBulldin 

mo 1 1 -. 1 

hi I s.,,7 -I..UI11 . 

Court-house, IS 



CONTENTS. 



Page. 
CHAPTER IV. — Courts and Bar.— First 
Court HfM in forest County. 1S".7— Proceed- 
ings from ls.-,7 to isiai— First Court Held at 
Tionesta, lsr,7— Admissions to the liar from 
1857 to lssii— Forest Bar Association— Im- 
portant Civil and Criminal Cases— Despera- 
does 862-867 



Page. 
Borough oj Thone&ta— General Description 

—Ice Floods, etc— Deed to Sholass Range— 
First Settlers P.usiness. etc. — Improve- 
lilents-Munf-ipal Matters Banks— Natu- 
ral Gas— Hotels 



ters 



Kd 



Miscellaneous 



'.inn 



iii 



ntv P 



3 -Prohibitory and 
Suffrage Amendments. June, lssn-Repub- 
licau i ■andiilati's Selected. .Inly, ixs'.i— Dem- 
ocratic Nominations, July, i.ssii — Elections 
in lSS'.i SG7-S74 



>RY.— Sol- 



Wl 



III 



'ivil 



V. I.— Thirl 

'. V. I.— one 

I.— one IB 



third EegL 
V. I. — Fo 

and Fiftiet 
Third. P. V. [.—One Hundred and Fifth. P. 
V. I.— Soldiers' Craves in Forest County— 
Miscellaneous 874r-87i 

chapter VII. — Journalism— Physi- 
cians— Journalism— The Forest Press— 

The Forest COUHty Bee— The Forest Repub- 
lican—The Fagundas City Press The Com- 
monwealth— The Deiuoc'ratii- Vindicator— 
The National Democrat. Phuswimix— Pio- 
neer Doctors— List of Physicians Who Have 



Registered I'lldcr the ACtOf 1881. 

CHAPTER VIII. 
1867— Lamentati 
Petroleum Rail 



tburg & 
' — Fox- 
onipany 
npany— 



CHAPTER IX. —Tionesta TOWNSHiP— 
Boroi mi op Tionesta.— Tionesta Tovm- 
ship— General Topography- -An Unfathom- 
able Pit— Population— The Township's His- 
toric Beginnings— Officers Elected in 18S9. 



Township— Topography Goal Beds— Popu- 
lation— Elections in February, 1800— Vil- 
lages 901-904 

chapter XI. Harmony and Hickory 
Townships. Harmony Township — To- 
pograph; Minerals Oil Wells Elections 



of Land— Mil 



Mil 



! "17 



CHAPTER XII. — Howe Township.— 

Streams — Minerals — Population — ( Ulicers 
Elected in February. I son— Assessments— 
Lumber Manufacture in 1867— Villages- 
Post-offices— Fires, etc 908-911 



CHAPTER XIII.— Jeni 
Streams — Minerals — Pi 
Elected in February. 1890- 
Roll— The Township in 
riiigton's Description— M 

u iirilli — First 

Imprnvomcnts- 



TOWNSHIP. 



cut— Additions 

illage in ism-s. 

eties, etc 



...911-918 
IIP. — 



CHAPTER \I\ .-KiNosi.FV 'I 
Streams— Population— Officers Elected in 
February. 1890— The ffistorj of the Town- 
ship -Lumber Companies and Mills— Vil- 
lages, Post-office, Incidents, etc '.Us 920 

CHAPTER XV— Biographical Sketches. 
—Tionesta Township and Borough 
ok Tionesta— Hickory ixn Hakmow 
Townships 920 950 

CHAPTER XVI.— Biographical Sketch- 
es.— Jenks, Barnett, Howe, Kingsley 

and (Jkf.es Townships 'J.">1 97(1 



Biographical Sketches. 



Barnett Township 960 

Green Township 966 

Harmony Township 947 

Hickory Township 942 



Howe Township 962 

Jenks Township 9.11 

Kingsley Township 963 

Tionesta Township and Borough of Tionesta. 920 



Portraits. 



A/iscoI/nric 



Potter. Cameron, Elk. Forest and Warren Counties 14 and 15 

f Governors of Pennsylvania since the organization of the State 47 

purchases from the Indians 4s 




McKEAN, 
POTTER, 
CAMERON, 
ELK, 

FOREST, and 
WARREN COUNTIES, 

PENNSYLVANIA. 



Printers and Engravers. Chicago. 



INTRODUCTORY 



HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

First Settlers along the Delaware— "William Penn— His Early Diffi- 
culties—Dissensions in the Colony— Penn's .second Visit to the 
Province — Accession of Governor Keith— French and Indian War- 
Franklin's Mission to England— The Boundary Line— Struggle for 
Independence— Convention of 1787— Constitution of 1790— Whisky 
Insurrection— Stone Coal— Convention of 1837— Pennsylvania in the 
War of the Rebellion— Subsequent Events. 

THE region which is now known as Pennsylvania was. prior to the coming 
of Europeans, a vast forest, inhabited by its native Indians. The uncer- 
tain traditions which these people have preserved of themselves have often 
been recorded, and their sad history since the advent of the white man is 
well known. 

Early in the seventeenth century the region watered by the Delaware river 
was visited by Dutch traders. Such was their success that posts were estab- 
lished and trade was kept up during some years. They did not seek to estab- 
lish colonies for the cultivation of the soil, but limited themselves to the 
profitable exchange of commodities with the natives. They were followed by 
the Swedes, who established settlements along the river and brought hither 
the habits of industry and thrift in which they had been reared at home. Be- 
tween the Swedes and the Dutch arose conflicts of authority and hostilities 
which finally resulted in the subjugation of the former. The Dutch were in 
turn dispossessed by the diplomacy and arms of the aggressive English, who 
became masters of the territory along the Delaware in 1664. 

William Penn became a trustee and finally a part owner of West New 
Jersey, which was colonized by Quakers in 1675. To his father, Admiral 
Penn, was due, at his death, the sum of £16,000 for services rendered the 
English government. The son petitioned to Charles II to grant him , in liqui- 
dation of this debt, a tract of land in America lying north of Maryland, 
bounded east by the Delaware river, on the west limited as Maryland, and 
northward to extend as far as plantable. 

The charter of King Charles II was dated April 2, 1681, and other grants 
to lands south from the territory originally conveyed were procured in 1682. 
Not being in readiness to go to his province during the first year, he dis- 
patched three ship-loads of settlers, and with them sent his cousin, William 
Markhani, to take formal possession of the country and act as deputy-governor. 
It is hardly necessary to say that these settlers were of the then proscribed sect of 
Quakers. Having made the necessary preparations and settled his affairs in 
England, Penn embarked on the ship "Welcome," in August, 1682, in com- 
pany with a hundred planters, and set his prow toward the new world. He 
arrived at New Castle in October, and on the site of Philadelphia in November 
of that year. The arrival of Markham and Penn, with their colonists, on the 
west bank of the Delaware was the inauguration of a new regime there; that 
of the people who had never before enjoyed such a measure of self government- 



18 HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

By reason of ignorance of the geography of this country the language .of 
royal grants was often ambiguous, and sometimes the descriptions covered ter- 
ritory that had been previously granted. Conflicts of claims then arose that 
were sometimes difficult of settlement. Soon after his arrival Penn learned of 
such a conflict in the claims of himself ami Lord Baltimore, and he visited the 
latter to adjust the matter, if possible. In this he was not successful. Sub 
sequent attempts to negotiate also failed, and finally Penn proposed to pay 
Lord Baltimore for territory which he had already purchased from the crown. 
This Lord Baltimore refused, and soon afterward made forcible entry on the 
lands claimed, and drove oil' those who had purchased from Penn. The Latter 
also learned that secret and ex parte representations of the case had been made 

to the lords of thecommhti 1' plantations in England, and he decided to 

return and defend his imperiled interests. 

He accordingly empowered the provincial council, of which Thomas Lloyd 
was president, to act in his stead; commissioned Nicholas Moore, William 
Welch, William Wood, Robert Turner and John Eckley provincial judges for 
two years; appointed Thomas Lloyd, James Claypole and Robert Turner to 
sign land patents and warrants: and William Clark as justice of the peace for all 
the counties, and on the 6th of June, 1684, sailed for England, where his efforts 
uccessful, though the boundary line was not definitely fixed till L766. In 
his absence the affairs of his province exhibited the great need. if hi 
guiding hand to check abuse, and direct the course of legislation in proper 
channels. 

He had labored to place the government in the hands of the people, an 
idea most attractive in the abstract, and one which, were the entire population 
wise and just, would result fortunately; yet, in practice, he found to his 
sorrow the results most vexatious. The proprietor had not long been gone 
before troubles arose between the two houses of the legislature relative to pro 
mitigating the laws as not being in accordance with the requirements of the 
Nicholas Moore, the chief justice, was impeached for irregularities 
in imp and in other ways abusing his high trust. But i 

formally arraigned and directed to desist from exercising his functions, he 
successfully resisted the proceedings, and a final judgment was never obtained. 
Patrick Robinson, clerk of the court, for refusing to produce the records in 
the trial of Moure, was voted a public enemy. These troubles in the govern 
ision of much grief to Penn, who wrote naming a number 
of the most influential men in the colony, and beseeching them to uniti 
endeavor to check further irregularities, declaring that they disgraced the 
province, ""that their conduct had struck back hundreds, and was ten thousand 
pounds out of his way. and one hundred thousand, pounds out of the country.'" 

In the latter part of the year L686, seeing that the whole council wa 
unwieldy a body to exercise executive power, Penn determined to contract the 
number, and accordingly appointed Thomas Lloyd, Nicholas Moore, James 
Claypole, Robert Turner and John Eckley, any three of whom should consti- 
tute a quorum, to be commissioners of State to act for the proprietor. In 
place of .Moore and Claypole. Arthur Cook and John Simcock wen- appointed. 
They were to compel the attendance of the council; see that the two houses 
admit of no parley; to abrogate all laws except the fundamentals: to dismiss 
the assembly and call a new one; and finally he solemnly admonishes them: 
"Be most just, as in the sight of the all-seeing, all-searching God." In a 
letter to these commissioners he says: "Three things occur to me eminently: 
First, that you lie watchful that none abuse the king, etc.; secondly, that you 
get the custom act revived as being the eijualest and least offensive way to 



HISTOEY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 19 

support the government ; thirdly, that you retrieve the dignity of courts and 
sessions." 

Thomas Lloyd acted as president of the council after the departure of 
Penn. At his own request he was relieved, and Samuel Carpenter was ap- 
pointed in his place, with Thomas Ellis as alternate. July 27, 1688, Penn 
commissioned John Blackwell, who was at that time in New England, and 
who possessed his esteem and confidence, to be lieutenant -governor. With the 
commission the proprietor sent full instructions, chiefly by way of caution, the 
last one being: " Rule the meek meekly; and those that will not be ruled, rule 
with authority." Though Lloyd had been relieved of power, he still remained 
in the council, probably because neither of the persons designated was willing 
to serve. Having seen the evils of a many-headed executive, he had recom- 
mended the appointment of one person to exercise executive authority. It was 
in conformity with this advice that Blackwell was appointed. He met the 
assembly in March, 1689; but either his conceptions of business were arbitrary 
and imperious, or the assembly had become accustomed to great latitude and 
lax discipline, for the business had not proceeded far before the several 
branches of the government were at variance. Lloyd refused to give up the 
great seal, alleging that it had been given him for life. The governor, arbi- 
trarily and without warrant of law, imprisoned officers of high rank, denied 
the validity of all laws passed by the assembly previous to his administration, 
and set on foot a project for organizing and equipping the militia under the 
plea of threatened hostility of France. The assembly attempted to arrest his 
proceedings, but he shrewdly evaded their intents by organizing a party among 
the members, who persistently absented themselves. His reign was short, for 
in January, 1690, he left the colony and sailed away for England; whereupon 
the government again devolved upon the council, Thomas Lloyd, president. 
Penn had a high estimation of the talents and integrity of Blackwell, and 
adds : ' ' He is in England and Ireland of great repute for ability, integrity and 
virtue. ' ' 

Penn's favor at court during the reign of James II caused him to be 
suspected of disloyalty to the government when William and Mary had come 
to the throne. He was three times arraigned before the lords of the council, 
but was each time acquitted. He organized a large party of settlers for his 
colony, but a great accusation compelled him to abandon the voyage, and in- 
duced him to go into retirement for two or three years. His personal griev- 
ances in England were the least which he suffered. For lack of guiding 
influence, bitter dissensions had sprung up in his colony, which threatened the 
loss of all. Desiring to secure peace, he had commissioned Thomas Lloyd 
deputy-governor of the province, and William Markham deputy-governor of 
the lower counties. Penn's grief on account of this division is disclosed in a 
letter to a friend in the province: "I left it to them to choose either the gov- 
ernment of the council, five commissioners, or a deputy. What could be 
tenderer' Now I perceive Thomas Lloyd is chosen by the three upper, but 
not the three lower, counties, and sits down with this broken choice. This 
has grieved and wounded me and mine, I fear, to the hazard of all! * * * 
for else the governor of New York is like to have all, if he has it not already." 

But the troubles of Penn in America were not confined to civil affairs. 
His religious society was torn with dissension. George Keith, a man of con- 
siderable power in argumentation, but of over-weaning self-conceit, attacked 
the Friends for the laxity of their discipline, and drew off some followers. So 
venomous did he become that on the 20th of April, 1692, a testimony of 
denial was drawn up against him at a meeting of ministers, wherein he and his 



20 HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

conduct were publicly disowned. This was confirmed at the next yearly meet- 
ing. He drew off large numbers and set up an independent society, who 
termed themselves Christian Quakers. Keith appealed from this action of the 
American church to the yearly meeting in London, but was so intemperate in 
speech that the action of the American church was confirmed. Penu was 
silenced, and thrown into retirement in England. It can be rcadih seen what 
an excellent opportunity these troubles in America, the separation in the gov- 
ernment and the schism in the church, gave his enemies to attack him. They 
represented that be had neglected his colony by remaining in England and 
meddling with matters in which he had no business; that the colonj in conse 
quence had fallen into great disorder, and that he should be deprived of his 
proprietary rights. These complaint* had so much weight with William and 
Mary that on the 2 1st of October, L692, they commissioned Benjamin Fl 
governor of New York, to take (he province and territories under his govern- 
ment. There was another motive operating at this time, more potent than 
those mentioned above, to induce the king and queen to put the government 
of Pennsylvania under the governor of New York. The French and Indians 
from the north were threatening the English. Already the expense for defense 
had become burdensome to New York. It was believed that to ask aid for the 
common defense from Penn, with his peace principles, would be fruitless, bui 
that through the influence of Gov. Fletcher, as executive, an appropriation 
might be secured. 

Through the kind offices of Lords Rochester, Ranelagh, Sidney and 
Somers, the Duke of Buckingham and Sir John Trenchard. the king was 
asked to hear the case of William Penn, against whom no charge was proven, 
and who would two years before have gone to his colony had he not supposed 
thai he would have been thought to go in defiance of the government. King 
William answered that William Penn was his old acquaintance as well a* 
theirs, that he might follow 7 his business as freely as ever, and that he had 
nothing to say to him. Penn was accordingly reinstated in his government by 
letters patent dated on the 20th of August. 1694, whereupon he commissioned 
William Markhaui lieutenant-governor. 

Free from harassing persecutions at last, and in favor at court, Penn deter- 
mined to remove with his family to Pennsylvania, ami now with the expecta- 
tion of living and dying here. Accordingly in July. 1699, he set sail, and, on 
account of adverse winds, was three months tossed about upon the ocean. 
Great joy was everywhere manifested throughout the province at the arrival of 
the proprietor and his family, fondly believing that he had now come to -i.\ 
He met the assembly soon after lauding, but. it being an inclement season, he 
only detained them long enough to pa*s two measures aimed against piracy 
and illicit trade, exaggerated reports of which having been spread broadcast 
through the kingdom had caused him great uneasiness and vexation. In Feb 
ruary, 1701, he met the most renowned and powerful of the Indian chieftains 
from the Potomac to the Onondagas of the Five Nations, and entered into a 
formal treaty of active friendship with them. 

Several sessions of the Legislature were held in which great harmony pre 
vailed, and much attention was given to revising and recomposing the consti 
tution. Bui in the midst of their labors for the improvement of the organic 
law, intelligence was brought to Perm that a bill had been introduced in the 
house of lords for reducing all the proprietary governments in America to 
lies, under pretense of advancing the prerogative of the crown, and the 
national advantage. Such of the owner-- of land in Pennsylvania as hap 
pened to he in England remonstrated against action upon the bill until I'enn 



HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 21 

could return and be heard, and wrote to him urging his immediate coming 
hither. Though much to his disappointment and sorrow, he determined to go 
immediately thither. He promptly called a session of the assembly, and in 
his message to the two houses said: "* * f review again your laws, pro- 
pose new ones, and you will find me ready to comply with whatsoever may ren- 
der us happy, by a nearer union of our interests. ' ' The assembly returned a 
suitable response, and then proceeded to draw up twenty-one articles. The 
first related to the appointment of a lieutenant-governor. Penn proposed 
that the assembly should choose one. But this they declined, preferring that 
he should appoint one. Little trouble was experienced in settling everything 
broached, except the union of the province and lower counties. Penn used 
his best endeavors to reconcile them to the union, but without avail. The new 
constitution was adopted on the 28th of October, 1701. The instrument pro- 
vided for the union, but in a supplementary article, evidently granted with 
great reluctance, it was provided that the province and the territories might be 
separated at any time withm three years. As his last act before leaving, he pre- 
sented the city of Philadelphia, now grown to be a considerable place, and 
always an object of his affectionate regard, with a charter of privileges. As 
his deputy he appointed Andrew Hamilton, one of the proprietors of East 
New Jersey, and sometime governor of both East and West Jersey; and for 
secretary of the province and clerk of the council he selected James'Logan, a 
man of singular urbanity and strength of mind, and withal a scholar. Penn 
set sail for Europe on the 1st of November, 1701. Soon after his arrival, on 
the 18th of January, 1702, King William died, and Anne of Denmark suc- 
ceeded him. 

Gov. Hamilton's administration continued only till December, 1702, when 
he died. He was earnest in his endeavors to induce the territories to unite 
with the province, they having as yet not accepted the new charter, alleging 
that they had three years in which to make their decision, but without success. 
He also organized a military force, of which George Lowther was commander, 
for the safety of the colony. The executive authority now devolved upon the 
council, of which Edward Shippen was president. Conflict of authority, and 
contention over the due interpretation of some provisions of the new charter, 
prevented the accomplishment of much, by way of legislation, in the assembly 
which convened in 1703; though in this body it was finally determined that 
the lower counties should thereafter act separately in a legislative capacity. 
The separation proved final, the two bodies never again meeting in common. 

Though the bill to govern the American colonies by regal authority failed, 
yet the clamor of those opposed to the proprietary governors was so strong 
that an act was finally passed recpiiring the selection of deputies to have the 
royal assent. Hence, in choosing a successor to Hamilton, he was obliged to 
consider the queen's wishes. John Evans, a man of parts, of Welsh extraction, 
only twenty-six years old, a member of the queen's household, and not a 
Quaker, nor even of exemplary morals, was appointed, who arrived in the col- 
ony in December, 1703. He was accompanied by William Penn, Jr. , who was 
elected a member of the council, the number having been increased by author- 
ity of the governor, probably with a view to his election. The first care of 
Evans was to unite the province and the lower counties, though the final sepa- 
ration had been agreed to. He presented the matter so well that the lower 
counties, from which the difficulty had always come, were willing to return to 
a firm union. But now the provincial assembly, having become impatient of 
the obstacles thrown in the way of legislation by the delegates from these coun- 
ties, was unwilling to receive them. They henceforward remained separate in 



22 HISTOEY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

a legislative capacity, though still a part of Pennsylvania, under the claim of 
Penn, and ruled by the same governor; and thus they continued until the 'JOth 
of September, 1770, when a constitution was adopted, and they were pro- 

ch d a separate State under the name of Delaware. During two 

the government of Evans, there was ceaseless discord between the council, 
headed by the governor and Secretary Logan on the one side, and the assem- 
bly led by J)avid Lloyd, its speaker, on the other, and little legislation was 
effected. 

In conjunction with the legislature of the lower counties, Evans was instru- 
mental iu having a law passed for the imposition of a tax on the tonnage of 
the river, and the erection of a fort near the town of New Castle for compel- 
ling obedience. This was in direct violation of the fundamental compact, and 
vexatious to commerce. It was at length forcibly resisted, and its imposition 
abandoned. His administration was anything but efficient or peaceful, a series 
of contentions, of charges and counter-charges, having been kept up between 
the leaders of the two factions, Lloyd and Logan, which he was powerless to 
properly direct or control. He was relieved in L709. 

The experience with Gov. Evans led the proprietor to select a more sedate 
character in his successor. After considering the candidature of his son for a 
time, the founder finally selected Charles Gookin, who was reputed to be ,■. man 
of wisdom and prudence, though, as was afterward learned to the sorrow of 
the colony, he was subject to tits of derangement, which toward the close of 
his term were exhibited in the most extravagant acts. He had scarcely arrived 
in the colony before charges were prepared against the late governor, and he 
was asked to institute criminal proceedings, which he declined. This was the 
occasion of a renewal of contentions between the governor and his council and 
the assembly, which continued during the greater part of his administration. 
In the midst of them, Logan, who was at the head of the council, having de- 
manded a trial of the charges against him. and failed to secure one, sailed for 
Europe, where he presented the difficulties experienced in administering the 
government so strongly, that Penn -was seriously inclined to sell his interest in 
the colony. He had already greatly crippled his estate by expenses he had 
incurred in making costly presents to the natives and in settling his colony, for 
which he had received small return. In the year 1707 he had become involved 
in a suit in chancery with the executors of his former steward, in the course of 
which he was confined in the Old Bailey during this and a part of the follow 
ing year, when he was obliged to mortgage his colony in the sum of £6,600 to 
relieve himself. Foreseeing the great consequence it would be to the n own 
to buy the rights of the proprietors of the several English colonies in America 
before they would grow too powerful, negotiations had been entered into early 
in the reign of William and Mary for their purchase, especially the •tine 
province of Mr. Penn." Borne down by these troubles and by debts and liti 
gations at home, Penn seriously entertained the proposition to sell in 1712, 
and offered it for £20,000. The sum of £12,000 was offered on the part of 
the crown, which was agreed upon; but before the necessary papers were ex 
ocuted, he was stricken down with apoplexy, by which he was incapacitated 
for transacting any business, and a stay was put to further proceedings until 
the queen should order an act of parliament for consummating the pun 

\ year before the death of Penn. the lunacy of Gov. Gookin having become 
troublesome, he was succeeded in the government by Sir William Keith, a 
Scotchman, who had served as surveyor of customs to the English goverment, 
in which capacity he had visited Pennsylvania previously, and knew something 
of its condition. He was a man of dignified aud commanding bearing, 



HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 23 

endowed with cunning, of an accommodating policy, full of faithful promises, 
and usually found upon the stronger side. Hence, upon his arrival in the 
colony, he did not summon the assembly immediately, assigning as a reason in 
his first message that he did not wish to inconvenience the country members 
by calling them in harvest time. The disposition thus manifested to favor the 
people, and his advocacy of popular rights on several occasions in opposition 
to the claims of the proprietor, gave great satisfaction to the popular branch of 
the legislature, which manifested its appreciation of his conduct by voting him 
liberal salaries, which had often been withheld from his less accommodating 
predecessors. By his artful and insinuating policy, he induced the assembly 
to pass two acts which had previously met with uncompromising opposition — 
one to establish a court of equity, with himself as chancellor (the want of 
which had been seriously felt), and another for organizing the militia. Though 
the soil was fruitful and produce was plentiful, yet, for lack of good markets, 
and on account of the meagerness of the circulating medium, prices were very 
low, the toil and sweat of the husbandman being little rewarded, and the taxes 
and payments on land were met with great difficulty. Accordingly, arrange- 
ments were made for the appointment of inspectors of provisions, who from a 
conscientious discharge of duty soon caused the Pennsylvania brands of best 
products to be much sought for, and to command ready sale at highest prices 
in the West Indies, whither most of the surplus produce was exported. A 
provision was also made for the issue of a limited amount of paper money, on 
the establishment of ample securities, which tended to raise the value of the 
products of the soil and of manufactures, and encourage industry. 

Though Gov. Keith, during the early part of his term, pursued a pacific 
policy, yet the interminable quarrels which had been kept up between the 
assembly and council during previous administrations at length broke out 
with more virulence than ever, and he who in the first flush of power had 
declared that " he should pass no laws, nor transact anything of moment relat- 
ing to the public affairs, without the advice and approbation of the council," 
took it upon himself finally to act independently of the council, and even went 
so far as to dismiss the able and trusted representative of the proprietary in- 
terests, James Logan, president of the council and secretary of the province, 
from the duties of his high office, and even refused the request of Hannah 
Penn, the real governor of the province, to reinstate him. This unwarrant- 
able conduct cost him his dismissal from office in July, 1726. 

Upon the recommendation of Springett Penn. who was now the prospective 
heir to Pennsylvania, Patrick Gordon was appointed and confirmed lieuten- 
ant-governor in place of Keith, and arrived in the colony and assumed 
authority in July, 1726. He had served in the army, and in his first address 
to the assembly, which he met in August, he said that as he had been a 
soldier he knew nothing of the crooked ways of professed politicians, and must 
rely on a straightforward manner of transacting the duties devolving upon 
him. George I died in June, 1727, and the assembly at its meeting in Oc- 
tober prepared and forwarded a congratulatory address to his successor, George 
II. By the decision of the court in chancery in 1727, Hannah Penn's authority 
over the colony was at an end, the proprietary interest having descended to 
John, Richard and Thomas Penn, the only surviving sons of William Penn, 
Sr. This period, from the death of Penn in 1718 to 1727, one of the most 
prosperous in the history of the colony, was familiarly known as the " Beign 
of Hannah and the Boys." 

In 1732 Thomas Penn, the youngest son, and two years later John Penn, 
the eldest, and the only American born, arrived in the province, and were 



•i\ ORV. OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

received with every mark of respect and satisfaction. Soon after the arrival 

of the latter, news was brought that Lord Baltimore had made application to 

have the provinces transferred to his colony. A vigorous protest was made 

against this by Quakers i n England, headed by Richard Perm: but lesl this 

might prove ineffectual, John Penn very soon went to England to 

iroprietary rights ai court, and q'i rer again returned, he having 

died a bachelor in 1746. In August, 1736, Gov. Gordon died, deeply lamented 

honest, uprighl and straightforward executive, a character which he 

lie would he able to maintain when he assumed an 
rm had l>een one of prosperity, and the colony had grown rapidly in 
i i ires, slop building especially having 

I extensive proportions. 
James Logan was president of the council, and in effect governor during 
i years which ela] sed between the death of Gordon and the arrival of 
his successor. During this period troubles broke out on the Mar 

Susquehanna. The question of boundary was involved in these 
difficulties, but the troubles were quelled by an order of the king and council. 
Geo] . a planter from the West Indies, was appointed governor 

in I7-T7, bat did not arrive in the colony till the following year. His inter- 
course with the assembly was not at first harmonious, but became mon 
his relinquishment of the policy which I 

of •John Penn, the eldest of the proprietors, he retired from the duties 
office because of declining health. 
Anthony Palmer was president of the council at the time of the withdrawal 

of Thomas, and I ame acting governor. He continued at the head of the 

government about two years. He was a wealthy retired merchant from the 
Wet Indies, and had c m colony in 1708. 

On the 23d of November. 1748, James Hamilton arrived in the colony from 

ad, bearing the commission of lieutenant-governor. He was born in 

a, a son of Andrew Hamilton, who had for main years been speaker of 

embly. The Indianswest of the Susquehanna had complained that set 

id come upon their best lands, and were acquiring titles to them, where- 

ietors had never purchased these lac i! and had no claim 

to them. The rirst care of Hamilton was to settle these disputes, and allay 

the rising excitement of the natives. Richard Peters, secretary of the colony. 

a man of great prudence and ability, was sent in company with the Indian 

interpreter. Conrad Weiser, to remove the intruders. It was firmly and fear 

done, the settlers giving up their tracts a ins which they had 

built, and accepting lands on the east side of the river. The hardship was. in 

many cases, great, but when they were in actual need the secretary gave money 

.and placed them on lands of his own. having secured a tract of two millions 

res. 

Put these troubles were of small con , mpared with those thai 

threatening from the West. The French were determined to occcupythe 
whole territory drained by the Mississippi, including that on the Ohio, by force 

. and a body of one hundred ami fifty men. of which Washington was 

in command, was sent pporl of the settlers there; hut the 

i having the Allegheny river at flood tide on which to move, am! 

without means of transportation, having a rugged and mount 
country to overcome, the former first reached the point of destin; tioi I o 

tracoeur, the French commander, with 1,000 men and held pi s on a 

sixty boats and 300 canoe;-, dropped down the A.lleghenj and easily seized the 

a being constructed bj the Ohio Company at it- month and proceeded 



HISTOBY OF PENNSYLVANIA. ZO 

to erect there an elaborate work which he called Fort Du Quesne. after the 
governor-general. Informed of this proceeding. Washington pushed forward, 
and finding that a detachment of the French was in his immediate neighbor- 
hood he made a forced march by night, and coming upon them unawares killed 
and captured the entire party save one. Ten of the French, including their 
commander, Jumonville. were "killed, and twenty-one made prisoners. Col 
Frv, the commander of the Americans, died at Will's creek, where the com- 
mand devolved on Washington. Though re enforcements had been dispatched 
from the several colonies in response to the urgent appeals of Washington, 
none reached him but one company of LOO men under Gapt. Mackay, from 
South Carolina. Knowing that he was confronting a vastly superior force of 
the French, well supplied with artillery, he threw up works at a point called 
the < rreat Meadows, which he characterizes as a " charming field for an encoiin 
fcer," naming his hastily built fortification Fort Necessity. Stung by the loss 
of their leader, the French came out in strong force and soon invested the 
place. Unfortunately one part of Washington's position was easily com 
manded by the artillery of the French, which they were not slow in taking 
advantage of. The action opened on the 3d of July, and was continued until 
late at night. A capitulation was proposed by the French commander, which 
Washington reluctantly accepted, seeing all hopes of re-enforcemeuts reaching 
him cut off, and on the 4th of July marched nut with the honors of war and 
fell back to Fort Cumberland. Gov. Hamilton had strongly recommended, 
before hostilities opened, that the assembly should p defense an! 

establish a line of block-houses along the frontier, lint the assembly, while 
willing to vote money for buying peace from the Indians, and contributions to 
the British Crown, from which protection was claimed, was unwilling to con- 
tribute directly for oven defensive warfare. In a single year £8,t 100 were voted 
to Indian gratuities. The proprietors were appealed to to aid in bearing this 
burden. But, while they were willing to contribute liberally for defense, they 
would give nothing for Indian gratuities They sent to the colony cannons 
to the value of £400. 

In February, 1753, John Penn, grandson of the founder, sou of Richard, 
arrived in the colony, and as a mark of respect was immediately chosen a mem- 
ber of the council, and made its president. In consequence of the defeat of 
Washington at Fort Necessity, Gov. Hamilton convened the assembly in extra 
session on the 6th of August, at which money was freely voted; but owing to 
the instructions given by the proprietors to their deputy-governor not to sign 
any money bill that did not place the whole of the interest at their disposal, 
the action of the assembly was abortive. 

Finding himself in a false position by the repugnant instructions of the pro- 
prietors, Gov. Hamilton had given notice in 1753, that at the end of twelve 
months from its reception, he would resign. Accordingly, in October. 1754, 
he was succeeded by Robert Hunter Morris, son of Lewis Morris, chief justice 
of New York and New Jersey, and governor of New Jersey. The son was bred 
a lawyer, and was for twenty-six years a counselor, and for twenty chief jus- 
tice of New Jersey. The assembly at its first session voted a money bill for 
£40,000, but not having the proviso required by the proprietors it was vetoed. 
Determined to push military operations, the British government had called 
early in the year for three thousand volunteers from Pennsylvania, with sub- 
sistence, camp equipage and transportation, and-had sent two regiments of the 
line, under Gen. Braddock, from Cork. Ireland. Landing at Alexandria, Va. , 
he marched to Frederick. Md.. where, finding no supplies of transportation, he 
halted. The assembly of Pennsylvania had voted to borrow £5,000, on its 



26 HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

own account, for the use of the crown in prosecuting the campaign, and had 
sent Franklin, who was then postmaster-general for the colonies, to Braddock 
to aid in prosecuting the expedition. Finding that the army was stopped foi 
lack of transportation, Franklin returned into Pennsylvania, and by his com 
manding influence soon secured the necessary. wagons and beasts of burden. 

Braddock had formed extravagant plans for his campaign. He would 
march forward and reduce Fort Du Quesne, thence proceed against Fori 
Niagara, having conquered which he would close a season of triumphs by the 
capture of Fort Frontignac. But this is not the first time in warfare that the 
result of a campaign has failed to realize the promises of the manifesto. Accus 
tomed to the discipline of military establishments in old, long settled coun- 
tries, Braddock had little conception of making war in a wilderness with only 
Indian trails to move upon, and against wily savages. Washington had advised 
to push forward with pack-horses, and by rapidity of movement forestall ample 
preparation. But Braddock had but one way of soldiering, and where mads 
did not exist for wagons he stopped to fell the forest and construct bridges 
over streams. The French, who were kept advised of every movement, made 
ample preparations to receive him. In the meantime Washington fell sick; but 
intent on being up for the battle, he hastened forward as soon as sufficiently 
recovered, and only joined the army on the day before the fatal engagement. 
He had never seen much of the pomp and circumstance of war, and when on 
the morning of the 9th of July the army of Braddock marched on acn 
Monongahela, with gay colors flying and martial music awakening the echoes 
of the forest, he was accustomed in after years to speak of it as the " mosl 
magnificent spectacle" that he had ever beheld. But the gay pageant was 
destined to be of short duration; for the army had only marched a little dis 
tance before it fell into an ambuscade skillfully laid by the French and Indians. 
and the forest resounded with the unearthly whoop of the Indians and the con- 
tinuous roar of musketry. The advance was checked and thrown into confusion 
by the French from their well-chosen position, and every tree upon the flanks 
of the long drawn outline concealed a murderous foe, who with unerring aim 
picked off the officers. A resolute defense was made and the battle raged with 
great fury for three hours; but the tire of the English was ineffectual b 
directed against an invisible foe. Finally, the mounted officers having all 
fallen, killed or wounded, except Washington, the survivors being left without 
leaders were seized with a panic, and "thej ran," says Washing 
the French and Indians like sheep before dogs." 

Gov. Morris made an earnest appeal to the assembly for money to ward 
off the impending enemy and protect the settlers, in response to which the 
assembly voted £50,000; but having no exemption of the proprietor's estates 
it was rejected by the governor, in accordance with his original instructions. 
Expeditions undertaken against Nova Scotia and at Crown Point were more 
fortunate than that before Du Quesne, and the assembly voted £15,000 in 
bills of credit to aid in defraying the expense. The proprietors sent 
as a gratuity, not as any part of expense that could of right be claimed of 
them. In this pressing emergency, while the governor and assembly were 
Waging a fruitless war of words over monej I 'ill-, t lie pen of Franklin was 
busy in infusing a wholesome sentiment in the minds of the people. In a 
pamphlet that he issued, which he put in the familiar form of a dialogue, he 
answered the objections which had been urged to a legalized militia, anil 
Willing to show his devotion by deeds as well as words, he accepted the eom 
liiand upon the frontier. By his exertions a respectable force was raised, and. 
though in the dead of winter, he commenced tl rection of a line of forts 



HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 27 

and block-houses along the whole range of the Kittatinny hills, from the 
Delaware to the Potomac, and had them completed and garrisoned with a body 
sufficient to withstand any force not provided with artillery. In the spring 
he turned over the command to Col. Clapham, and returning to Philadelphia 
took his seat in the assembly. The governor now declared war against the 
Indians, who had established their headquarters thirty miles above Harris' 
Ferry, on the Susquehanna, and were busy in their work of robbery and 
devastation, having secured the greater portion of the crops of the previous 
season of the settlers whom they had killed or driven out. The peace party 
strongly objected to the course of the governor, and voluntarily going among 
the Indians induced them to bury the hatchet. The assembly which met in 
May, 1756, prepared a bill with the old clause for taxing the proprietors, as 
any other citizens, which the governor was forbidden to approve by his instruc- 
tions, ''and the two parties were sharpening their wits for another wrangle 
over it," when Gov. Morris was superseded by William Denny, who arrived 
in the colony and assumed authority on the 20th of August, 1756. He was 
joyfully and cordially received, escorted through the streets by the regiments 
of Franklin and Duch<§, and royally feasted at the State House. 

But the promise of efficient legislation was broken by an exhibition of the 
new governor's instructions, which provided that every bill for the emission 
of money must place the proceeds at the joint disposal of the governor and 
assembly; paper currency could not be issued in excess of £40,000, nor could 
existing issues be confirmed unless proprietary rents were paid in sterling 
money; proprietary lands were permitted to be taxed which had been actually 
leased, provided that the taxes were paid out of the rents, but the tax could 
not become a lien upon the land. In the first assembly the contention became 
as acrimonious as ever. 

The finances of the colony, on account of the repeated failures of the 
money bills, were in a deplorable condition. Military operations could not 
be carried on, and vigorous campaigns prosecuted, without ready rnoney. 
Accordingly, in the first meeting of the assembly after the arrival of the new 
governor, a bill was passed levying £100,000 on all property alike, real and 
personal, private and proprietary. This Gov. Denny vetoed. Seeing that 
money must be had the assembly finally passed a bill exempting the proprie- 
tary estates, but determined to lay their grievances before the crown. To 
this end two commissioners, Isaac Norris and Benjamin Franklin, were 
appointed to proceed to England and beg the interference of the royal govern- 
ment in their behalf. Failing health and business engagements of Norris 
prevented his acceptance, and Franklin proceeded alone. He had so often 
defended the assembly in public, and in drawing remonstrances, that the 
whole subject was at his fingers' ends. Franklin, upon his arrival in Eng- 
land, presented the grievances before the proprietors, and that he might get 
his case before the royal advisers and the British public, wrote frequent 
articles for the press, and issued a pamphlet entitled "Historical Review of 
the Constitution and Government of Pennsylvania." The dispute was adroitly 
managed by Franklin before the privy council, and was finally decided sub- 
stantially in the interest of the assembly. It was provided that the proprie- 
tors' estates should be taxed, but that their located uncultivated lands should 
be assessed as low as the lowest uncultivated lands of the settlers; that bills 
issued by the assembly should be receivable in payment of quit -rents, and 
that the deputy-governor should have a voice in disposing of the revenues. 
Thus was a vexed question of long standing finally put to rest. So success- 



28 HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.. 

fully had Franklin managed this controversy that the colonies of Massa 
i Maryland and Georgia, appointed him their agent in England. 

In October. 1759, James Hamilton was again appointed governor, in place 
of Gov. Denny, who had by stress of circumstances transcended his instruc- 
tions. The British government, considering that the colonies had borne more 
than their proportionate expense in carrying on the war against the French 
and Indians, voted £200,000 for five years, to be divided among the colonies, 
the share falling to Pennsylvania being £26,000. 

The boundary line betw I .Maryland and Pennsylvania had long been in 

dispute, and had occasioned serious disturbances among the settlers in the 
lifetime of Penn, and repeatedly since. It was not definitely settled until 
1760, when a beginning was made of a final adjustment, though so intricate 
were the conditions that the work was prosecuted for seven years by a large 
force of surveyors, as men and pioneers. Finally, the proprietors. Thomas 
and Richard Penn. and Frederick. Lord Baltimore, entered into an agreement 
for the executing of the survey, and John Lukens and Archibald McLean on 
the part of the Penns, and Thomas Garnett and Jonathan Hall on the pari of 
Lord Baltimore, were appointed with a suitable corps of assistants to lay off 
the lines. After these surveyors had been three years at work, the proprietors 
in England, thinking that there was not enough energy and practical and 
scientific knowledge manifested by these surveyors, appointed Charles Mason 

and Jeremiah Dixon, two mathematicians and surveyors, to pro< 1 to Amer 

ica to take charge of the work. They brought with them the most perfect and 
best constructed instruments known to science, arriving in Philadelphia on the 
loth of November. 1763, and, assisted by some of the old surveyors, entered 
upon their work. By the tth of June. 1766, they had reached the summit of 
the Little Allegheny, when the Indians began to be troublesome. They looked 
with an evil eye on the mathematical and astronomical instruments, and felt a 
secret dread and fear of the consequences of the frequent and long continued 
; into the heavens. The Six Nations were understood to be inimical to 
1 1 her progress of the survey. But through the influence of Sir William 
Johnson a treaty was concluded, providing for the prosecution of the work 

ii tested, and a number of chieftains was sent to accompany the surveying 

party. Mason and Dixon now had with them thirty surveyors, fifteen axmen. 
and fifteen Indians of co Again the attitude of the Indians gave 

if fear. and. on the 29th of September, twenty six of the surveyors 
abandoned the expedition and returned to Philadelphia. Having reached a 
point two hundred and twenty-four miles from the Delaware, and within thirty 
six miles of the western limit of the State, in the bottom of a deep, dark valle\ 
(ley came upon a well-worn Indian path, and here the Indians gave notice that 
it was the will of the Six Nations that this survey proceed no further. There 
was no questioning this authority, and no means a! command for resisting, and 
ai ordingly the party broke up and returned to Philadelphia. And this was 
the end of the labors of Mason and Dixon upon this boundary. The line was 
marked by stones which were quarried and engraved in England, on one side 
having the arms of Perm, and on the opposite those of Lord Baltimore. These 
stones were lirmh set every five miles. At the end of each intermediate mile 
a -mallei- stone was placed, having on one side engraved the letter I*. and on 
the opposite the letter 31. The remainder of the line was finished and marked 
in 1782 $4 by other surveyors. A vista was cul through the Eorest eight yards 
in width the whole distance. In L849 the -tone at the northeast corner of 
Maryland having been removed, are-survey <<\' the line wasordered, and survey 
ors were appointed by the three States of Pennsylvania, Delaware and Mary 



HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 29 

land, who called to their .'id .Taints D. Graham. Some few errors were dis- 
covered in the old survey, but in the main it was found to be accurate. 

John Penn, one son of Richard, and grandson of the founder, had come to 
the colony in 1753, and having acted as president of the council, was in lTliM 
commissioned governor in place of Hamilton. 

A difference having arisen between the governor and assembly on the vexed 
question of levying money, the assembly passed a series of resolutions advocat- 
ing that the "powers of government ought to be separated from the power 
attending the immense proprietary property, and lodged in the hands of the 
king." After an interval of fifty days — that time for reflection and discussion 
might be given — the assembly again convened, and adopted a petition praying 
the king to assume the direct government of the province, though this policy 
was strongly opposed by some of the ablest members, as Isaac Norris and John 
Dickinson. The Quaker element was generally in favor of the change. 

The great struggle for the independence of the colonies of the British 
crown was now close at hand, and the first sounds of the controversy were be- 
ginning to be heard. Sir William Keith, that enterprising governor whose 
head seemed to have been full of new projects, as early as 17 3y had proposed 
to lay a tiniform tax on stamped paper in all the colonies, to realize funds I'm 
the common defense. Acting upon this hint, Grenville, the British minister, 
notified the colonists in 1763 of his purpose to impose such a tax. Against 
this they remonstrated. Instead of this, a tax on imports to be paid in coin 
was adopted. This was even more distasteful. The assembly of Rhode Island. 
in October, 1765, submitted a paper to all the colonial assemblies with a view 
to uniting in a common petition to the king against parliamentary taxation. 
This was favorably acted on by the assembly of Pennsylvania, and Franklin 
was appointed agent to represent their cause before the British parliament. 
The stamp act had been passed on the 22d of March, 1765. Its passage ex- 
cited bitter opposition, and a resolution asserting that the colonial assemblies 
had the exclusive right to levy taxes was passed by the Virginia assembly, and 
concurred in by all the others. The Massachusetts assembly proposed a meeting 
of delegates in New York on the second Tuesday of October, 1765, to confer 
upon the subject. The Pennsylvania assembly adopted the suggestion, and 
appointed Messrs. Fox, Morton, Bryan and Dickinson as delegates. This 
congress' met according to the call and adopted a respectful petition to the 
king, and a memorial to parliament, which were signed by all the members 
and forwarded for presentation by the colonial agents in England. The stamp 
act was to go into effect on the 1st of November. On the last day of October, the 
newspapers were dressed in mourning, and suspended publication. The pub- 
lishers agreed not to use the stamped paper. The people, as with one mind, 
determined to dress in homespun, resolved not to use imported goods, and to 
stimulate the production of wool the colonists covenanted not to eat lamb for 
the space of one year. The result of this policy was soon felt by British man- 
ufacturers, who became clamorous for repeal of the obnoxious measure, and it 
was accordingly repealed on the 18th of March, 1766. 

Determined in some form to draw a revenue from the colonies, an act was 
passed in 1767 to impose a duty on tea, paper, printers' colors and glass. The 
assembly of Pennsylvania passed a resolution on the 20th of February, 1768, 
instructing its agent in London to urge its repeal, and at the session in May 
received and entered upon its minutes a circular letter from the Massachusetts 
assembly, setting forth the grounds on which objection to the act should be 
urged. This circular occasioned hostile feeling among the ministry, and the 
secretary for foreign affairs wrote to Gov. Penn to urge the assembly to take 



30 HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

no notice of it; but if they approved its sentiments, to prorogue their sittings. 
This letter was transmitted to the assembly, and soon after one from the \ a 
ginia assembly was presented, urging union of all the colonies in opposing the 
several schemes of taxation. This recommendation was adopted, and com 
nut ins appointed to draw a petition to the king and to each of the houses of 
parliament. To lead public sentiment, and have it well grounded in the argu- 
ments used against taxation. John Dickinson, one of the ablest of the Pennsyl- 
vania legislators, at this time published a number of articles purporting to 
come from a plain farmer, under the title of " Farmer' s Letters, " which be- 
came popular, the idea that they were the work <>f one in humble life helping 
tu swell the tide nt' popularity. They were republished in all the colonies, and 
exerted a commanding influence. Alarmed at the unanimity of feelings 
against the proposed schemes, and supposing that it was the amount of the 
tax that gave offense, parliament reduced the rate of 1769 to one-sixth of the 
original sum. and in 1770 abolished it altogether, except threepence a pound on 
tea. But it was the principle and not the amount that was objected to. and 
at the next session of the assembly in Pennsylvania their agent in London 
was directed to arge it.-- repeal altogether. 

Richard Penn, sun of the founder, died in 1771, whereupon Gov. John 
I'eiin returned fco England, leaving the president of the council, James Ham 
ilton, at the head of the government. John Penn, eldest son of Richard, sue 

ded to the proprietary interests of his father, which he held in conjunction 

with his uncle. Thomas, and in October of the same year, Richard, the second 
son, was commissioned governor. He held the office but about two year.--, and 
in that time won the confidence and esteem of the people: and so much 
attached was he to the popular cause that upon his return to England, in 177">. 
lie was intrusted by congress with the last petition of the colonies ever pre 
sented to the king. In August, 177:'.. John Penn returned with the commis 
sion of governor, superseding his brother Richard. 

To encourage the sale of tea in the colonies ami establish the principle of 
taxation the export duty was removed. The colonies took the alarm. At a 
public meeting called in Phil Selphia to consider the subject, on the lsth of 
•ctol sr, 1773, resolutions were adopted in which it was declared: ■•That the 
disposal of their own property is the inherent right of 'freemen; thai there can 
be no property in that which another can, of right, take from us without ova 
consent; that the claim of parliament to tax America is. in other words, a 
claim of right to levy contributions on us at pleasure." The East India Com- 
pany now made preparations for sending large importations of tea into th 
nies. The ships destined for Philadelphia ami New York, on approaching port 
and being advised of the exasperated state of public feeling, returned to 
England with their cargoes. Those sent to Boston came into the harbor; but 
at night a party disguised as Mohawk Indians boarded (he vessels, and break 
ing open the packages emptied three hundred chests into the sea. The min- 
istry, on being apprised of this act, closed the port of Boston, and subverted 
the colonial charter. Early in the year committee-, of correspondence had 
been established in all the colonies by means of which the temper and feeling 
i each were well understood by the others, and concert of action was secured. 
The hard conditions imposed on the town of Boston and the colony of Alaska 
- Bay aroused the sympathy of all; ••for." they argued, "we know 
not hew SOOn the heavj hand of oppression may be felt by any of Us." At a 
meeting held in Philadelphia on the 18th of June. 1774. at which nearly eight 
thousand people were convened, it was decided that a continental congress 
ought to lie held, and appointed a committee of correspondence to communi- 



HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 31 

cate with similar committees in the several counties of Pennsylvania and in the 
several colonies.- On the 15th of July, 1774, delegates from all the counties, 
summoned by this committee, assembled in Philadelphia, and declared that 
there existed an absolute necessity for a colonial congress. They accordingly 
recommended that the assembly appoint delegates to such a congress to repre- 
sent Pennsylvania, and Joseph Galloway, Samuel Rhoads, George Ross. 
Edward Biddle, John Dickinson, Charles Humphries and Thomas Mifflin were 
appointed. 

On the 4th of September, 1774. the first continental congress assembled in 
Philadelphia. Peyton Randolph, of Virginia, was called to preside, and 
Charles Thomson, of Pennsylvania, was appointed secretary. It was resolved 
that no more goods be imported from England, and that unless a pacification 
was effected previously no more colonial produce of the soil be exported thither 
after September 10, 1775. A declaration of rights was adopted, and addresses 
to the king, the people of Great Britain and of British America were agreed 
to, after which the congress adjourned to meet again on the 10th of May, 1775. 
In January, same year, another meeting of the county delegates was held 
in Philadelphia, at which the action of the colonial congress was approved, 
and while a restoration of harmony with the mother country was desired, yet, if 
the arbitrary acts of parliament were persisted in, they would at every hazard 
defend the "rights and liberties of America." The delegates appointed to 
represent the colony in the second congress were Mifflin, Humphries, Biddle, 
Dickinson, Morton, Franklin, Wilson and Willing. 

The government of Great Britain had determined with a strong hand to 
compel obedience to its behests. On the 19th of April, 1775, was fought the 
battle of Lexington, a blow that was felt alike through all the colonies. The 
cause of one was the cause of all. A public meeting was held in Philadelphia, 
at which it was resolved to organize military companies in all the counties. 
The assembly heartily seconded these views, and engaged to provide for the 
pay of the militia while in service. The second congress, which met in May, 
provided for organizing a Continental army, fixing the quota for Pennsylvania 
ut 4,300 men. The assembly adopted the recommendation of congress, pro- 
vided for arming, disciplining and paying the militia, recommended the organ 
izing of minutemen for service in an emergency, made appropriations for the 
defense of the city, and offered a premium on the production of saltpetre. 
Complications hourly thickened. Ticonderoga was captured on the 10th of 
May, and the battle of Bunker Hill was fought on the 17th of June. On the 
15th of June George Washington was appointed commander-in-chief of the 
continental army, supported by four major-generals and eight brigadiers. 

The royal governors were now an incumbrance greatly in the way of the 
popular movement, as were also the assemblies where they refused to repre- 
sent the popular will. Accordingly, congress recommended that the several 
colonies should adopt such government as should " best conduce to the hap 
piness and safety of their constituents in particular and America in general. 
This meant that each colony should set up a government for itself, independent 
of the crown. Accordingly, a public meeting was held in Philadelphia, at 
which it was resolved that the present assembly is "not competent to the 
present exigencies of affairs," and that a new form of government ought to be 
adopted as recommended by congress. The city committee of correspondence 
called on the county committee to secure the election of delegates to- a colonial 
meeting for the purpose of considering this subject. On the 18th of June the 
meeting was held in Philadelphia, and was organized by electing Thomas 
McKean president. It resolved to call a convention to frame a new constitu- 



32 HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Hon, provided the legal forms to be observed, and issued an address to the peo- 
ple. The convention for framing a new constitution for the colony met on the 
L5th of July, and was organized by electing Franklin president, and on the 
2Sth of September completed its labors, having framed a new organic law and 
made all necessary provisions for putting it into operation. In the meantime 
the old proprietary assembly adjourned on the 14th of June to the 26th 
of August. But a quorum failed to appear, and an adjournment was had to 
the 23d of September, when some routine business was attended to. chiefly 
providing for the payment of salaries and necessary liills, and on the 28th of 
September, after a stormy existence of nearly a century, this assembly, the 
creature of Perm, adjourned, never to meet again. With the ending of the 
!\ ended the power of Gov. Penn. 
The titles of the proprietors to landed estates were suspended by the action 
of the convention, and on the 27th of November, 1779, the legislature 
an act vesting these estates in the commonwealth, but paying the prop 
a gratuity of £130,000, "'in remembrance of the enterprising spirit of the 
Eounder." This act did not touch the private estates of the proprietoi 
the tenths of manors. The British government in 1790, in consideration of 
the fact that it had been unable to vindicate its authority over the colony and 
afford pri the proprietors in the enjoyment of their chartered rights, 

rated an annuity of 64,000 to the heirs and descendants of Penn. This annu- 
ity was regularly paid until within a few years, when, on the payment of a 
round sum to the heirs by the British government, the annuity was discon 

t iuueil. 

The convention which framed the constitution appointed a committee of 
safety, consisting of twenty live members, to whom was intrusted the g 
ment of the colony until the proposed constitution should be framed and put 
in operation. Thomas Rittenhouse was chosen president of this body, who 
was consequently in effect governor. The new constitution, which was unan- 
imously adopted on the 28th of September, was to take effect from its passage. 
It provided for an assembly to lie elected annually: a supreme executive coun- 
cil of twelve members to be elected for a term of three years: assemblymen to 
be eligible but four years out of seven, and councilmen but one term in seven 

years. Members of i gress were chosen bj the assembly. The constitution 

could not be changed for seven years. It provided lor the election of censors 
every seven years, who were to decide whether there was a demand for its 
revision. If so, they were to call a convention for the purpose. On the 6th 

of August. 177B, Th as Wharton, Jr., was chosen president of the council of 

safety . 

The struggle of tie' parent country was now fully inaugurated. Parlia 
ment had resolved upon a vigorous campaign, to strike heavy and rapid blows, 
and quickly end the war. The first campaign had been conducted in Massa 
chusetts and. by the efficient conduct of Washington. Gen. Howe, tin 
of the British, was compelled to capitulate and withdraw to Halifax in March. 
1770. On the 28th of June Sir Henry Clinton, with a strong detachment in 
conjunction with Sir Peter Parker of the navy, made a combined land and 
naval attack upon the defenses of Charleston harbor, where he was met by 
Gen. \\ illiam Moultrie, with the Carolina militia, and after a severe battle, in 
which the British fleet was roughly handled, Clinton withdrew and returned 
to New York, whither the main body of the British army, under Gen. Eowe, 

ie. and where Admiral Howe, with a large lleet directly from El 
joined them. This formidable power, led by the best talent in the British 
army, V adequate force to oppose, and he was 



HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 33 

obliged to withdraw from Long Island, from New York, from Harlem, from 
White Plains, to cross into New Jersey, and abandon position after position 
until he had reached the right bank of the Delaware on Pennsylvania soil. A 
heavy detachment under Cornwallis followed, and would have crossed the Del- 
aware in pursuit, but, advised to a cautious policy by Howe, he waited for ice 
to form on the waters of the Delaware before passing over. The fall of Phil- 
adelphia now seemed imminent. Washington had not sufficient force to face the 
whole power of the British army. On the 2d of December the supreme coun-. 
cil ordered all places of business in the city to be closed, the schools dismissed, 
and advised preparation for removing the women and children and valuables. 
On the 12th the congress, which was in session here, adjourned to meet in Bal- 
timore, taking with them all papers and public records, and leaving a committee, 
of which Robert Morris was chairman, to act in conjunction with Washington 
for the safety of the place. Gen. Putnam was dispatched on the same day 
with a detachment of soldiers to take command in the city. 

Washington, who had from the opening of the campaign before New York 
been obliged for the most part to act upon the defensive, formed the plan 
to suddenly turn upon his pursuers and offer battle. Accordingly, on the 
night of the 25th of December, taking a picked body of men, he moved up 
several miles to Taylorsville, where he crossed the river, though at flood 
tide and tilled with floating ice, and moving down to Trenton, where a detach- 
ment of the British army was posted, made a bold and vigorous attack. 
Taken by surprise, though now after sunrise, the battle was soon decided in 
favor of the Americans. The victory had a great stragetic value. The British 
had intended to push forward and occupy Philadelphia at once, which, being 
now virtually the capital of the new nation, had it been captured at this junct- 
ure, would have given them the occasion for claiming a triumphal ending of 
the war. But this advantage, though gained by a detachment small in num- 
bers yet great in courage, caused the commander of a powerful and well-ap- 
pointed army to give up all intention of attempting to capture the Pennsyl- 
vania metropolis in this campaign, and retiring into winter cantonments upon 
the Raritan to await the settled weather of the spring for an entirely new cast 
of operations. Washington, emboldened by his success, led all his forces into 
New Jersey, and pushing past Trenton, where Cornwallis, the royal leader, 
had brought his main body by a forced march under cover of darkness, at- 
tacked the British reserves at Princeton. But now the enemy had become wary 
and vigilant, and, summoned by the booming of cannon, Cornwallis hastened 
back to the relief of his hard-pressed columns. Washington, finding that the 
enemy's whole army was within easy call, and knowing that he had no hope of 
success with his weak army, withdrew. He now went into winter quarters at 
Morristown, and by constant vigilance was able to gather marauding parties of 
the British who ventured far away from their works. 

Putnam commenced fortifications at a point below Philadelphia upon the 
Delaware and at commanding positions upon the outskirts, and on being sum- 
moned to the army was succeeded by Gen. Irvine, and he by Gen. Gates. On 
the 4th of March, 1777, the two houses of the legislature, elected under the 
new constitution, assembled, and in joint convention chose Thomas Wharton, 
Jr., president, and George Bryan, vice-president. Penn had expressed the 
idea that power was preserved the better by due formality and ceremony, and, 
accordingly, this event was celebrated with much pomp, the result being de 
clared in a loud voice from the court-house, amid the shouts of the gathered 
throngs and the booming of the captured cannon brought from the field of 
Trenton. The title bestowed upon the new chief officer of the State was fitted 



34 HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

by its length and high-sounding epithets to inspire the multitude with awe and 
reverence: " His Excellency, Thomas Wharton, Junior, Esquire, President of 
the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania, Captain General and Com- 
mander-in-Chief in and over the same." 

Early in April great activity was observed among the shipping in New 
York harbor, and Washington communicated to congress his opinion that 
Philadelphia was the object against which the blow would be aimed. This 
announcement of probable peril induced the council to issue a proclamation 
urging enlistments, and congress ordered the opening of a camp for drilling 
recruits in Pennsylvania, and Benedict Arnold, who was at this time a trusted 
general, was appointed to the command of it. So many new vessels and trans- 
ports of all classes had been discovered to have come into New York harbor, 
probably forwarded from England, that Washington sent Gen. Mifflin, on the 
1 < >t li of June, to congress, bearing a letter in which he expressed the settled 
conviction that the enemy meditated an immediate descent upon some part of 
Pennsylvania. Gen. Mifflin proceeded to examine the defensive works of the 
city which had been begun on the previous advance of the British, and recom- 
mended such changes and new works as seemed best adapted for its protec- 
tion. The preparations for defense were vigorously prosecuted. The militia 
were called out and placed in two camps, one at Chester and the other at 
Downington. Fire-ships were held in readiness to be used against vessels at- 
tempting the ascent of the river. 

Lord Howe, being determined not to move until ample preparations were 
completed, allowed the greater part of the summer to wear away before he ad- 
vanced. Finally, having embarked his force on a fleet of transports, he sailed 
southward. Washington promptly made a corresponding march overland, 
passing through Philadelphia on the 24th of August. Howe, suspecting that 
preparations would be made for impeding the passage of the Delaware, sailed 
past its mouth, and moving up the Chesapeake instead debarked fifty torn 
miles from Philadelphia, and commenced the march northward. Great activity 
was now manifested in the city. The water- spouts were melted to furnish bul- 
lets, fair hands were busied in rolling cartridges, powerful chevaux -de -frise 
were planted to impede the navigation of the river, and the last division of 
the militia of the city, which had been divided into three classes, was called 
out. Washington, who had crossed the Brandywine, soon confronted the ad- 
vance i J Howe, and brisk skirmishing at once opened. Seeing that he was 
likely to have the right of his position at Red Clay creek, where he had 
intended to give battle, turned by the largely superior force of the enemy. 
under cover of darkness on the night of the Sth of September, he withdrew 
across the Brandywine at Chad's Ford, and posting Armstrong with the mill 
tia upon the left, at Pyle's Ford, where the banks were rugged and precipitous, 
and Sullivan, who was second in command, upon the right at Briutou's Ford, 
under cover of forest, he himself took post with three divisions, Sterling's, 
Stephen's and his own, in front, of the main avenue of approach at Chad's. 
Discovering the strong position which the American army occupied, the Brit- 
ish general began a maneuver to turn it by a flank movement. Washington, 
always on the alert, promptly divined the enemy's intentions, and ordered 
Gen. Sullivan to counteract the movement by thinking the flankers, while he 
held his immediate command ready tii attack the main force while in confusion. 
The plan was ruined, however. 1>\ Sullivan's failure to obey orders, and Wash 
ington had no alternative but to remain in position and make the best dispo- 
sition thai time would permit. His main bod] with the force of Sullivan took 
position along the brow of the hill on which stands the Birmingham meeting- 



HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 35 

house, and tbe battle opened and was pushed with vigor the whole day. Over- 
borne by numbers, and weakened by losses. Washington was obliged to retire, 
leaving the enemy in possession of the field. 

Congress remained in Philadelphia while these military operations were 
going on at its very doors, but on the 18th of September adjourne I to meei ai 
Lancaster, though subsequently, on the 30th. it removed across tbe Susque- 
hanna to York, where it remained in session till after the evacuation in the 
following summer. The council remained until two days before the fall of the 
city, when, having dispatched the records of the loan office and the more valu- 
able papers to Easton, it adjourned to Lancaster. On the 26th the British 
army entered the city. Deborah Logan in her memoir says: "'The army 
marched in and took possession of the city in the morning. We were upstairs 
and saw them pass the State House. They looked well, clean and well clad, 
and the contrast between them and our own poor, bare-footed, ragged troops 
was very great, and caused a feeling of despair. * * * * Early in the 
afternoon Lord Cornwallis' suite arrived and took possession of my mother's 
house. 

The army of Washington, after being recruited and put in light marching 
order, was led to Germantowu. where on the morning of the 3d of October the 
enemy was met. A heavy fog that morning had obscured friend and foe alike, 
occasioning confusion in the ranks and. though the opening promised well and 
some progress was made, yet the enemy was too strong to be moved, and the 
American leader was forced to retire to his camp at White Marsh. Though 
the river had now been opened and the city was thoroughly fortified for resist 
ing'attack, yet Howe felt not quite easy in having the American army quar- 
tered in so close striking distance, and accordingly on the 4th of December, 
with nearly his entire army, moved out, intending to take Washington at 
White Marsh, sixteen miles away, by surprise, and by rapidity of action gain 
an easy victory. But by the heroism and fidelity of Lydia Darrah, who as she 
had often done before passed the guards to go to the mill for flour, the 1 news 
of the coming of Howe was communicated to Washington, who was prepared 
to receive him. Finding that he could effect nothing, Howe returned to the 
city, having had the wearisome march at this wintry season without effect. 
Washington now crossed the Schuylkill, and went into winter quarters at Val- 
ley Forge. The cold of that winter was intense; the troops, half-clad and 
indifferently fed, suffered severely, the prints of their naked feet in frost and 
snow being often tinted with patriot blood. Grown impatient of the small 
results from the immensely expensive campaigns carried on across the ocean, 
the ministry relieved Lord Howe and appointed Sir Henry Clinton to the chief 
command. 

The commissioners whom congress had sent to France early in the fall of 
1776 — Franklin, Dean and Lee — had been busy in making interest for the 
united colonies at the French court, and so successful were they that arms and 
ammunition and loans of money were procured from time to time. Finally, a 
convention was concluded by which France agreed to use the royal army and 
navy as faithful allies of the Americans against the English. Accordingly, a 
fleet of four powerful frigates and twelve ships were dispatched under com- 
mand of the Count D'Estaing to shut up the British fleet in the Delaware. 
The plan was ingenious, particularly worthy of the long head of Franklin. 
But intelligence of the sailing of the French fleet reaching the English cabinet, 
they immediately ordered the evacuation of the Delaware, whereupon the 
admiral weighed anchor and sailed away with his entire fleet to New York. 



3(5 HISTORY Of PENNSYLVANIA. 

and D'Estaiug, upon his arrival at the mouth of the Delaware, found that the 
bird had flown. 

Clinton evacuated Philadelphia, and moved acrossNew Jereej iii the direc- 
tion of New York. Washington closely followed, and came up with the enemy 
on tin- plains of Monmouth, on the 28th of June. 1778, where a sanguinary 
battle was fought which lasted the whole day. resulting in the triumph of the 
American arms, and Pennsylvania was rid of British troops. The enemy was 
in. sooner well away from the city than congress returned from New York and 
resumed its sittings in its former quarters, June 24. 177S. and on the following 
day the colonial legislature returned from Lancaster. (Jen. Arnold, who was 
disabled from tield duty by a wound received at Saratoga, was given command 
in the city, and marched in with a regiment on the day following the evacua- 
tion. <>:, the 23d of May. 177s. President Wharton died suddenly of quinsy, 
while in attendance upon the council at Lancaster, when George Bryan, the 
vice-president, became the acting president. Bryan was a philanthropist in 
deed as well as in word. Up to this time African slavery had been tolerated 
in the colony. In his message of the 9th of November, he said: "'This or 
some better scheme would tend to abrogate slavery, the opprobrium of Amer- 
i m. from among us. * * In divesting the State of slaves, you will 

equally serve the cause of humanity and policy, and offer to God one of the 
most proper and best returns of gratitude for His great deliverance of us and 
our posterity from thraldom; you will also set your character for justice and 
benevolence in the true point of view to Europe, who are astonished to Bee a 
people eager for liberty holding negroes in bondage." He perfected a bill 
for the extinguishment of claims to slaves, which was passed by the assembly. 
March 1. 1780, by a vote of thirty-four to eighteen, providing that no child 
of slave parents born after that date should lie a slave, but a servant till the 
age of twenty-eight years, when all claim for service should end. Thus by 
simple enactment, resolutely pressed by Bryan, was slavery forever rooted out 
of Pennsylvania. 

At the election held for president, the choice fell upon -Joseph Reed, with 
George Bryan, vice president, subsequently Matthew Smith, and finally Will- 
iam .Moore. Reed was an erudite lawyer, and had held the position of private 
secretary to Washington, and subsequently that of adjutant general in the 
army. He was inaugurated on the 1st of December. 177S. William Moore 
was elected presidenl to succeed Joseph Reed, from November 14, 1781, bui 
held the office less than one year, the term of three years for which he had 
been a councilman liaNinv;- expired, which was the limit of service. James 
Potter was chosen vice-president. In the State election of 1782. contested 
with groat violence, John l> ckiason was chosen president, and Janes Ewing, 
vice-president. On the 12th of .March. 1783, intelligence was first received 
of the signing of the preliminary treaty in which independence was ac- 
knowledged, and on the llth of April congress sent forth the joyful procla- 
mation orderi m <t h i tilities. The soldiers of Burgoyne, who had 
been confined in the prison cam]) at Lancaster, wen' put upon the march for 
New York, passing through Philadelphia on the way. Everywhere was joy 
kable. The obstructions were removed from the Delaware, and the 
white wings of commerce again came fluttering on every breeze. 

In September, L785, after a long absence in the service of his country 
abroad, perfecting treaties and otherwise establishing just relations with other 
nations, the venerable Benjamin Franklin, than nearly eighty years old, fee] 
ing the infirmities of age coming upon him, asked to be relieved of the duties 
of minister at the court of France, and returned to Philadelphia. Soon after 



HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 37 

his arrival be was elected president of the council. Charles Biddle was elected 
vice-president. In May, 1787, a convention to frame a constitution for the 
United States met at Philadelphia. The delegates from Pennsylvania were 
Benjamin Franklin, Robert Morris, Thomas Mifflin. George CTymer, Thomas 
Fitzsiruons, Jared Ingersoll, James "Wilson and Gouverneur Morris. Upon 
the completion of their work, the instrument was submitted to the several 
States for adoption. A convention was called in Pennsylvania, which met on 
the 21st of November, and though encountering resolute opposition it was 
finally adopted on the 12th of December. On the following day the conven- 
tion, the supreme council and officers of the State and city government, moved 
in procession to the old court-house, where the adoption of the constitution 
was formally proclaimed amidst the booming of cannon and the ringing of 
bells. 

On the 5th of November, 1788, Thomas Mifflin was elected president, and 
George Boss, vice-president. The constitution of the State framed in and 
adapted to the exigencies of an emergency, was ill-suited to the needs of the 
State in its relations to the new nation. Accordingly a convention assembled 
for the purpose of preparing a new constitution in November, 1789, which was 
finally adopted on September 2, 1790. By the provisions of this instrument, 
the executive council was abolished, and the executive duties were vested in 
the hands of a governor. Legislation was intrusted to an assembly and a 
senate. The judicial system was continued, and the terms of the judges 
extended through good behavior. 

The whisky insurrection in some of the western counties of the State. 
which occurred in 1794, excited by its lawlessness and wide extent general 
interest. An act of congress of March 3, 1791, laid a tax on distilled spirits 
of fourpence per gallon. The then counties of Washington, Westmoreland, 
Allegheny and Fayette, comprising the southwestern quarter of the State, 
were almost exclusively engaged in the production of grain. Being far re 
moved from any market, the product of their farms brought them scarcely 
any returns. The consequence was that a large proportion of the surplus 
grain was turned into distilled spirits, and nearly every other farmer was a 
distiller. This tax was seen to bear heavily upon them, from which a non- 
producer of spirits was relieved. A rash determination was formed to resist 
its collection, and a belief entertained that, if all were united in resisting, it 
would be taken off. Frequent altercations occurred between the persons ap- 
pointed United States collectors and these resisting citizens. As an example, 
on thu 5th of September, 1791, a party in disguise set upon Robert Johnson, 
a collector for Allegheny and Washington, tarred and feathered him, cut off 
his hair, took away his horse, and left him in this plight to proceed. Writs 
for the arrest of the perpetrators were issued, but none dared t$> venture into 
the territory to serve them. On May 8, 1792. the law was modified, and the 
tax reduced. In September, 1792, President Washington issued his proclama- 
tion commandipg all persons to submit to the law, and to forbear from fuither 
opposition. But these measures had no effect, and the insurgents began to 
organize for forcible resistance. Maj. Macfarlane, while in command of a 
party of insurrectionists, was killed in an encounter with United States sol- 
diers at the house of Gen. Neville. The feeling now ran very high, and it 
was hardly safe for any person to breathe a whisper against the insurgents 
throughout all this district. One Bradford had, of his own notion, issued a 
circular letter to the colonels of regiments to assemble with their commands 
at Braddock's field on the 1st of August, where they appointed officers and 
moved on to Pittsburgh. After having burned a barn, and made some noisv 



38 HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

demonstrations, they wore induced by some cool heads to return. These tur- 
bulent proceedings coming to the ears of the State and national authorities at 
Philadelphia, measures were concerted to promptly and effectually check them. 
Gov. Mifflin appointed Chief Justice McKean and Gen. William Irvine to 
: to the disaffected district, ascertain the facts, and try to bring the 
leaders to justice. President Washington issued a proclamation commanding 
all persons in arms to disperse to their homes "on or before the 1st of Sep- 
tember, proximo," and called out the militia of four States— Pennsylvania, 
New Jersey, Maryland and Virginia — to the numberof 13,000 men. to enforce 
his commands. The quota of Pennsylvania was t,500 infantry, "'tin cavalry, 
and 200 artillery, and Gov. Mifflin took command in person. Gov. Richard 
Howell, of New Jersey, Gov. Thomas S. Lee, of Maryland, and Gen. Daniel 
Morgan, of Virginia, commanded the forces from their States, and Gov. 
Henry Lee, of Virginia, was placed in chief command. President Washing- 
ton, accompanied by Gen. Knox, secretary of war, Alexander Hamilton, secre 
tary of the treasury, and Richard Peters, of the United States District Court, 
set out on the 1st of October for the seat of the disturbance. On Friday the 
President reached Harrisbnrg and on Sat unlay. Carlisle, whither the army 
had preceded him. In the meantime a committee, consisting of James Ross, 
Jasper Yeates and William Bradford, was appointed by President Washington 
to proceed to the disaffected district, and endeavor to persuade misguided 
citizens to return to their allegiance. 

A meeting of 260 delegates from the four counties was held atParkinson's 
Ferry on the 14th of August, at which the state of their cause was considered, 
resolutions adopted, and a committee of sixty, one from each county, was ap 
pointed, and a sub-committee of twelve was named to confer with the United 
States commissioners, McKean and Irvine. These conferences with the State 
and national committees were successful in arranging preliminary conditions 
of settlement. On the 2d of October the committee of safety of the insur- 
gents met at Parkinson's Ferry, and having learned that a well -organized 
army, with Washington at its head, was marching westward to enforce obedi 
ence to the laws, appointed a committee of two. William Findley and David 
Reddick, to meet the President, and assure him that the disaffected were dis 
posed to return to their duties. They met Washington at Carlisle, and several 

conferei s were held, and assurances given of implicit obedience; but the 

President said that as the troops had been called out. the orders for the march 
would not be countermanded. The President proceeded forward on the 11th 
of October to Chambersburg, reached Williamsport on the loth and Fort 
land on the 14th. where he reviewed the Virginia and Marxian 1 
ived at Bedford on the 19th Remaining a few days, and being satis 
tied thai the* sentiment of the people had changed, be returned to Philadel 
phia. arriving on the 28th, leaving Gen. Lee to meet the commissioners and 
make >uch conditions of pacification as should seem just. Another meeting 
of the committee of safety was held at Parkinson's Perry on the 24th, at 
which assurances of abandonment of opposition to the laws were receive! 
the same committee, with the addition of Thomas Morton and Ephraim Doug 

lass, was directed to return to headquarters and give assurant I this dispo 

sition. They did not reach Bedford until after the departure of Was] 
Hut a*. I nioiitown they met Gen. Lee. with whom it was agreed that the citi- 
zens of the.-e four counties should subscribe to an oath to support the consti 
tution ami obej the laws. Justices of the peace issued notice- that books 

were opened for subscribing to the oath, and Gen. 1 issued a judicious 

address urging ready obedience. Seeing that all requirements were being 



HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 39 

faithfully carried out, an order was issued the 17th of November for the re- 
turn of the army and its disbandment. A number of arrests were made and 
trials and convictions were had. but all were ultimately pardoned. 

With the exception of a slight ebullition at the prospect of a war with 
France in 1797, and a resistance to the operation of the "homestead tax " in 
Lehigh. Berks and Northampton counties, when the militia was called out. the 
remainder of the term of Gov. Mifflin passed in comparative quiet. By an act 
of the legislature of the 3d of April, 1799, the capital of the State was removed 
to Lancaster, and soon after the capital of the United States to Washington, 
the house on Ninth street, which had been built for the residence of the Pres- 
ident of the United States, passing to the use of the University of Pennsylvania. 

During the administrations of Thomas McKean, who was elected governor 
in 1799. and Simon Snyder, in 1808, little beyond heated political contests 
marked the even tenor of the government, until the breaking out of the troubles 
which eventuated in the war of 1812. Pennsylvania promptly seconded the 
national government, the message of Gov. Snyder on the occasion ringing like 
a silver clarion. The national call for 100,000 men required 14,000 from this 
State, but so great was the enthusiasm that several times this number tendered 
their services. The State force was organized in two divisions, to the com- 
mand of the first of which Maj.-Gen. Isaac Morrell was appointed, and to the 
second Maj.-Gen. Adamson Tannehill. Gunboats and privateers were built in 
the harbor of Erie and on the Delaware, and the defenses upon the latter were 
put in order and suitable armaments provided. The act which created most 
alarm to Pennsylvania was one of vandalism scarcely matched in the annals of 
warfare. In August, 1814, Gen. Ross, with 6,000 men in a flotilla of sixty 
sail, moved up Chesapeake Bay, tired the capitol, the President's house and 
the various offices of cabinet ministers, and these costly and substantial build 
ings, the national library and all the records of the government from its 
foundation were utterly destroyed. Shortly afterward. Ross appeared before Bal- 
timore with the design of multiplying his barbarisms, but he was met by a force 
hastily collected under Gen. Samuel Smith, a Pennsylvania veteran of the Revo- 
lution, and in the brief engagement which ensued Ross was killed. In the severe 
battle with the corps of Gen. Strieker, the British lost some 300 men. The 
fleet in the meantime commenced a tierce bombardment of Fort McHenry, and 
during the day and ensuing night 1,7)00 bombshells were thrown, but all to 
no purpose, the gallant defense of Maj. Armistead proving successful. It 
was during this awful night that Maj. Key, who was a prisoner on board the 
fleet, wrote the song of the Star Spangled Banner, which became the national 
lyric. It was in the administration of Gov. Snyder in February. 1810. that an 
act was passed making Harrisburg the seat of government, and a commission 
raised for erecting public buildings, the sessions of the legislature being held 
in the court house at Harrisburg from 1812 to 1821. 

The administrations of William Findley, elected in 1817, Joseph Heister, in 
1820, and John Andrew Schulz, in 1823, followed without marked events. Par- 
ties became very warm in their discussions and in their management of political 
campaigns. The charters for the forty banks which had been passed in a fit 
of frenzy over the veto of Gov. Snyder set a flood of paper money afloat. The 
public improvements, principally in opening lines of canal, were prosecuted, 
and vast debts incurred. These lines of conveyances were vitally needful to 
move the immense products and vast resources of the State. 

Previous to the year 1820, little use was made of stone coal. Judge Obe- 
diah Gore, a blacksmith, used it upon his forge as early as 1769, and found 
the heat stronger and more enduring than that produced by charcoal. In 



40 HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

L791 Phillip Ginter. of Carbon county, a banter by profession, baving on one 
occasion been out all day without discovering any game, was returning at night 
discouraged and worn out, across the Mauch Chunk mountain wben, in tbe 
gathering sbades he stumbled upon sometbing wbich seemed to bave a glisten- 
ing appearance, that be was induced to pick up and carry home. This s] i 

men was taken to Philadelphia, where an analysis showed it to be a good qual- 
ity of anthracite coal. But, though coal was known to exist, no one knew how to 
use it. In 1812 Col. George Shoemaker, of Schuylkill county, took nine 
wagon loads to Philadelpnia. But he was looked upon as an imposter for 
attempting to sell worthless stone for coal. He finally sold two loads for the 
cost of transportation, the remaining seven proving a complete loss. In L812 
White & Hazard, manufacturers of wire at the Falls of Schuylkill, induced,an 
application to be made to the legislature to incorporate a company for the 
improvement of the Schuylkill, urging as an inducement the importance it would 
have for transporting coal; whereupon, the senator from that district, in his 
place, with an air of knowledge, asserted that "there was no coal there, that 
there was a kind of black ston'e which was called coal, but that it would not 
burn." White & Hazard procured a cart-load of Lehigh coal that cost them 81 
a bushel, wbich was all wasted in a vain attempt to make it ignite. Another 
cart-load was obtained, and a whole night spent in endeavoring to make a fire 
in the furnace, when the hands shut the furnace door and left the mill in dis- 
pair. "Fortunately one of them left his jacket in the mill, and returning for 
it in about half an hour, noticed that the door was red hot, and upon opening 
it, was surprised at finding the whole furnace at a glowing white heat. The 
other hands were summoned, and four separate parcels of iron were heated 
and rolled by the same fire before it required renewing. The furnace was 
replenished, and as letting it alone had succeeded so well, it was concluded to 
try it again, and the experiment was repeated with the same result. The 
Lehigh Navigation Company and the Lehigh Coal Company were incorporated 
in 1818, which companies became tbe basis of the Lehigh Coal and Navigation 
Company, incorporated in 18'22. In 1820 coal was sent to Philadelphia by 
artificial navigation, but 365 tons glutted the market." In 1825 there were 
brought by the Schuylkill 5,378 tons. In 1826 by the Schuylkill 16,265 tons, 
and by tbe Lehigh 31,280 tons. The stage of water being insufficient, dams 
and sluices were constructed near Mauch Chunk, in 1819, by which the aavi 
gation was improved. The coal boats used were great square arks, sixteen to 
eighteen feet wide, and twenty to twenty-five feet long. At first, two of these 
were joined together by hinges, to allow them to yield up and down in passing 
over the dams. Finally as the boatman became skilled in the navigation, 
several were joined, attaining a length of ISO feet. After reaching Philadel- 
phia, these boats were taken to pieces, the plank sold and the hinges sent back 
for constructing others. Such were the crude methods adopted in the earl) 
days for bringing coal to a market. In 1827 a railroad was commenced, which 
was completed in three months, nine miles in length. This, with the exception 
of one at Quincy, Mass., of four miles, built in 1826, was the firsl constructed 
in the United States. The descent was one hundred feet per mile, the coal 
descending by gravity in a half hour, and the cars were drawn back by mules. 
wbich rode down witli the coal. Bituminous coal was discovered and it~ quali- 
ties utilized not much earlier than the anthracite. A tract of coal land was 
taken up in Clearfield county in 1785, by Mr. S. Boyd, and in 180-1 he sent 
an ark down the Susquehanna to Columbia. 

During the administrations of George Wolf, elected in 1829, and Joseph 
Kitner, elected in 1835. a measure of great beneficence to the State was passed, 



HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 41 

and brought into a good degree of successful operation — nothing less than a 
broad system of public education. Schools had been early established in Phila- 
delphia, and parochial schools in the more populous portions of the State from 
the time .of early settlement. In 1749, through the influence of Dr. Franklin, 
a charter was obtained for a "college, academy, and charity school of Penn- 
sylvania," and, from this time to the beginning of the present century, the 
friends of education were earnest in establishing colleges, the colonial govern- 
ment, and afterward the legislature, making liberal grants from the revenues 
accruing from the sale of lands for their support, the University of Pennsyl- 
vania being chartered in 1752, Dickinson College in 1783, Franklin and Mar 
shall College in 1 787, and Jefferson College in 1802. Commencing near the 
beginning of this century, and continuing for over a period of thirty years, 
vigorous exertions were put forth to establish county academies. Charters 
were granted for these institutions at the county seats of forty-one counties. 
and appropriations were made of money, varying from two thousand to six 
thousand dollars, and in several instances of quite extensive land grants. In 
1S09 an act was passed for the education of the "poor gratis." The asses- 
sors in their annual rounds were to make a record of all such as were indigent, 
and pay for their education in the most convenient schools. But few were 
found among the spirited inhabitants of the commonwealth willing to admit 
that they were so poor as to be objects of charity. 

By the act of April 1, 1834, a general system of education by common 
schools was established. Unfortunately it was complex and unwieldly. At 
the next session an attempt was made to repeal the act, and substitute the old 
law of 1809 for educating the " poor gratis." the repeal having been carried 
in the senate. But through the appeals of Thaddeus Stevens, a man always 
in the van in every movement for the elevation of mankind, this was defeated. 
At the next session, 1830, an entirely new bill, discarding the objectionable 
features of the old one. was prepared by Dr. George Smith, of Delaware 
county, and adopted, and from this time forward it has been in efficient opera- 
tion. In 1854 the system was improved by engrafting upon it the feature of 
the county superintendency, and in 1859 by providing for the establishment of 
twelve normal schools in as many districts into which the State was divide,! foi 
the professional training of teachers. 

In 1837 a convention assembled in Harrisburg, and subsequently in Phila- 
delphia, for revising the constitution, which revision was adopted by a vote of 
the people. One of the chief objects of the change was the breaking up of 
what was known as "omnibus legislation," each bill being required to have 
but one distinct subject, to be definitely stated in the title. Much of the pat- 
ronage of the governor was taken from him, and he was allowed but two terms 
of three years in any nine years. The senator's term was fixed at three years. 
The terms of supreme court judges were limited to fifteen years, common pleas 
judges to ten, and associate judges to five. A step backward was taken in 
limiting suffrage to white male citizens twenty-one years old, it having pre- 
viously been extended to citizens irrespective of color. Amendments could be 
proposed once in five years, and if adopted by two successive legislatures, and 
approved by a vote of the people, they became a part of the organic law. 

At the opening of the gubernatorial term of David R. Porter, who was 
chosen in October, 1838, a civil commotion occurred known as the " Buckshot 
War," which at one time threatened a sanguinary result. Fraud in the election 
returns was alleged, and finally the opposing factions armed for the mainte- 
nance of their claims. Some of them were supplied with buckshot cartridges,, 
hence the name which was given to the contest. It ended without bloodshed. 



42 HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Francis R. Sbunk was chosen governor in 1845, and during his term of 
office the war with Mexico occurred. Two volunteer regiments, one under 
command of Col. Wynkoop, and the other under Col. Roberts, subsequently 
under Col. J. W. Geary, were sent to the field, while the services of a much larger 
number were offered, but could not be received. Toward the close of his first 
term, having been reduced by sickness, and feeling his end approaching, Gov. 
Shrink resigned, and was succeeded by the speaker of the senate, William F. 
Johnston, who was duly chosen at the next annual election. During the 
administrations of William Bigler, elected in 1851, James Pollock, in 1854, 
and William F. Packer, in 1857, little beyond the ordinary course of events 
marked the history of the State. The lines of public works undertaken at the 
expense of the State were completed. Their cost had been enormous, and a 
debt was piled up against it of over forty million dollars. These works, vastly 
expensive, were still to operate and keep in repair, and the revenues therefrom 
failing to meet expectations, it was determined in the administration of Gov. 
Pollock to sell them to the highest bidder, the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany purchasing them for the sum of seven million five hundred thousand 
dollars. 

In the administration of Gov. Packer petroleum was first discovered in 
quantities in this country by boring into the bowels of the earth. From the 
earliest settlement of the country it was known to exist, and it had been gath- 
ered in small quantities and utilized for various purposes. In 1859 Mr. E. L. 
Drake, at first representing a company in New York, commenced drilling near 
a spot where there were surface indications. When the company would give 
him no more money he strained his own resources and his credit with his 
friends almost to the breaking point, and when about to give up in despair 
finally struck a powerful current of pure oil. From this time forward the ter- 
ritory down the valley of Oil creek and up all its tributaries was rapidly 
acquired and developed for oil land. In some places the oil was sent up with 
immense force at the rate of thousands of barrels each day, and great trouble 
was experienced in bringing it under control and storing it. In some cases 
the force of the gas was so powerful on being accidentally fired as to defy all 
approach for many days, and lighted up the forests at night with, billows of 
light. The oil has been found in paying quantities in McKean. Warren. 
Forest, Crawford, Venango, Clarion, Butler and Armstrong counties, chiefly 
along the upper waters of the Allegheny river and its tributary, the Oil creek. 
It-, transportation has come to be effected by forcing it through great pipe 
lines, which extend to the great lakes and the seaboard. Its production has 
grown to be enormous. Since 1859 a grand total of more than three hundred 
millions of barrels have been produced in the Pennsylvania oil fields. 

In the fall of 1860, Andrew G. Curtin was elected governor of Pennsy] 
vania. and Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States. The war of the 
great rebellion followed, and in the spring of 1861 Pennsylvania was called 
on for sixteen regiments, her quota of the 75,000 volunteers that were sum 
moned by proclamation of the' President. Instead of sixteen, twenty live regi- 
ments were organized for the three months' service from Pennsylvania. 
Judging from the threatening attitude assumed by the rebels across the 
Potomac that the southern frontier would be constantly menaced, Gov. Curtin 
sought permission to organize a select corps, to consist of thirteen regiments 
of infantry, one of cavalry, and one of artillery, and to lie known as tin' IV:, i, 
sylvania Reserve Corps, which the Legislature, in special session, granted. 
This corps of 15,000 men was speedily raised, and the intention of the State 
authorities was to keep this body permanently within the limits of the com- 



HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 43 

monwealth for defense. But at the time of the first Bull Run disaster in July. 
1861, the national government found itself without troops to even defend the 
capital, the time of the three months' men being now about to expire, and at 
its urgent call this fine body was sent forward and never again returned for 
the execution of the duty for which it was formed, having borne the brant of 
the fighting on many a hard-fought field during the three years of its service. 

In addition to tne volunteer troops furnished in response to the several 
calls of the President, upon the occasion of the rebel invasion of Maryland in 
September, 1862, Gov. Curtin called 50,000 men for the emergency, and, though 
the time was very brief. 25,000 came, were organized under command of Gen. 
John F. Reynolds, and were marched to the border. But the battle of Antie- 
tam, fought on the 17th of September, caused the enemy to beat a hasty 
retreat, and the border was relieved, when the emergency troops were dis 
banded and returned to their homes. On the 19th of October Gen. J. E. B. 
Stewart, of the rebel army, with 1,800 horsemen under command of Hampton. 
Lee and Jones, crossed the Potomac and made directly for Chambershurg, 
arriving after dark. Not waiting for morning to attack, he sent in a flag of 
truce demanding the surrender of the town. There were 275 Union soldiers in 
hospital, whom he paroled. During the night the troopers wore busy picking 
up horses — swapping horses perhaps it should be called — and the morning saw 
them early on the move. The rear guard gave notice before leaving to remove 
all families from the neighborhood of the public buildings, as they intended to 
fire them. There was a large amount of fixed ammunition in them, which had 
been captured from Longstreet's train, besides government stores of shoes, 
clothing and muskets. At 11 o'clock the station-house, round-house, railroad 
machine shops and warehouses were fired and consigned to destruction. The 
fire department was promptly out; but it was dangerous to approach the burn- 
ing buildings on account of the ammunition, and all perished. 

The year 1862 was one of intense excitement and activity. From about 
the 1st of May, 1861, to the end of 1862. there were recruited in the State of 
Pennsylvania 111 regiments, including eleven of cavalry and three of artillery. 
for three years service; twenty-five regiments for three months; seventeen for 
nine months; fifteen of drafted militia, and twenty-five called out for the 
emergency; an aggregate of 193 regiments— a grand total of over 200,000 
men — a great army in itself. 

In June, 1863, Gen. Robert E. Lee, with his entire army of Northern Vir- 
ginia, invaded Pennsylvania. The army of the Potomac, under Gen. Joseph 
Hooker, followed. The latter was superseded on the 28th of June by Gen. 
George G. Meade. The vanguards of the army met a mile or so out of Gettys 
burg on the Chambershurg pike on the morning of the 1st of July. Hill's 
corps of the rebel army was held in check by the sturdy fighting of a small 
division of cavalry under Gen. Buford until 10 o'clock, when Gen. Reynolds 
came to his relief with the first corps. While bringing his forces into 
action. Reynolds was killed, and the command devolved on Gen. Abner Double 
day, and the fighting became terrible, the Union forces being greatly outnum- 
bered. At 2 o'clock in the afternoon the eleventh corps, Gen. O. O. Howard, 
came to the support of the first. But now the corps of Ewell had joined hands 
with Hill, and a full two-thirds of the entire rebel army was on the field, 
opposed by only the two weak Union corps, in an inferior position. A sturdy 
fight was however maintained until 5 o'clock, when the Union forces withdrew 
through the town, and took position upon rising ground covering the Baltimore 
pike. During the night the entire Union army came up, with the exception of 
the sixth corps, and took position; and at 2 o'clock in the morning Gen. Meade 



44 HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

and staff came on the field. During the morning hours, and until 4 o'clock in 
the afternoon, the two armies were getting into position for the desperate 
struggle. The third corps, Gen. Sickles, occupied the extreme left, his corps 
abutting on the Little Round Top at the Devil's Den. and reaching, en 
echelon, through the rugged ground to the Peach Orchard, and thence along 
the Emmittsburg pike, where it joined the second corps, Gen. Hancock, reach 
ing over Cemetery Hill, the eleventh corps, Gen. Howard, the first. Gen. 
Doubleday, and the twelfth, Gen. Slocum, reaching across Culp's Hill — the 
whole being crescent shaped. To this formation the rebel army conformed. 
Longstreet opposite the Union left, Hill opposite the center, and Ewell opposite 
the Union right. At 4 p. m. the battle was opened by Longstreet, on the ex- 
treme left of Sickles, and the lighting became terrific, the rebels making streu 
nous efforts to gain Little Hound Top. But at the opportune moment a part 
of the fifth corps, Gen. Sykes, was brought upon that key position, and it was 
saved to the Union side. The slaughter in front of Round Top at the wheat 
field and the Peach Orchard was fearful. The third corps was driven back 
from its advanced position, and its commander, Gen. Sickles, was wounded, 
losing a leg. In a more contracted position, the Union line was made secure. 
where it rested for the night. Just at dusk the Louisiana Tigers, some 1,800 
men, made a desperate charge on Cemetery Hill, emerging suddenly from a 
hillock just back of the town. The struggle was desperate, but the Tigers 
being weakened by the fire of the artillery, and by the infantry crouching be- 
hind the stone wall, the onset was checked, and Carroll's brigade, of the see 
ond corps, coming to the rescue, they were finally beaten back, terribly deci- 
mated. At about the same time a portion of Ewell' s corps made an advance 
on the extreme Union right, at a point where the troops had been withdrawn to 
send to the support of Sickles, and unopposed gained the extremity of Culp's 
Hill, pushing through nearly to the Baltimore pike, in dangerous proximity to 
the reserve artillery and trains, and even the headquarters of the Union com- 
mander. But in their attempt to roll up the Union right they were met by 
Green's brigade of the twelfth corps, and by desperate fighting their further 
progress was stayed. Thus ended the battle of the second day. The Union 
left and right had been sorely jammed and pushed back. 

At 1 o'clock on the morning of the 3d of July, Gen. Geary, who had been 
ordered away to the support of Sickles, having returned during the night and 
taken a position on the right of Green, opened the battle for the recover) oi 
his lost breastworks on the right of Culp's Hill. Until 10 o'clock the battle 
raged with unabated fury. The heat was intolerable, and the sulphurous va- 
por hung like a pall over the combatants, shutting out the light of day. The 
fighting was in the midst of the forest, and the echoes resounded with fearful 
distinctness. The twelfth corps was supported by portions of the sixth, which 
had now come up. At length the enemy, weakened and finding themselves 
overborne on all sides, gave way, the Union breastworks were reoccupied and 
the Union right made entirely secure. Comparative quiet now reigned on 
either side until 2 o'clock in the afternoon, in the meantime both sides bring- 
ing up fresh troops and repairing damages. The rebel leader having brought 
his best available artillery in upon his right, center, suddenly opened with 150 
pieces a concentric tire upon the devoted Union left center, where stood the 
hoops of Hancock, Doubleday and Sickles. The shock was terrible. Rarely 
had such a cannonade been known on any field. For nearly two hours it was 
continued. Thinking that the Union line had been broken and demoralized by 
this lire. Longstreet brought out a fresh corps of some 14,000 men. undei 
Pickett, and charged full upon the point which had been the mark for the can 



HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 45 

nonade. As soon as this charging column came into view, the Union artillery 
opened upon it from right and left and center, and rent it with fearful effect- 
When arrived within musket range, the Union troops, who had been crouching 
behind slight pits and a low stone wall, poured in a most murderous lire. 
Still the rebels pushed forward with a bold face, and actually crossed the 
Union lines and had their hands on the Union guns. But the slaughter was 
too terrible to withstand. The killed and wounded lay scattered over all the 
plain. Many were gathered in as prisoners. Finally the remnant staggered 
back, and the battle of Gettysburg was at an end. 

So soon as indications pointed to a possible invasion of the North by the 
rebel army under Gen. Lee, the State of Pennsylvania was organized into two 
military departments, that of the Susquehanna, to the command of which 
Darius N. Couch was assigned, with headquarters at Harrisburg, and that of 
the Monongahela, under W. T. H. Brooks, with headquarters at Pittsburgh. 
Urgent calls for the militia were made, and large numbers in regiments, in 
companies and in squadrons, came promptly at the call to the number of over 
36,000 men, who were organized for a period of ninety days. Fortifications 
were thrown up to cover Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, and the troops were 
moved to threatened points. But before they could be brought into action, 
the great decisive conflict had been fought, and the enemy driven from north- 
ern soil. Four regiments under Gen. Brooks were moved into Ohio to aid in 
arresting a raid undertaken by John Morgan, who with 2,000 horse and four 
guns had crossed the Ohio river for a diversion in favor of Lee. 

In the beginning of July, 1864, Gen. Early invaded Maryland, and made 
his way to the threshold of Washington. Fearing another invasion of the 
State, Gov. Curtin called for volunteers to serve for 100 days. Gen. Couch 
was still at the head of the department of the Susquehanna, and six regiments 
and six companies were organized, but as fast as Organized they were called to 
the front, the last regiment leaving the State on the 29th of July. On the 
evening of this day, Gens. McCausland, Bradley Johnson and Harry Gilmore. 
with 3,000 mounted men and six guns, crossed the Potomac, and made their 
way to Chambersburg. Another column of 3,000 under Vaughn and Jackson 
advanced to Hagerstown, and a third to Leitersburg. Averell, with a small 
force, was at Hagerstown. but finding himself over-matched, withdrew through 
Greencastle to Mount Hope. Lieut. McLean, with fifty men in front of Mc- 
Causland, gallantly kept his face to the foe, and checked the advance at every 
favorable point. On being apprised of their coming, the public stores at 
Chambersburg were moved northward. At 6 a. m. McCausland opened his 
batteries upon the town, but, finding it unprotected, took possession. Ping- 
ing the court-house bell to call the people together. Capt. Fitzbugh read an 
order to the assembly, signed by Gen. Jubal Early, directing the command to 
proceed to Chambersburg and demand one hundred thousand dollars in gold, 
or five hundred thousand dollars in greenbacks, and if not paid to burn the 
town. While this parley was in progress, hats, caps, boots, watches, clothing 
and valuables were unceremoniously appropriated, and purses demanded at the 
point of the bayonet. As money was not in hand to meet so unexpected a 
draft, the torch was lighted. In less than a quarter of an hour from the time 
the first match was applied, the whole business part of the town was in flames. 
Burning parties were sent into each quarter of the town, which made thorough 
work. With the exception of a few houses upon the outskirts, the whole was 
laid in ruins. Retiring rapidly, the entire rebel army recrossed the Potomac. 

The whole number of soldiers recruited under the various calls for troops 
from the State of Pennsylvania was 366,000. In May, 1861, the Society of 



46 HISTORY 01" PENNSYLVANIA. 

the Cincinnati of Pennsylvania, an organization of the officers of the Revolu- 
tionary war and their descendants, donated $500 toward arming and equip 
ping troops. By order of the legislature the sum was devoted to procuring 
flags for the regiments, and each organizaton that went forth w a-, provided 
with one emblazoned with the arms of the commonwealth. These flags, seamed 
and battle-stained, were returned at the close of the war. and are now preserved 
in a room devoted to the purpose in the State Capitol. When the war was 
over, the State undertook the charge of providing for all soldiers' orphans in 
schools located in different parts of the territory, furnished food, clothing. 
instruction and care, uutil they should be grown to manhood and womanhood. 
The number thus gathered and cared for has been some 7,500 annually, at at 
average annual expense of some six hundred thousand dollars. 

At the election in 1866, John W. Geary, a veteran general of the war. was 
chosen governor. During his administration, settlements were made with the 
general government, extraordinary debts incurred during the war were paid, 
and a large reduction of the old debt of forty million dollars inherited from the 
construction of the canals was made. A convention for a revision of the con- 
stitution was ordered by the act of April 11. 1S72. This convention assem 
bled in Harrisburg November 13, and adjourned to meet in Philadelphia, 
where it convened on the 7th of January. l^7o, and the instrument framed 
was adopted on the 18th of December. 1873. By its provisions the number 
of senators was increased from thirty-three to fifty, and representatives from 
100 to 201, subject to further increase in proportion to increase of population; 
biennial in place of annual sessions, making the term of supreme court judges 
twenty one in place of fifteen years, remanding a large class of legislation to 

the action of the courts, making the term of governor four years in plai f 

three, and prohibiting special legislation, were some of the changes provided lor. 

In January, 1873, John F. Hartranft became governor, and at the election 
in 1878, Henry F. Hoyt was chosen governor, both soldiers of the war of the 
Rebellion. In the summer of 1^77. by concert of action of the employe.-, on 
the Beveral lines of railway in the State, trains were stopped and travel and 
traffic were interrupted for several days together. At Pittsburgh conflicts 
occurred between the railroad men and the militia, and a vast amount of prop 
erty was destroyed. The opposition to the local military was too powerful to 
be controlled, and the national government was appealed to for aid. A for© 
of regulars was promptly ordered out. and the rioters finally quelled. Unfor- 
tunately Gov. Hartranft was absent from the State at the time of the troubles. 

At the election in L882 Hobert E. Pattison was chosen governor. The 
legislature which met at the opening of 1883, having adjourned after a session 
of L56 days, without passing a congressional apportionment bill, as was 
required, was immediately reconvened in extra session, by the governor, and 
remained in session until near the close of the year, from June 1 to Decern bet 
o. without coming to an agreement upon a bill, and finally adjourned without 
hn\ ing passed one. 

James A. Beaver was elected governor of Pennsylvania in November, 1886, 
ami is the present incumbent. He is a native of Ferry county. Penn., and a 
graduate of Jefferson College. He read law, and was admitted to practice in 
L859. In April, 1861, he went into the army as a first lieutenant, and seised 
with distinction, being mustered out in December. ls<>4, with the rank of 
brigadier- general. The most prominent law enacted during his administration 
is the Brooks license law. passed in L887. The proposed amendment to t lie 
constitution, prohibiting the 1 manufacture or sale of intoxicants within the 
State, was voted on in the spring of L 889, and was defeated bj a large majority 



HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 



47 



TABLE SHOWING THE VOTE FOR GOVERNORS OF PENNSYLVANIA SINCE THE ORGAN- 
IZATION OF THE STATE. 



1790. 

Thomas Mifflin 27,725 

Arthur St. Clair 2,802 

1793. 

Thomas Mifflin 18,590 

F. A. Muhlenberg 10,706 

1796. 

Thomas Mifflin 30,020 

F. A. Muhlenberg 1,011 

1799. 

Thomas MeKeau 38,036 

lames Ross 32,641 

1802. 

Thomas MeKean 47.S79 

James Koss, of Pittsburgh 9,499 

James Ross 7.538 

1808. 
Simou Snyder 67,975 

John spavd 4,006 

W. Shields 2 

Charles Nice 1 

Jack Ross 

W. Tilghman 1 

1811. 

Simon Snyder 52,319 

William Tighlman ;,'>"'' 

Scatt'ring.no record for whom 1,675 

1814. 

Simou Snyder 51,099 

Isaac Wayne 29,566 

G. Lattimer 910 

J. R. Rust -4 

1817. 

William Findlay 66,331 

Joseph Hiester 59,272 

Moses Palmer 

Aaron Hanson 1 

John Seffer - 

Seth Thomas 1 

Nicholas Wiseman 3 

Benjamin R. Morgan 2 

William Tilghman 1 

Andrew Gregg 1 

1820. 

Joseph Hiester 67,905 

William Findlay 66,300 

Scattering (no record) 21 

1823. 

J. Andrew Shulze SI, 751 

Andrew Gregg 64,151 

Andrew Shulze 112 

John Andrew Shulze 7,311 

Andrew Gragg 53 

Andrew Greg 1 

lohn A. Shulze 754 

Nathaniel B. Boileau 3 

Cant Glosseader 3 

John Gassender 1 

Isaac Wayne 1 

George Bryan 1 

1826. 

J. Andrew Shulze 72,710 

John Ser^e.int 1,175 

Scattering (no record) 1,174 



George Wolf 78,219 

Joseph Ritner 51,776 

George E. Bauni 6 

Frank R. Williams 3 

1832. 

George Wolf 91,335 

Joseph Ritner 88,165 

1835. 

Joseph llitner 94,023 

Goorge Wolf. 65,804 

Henry A. Muhlenberg 40,586 

1838. 

David R. Porter 127,827 

Joseph Ritner 122,321 

1841. 

David R. Porter 136,504 

John Banks 113,473 

T.J. Lemoyne 763 

George F. Horton IS 

Samuel L. Carpenter 4 

Ellis Lewis 1 

1844. 

Francis R. Shunk 160,322 

Joseph Markle 156,040 

Julius J. Lemoyne 10 

John Haney 2 

James Page". 1 

1847. 

Francis R. Shunk 146,081 

James Irvin 128,148 

Emanuel Reigart 11,247 

F. J. Lemoyne 1,861 

i .eoige M- K- Jul 1 

Abijah Morrison 3 

1848. 

William F. Johnston 168,522 

Morris Longstreth 168,225 

E. B. Gazzam 4S 

Scattering (no record) 24 

1851. 

William Bigler 186,489 

William lClohnston 178,034 

Kimber Cleaver 1,850 

1854. 

James Pollock 203,822 

William Bigler 166,991 

B. Rush Bradford 2,194 

1857. 

William F. Packer 188,846 

David Wilmot 149,139 

Isaac Hazlehurst 28,168 

James Pollock 

George R. Barret 

William Steel 

F. P. Swartz 

Samuel McFarland 

George F. Horton 7 

1860. 

Andrew G. Curtin 262,346 

Henry D. Foster 230,239 

1863. 

A. G. Curtin 269,506 

(V. Woodward 254,171 

John Hickman 1 

Thomas M. Howe 1 



18G6. 

John W. Geary 3H7.27J 

Hiester Clymer 290,097 

Giles Lewis 

1869. 

John W. Geary 290,552 

Asa Packer 285,956 

W. H. Kelly I 

W. J. Robinson 1 

1872. 

John F. Hartrauft 

Charles R. Buckaleu 317,760 

S. B. Chase 1,197 

William P. Schell 12 

1875. 

John F. Hartranft :;n4,17:> 

Cyrus L. Pershing 292.1 15 

R. Audley Brown 13,244 

James S. Negley 1 

Phillip Wendle 1 

J. W. Brown 1 

G. F. Reinhard 1 

G. D.Coleman 1 

James Staples 

Richard Vaux 1 

Craig Biddle 1 

Francis W. Hughes 1 

Henry C. Tyler 1 

W. D. Brown 

George V. Lawrence 1 

A. L.Brown 1 

1878. 

H. M. Hoyt 319,490 

Andrew H. Dill 297,137 

Samuel R. Mason 

Franklin H. Lane 3,7 > ■ 

s. Matson 2 

John McKee 1 

D. Kirk 1 

R. L. Miller 1 

J. H. Hopkins 1 

A. G. Williams 1 

Samuel H. Lane 1 

John Fertig 1 

James Musgrove 1 

Silas M. Baily 1 

A. S. 1'ost 9 

C. A. Cornen 3 

Seth Yocuni 1 

Edward E. Orvis 1 

1882. 

Robert E. Pattison 355,791 

James A. Beaver 115, 

John Stewart 13,743 

Thomas A. Armstrong 23,996 

Alfred C. Pettit 5,193 

Scattering 35 

1886. 

James A. Beaver 412,286 

Chauncey F. Black 369,6 l 

CharlesS. Wolfe 32,458 

Robert J. Houston 4,835 

Scattering 65- 




0. ef. 7£c^^ /,,. 



HISTORY OF McKEAN COUNTY. 



McKEAN COUNTY. 



CHAPTER I. 

TOPOGRAPHY AND NATURAL HISTORY. 



Boundary and Area— Land Cessions and Purchases — Population — Assess- 
ment Statistics— General Description— Topography— Creek Nomen- 
clature — Vegetation— Lumber Manufacture— Game and Fish— Fossils 
—Coal Mines— Gas Wells. 

fT^HIS county is bounded on the north by the New York-Pennsylvania line; 
J_ east by Potter county; south by Cameron and Elk counties, and west by 
"Warren county. The area is placed at 640,000 acres, a tract the most interest- 
ing in the country, owing to its mineral resources and railroad systems; and 
the most picturesque, on account of its ten thousand bills, many of which are, 
still clothed in their suits of hemlock. 

Under the treaties of 1784 the lands of McKean and adjoining counties were 
ceded to Pennsylvania by the Six Nations Indians, and within a year thousands 
of acres were sold by lottery. In 1796 John Keating made his first purchases 
here (buying 300,000 acres for $80,000 from the original buyers), and a year 
later a line was traced for a road from the head of Pine creek to the Oswayo. 
Surveyors Lightfoot, King, Ayers and others were on the ground at an early 
date, so that before the close of the first decade of the nineteenth century the 
territory was explored, and a few villages established, Ceres and Instanter 
being the most important. 

In 1810 there were 142 inhabitants; in 1820, 728, and in 1830 there were 
1,439, of whom 764 were white males and 674 white females, two deaf and 
dumb and two blind persons. In 1840 the population increased to 2,975; in 
1850 to 5,254; in 1860, exclusive of Shippen (added to the new Cameron 
county), 7,651, and in 1870, 8,826. The population in 1880 was 42,578, the 
remarkable increase being due to the development, of the great oil field from 
1875 to date of census. The total vote in 1888 was 7,709 or 4,066 Republi 
can, 2,922 Democratic, 426 Prohibitionists and 295 Labor Unionists. The 
population estimated on this vote of November, 1888, is 40,424, as shown in 
the sketches of the townships and boroughs. 

By the assessment of 1829 the seated lands were valued at $39,340; the 
unseated at $490, 740, and personal property at $32, 707. 25. The tax levy was 
5 mills with $17.26 collected for duties on foreign merchandise amounting to 
$102. 26. The valuation of trades and occupations in 1889 was $434, 71 ( ) ; of seated 
real estate, $4,756,923; of unseated real estate, $1,650,620; of 4,064 horses, $94,- 
035 ; of 4,547 cows and neat cattle, $48,735, or a total of $6,985,033. The moneys 
at interest were estimated at $1,296,911, and for the luxury of keeping 2,228 
canines the owners paid a tax of $2,512. The amount of money at interest, 



54 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

including stocks, bonds, etc., assessed at the rate of three mills on the dollar, 
was $1,296,91 1. Smethport lead, with $594,91 3. Bradford comes next with 
$264,162, and Port Allegany third with $94,228. Wetmore township stands 
Eourtb with $83,004, and Kane seventh with $28,893. In January . 1889, the com- 
missioners of Potter, McKean and Cameron counties agi 1 to value unseated 

lauds per acre for the next three years as follows: Barren land--. 50 its to $1.50; 

sparsely timbered hemlock, $2.50 to $4; good hemlock, $5 to $8; sparsely 
timbered pine, $6 to $8; good pine, §10 to $20. The assessed value of real and 
personal estate in the boroughs of McKean county stand in the following order: 
Porl Allegany, $161,831.; Smethport, $159,585; Kane, $100,538; Eldred, 
$97,046; Kendall, $85,382. 

The Gazetteer, giving a description of McKean county in 1S32, says: 
It is everywhere hilly along the streams, hut nowhere mountainous, and abounds with 
coal, inm ami salt. The flrsl i- found in every township, and works have been erected 
for manufacturing salt at the small village of Emporium, on a branch <>f the Sinnema- 
honing. * * * * The only places that can claim the slightest pretention to he con- 
sidered as towns arc Sm-thport, thnporium and Ceres; neither of tin' two last named con- 
tains six houses. * * * * I'll, -re is not a church in the county: yet an ai 
endowed by John Keating and others, and furtb e $2,000 from tin- stair, was 
incorporated January in. 1829. There are in this town also a very substantial brick 
court house, ami a -tone prison; tin re is al-o a newspaper published here. Lumber seeks 
the western market at Pittsburgh by the Allegheny, and the eastern markets by tin sin 
nemahoning creek 

The measured elevations of are given as follows [However the 

average elevation must not he based ores; as. within short distances 

of (In' points named, monntai abruptlj to heights of from 300 to 

700 feel above the tracl above mean ocean level; Clar- 

ion summit, 2,025; Kane. 2,020; Cumming's siding, 1,878; Wetmore, 1,808; 
May's siding, 1,739, and I How, 1,604, in the southwest corner on the Phil- 
adelphia & Erie Railroad. The elevation at the Forks of Kinzua creek is 
L,304 feet above tide level: at the sulphur spring, near Kane, 1,619 feet, and 
at Morrison's mill-dam, 1,264 feet. 

Keating summit, 1,876 Eeet above tide: Liberty, 1.641; Port Allegany, 
1,477; Sartwell, 1,447, Larrabee, 1,476; McKean & Buffalo Railroad junction, 
1. IT'-!, and Eldred. 1,438 feet above tide, the track of the Western Now York 
& Pennsylvania Railroad being tin- a vation, which i-- comparatively 

level from Eldred tot] epi below Duffy's tannery, where the 

elevation is more marked than at Eldred. 

The Eldred or Dennis hill is at least 250 feet above the track; l'i 
1,459; Farmers Valley. 1,470; Smethport, 1,488; Crosby, 1,535; Colegrove, 
1,538; Eamlin, 1,552; Wernwag, 1,855; Clermont, 'J.i>7l ; Bishops Summit, 
2,108; Bunker Hill, 2,095, and old tnstanter, 2,200; Carrollton, N. ... L.394 
feet; Limestone, 1,405; State Babcock, 1,114; Tarport or Kendall 

Creek, 1,433; Bradford, 1,439 (Mounl Raub is 2,250 feet at summit); DeGol 
ier, 1,496; Lewis run, 1,560: Big Shanty, 1,667; Crawford's, 1, 959; Summit, 
2,133; Alton, 2,067; Bon Vii w or Gilesville, 2,025, and Buttsville, 1,996; 
Creek water at Kinzua crossing, 1,796; Howard Hill Hotel, 2,225; Kane and 
Howard Hill road crossing, 2,196; Clarion crossing. 1,734; Schultz gas well 
and Wilcox well No. '-'. 1,646; Lauigan run. 1,634, and count] line, 1,605 Eeet. 
The place- Darned, south of Buttsvillo, were measured in IS79 for the proposed 
continuation of the road to Wilcox, in Elk county, the elevation of which is 
1,526 feet; Dalton summit is 'I.'IW) feet above ocean level; Seven Mile sum- 
mit, 2,200; crossing of Wilcox and Smethport State mad. '_', 186; head of west 
branch of Warner brook, 2,210; Porl Alleganj depot. 1.477: Smethport depot, 
1. L88; cross roads (on warrant 3,064), 1,643; summit near southeast corner of 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 55 

No. 2,083 warrant, '2,140 feet; southwest part of No. 2,073 warrant. 1,725 
feet; the Devil's Elbow, on warrant 2,063, is 2,060 feet, and the highest point 
in Pennsylvania west of the fifth coal basin is Prospect hill, or the summit on 
warrant No. 2,063, which is 2,495 feet above tide. 

The highest measured point between Ceres and Port Allegany is near the 
crossroads on the northeast corner of warrant 2,220, which is 2,185 feet above 
tide. The lowest point is at Turtle bridge over Rock run, on No. 115 war- 
rant, being 1,445 feet, or ten feet below the elevation of hotel at Ceres. The 
highest measured point between Ceres and Eldred, except Dennis hill, is 
1,558 feet above tide-water, being 120 feet above Eldred and 103 feet above 
C^ips. Up Lillibridge creek from Port Allegany an elevation of 1,770 feet 
is reached at the crossing of creek near warrant 2,236 or near the Ames farm, 
but at the head the elevation is 2,260 feet. On warrant 2,2(13, near Annin 
Creek post-office, the altitude is 2,255, and at the office 1,723; at Cooper's saw- 
mill, southwest part of No. 3.-144 warrant, 1,665 feet, and at the Methodist 
building on same warrant, 1,740 feet. Between Port Allegany and Norwich 
post-office the highest measured elevation above tide is 1,785 feet, the bridge over 
Wolcott creek being the point measured. At the old Dennis well, near Brad- 
ford, the elevation was found to be 2,055 feet above ocean level ; Two Mile run 
summit is 2,375 feet, and Comes creek summit, on road, is 2,255 feet. The 
ridge between the branches of Brewer's run shows an altitude above tide of 
2,232 feet. 

The Allegheny river enters the county in the west center of Liberty town- 
ship coming down from the heights of Potter county, receives the waters of 
the Portage at Port Allegany, and of Nunundah creek south of Larrabee. 
Hundreds of small streams enter the creeks named, while other hundreds feed 
the main river directly. The river leaves the county at the State line, flows for 
a short distance through New York State and, returning to Pennsylvania, forms 
the natural, but not the political, boundary of the north half of the county's 
west line. The Tuna river and feeders water the central part of the northern 
half, while the Kinzua and headwaters of the Clarion, fed by hundreds of 
streams, are found in the south and southwest. 

Over thirty years ago Orlo J. Hamlin completed his historical notes on this 
county. From his unpublished manuscript, referred to in the chapter on pio- 
neers, the writer learns that Kinzua creek is named from the Indian word Kinzu 
(fish); Tuna or Tunuanguant creek, from Tunuan (big) and guaut (frog or bull- 
frog). Nun un-dah (Potato creek), from the Indian word for potato; Marvin 
creek, from the pioneer of that name who settled on its bank. Blacksmith run 
and spring were named from the pioneer blacksmith's shop near the spring in 
the western part of Sniethport; Cole's creek from Squire Cole, the pioneer of 
its valley; Tobey, now known as the Clarion, and other creeks derive their 
names in a similar manner. Mr. Hamlin, speaking on the name of Potato 
creek, stated that Indians in the long ago lost some potatoes in this stream 
through the upsetting of their canoe, and they called it Nun-un-dah. In 1832 
he placed a potato before an Indian school-teacher, asking for its Indian name; 
the teacher replied, "nun-un-dah." In after years he interviewed members 
of the Cornplanter and Seneca bands, who gave it the same name. The stream 
was also called "Six's creek," a Quaker name conferred likely by Francis 
King; Conondaw and Cononondaw were titles conferred by some old surveyors, 
likely in honor of some Indian who accompanied them, and in John Keating' s 
letter to the county seat commissioners, he gives it the name " Cononoclan," 
undoubtedly reading w ondaw''as "oclan. " Up to the period of Mr. Ham- 
lin's death he always regretted the action of his fellow-citizens in adhering to 



56 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

the anglicized form of the euphonious Indian name — Nun-un-dah. It is not 
too late yet to reform. The commie i id courts may order the Indian 

title I" be used henceforth, authorize the change on the maps, and a few years 
will banish the present barbarous name from a beautiful valley. 

All the trees and shrubs common to northern Pennsylvania find a congenial 
home on the hills and in the valleys of this county. .Most of the pine has fal- 
len beneath the ax of the lumberman, but great arras of hemlock remain al- 
most untouched, while beech, birch, maple, elm, cucumber, iron-wood, butter- 
nut, cherry, ash, walnut and other species of the hard wood family present 
themselves everywhere. The hemlock however may be said to be the pride of 
the modern lumberman. Those dark-green forests of the once despised giants 
now look admirable in his eyes, and he speaks of these great trees as the 
jockey would of his pet racer, the pugilist of Sulli\ an, t he oilman of his wealth- 
giving well, or the engineer of his favorite locomotive. To point out the quali- 
ties of this hemlock, the following story is told: On February. 28, 1835, B 
H. Lamphier, his father, and Squire Wrighi cut down a cucumber tree with 
the object of making from its wood troughs for sap. In falling it lodged 
against a hemlock, which had also to be cut down. In 1885 B. H. Lamphier 
found this hemlock in sound condition, and used part of it in his building of that 
year. In 1849 an estimate of lumber manufactured here showed 14,500,000 
feet of pine boards and 5.000,000 of cherry boards; 2,500,000 feet of square 
timber (board measure) and 5.0(10.000 shingles. In modern times one mill- 
ing concern aims to do even more than all the mills in this county, forty years 
ago, accomplished in a year. 

For ages this territory was the grand preserve of the Indian. He came 
hither to hunt the panther, bear, wolf, fox and deer, and after a few months of 
easj --port each year returned to his home on the Allegheny. When the pio- 
neers came hither the animals, which the Eed-men hunted, were, like the old 
hunters, scarce; but enough remained to yield sport, bounty and food to the 
daring vanguard of civilization. Up to 1875 wild animals existed here almost 
as numerously as in the first years of the century ; but the oil prospector, wild-cat - 
ter, scout, railroader and farmer came, and acting like the Irishman at Donuy- 
brook, struck at everything, upsetting the institutions of the wilderness. The 
great tan-yards, the saw T -mills which were built on every stream, the stream of 
wasted oil which for twenty-five years has floated down the waters of the 
county, have all contributed to thin out the tinny tribe; but lisli are still fottnd 
in sufficient quantities to entertain the angler; while many carp ponds have 
been constructed and used successfully for fish culture. 

In 1876 Messrs. Ashburner & Fellows collected along the railroad on the 
east bank of the Tuna (Tunuanguant) near DeGolier. several specimens and 
slabs of the spirifera disjuneta. a piece of canalomerate and leptodi 
toni. at or above Bradford: on the branch 'if the New York. Lake Brie & W ■ -t 
ern Railroad, a very indistinct brachiopod was found, and on the north slope 
of the hill on the Big Shanty and Lafayette road, several lithological i 
ties and leptodesma were found. In 1877 L. E. Hicks reported the follow- 
ing discoveries at Big Shanty: Plant remains, slab covered with small oval 
elevations, some having the appearance of roots or stems: rhynchonella (sten 
oschisma) orbicularis; rhynchonella (stenoschisma) eximia: i >neava: 

leiopteria dekayii, and modiomorpha quadrula. At Ludlow and Wetmore, 
along the Philadelphia & Erie Railrdad, he discovered orthis, leucosia, streptor- 
hynchus. chemungensis andathyrus angelica. At Larrabee, the streptorhynchus 
chemungensis, just named, ami spirifera disjuneta. were found. At Kane, 
arthrophycus harlani: orthoceras. small fragment: rhynchonella (stenochisma) 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 57 

sappho; spirifera, lepidodendron and brachiopoda, small cast, poor. At Brad- 
ford, cbonetes scitula; spirifera disjuncta; rhynchonella (stenoschis ma) dupli- 
cata; rhynchonella; productella hirsuta; crinoid columns, impressions of ends 
and the plant. On Kinzua creek, near the county lines, he discovered ptycho- 
paria salamanca; orthis leucosia, var. pennsylvanica; rhynchonella (stenoschis - 
ma) sajspho; spirifera disjuncta; lamellibranch, poor and broken, and orthis 
impressa. In 1S7S A. W. Sheafer reported among others orthis leucosia and 
plant impressions similar to those found in the green sandstone at Eldred and 
Emporium. The discoveries of shells reported include rhynchonella, etc., 
Bradford, point between east and west branches; also in that neighborhood 
allorisma; crinoids; avicula; and rhynchonella and spirifer; graru mysia. Brad 
ford, east side of Tuna; rhynchonella, etc., in SS. Bradford, west branch, 
near ''Boss Well" (loose); orthoceras in cong., Rodger's farm, one-half mile 
south of Bradford (loose) and at Morrison's dam; spirifer in cong. (two pieces, 
loose); orthoceras, etc., one and a half miles south of Bradford (loose), also 
spirifer, there, on Sugar creek and on road from Tally Ho to the Swede church ; 
carboniferous plants, etc., Dennis well (two pieces) dug from Conductor hole; 
aviculopecten, Tarport (loose), and spirifer at railroad level. 

la 1880 E. A. Barnum discovered on the Bingham lands near Kinzua June 
tion the root of a maple tree which was almost a perfect figure of a girl two and 
one half feet in height. . . .Near Kinzua village, and at an elevation of almost 
1,000 feet above, is a small pond fifty by twenty feet in dimension, and from 
six to eight feet in depth. In this lake were found fish, most of them blind. 
In 1884 this locality was the home of rattlesnakes. . . . In April, 1878, H. F. 
Northrup discovered (twenty rods east of the Windsor House, three miles east 
of Port Allegany), the impression of a gigantic lizard in the sand rock. . . .In 
the history of Bradford township reference is made to the remains of a large 
race of men found some years ago. 

The first semi-bituminous coal found in this county was discovered by a 
surveying party (of which Jonathan Colegrove was chief) near Instanter in 1815 
or 1816. They came to a windfall, and saw the stone coal lying beneath, 
forming a bed for the roots and, in some cases, lumps of coal turned up with 
the roots. Wheeler Gallup, who was one of the party, related the facts to O. 
J. Hamlin in 1875. In 1817 Ransom Beckwith discovered coal on his lands 
one mile from Instanter; later the Barrus bed, known as the "Lyman Mine," 
was oi>ened, and in 1821 coal was found on the Clermont farm. In 1845 coal 
was delivered at Smethport from the Barrus bed for 12^ cents a bushel, and 
shipped by team to Allegany and Cataraugus counties in New York State. In 
1874 the Clermont mines were explored at the expense of Gen. George J. 
Magee, and in September the Buffalo Coal Company was organized with the 
General as president and B. D. Hamlin and O. J. Hamlin, local stockholders. 
The McKean & Buffalo Railroad Company was also organized with Byron 
D. Hamlin, president, and D. R. Hamlin, local director. Work was begun 
in October, 1874, and the road was completed to Clermont in 1875. Mr. John 
Forrest, now of Smethport, was appointed paymaster at that point. During 
the year ending October 1, 1849, there were 1,000 tons of bituminous coal sent 
by wagons into adjoining counties in this and New York State, and to-day the 
coal fields of McKean, whether in the eastern or western portion of the county, 
lend to the owners of manufacturing industries a confidence in supply of fuel 
which neither gas nor oil can destroy. In other sections of this work the his- 
tory of the several coal mining industries is given, and notes made on the 
attempts to manufacture coal oil from the smoky deposit. 

In the history of the borough of Kane and of Wetmore, Eldred, Liberty and 



58 IIISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

other townships, references arc made to the gas wells. In Ohio. New York, 
Michigan, [llinois and other States, gas veins have be rhen excavat- 

ing for water wells, and the flame converted into the uses of fuel; but the 
modern well is a something which was discovered bj accident in boring for oil. 
Assistant State Geologist Ashburner, replying to Prof. I. C. White's state 
tiiiMit that all great gas wells are found on the anticlinal axes, points out the 
exceptions in the Kane field, at Ridgway, at the old Mulliu snorter and round 
Bolivar, where' large gas wells have been found in or near the center of syn- 
clines. He says: 

Although ii is :i Eacl thai many of our largest Pennsylvania gas wells are located 
near anticlinal axes, yet the position in which gas may be found and the amount to be 
obtained, depend upon (a tin porosity and homogeneousness of the sandstone which 
serves as a reservoir to hold the L, r a-; (6) the extent to which ihe si rata above or below the 
gas sand are cracked; •<• the dip of the gas sand, and the position of the anticline ind 
synclines; (rf) the relative proportions of water, oil and gas contained in the sand; and 
(«) the pressure under which gas exists before being tapped by wells. All oil-bearing 
sandstones contain a greater or less quantity of gas; and most gas producing sandstones 
contain some oil, although a number of wells said to produce " dry gas," or that in which 
n<i oil or water can be detected, contain gas to the exclusion of fresh water, salt water or 
oil. 

Whether found in the Bynclines or anticlines the gas wells of McKean have 
proved a luxury which even the poor may enjoy. Throughout the county gas 
is used for light and fuel, giving peace to the home and promises of buccoss 
to every manufacturing industry. 

In the licpurter of January ol. 1890, appeared the following poetical trib- 
ute to McKean county from the pen of .Mrs. Jennie E. Groves: 

When morn with its splendor illumines the sky. 

Save where a star lingers to watch the night die, 

And the graj shrouding mist from the vallej uprolled 

Is changed by the sun to an ocean of gold 

That bears on its bosom cloud land as fair 

As ever took shape in the realms of I hi 

All! who that, enraptured. has gazi d on the scene 

Can forgel the bright valleys and hills of McKean? 



CHAPTER II. 

OIL FIELDS. 



Early Discoveries of Oil— Coal Oil Mills ind Oil Wells— Oil Companies— 
Wells of the Pioneer Period— The Bradford Oil Field— "Shut-In" 
by Producers Pipe Lines and Companies Well Drilling, Past wo 
Present Oil Scouts— Well Torpedoes Miscellaneoi 

Till', earliest mention of oil fields wns made ill the year 4+0 B. ('.. b\ 
Herodotus, in connection with the black oil id' Anderrica. Contemporary 
geologists, as well as the people, appear to have paid no attention to this sub- 
stance, and for over 2,000 years Hie onlj known reservoirs of the world were 

left unnoticed and undeveloped. 

A discovery id' ml was made July 18, 1627, by the French missionary, Pere 
Joseph De la Roche, who described, the Cuba oil spring across the New York 
line in Allegany as l.n Fontaine >l* bitume. France was too much engaged in 

spreading her Roman civilization throughout the world to entertain an idea of 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 61 

developing this fountain of bitumen. There was no necessity for such devel- 
opment, for before settlements were made at St. Augustine, Baltimore or 
Plymouth Rock, that country was enjoying the fruits of plenty, and came next 
to Rome herself in art and science. Thus these oil wells were left unnoticed 
for almost 240 years. In 1694 Hancock and Portlock were granted patents 
for oil made from rock, and in 1761 oil was distilled from bituminous shale. 
Thirty eight years later Col. Brodhead's division of Gen. Sullivan's army 
reported their discovery of petroleum on their return from the expedition 
against the Senecas, and some years later, when the British Indians, soldiers 
and Tory followers fled to Canada from the wrath of a free people, they pur- 
chased oil for illuminating and lubricating purposes from the Indians of the 
Thames Valley. 

On September 19, 1767, Sir William Johnson, writing at Niagara, says: 
" Asenshan came in with a quantity of Curious Oyle. taken off the top of the 
water of some very small Leake near the village he belongs to." 

In 1806 a peddler, by name Nat. Carey, established his " Seneca Oil " in- 
dustry on Oil creek, where, later. Gen. Hayes of Franklin purchased three 
barrels, which he shipped by wagon to Baltimore. The intelligent oil dealers, 
to whom it was consigned, did not fancy the odor of the oil or appearance of 
the barrels, and consequently had it emptied into the Chesapeake, and the bar- 
rels destroyed by tire. From 1810 to 1817 Hecker and Mitis of Truscovitch, 
Austria, refined petroleum, and at Bayne an official inspection of naphtha and 
mineral oil was made in 1817, and in Starunia they were rectified. The 
Greensburg Gazette of November 18, 1819, speaking of the first oil well, says: 
"We are informed that John Gibson, of this town, in boring for salt water 
near Georgetown, on the Conemaugh river, struck a copious supply of Seneca 
oil at a depth of 207 feet. He supposes that a barrel per day might be pro- 
cured." 

In 1854, while the United States bid farewell forever to the Old-line 
Whigs, one Toch, an Austrian, bid farewell to the United States, and going 
to Vienna taught the oil men of Austria the method of refining used at Taren- 
tum, Perm. , by Peterson & Dale, for whom he built the refinery. The Marvin 
Creek Coal Company was organized February 12, 1855, with a capital stock of 
$25,000. John Atkinson, of Erie, and Bryant P. Tilden, of Boston, owned 
half this stock. Two years later the capital was increased, and 700 acres of 
coal lands added. Near Smethport, at Crosby, works were erected where are 
now the mills, and coal oil produced from the Clermont coal. In March, 
1857, the following letter appeared in the Rochester (N. Y. ) Democrat: " I 
have just seen specimens of benzole, camphene oil and tallow from coal up 
in the vicinity of Smethport, McKean county, superior to anything ever known. 
One ton of coal makes eighty gallons of benzole, forty gallons of fluid, twenty 
gallons of lubricating oil and fifteen pounds of tallow or sperm. The actual 
cost of benzole, etc., will not exceed fifteen cents per gallon. * * * There 
is a machine (for manufacturing purposes) now on the way to Bradford. De- 
pend upon it, this is no humbug." Nor was it, for buildings were erected 
opposite the present Riddell House, and coal oil manufactured there. In 
November, 1859, a New York and Boston company erected a coal-oil mill at 
the Hermit opening between Marsh's Corners and Kinzua, where they hoped 
to mine sufficient coal for obtaining this oil. Gilbert, one of the projectors, 
did not then dream that oil existed here in oceans, although the Drake well, 
at Titusville, was completed August 28, 1859, and even before this, in 1858, 
J. M. Williams' well in Canada, and other wells in Enniskillen township, in 
the county of Lambton, same country, were in operation. The coal oil man- 



62 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

ufacturers had before theru the efforts of S. Kier and Nevin, McKeown ^V Co., 
of March, 1857; the latter company'-, well at Greensburg, Perm., in 1858; 
the offer of $1,000 for a lamp that would burn petroleum made by S. Kier in 
L857, and also the shipments made to New York in November, 1857, by A. C. 
Ferris, and the introduction of a lamp in which the odorous oil would burn. 
Col. Drake's well soon shadowed the coal oil extract works out of existence, 
and nothing was heard throughout Pennsylvania but stories of wells and drills 
and oils. 

In April, 1861, oil was found on the Beckwith farm, a mile west of Smeth- 
port: at Port Allegan} the citizens drilled a well, while near McCoy's mill 
pond (in the vicinity of Smethport) oil was discovered, and down the Tin is es 
ploration was carried on. About this time some irreverent drillers placed a 
sign on their new derrick. " Oil. Hell or China." Their resolution amounted 

to little as they did not strike oil, • or China. In 1862 the old Barnsdall 

or Bradford well near west city line was drilled, a spring pole being part of 
the machinery used. With this rude driller and ruder ideas of the reservoir, 
it is no wonder that the tiled and disappointed owners abandoned the work at 
a depth of 200 feet, or within 825 feet of the productive sand. In 1865 66, 
the citizens of the little village of Bradford* formed a bee to explore farther, 
and drilled to a depth of 875 feet, when they surrendered the works within 
loll feet of the point where perseverance would bring victory. Basing their 
ideas on the Oil City fields, where the top of the productive third sand is 528 
feet above ocean level, they, with little labor, essayed to elevate the level of 
the Bradford third sand which is 114 feet below that of Oil City, a physical im- 
possibility indeed. In 1864-65 the Dean Brothers drilled 900 feet on the 
Shepherd farm, near Custer City. Here another disappointment waited on 
ignorance of geological structure, for while the old Bradford sand could be 
found 1,1110 feet below the surface there, it was at least 200 feet deeper down 
on the Shepherd farm. Men were wild in those days. Impatience as well as 
ignorance of altitudes and structures ruined many individuals, whose idea- 
were otherwise practicable. The Dean Brothers did poorer work on the (lark 
farm (Tarport), where they halted within 400 feet of the top of the produc- 
ing sand, after wasting time and labor on a 605-feet hole. Kinzua Village 
oil-field dates back to 1865, when the KiDzua Oil Company and the Kinzua 
Oil Association were organized, and six wells drilled to a depth of 600 IV. t. 
but oil answered the drill in only small quantities. In 1875 Hunter & Cum 
mings drilled on the Cobbett farm without success, and in 1878 E. A. Van 
Sco\ it Co.'s venture on Wolf run was equally unsuccessful, although r» s i ■ 1 1 ■ 1 1 1 > 
and others were much enthused by the appearances and disappearances of oil. 
In the winter of 1884r-85 James Parker & Co. drilled on the Fuller farm, 
and on March 27, 1885, the "Kinzua Gusher" was expected to drown out all 
other wells, lint yielded only twenty live barrels. Later, however, staying 
wells were developed and worked successfully. 

In 1868 the several oil enterprises of Job Moses, in the neighborh 
Limestone, gave an idea of what the true development of this region would 
j ield. The Salem Oil Company' sj well was being drilled in August. 1871, on 

'On August •-';, 1866, i lie Kingsbury well at Bradford was drilled by Mr. Walstae to a depth ■> 
eight j feel in ml bearing roch l, when a vein of oil was struck. 1' T. Kennedy states that the well 

put down liy the villagers, prmhteeil a tine quality of lubricating oil in small quantities. A man nai 1 Hale 

pumped from this well for a number ol years The Dean Brothers' well on Shepherd's n □ 
uiddleiown N ■! ici mpany. 

fThe Salem oil Company's well mentioned was »".i drilled in 1871, hut in 1876 carried out their 
plans near where P. T. Kennedy drilled the second well in that neighborhood. The Taylor Company found 
some mi in i he second .ami, inn in 1876 others drilled deeper ami were successful. Job Muses drilleo across the 
line from 1865tol87fi, meeting with small success 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 63 

Shepherd's run, near DeGolier and the Elk Lick spring. The W. H. Tay 
lor Oil Company organized in September, 1871, with J. K. Haffey, president; 
J. W. Hillon, vice-president; T. J. Campbell, treasurer, and T. J. Melvin, 
secretary, to drill wells on Kendall creek, on the Moore farm. Mark Hardie, 
of Mt. Alton, and others were members of this company. In August, 1871, 
a meeting held at the new Bradford House, at Bradford, to consider means to 
develop the oil field, organized the Barnsdall Oil Company, with J. W. Hilton, 
president; J. R. Pomeroy, vice-president; C. C. Melvin, treasurer; T. J. Mel- 
vin, secretary; James Broder and Enos Parsons, directors. 

Iu 1871 old-time methods changed for the better. The Foster Oil Com 
pany was organized with C. H. Foster, Job Moses and James E. Butts, mem- 
bers. They drilled at a point two miles northeast of Bradford, and in 
November struck a ten-barrel-per-day sand 1,110 feet below the well's mouth. 
Even with this example of perseverance nothing more of importance was 
accomplished until December 6, 1874, when Butts & Foster opened Butts well 
No. 1 on the Buchanan farm, a half mile northeast of their first well, and 
struck a seventy-barrel-per-day stream. The product for the month was 
seventy-five barrels. Before April 1. 1880, there were 4,000 producing wells 
in the Bradford oil district, yielding 50,000 barrels daily. In March, 1874, 
the Emporium Press, referring to the Butts wells below Tarport, noticed the 
progress of development as follows: "The oil fever is raging in our neighbor- 
ing county. Two wells have been put down at Bradford, and both are yield- 
ing well. The oil is of better quality than that found in the oil regions, and 
many oil men are changing base, preparing to operate in this new oilderado. 
The oil is found at a depth of eleven hundred and fifty feet." In March. 
1875, J. C. Jackson and A. B. Walker leased of P. T. Kennedy a farm one 
mile east of Bradford (now producing), and they completed their first well in 
July — the first ever drilled into the third Bradford sand — yielding about 
twenty-five barrels per day. This field J. C. Jackson, A. B. Walker, S. Solo- 
mon, Elias Eckhart formed a company to develop, putting clown twenty paying 
wells in 1875-70. Meantime Mr. Kennedy had his royalties from this field, 
and shortly after the well proved a success he purchased Eckhart' s interest. 
Olmsted, of Tidioute, finished his well into slush oil below the old Bennett 
farm, on the Crooks farm, one mile north of the well on the Kennedy farm, 
about July, 1875. In September, same year, the Crocker well, then only 060 
feet deep, was yielding 150 barrels per day. In April, 1875, work on the 
Smethport oil well was begun, and on November 1 5 a depth of 2, 004 feet was 
reached without finding oil. In August, 1876, the William Haskell well was 
commenced. 

No 1 well on the Tibbett farm is said to lie the first success on the East 
branch. This farm became the property of Lewis Emery, Jr. The Quintuple 
tract, formerly the Kingsbury estate, contains 4,000 acres. It was purchased 
in 1875 by Lewis Emery, Jr., for $54,000. Whitney & Wheeler, Free Pren- 
tiss and S. L. Wilson were associated with him in this purchase, Wilson sub- 
sequently receiving $15,000 advance on his share of purchase money. In 
1875 Mr. Emery made his first venture on the Tibbett farm in Toad Hollow, 
his next on the J. M. DeGolier farm, and the third on the Salem tract of the 
Quintuple, near a well formerly drilled by Barnsdall, but abandoned at 1,100 
feet; a fourth on lot 296, southwest of Custer, near Marshburg, and a fifth at 
Lewis run on a lease of 3,700 acres. Lescure, the superintendent, reported 
123 producing wells in January. 1880, and 681 wells in January, 18S4, on the 
Quintuple. Blair well No. 1, Jackson & Walker's No. 2, at Bradford, and 
Olmsted's No. 1 on the Sanford farm, were examined in November, 1875, and 



64 BISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

bhe crude to range from !l to 16 gravity. In July, 1876, the Ken- 
nedy well showed slush oil of 41° gravity, while Prentiss No. 1 showed 44°, 
and I!; ron & Co.'s well on the Foster farm 45°. Late in L876 a gas well was 
struck on the Bruce Rogers farm, near Bradford. The gas was ignited, and 
from October 1 to February 1, 1877, jets of flame rose twenty-five to forty 
l<" i burning continually, and making summer dwell in the depths of the 
fores! during the earlier winter months. 

The Bradford Oil Company was organized under charter April 20, 1876, as 
the successor to Chambers, Jones & Co. The principal stockholders were J. 
T. Jones, Wesley Chambers, L. G. Peck and L. F. Freeman. This company 
owned a large portion of the site of Bradford from Main street south, the sale 
of which in lots brought in $40,000. In January. 1882, the company still 
owned 10.000 acres of the northern field, had 100 producing wells at Four 
Mile, Indian Creek, West Branch of Tuna, and in other localities, so that 
each share was valued at $2,000. In June, 1879, J. T. Jones, who purchased 
Chambers" stock, was elected president, and in 1881 he bought out Peck & 
Freeman, when IT. E. Brown, of Warren, was elected secretary, and T. J. 
Powers, treasurer. Thirty-five new wells were added in June, 1^76. and the 
total production for the month was 33,134 barrels. There were 115 wells in 
the Tuna Valley in July, 1876, twelve of which yielded less than ten barrels 
per day, and only five yielded over twenty barrels each. During June of 
this year thirty live wells were drilled, which are included in the total given. 
Of the flowing wells Wing & Lockwood's, near the State line, and Whitney & 
Co.'s well No. 5, both new wells, took tire. In August, 1S76. a gas explosion 
at Prentiss well No. 9 resulted in two men being burned to death. 

The true development of the Bradford District commenced in the centen- 
nial year, when operators from the Venango fields turned to the Tuna Valley, 
extending their wells from Bradford to Limestone, where Job Mo^es had the 
first paying well. At this time oil lands were purchased at from $6 to $10 ] er 
acre, which in a few months were worth $50(1 ami $1,000 per acre. The 
Dennis well, located three-quarters of a mile southwest of the old village 
boundary, was begun in December, 1877, and drilled to 1.719 feet by April. 
1878, the mouth being 2,055 feet above the ocean, or about 61 1 feet aboA e the 
railroad track at Bradford depot. To watch and record the clays and rocks 
brought up by the drill, Geologist Leslie appointed a Mr. Hale, who made the 
complete record published by the department. The McCalmout Oil Company, 
named from the McCalmont farm, where the company met earh successes, was 
organized in 1S77, with David Kirk, F. A. Dilworth, Frank Tack. F. E. Tack. 
A. H. Tack and I. E. Dean, members, fli 1879 they decided to try the north 
ern field, where heavy purchases were made from the Biughams, as the "Tri- 
angle well," opened by O. P. Taylor, showed what might be expected in 
Allegheny county. In May, 1881, the Richburg well was struck, and imme- 
diately the McCalmont Company purchased the Ackerman farm of 350 acres, 
at $90 per acre, and then the Reed farm, which led to so much litigation in 
order to decide the validity of the Shepherd leases. In the northern territory 
it claimed 950 acres and twenty six wells, in 1882, ami in McKean COUntj 106 
and eighty eight wells, with fifty new wells under construction. 

In 1877 a company of Pennsylvania cheese makers drilled 1,100 feet in 
Sharon township, on a tributary of the Honeoye, and was known as the Wright 
well. The well on Horse nm. across the line in Genesee township, Allegany 
county. X. \.. was drilled about this time; while Kemper, of Duke Centre, 
drilled in the northeast corner of Ceres township, just inside the line of -McKean 
county, to a depth of 1,600 feet,bui very little oil was found. Kemper drilled 



HISTOEY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 65 

a second well on King's run, which proved dry. It appears that this sand 
belongs to the Elk county family rather than to the Bradford family. It is 
said to have its origin in Spring Creek township, in Elk county, and to extend 
to Wellsville. Taylor's Triangle No. 4, the Schultz wells on Halsey's lands, 
near Wilcox, the Buffalo Coal Company's wells on Instanter brook, the wells 
at Smethport, also the wells drilled toward the northeast, were all found to be 
in the Spring Creek sand. In 1878 the Duke Centre oil field showed the rich 
oils of the Bradford sand, and the same year wells along the Windfall and 
round Eldred were drilled. The Angell Oil Company was organized in March, 
1880, when C. D. Angell' s wells, at Knapp's creek, the Exporters & Producers' 
wells, on Kendall creek and at Fullerton, were merged, and 960 acres of the 
Clark, Babcock & Hidings' tract, north of the State line, added, in all fifty-eight 
producing wells, valued at $400,000. C. D. Angell was chosen general man- 
ager; George H. Danforth, president; William R. Lyon, secretary and treas- 
urer, and they, with Charles T. Crocker and E. M. Danforth, formed the board 
of directors. 

Mitchell & Jones had 900 acres, sixty producing wells, and a one fourth 
share in forty others, in 1882. Peck & Freeman had 500 acres, fifty produc- 
ing wells, and a one -eighth interest in 125 acres of leased oil lands. Brown & 
Jones claimed 125 acres on the head-waters of Kendall creek, in 1882, with 
twenty-five producing wells. The Emery Oil Company (L. Emery, Jr., \V. R. 
Weaver and L. E. Hamsher), purchased the Minard run tract, in October, INN:;, 
from C. C. Melvin, A. B. Walker, Howe and associates. The original Moody 
tract was 7,000 acres, of which 920 were hitherto disposed of, leaving the 
Emery Company 6,080 acres, ninety-four producing wells, and seven 35,000- 
barrel tanks. The consideration was $300,000. This was formerly proved 
and found wanting by the P. C. L. & P. Company, but Melvin, Walker & Howe 
are said to have realized about §1,000,000 from the tract. 

In November, 1885, the Kane field, which was an uncertain quantity in the 
oil market for six years before, came prominently before the people. At, this 
time oil reached $ 1.0"i.\, but. on November 20 news arrived that the Kane well 
was making seventy-nine barrels in sixteen hours, and that on December 11 
it had reached ninety-three barrels in twenty-four hours. This news, of course, 
had its effect upon the market. Among the leading producers of this county 
Capt. Jones leads, with R. J. Straight, the Emery Oil Company, Lewis Em- 
ery, Jr., John McKeown, The Associated Producers, Union Oil Company, 
Forest Oil Company, Anchor Oil Company, Bradford Oil Company, American 
Oil Company, and the Watson Oil Company. The American Oil Company 
(P. T. & W. C. Kennedy), were among the leading producers until a year or 
two ago, when they sold many of their wells. 

Wells of the Pioneer Period.* The wells drilled in the Bradford field 
prior to December 1, 1880, 8,845 of which were producers at that date, are 
named in the following list: [The few omissions in this list are referred to 
in the sketches of the boroughs and townships of McKean county.] 

*Tha list was prepared for the Era by a special staff of reporters, among whom was tbe late J C. Mc- 
Mullen; A. L. Snell. low manager of the Era, was also in this work. How well they accomplished Ihe work 
confided to them is made evident by this historical list— tbe only recorJ in existence which gives the names 
connected with the Bradford field and the drill work accomplished within its boundaries from 1875 to Decem- 
ber, 1880. 



66 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



Ti \ v V u.i 1:1 . 

[rvine, Irvine Oil < !i 
Manly Bi anie Bros & 1 
Leonard, 



Leonard, Allen & Scher- 

merhorn 

Leonard,Hai 

i" • tin ei 

M — - tract, Harsh & 

hreiber 

Willis, Shear Bros 

State Lim Oil* 
■• Stillwell Oil 1 . 
Woodring & I 

Diamond Oil Co 

(lark, Stat.- Line Oil Co. .. . 

" EurekaOUOo 

Patton, 3 W Humphrev. . 
Zeliff, '• ' .. 

McKenzie " 
Carmody, PC L&PCo 
(II Foster,! II Fosti 

J L Aleomb 

•■ P( I. & l' 1 . 

Bennett, Ealc & Carll 

Foster 

J Beardsley, James 

Rooker '. 

Terry, PC L & P Co 

s L Wilson, S I. Wilson.... 

Miller, M S Miller 

Watkins, Roberts & Ster- 

rett 

Crooks, .1 I. Alcomb 

P Hooker, J I. Alcomb &Co 
Harris. Sill Farm Oil Co 
McCartey, sill Farm Oil I 
1 nion oil ( o.. . 
Mrs Miller, Diamond Petro- 
leum Co 

Eli Hooker, 3 C McAllister 
Win Beardsley, G V Forman 

Renner, Mitchell 

H Beardsley. Empire Stair 

Oil Co 

' Ironin. i: i-i- am. 

Dan Glass,Glass<& Dikeman 
McKean, Roberts & St. rretl 
11 Beardsley, State I 
Co 

II l-ardsley, pur I. 

Co .... 

Bell, Line Oil ( 
Clark heirs, J RClark 

PC L&PCo 
CJ Everson 
» B -1 

Tali .v Payne.. 

rd » liitnej &Wheelei 
se, Mabee 

•I .Mal.ee 

HTrumboer 

11 B Porter &Co... 

" II M Haskell 

" Headj a M. S 

Ceo S Frank 

Slocu'm, W'liii 

! 

E D Fostei Foster* Powell 

P T Renin .!, \ I SCO 



1 



I ilk 1 

Ward, A C Scott 6 

Brambli ' , . . . 2 

Parsons lot, .1 B Farrel. . 
Houch, .1 1 

liey, Whitnej & 

Whe. ler.. 
Sanford lot. Davis & Hilton 
Mill lot, FT Ki n 
Miller lot, Foster. Bartlett 

& Co 

lot, F E Bradley. 
A \V Newell. SG Siike..'.. 

F II Newell 
Brown A: Norris lot, Brown 



Van Scoj lot, Brown & N'or- 



lot, J W Hum 1 

3 Frazier. II (lurk ' 

8|T W Cole, Whitnej & 

Wheeler 

Balton Bros. F E Bradley. . 
Howard. 

G Emery <fc Co. 
if. Walker ivrCo.. 
I"' W W Martin. . 

■ • I . ■ er 

Fairbanks. Houghton, 

Hanks ec Co 

Neye lot, John Potts 

Heweti lot. Whitney & 

Wheeler 

Rutherford. Whitnej <S 

Wheeler. • ' 

lot. Whitnej & 

v. heeler 

Leigh lot, Whitnej & 

* Wheeler .' 

Whitnej & 

Wheeler '. 

! Osgood lot. Thomas Brad- 
1 lej : 

•■l I Bradley lot. Thomas Brad- 

9 ley 1 

Butts lot, .1 i: Butts, Jr.... 1 
Brennan, Whitnej A: 

Wheeler '. ] 

Baker lot, PC I. A P Co I 
Webster lot, Whitney & 

Wheeler s 

1 heese Factory lot, ( I 

Allen ' 2 

Holmes, Mrs Holmes. . . 1 

TiM.ett lot, Emerj Oil Co 1 

Ickley, '•■ •} 

" . . 2 

Peterson, " 1 

• ' . . 1 

Cutting, •■ 5 
Cockroft, 
( arupl.ell, Whitnej & 

Wheeler 1 

Rogers, Bradford Gas Co 

Brown, •• i 

I PC L&PCo ... 9 

G W Raub •> 

" C Everson 2 

Lane, Smith & 

ni i 

. A K Harrow 1 

i I. , E Fmer- 

4 

| .ml & 
2 



..niies' 

Oil Co •> 

W A Pull- 
man & Co 2 

Fisher & Lane, 3 D Lupher 
Derby <S 

■ lone- o 

Fisher & Lane, Sam Smith 

A: Thomson 2 

Canfield & Brady, Moore & 

Pettibone :-! 

v Brady, McManus 

& O'D.-II ....'. :-; 

!' Rob 

erts 2 

ttk... 2 

Total 310 

Abando 
Irvine. Van \ leek & Mitch 

4 

Baillet, Short & Co l 

Eclipse Oil Co 1 

Huntington, unknown 1 

Cogswell, Tail 

horn l 

ii I Taylor A- Co l 
Mosi - tract, Harsh a 

iber 4 

Willis, Shear Bros 1 

State Line oil Co. . l 

Miller 2 

Joseph Frit/. l 

Haskell & O'Dell. . 1 
Alan-. in i ei -lie i 

OilCo .... l 

Clark. .1 W Humphri v 2 

Whittaker, PC L& PCo.. 1 

Terry. ;; 

4 

~.ns 1 
Harris Sill Farm oil Co 

l! ... 2 

MOH i- A Bar-. I 

Parsons &Co.. . 1 
Randolph Par- 



ties 



M.I alley. Jain. 
Mrs Mueller Diamond IV 
i Co 

Mrs Mueller. I' C L & F Co 
Eli Hooker. (, V Forman. , 
Win Beardsli j 

I'ai Lynch, Tat Lynch 

< roiiin. Mi Mann' 

Dan Class. J K Butts, Jr... 
Jones, Harris A Slocum. . . 
Empire state farm 

R Iring 

Hinchy, Ottman 

Buchanan, Heald 

Ottman 

Buchanan & Co 
reiber 

Fori. i.in 

ardslcy, unknow d 
Limestone 
Petroleum Co 

'. 11 lot, Ceo \ 

man 

McKean, unknow n 

dark lieirs, J 1! Claris . I 
PC I. a P Co 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



67 



PT Kennedy, American Oil 

Co ' 

I 01 kroft, PCL&PCo.... 
Emery Oil Co. . . 
Railroad Y. P( 1. & P< 
Evans, American Oil Co. . . 
Parsons lot, 
Sanford lot, Davis<& Hilton 

Mill lot, PT Kennedy 

A WNewell, H Clark 

S G Slike 

Stone lot, .1 W Humphrey . 

Walsh lot, Anglun Bros 

Bait. m Bros' lot, Whitney 

& Wheeler 

Balton Bros' lot, Balton 

Bros 

Schroder, EG Tilford 

Neye lot, Dr Book. ........ 

Foster lot, Whitnej & 

Wheeler 

Caby, PC L& P Co 

Church, PT Kennedy 

Parsons lot. Whitney & 

Wheeler 

Little, Harsh A: Schreiber 
Wagoner, 

Raul., PC I. & PCo 

. ole [case, G V Forman 

Seward, Whitney&Wheeler 

Ford lease, unknown 

Fuller, '■ 

Welsh, 11 B Porter .V Co.. 
Pierce lot. Sterrett & Rob- 
erts 

Patterson lot. I L Shank.. . 

.1 O Beardsley, Morris 

" James Rooker 

Limesto o e 

Pet Co.! 

Babcock, Whitney A: 

Wheeler 

Malony, Whitney & 

Wheeler 

Total 159 



Km]. ire State farm. Harsh 
& Schreiber 

Empire State farm. E Clark 
&Co 

Ed Bell, Empire State Oil Co 

Pat Lynch, Lynch & < !o.. 

Dan Glass, Glass Bros. 

Hurl. anan. unklioH i. 

( II Foster, " 

MeKeall. " 

II Beardsley, State Line Oil 
Co No24 

Moses, stair Line OiK oNo 
24 

Metcalf, pur Short a: ( 0. 

Willett, State Line 

Moses, Peter Schreiber. . . . 
Harsh & Schreiber. . 
Ash&O'Dell 

Zeliff, Olmsted 

Boss. Bradford Oil Co ... 

Bolivar Run " 

Adams, Nichols Run. Brad. 
ford dil Co 



i Dry . 

Resi rvation, Pre. I Prentice 

Palmer >y Co 

'• Carson & Slo. 

eum 

Bartlet Brook, lot 14, PCL 

& PCo 

Irvine, State Line Oil I 
" Deluce, Palmer&Co 
" Hammerwright, .y 

Co 

Irvine, Frederick & Co 
Boot, Van Vleek & Mitch- 



Total 45 



FOSTER BROOK. 

. (Producing). 
Porter <& Gillmor, C. Sbarp 



ell . 



Leonard, Porter A: Mont 
gomery 

Bennett, unknown 

Miller. M S Miller 

" unknown 

McCartey, McCartey 

Mrs Miller. Diamond Petro- 
leum Co 

II Beardsley, Empire State 
Oil Co.... 

Empire State farm. Empire 
State Oil Co 



A: Co. 

Porter & < i ill i •, Anchor 

1 Pet Co 

1 Porter A: Gillmor, Sharp, 

Metcalf & Co 

1 Porter & Gillmor, David 

Lamb & Co 

1 Porter & Gillmor, Rathbom 

& Miller 

Porter & Gillmor, Hazen, 

Lamb & Co 

1 Porter & Gillmor, Coats <$ 

Murray 

Porter & Gillmor, Porter, 

Gillmor & Co 

Porter & Gillmor, Rump A: 

Hazen 

Ottnian, W Crini Waller. 
Mack Bros. . 

Upper Herdick, Frink 

Hitrick A 

Howe 

Upper Herdick (and C.B.& 

II |, .1 •! Carter 

Upper Herdiek, Irviu. 

Davis & Co 

Upper Herdiek. Post & 
Bartles 

1 Olean Oil Co.. C K Raner 

Leopold Bros. 

E M Bell 

John McMurray, Li opold 
Bros 

2 John McMurray, Murraj & 
Critehlow 

John McMurray, McMurray 

Bros 

Robl McMurraj , MeM ill 

ray Br..„ 

Robt McMurray, Whitney 

& Son 

Robt McMurray, Parks A: 

Hazzard 



James McMurray, McMur- 
ray Bros 

James McMurray, Wiggie 

& Co 

B R & Co, Baum, Richard- 
son & Co 

Smith, B & W 1. Smith 

Tew, II W Tew 

Berry, RD Bailey 

•I A Stearns 

Lynch, Lynch & McMurray 

E I Co, A Childs & Co 

Walker & Wait. . 

Wilcox, Wilcox A: Kirk .... 

JMCongdon 

Randall A: Veder 

" S S Seoville 

O F Sehonhlom. . . 

" J Evans 

Donahugh & Slier- 
man 

Olmsted A: Son . . . 
Shelden & Edgett 

Stewart 

FA Wright 

Randall & Veder. . 

Sill Earn. Oil Co 

Jennings & Ross 

C E McDonnell.. 

Hunt, Thomas Argue 

" J L Clark 

Irvin. Davis & Co 

C BvoM n &Co 

■ J V Ritts 

i ! i: Sherman 

Short. Plain & Co. 
" Roners & Richard- 
son 

Foster Brook dil Co 
\ W Sherman & Co 
■■ Mutual Oil Co .. 
Snyder, Foxburg Oil ' o. 

J E White 

Cushing & Morri- 
son 

Snyder, Hapg I & Loi k- 

wood 

Snyder Hapgood & Lock- 
wood 

Bell, E M Bell 

Bradley, Ernst Bradley & 

Co 

Bradley, Snyder 

Powell a. Wheaton 

Harry Fox 

Union Oil Co 

Mason M.I Tufft 

Buffalo Oil Co 

Palmer & Dudley 

Delo Oil Co 

Kelh & Henshaw.. 

E Boyer 

" Grossmayer & Son 

" ON Hazen 

TBMatteson 

Dudley A: Palmer (5) 
Kinney & Chapin. . 
Ken) on & Mason. 

" J L Shank 

E A & S B Drake 

Evans, Riddell <fc Co 

BNHurd 

s Thos Tait, Thomas Tait. Sr. 
.1 M Tait 
Thos Tait, Jr. . . 



68 



HINTOltY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



i ait, Geo Tail 2 

Harry Fox 2 

.1 M Tait, .1 MTait 6 

McClure.Pittsburgh Oil Co IS 

Ladd, Thomas Ladd 3 

Smith, W L & B Smith.. 2 

Thayer, II S Payson 4 

.1 S William- 4 

B K A; Co., Baum, Rii hard- 

son & Co 3 

Total 371 



(I. AUK, BABCOCE i HULINGS 

TI: \i T. 

&Co 5 

Clinton, Strong * Co 1 

Wallarr, Stride A: Co 3 

.1 B Mandeville 8 

Willoughby* Kinkaid 15 

Geo K Anderson 6 

Bat Monroe 1 

Smith, Palmer &Co 2 

United Pipe Line, gas 4 

l nion < las Co, gas 2 

.1 W Humphrey 6 

Fitzsimmons cfc Bennett... 2 

Fitzsimmons * Son 2 

French, Willard A Co 4 

\V A Wade .'i 

Mandeville, Mandeville it 

Murphy 5 

A C Hawkins 1 

Boyei SP Boyer A Co 

Bussell A Co 12 

Elliott Bros 2 

Medallion . , . .. 3 

Km' .v Manney 3 

I' ( ' lors 1 

F A Carlis 2 

W w Bailey 2 

i in i a Haldeman s 

( \\ Pratl .v Co., lease 4... 7 

Burdick Oil Co 4 

OilCo 16 

W It Kinter 3 

Elliott Bros 3 

Eighmey Bros 8 

Dilworth, MeCalmont Farm 

OilCo 14 

Dilworth, Fulton & Alex- 
ander 4 

Dilworth, Spaulding & 

George 4 

Dilworth, Flemming A: 

i -l 

Dilworth, I N Payne 3 

F 11 Parkman * 

Co 

Ban- * Manning 2 

.1 s Patterson... . '■> 

.1 I) Wolf 4 

.1 W Shirley l 

Morrison & 

Bri >\\ Ding 1 

Dilworth, Holmes 1 

Tom Argue 3 

Boslej .v Ford.. 4 

Ralph Bros 3 

RW Shirley 1 

Babcock A Hul- 

ings '- 

" Jno Stin-on 1 



Dilworth, W B Snov l 
Howe Bros a I o 
< anisteo & 1 1 ■ • r 

nellsville Oil Co .". 

Dilworth, Eaton Bros 2 

I) Grimm 3 

K.I Straight B 

Boyd Kinsler * 

Co ... 1 

Evans 

A R Marlin 3 

Kinslci .v star. :; 

Smith* Wilson. 4 
Hepburn A Go 

tel 4 

Taylor* Whiti i 

& Scott 5 

Dilworth, Northern Oil Co 8 
II F Hutchison 

Co 5 

K W Sherman... I 

I. Emery, Jr 2 

Wilder&Warren i 

JnoDodd ... i 
Murray A I'. : 

Banks & Co. '^ 

E B M. I aid... ■■ 

Hays A- M.tiar 

la. ill 1 

Styles A Roy.:.. 8 

E A Curtis ifeCo 3 

Stafford* Patten 4 

Long* Co. ... 6 

I 1,111111 ill, A CO ': 

" A ( lummings. ... 2 

s s A ( ,, 5 

W Smith ti 

Coney Oil Co.... l 

I. eland A Co ■> 

Boyd&Scovillc 3 

De Voe 3 

Rhodes a Kai. 

monil 3 

Evans a Scrax- 

ton ... 

R McMurray — 2 

Penzer & Gregg I 

W M Moore C 

Winters a Mc 

Maun- 2 

li Jennings & 

Son .. 12 

Eighmi f&S 
Cochran a I lor 

ton 

Cochran & La 

■ Hi- 4 

James, Chri 

A Co 2 

Earl A Co 3 

Johnson a Nut 

tin- 2 

I :I,!h , II BO] i'l 

A Co ... 12 

Caldr v Wolf.- 22 

Cushing A Irvin 1 

Porter* Watson 2 

Treat A: MaUon 1 
Dreibelbis & 

Wolfe 1 

EmlentonOilCo. 1 

Moore Bros 1 

Tin I. . 1- A \\ Idle S 

Weser 1 



Dilworth. E Katz 2 

K W Steele a: 

Co 4 

Fitzgibbons Bros 3 
Wallace Brown* 

Co 1 

Palmer a- Smiley 7 
Wilder A: War- 
ner 1 

In ckeye nil 1 ,, 

EC Babcock 1 

Clarke a Steele. S 
1 Mandeville) A 

1 Hawkins 
Hope nil Co.... :; 
I' F Kerns &Co.. 3 
R E Blackmar... 1 
w M Mercer... . 1 
Mercer * Van 

Wormer 3 

c W Plummer.... 1 
Howes & Barker 3 
John McGinnis.. 2 
.1 w Doubleday.. 2 
.1 II Van W.'.r- 

iii.-i- .... 
T Frothingham. 3 
Patterman&Peif 

fer 1 

I. Vandenstine. T 
Enterpi isi 1 1 an 

1 
CD Greenley... . 2 
W II Lbbott .... 3 
Mercer a Kil 

111 4 

Nnru iili I lil 1 " 

Ed Urner ' 

Davis Ottman* 

Hyde 'J 

Benton&Co.... 4 

Bird * Bell 8 

Baker & Malone 8 



Ulll.l I- IKMT. 

Howe a Son 11 

t Co ti 

Child- a Haldeman 4 

Willets, Boyne a Co 11 

I Willets 20 

X B Purson 2 

E A Rathbone 

Stafford a Leech 2 

II Snow 2 

N Bushnell 1 

.1 W Davis 2 

J W Davis A Co 13 

n A 1 liilds M'11 13 

Willets ... 10 

3 

All, .... 4 

.1 11 Pi rkin 1 

Curtis A- .Inter 8 

Brawley Bros 3 

■ 

OS 18 

OttoGcrmer is 

Brawlej a Hoti hkiss 3 

Smith 1 m 1 ii G 

X BParsons 2 

N Bushnell 1 

ioung a l\ Hi s 9 

fotal 1,128 




(C0imnu> X. &***> 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



71 



i Abandoned.) 

C B & H. Pluinblev & 
Gould 

C Bit H, Towanda Oil Co. 
Leslie Bros 
Clark A: Steele, 

Painter 

Unknown 

Total 

EAST AND WEST BRANCH. 

I Producing. ) 

Pike, American Oil Co 

■' W F Kelly 

" Brioty &McVey 

" JJMcVey 

■■ M C McLaughlin 

" Trax Bros 

" H O Pike & Brown.... 

" E B Rogers 

" Luce it Co 

'' JL Waters 

" Cutting <fe Sterrett. . . 

" H W Tracy 

Fuller. American Oil Co. . . 

Rogers, M C McDougal.. 

■' W B Chapman.. .. 

Macon Bros 

" S E Barnard 

Wolcott&Hifler. 

J W Thomas 

" John Healy 

HG Cutting 

" D Atwater it Co.. 
Adams & Curtis. . 

Emerson Bros 

" Williams & Bailey 
" Bickford & Curtis 
" Martin Comstoek. 
" Groves & Fourl. . 

M M Jaynes 

" Short, Parsons & 

Loomis 

Rogers, II Jaynes 

Ent Tran Co's tract, Ent 

Transit Co 

Ent Tran Co's tract, Law- 
rence Oil Co 

Ent Tran Co's tract, An- 
chor Pet Co 

Ent Tran Co's tract, Ben- 

ner Bros 

Curtis, Beuuer Bros 

Cross, " 

John DcGolier, " 
David DeGolier, Emery Oil 

Co 

Cram, Emery Oil Co 

Morris, " 

M K Dieter, " 

Stoddart, " 

Tibbets, " 

Kingsbury, Tucker Bros... 
" J W Humph- 
rey 

Kingsbury, Parks A Haz- 

zard 

Wagner lot, W L relton... 

R R "lands. Union Oil Co 

N W M Co's land.-, " . . 

Hawkins, " .. 

P C L & P Co 

A.-PT Kennedy 



Hawkins, Buttrey & Davis, 

J W Dean 

" Lawrence Babbitt 
& Co 

Hawkins. E A Wing 

Rock Oil Co land-, J D 

Case a Co 

Ernest Int. Whitney & 

Wheeler 

Harris, Whitney .V Wheeler 
M K Dieter. ' Cadwcll & 

Kleckner 

Mill lot, H Hill 

" P Hanuan 

Harding&Co 
Otto Germer lot, Straight 

A: Shirley 

B I Taylor tract. Quartette 

Oil Co 

B I Taylor tract, J L Mc- 

Kinney ACo 

B I Taylor tract, Williams 

& Wright 

B I Taylor tract. Sill Farm 

Oil Co 

B I Taylor tract, H S Baker 

& Co 

B I Taylor tract, Cushing & 

Harvey 

B I Taylor tract, Bovaird, 

Seyfang & C<> 

Clark, Haldcman A: Sons, 

" Boulton Bros 

CM Coburn 

" Stettheimer 

" John Wallace 

Baker (Brown lease i, John 

Wallace 

Baker (Clark lease), John 

Wallace 

Baker (Barry lease), John 



Baker, W S McMullcn & 

Co 

J C Drake. W S McMul- 
lcn A: Co 

J C Drake, JC Drake 

" J W Humphrey 
Mitchell & Buss. 
" Quincy Barber. 
" Montgomery it 

Durston 

J C Drake, Drake Oil I o 

Beckwith, R Carson 

" C Kamnierdiener 

T Beckwith 

" Kriuer & Lyons 
Wright, M Mat-.. 11 ,v I o. 
" Keatley Bros & 

Co 

Pike, Book & Rhodes 

Albert Palmer, J L Mc- 

Kinney Ai Co 

A T Newell, Book & Co... . 
Drake lease, Drake Bros. A: 

Co 

Drake lease. Book A: Co... 

W A: J Duke... 

" Pat Lyons. . . . 

Drake pur Dolley, Burton 

& Morris 

Drake pur Have.- & Grif- 

iith 

Drake pur H Leonard 

Drake estate, R S Battles. 



Drake estate, B u r t i s & 

Drake 2 

Geo Dieter. Deitter Bar- 
rett A- Co : ... l 

Geo Dieter, Post, Brown 

& Norris 1 

Haffey, Roth A: Sax 2 

" Otto Germer & Co. 3 

Widow Dieter, Book & Co. . 1 
Kennedy, L H Cowley & 

Co . . ." "... 4 

Kennedy, W L Yeltou 2 

Cutting, Bullock and Clark 2 

" " Hastings A: Slocum 2 

" Drake Brothers. . . 1 

'■ L C Blakeslee 2 

Book & Co 2 

'■ F Reiber 1 

Rutherford, Book & Rhodes 22 
" Buttrey A: Davi- 1 
Dikeman, Whitney A.- 
Wheeler HI 

Dikeman, Caldwell, Ham- 

sher&Co 6 

Forman it Beaver pur 

Whitney A Wheeler 11 

Tait, Hazlctt A: White 3 

" Alfred Short* Co... 3 

" R A Davidson it Co. 3 

" A Davidson 1 

Jas DeGolier, Quintuple 

Oil Co 7 

Jas DeGolier, Whitney & 

Son 3 

Burton, Otto Germer it Co. 2 

Carey, John Hill 3 

" Ford Blethers 1 

Springer & Campbell 1 
Foster, Tarbell, Shafer & 

Co 5 

Foster, Hoffman, Bussell 

it Co 7 

Havens, P C L & P Co 2 

Fuller A: Roberts. . 1 

Herriek, J H Springer it Co 3 

Ten Eyck, I) W Thomas... 2 

Freeman, E Strong & Co.. . 4 

" Leopold A: Co. . 2 

JohnPZane 2 

'• Freeman Oil Co.. 2 
" Husband it Bun- 
ton 4 

Jewett. Hamsher, Weaver & 

Co S 

Smith, P T Kennedy o 

Sheldon Jewett, Quintuple 

Oil Co 7 

Clapp farms, J M Clapp. . . 30 
P Shady, Joseph Stettheim- 
er 1 

P Shady, Roberts it Lock- 
wood 2 

P Shady, Mary E Shady. . . 1 
Salem tract. Quintuple Oil 

Co 4 

D V R Foster, Huff it Treat 5 

D E Foster, McMann Bros. 2 
Foster Bros & 

Co 2 

D E Foster, Hogan it Co. . 1 

Foster pur Whitney & Son 2 

Lewis Run tract, " " 2 

Foster, S N Si ggins 1 

W Brown, J T Gillespie. . . . 2 

" Newell & Slike.. 3 



72 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



W Brown, Dr Van Scoy 2 

McKeo « ii .v 

Vaughn 1 

d Johnson 1 

Wheatland Oil 

Co 1 

Foster, Harding & Dow.... 1 

Turner. Van Wormer 1 

" Harris & Co 2 

■• Wheatland Oil Co.. 2 

Leopold Bros 1 

Tally 1 

Ingoldsby, DeGolier 3 

Watrous, James Oalliraith. 1 

II James 2 

Steinwandle 1 

J N Brown. Flisher & Farrell 2 

Emerj & I'ike.. . 2 

Campbell & Ford 1 
HcKeown & 

Vaughn 3 

Gri gg Gregg 1 

Poineroy I HI Co 4 

•' Hitchcock 1 

A Watrous, Flisher A Far- 
rell 6 

Wm Foster, Wolcott &Co I 
Bingham, lot 168, R J 

Straight &Co 3 

ii. (i II Van Vleck.. 3 

Roesa Bro- 

lot 177. (. V For- 

man 1 

Bingham, I i es. Forest 

! Co 2 

Bin-ham, lot 152, Forest Oil 

Co 3 

Bingham, lot 153, J J & T J 

Vandergrilt 4 

Bingham, Kishwaukee Oil 

Co 3 

Bingham, John McKeown. 2 
lo1 473, 3 3 iTJ 

Vandergrift 1 

Bingham, lot 4*2. Johnson 

& Kittenger 1 

Dent lands, PC L APCo.. 7 

W s McMullen 1 
Parks & Haz- 

zard 1 

Moody, Minanl Bun nil Co 32 

Mill lot,Whitney& Wheeler 7 

Fuller, J M Fuller 2 

Taylor, Clark A; Soyes .... 1 

Newell, Potts A: Slike 3 

T W llartman & 

Frazier 5 

Newell, Fuller,Dow<& New- 
ell 1 

DaTlS, P F Kearns 1 

" Kern 1 

John I.aniars 5 

" Bradford Oil Co.... 1 

Mack, Quintuple Oil Co.... 3 

Moorhouse, M P. McManus 1 

I Moorhouse . I 

Walker lot. t WCole 1 

Little, M li McManus 

John Chambers — 1 

Dikeman, " — 1 

Lane. PC Lee P Co 1 

Switzer, " 1 

Tailor. Bradford Oil Co.... 1 I 

Clark " .... 1 

Blair, " .... 19' 



Niles, Bradford Oil Co.... 
Reed, 

King, " 

Wesley Chambers 
Pratt, 
Eatfield, 

Clark, (lark .V Co 

Emery, Whitney ■• 

Crooker " .... 

Maek lauds, Chapin it Co. . 

Henry Fisher . 

Fisher & Piek- 

ett 

School-house lot. A F Heald 
A C Harton 

Cranmer, Chapin A Co 

Tibbets 

Crooker, Carroll, Bauman 

& Co 

Crooker, W B Snov< & Co. . 
Craf t, GW Archer & Co.... 
Kissam. Theodore N Barns. 

dall 

Kissam, Barnsdall A Briety 
Wetmore A Staf- 
ford 

Kissam, Wetmore A Hayes 
Brown A Norris., . 
Stinson, Williams A: Alex- 
ander 



QUINTUPLE TRACT. 

1, Venango Oil Co.. . 

2, " 

3, Kahu, Lehman A 

Co 

4, Underwood A: ( o.. 
... ,ioi, a Haggerty .. . 
6, H A Booth A I ii 

,. Jackson a Conant 

8, HA Booth &Co.. 

9, Sherwood & Con- 

ant 

10, I G Jackson a: Co. 
11. 

12, II A Booth A- Co., 

13, Gillis A: Hall. 

14, Franklin Oil Co 



15, 

Pi, 

17, J E Ralph A Bro. 

18, 

19, Heald. SiSCO A Co 

20. Tinker, Duncan A 

Fisher 

24, -I F Ralph A Bro.. 
26 «. W Ralph 

28] " .'.'.'.'.'.'. 

29, W 11 Richards .... 

Parish 

32, " 

rles Kendall,. 
:;:.. •• "... 

36, W II Richards.... 
:■'.. Vnglum&O'Boyle 
S8, 

39, GilUs &Hall 

40, Franklin Oil Co... 

41, " " ... 
4.', Tarbell A Morris.. 

43, •' •• .. 

44, .1 W Humphrey.. . 

45, •■ :... 



4 


Lot 46. 


3 


" 47. 


4 


" 48, 


JO 


" 49, 


>'. 


" 50. 


1 


- 52, 


1 


" 53, 


5 


" .54, 


2 


" 55. 


3 


■' 5D, 


1 


■■ 57, 




" 50. 


1 


■■ 60, 


1 


" 61, 


1 




2 


•• 62, 


1 


■■ 63, 




" 64, 


2 


•■ 65, 


1 


" 66, 


3 


" 67, 




" 69, 


2 


" 7o. 


2 


" 71, 




" 72, 


1 


■' 7.S. 


2 


'■ 70, 


1 


" 79, 




" -o. 


1 


'• -1. 




" 




" 83, 




" 84, 


:; 


" 85, 


1 


■■ 86, 




•• 87, 


2 




2 


.. ss . 


3 


., g9] 


3 


■• 90, 


2 




3 


•■ '.11, 


3 


" 92, 


3 




■J 


■■ 93, 










'J 


9B 


•J 


'• '.Ml, 


1 




1 


" '.'7, 


2 


" '.is. 


1 


■■ 99, 


o 


•■ 100. 




■■ 101, 


3 


•• 104. 


1 


" 105. 


2 


" 111-. 


2 


•• 112. 


1 


•• 118, 


2 


'• 114, 


2 


•■ 115, 


1 


■• 110. 


1 


'■ 117. 


2 


■■ lis. 


2 


•• 110, 


2 


" 121. 


1 


" 122, 


1 


" 123, 


1 


" 124, 


1 


1 ".'5 


1 


" 126, 


1 


" 127. 


1 


" 1'-'-. 


3 


" 130, 



Heald, Sis 
Davis A II 



B F Brinton. 

.! I Willi -. 



F. II Aiken 

Kendall A Boyer 
F T Barker 



Broder A Humph. 

rey 

F T Barker 

Aiken Bros 

P. F Brinton 



E B Barton . 



•t W Humphrej 
Davis* Hyde... 

Heald, Sisco & Co. 

Etna nil Co 

E Strong 

FT Howes 

A Gordnier 



■i S Wilson 

F Stron- .v. Co. 

John Duff .y i .. 
Strause. Wai 

Co 

Kearns a Vosburg 

Aiken Bros , 

Joseph Stettheini- 



■li'-i pii Stettheim- 

er 

Stettheim- 
ii 

Joseph Sti 



Ml Elliott 

Strause, B 



I CMeAll.-ii r., 

■\ Co.. .. 

randin . . 

(7 M Barney 



in A- Co 

(; M Barnej . . 

Samuel Grandin . . 
W II Bradley 

J s Wilson.. ...... 

Venture Oil Co... 
Bin, lie;, a Duff..'.' 

Ventun < iil Co. . . 



Smith A Wilson. . . 

•i s Wilson 

H .1 Beers 



HISTORY OF McKEAN COUNTY. 



73 



Lot 131 

■' 132, 

•■ 13.3. 

" 134, 

•• 135. 

'• 136. 

•• 137. 

'• 13S. 

" 145, 

" 146, 



154, 

155, 
157, 
158, 
159, 
160. 
161, 
162, 
163, 
164, 
165, 
1 1 is, 
169, 
170, 
171, 
172, 
173, 
174, 
1S2, 
185, 



E Strong* Co.... 1 
Woodbury &Camp- 

bell.. 1 

David Emery 1 

G W Baldwin 1 

Jacob Olshoffsky. 1 

.III Campbell 1 

Katcliff 1 

I) Atwater & Co.. 2 
Hamsher * Stev- 
enson 1 

Hamsher & Stev- 
enson 1 

D Emery & Co.... 1 
" .... 2 
Woodbury & Camp- 
bell 1 

E Strong &Co.... 1 

H J Beers 1 

B F MeClure .... 2 

H N Kingsbury . . 2 

II LMcMullen.... 1 

Bradley & Duff. . . 2 

... 1 



II I. M. Mullen.. 
H N Kingsbury., 

B F MeClure.,'' 
William Hanley . 



192, 
193, 
194, 
196, 

200, 
201, 
202, 
203, 
204, 

205, 
206, 
207, 
208, 
200, 
210, 
211, 

212, 
213, 

214. 
215, 
216, 

217, 
210, 



Hazletou & Bro. . . 1 

O P Boggs 1 

Atwater Oil Co ... 1 

I) Atwater AM o. . . 1 

T N Barnsdall .... 1 
Vrooman it Mc- 

Graw 1 

Jennings, Hunter 

A: Cummings. . 1 
Jennings, Hunter 

& Cummings.. 1 
Vrooman A- Mr- 

Graw 2 

T N Barnsdall .... 1 

M J Seymour 1 

Atwater Oil Co .. . 1 
i lharles II Richards 

*Co 1 

Butler* Martin.. 1 



GeoMcCullough* 

Co 

J A Vera &( o .... 
Casper Taylor .... 

S Siggins 

Bradlej & Duff... 

Emma Howard ii 

Co 

Kane City Oil Co. , 



Gardner &Cheney 



Abbott, Proper & 
i lonaway 



Lot 220. Abbott, Proper .V 

Conaway 1 

" 221, Petroleum Centre 

nil Co l 

" 222, Petroleum Centre 

Oil Co 1 

" 223, Petroleum Centre 

oil Co 2 

" 220, George McCul- 

lough & Co 1 

•' 227, George MeCul- 

lough & Co .... 1 

" 228, TN Barnsdall* Co 2 

" 220, •• ■• 2 

" 230, •• '• 3 

" 232, J A Win- 1 

" 233, " 1 

"234, " 1 

" 230. R .1 Straight 1 

" 237, U.l Straight ,v Co. 1 
" 238, R C Shearman & 

Bro 1 

" 242, Asher Brown 1 

" 243 " 2 

" 244. T N Barnsdall .... 2 

"245, '■ .... 1 

" 240, Hamsher, Weaver 

* Co 1 

" 247, Hamsher. Weaver 

& < !o 1 

" 248, M Watson 2 

•' 2.">o, Pomeroy & Rich- 

ards l 

" 252, Hamsher, Weaver 

&Co 1 

" 255, Hamsher, Weaver 

&Co 2 

" 256, Van Scoy & Scow- 
den 1 

" 257, Van Scoy & Scow- 

den .' 1 

■■ 258, E W Lamphier & 

Co 2 

" 259, Mahoning Oil Co. 1 
" 200. Conover, Kelley & 

Stewart 2 

" 261, W W Brown 2 

•■ 202. L T Soule 2 

■■ 262, HamburgOil Co.. 1 

'• 203, L T Soule 2 

" 263, Hamburg oil Co. . 4 

" 204, Eagle Oil Co 2 

" 205, " " 3 

■• 266, G W Yxcher 2 

" 268, J L Brown & Co. . 3 
" 200, Alexander^ John- 
son 2 

" 270, Mahoning Oil Co. 1 

" 271, " • 1 

'• 272, A S Hubbard 1 

•■ 273, J B Flisher 1 

•• 274, " 2 

■ 275, F Shaver & Co.. . . 2 

•' 270, L II Cowley A Co. 2 

" 277. Bakei A- Co 1 

" 278, •' 1 

" 279, Huntley, Davis & 

Suhonblom.... 1 

" 280, J L Brown & Co 1 

" 283, P Newell & Bro. I 

" 284, William Lynch... 1 

•■ 2S5, A .V \Y Unwell ... 1 



" 287, 



LOWE]! QUINTUPLE. 

Lot 1, Fredonia oil Co.,.. i 

1, Quintuple Oil Co . . 3 

2, Kearns, Pemberton 

& Co o 

" 2, Potts & Walker i 

" 3, Mountain Oil Co. ;> 

4, Frey, Bear & Stin- 

son 3 

" 5. Gelm & Phillips , .. 3 

" 6, O'Dell* Haskell.. 2 

" 7, John McVey 1 

8, IG Jackson 2 

" 9, ■• 2 

" 10, Boden & Emerson. 3 

" 11, W F Kelley. . .. 2 

Salem lot. Quintuple Oil Co 4 

Sheldon Jewett, " 7 

James DeGoliei . " 7 

Total 1,313 

(Abandoned. ) 

Curtis, American Oil Co . . 1 

Davis, P F Kearns 1 

Total 2 

(Dry.) 

Moody, PC LAiPCo 4 

N W M Co's tract, Union 

oil Co 2 

I Lintr r s Mills Dnicn Oil 

Co l 

Lafayette Coal Co., Neuer 

& Davis i 

Boweu, Mullen A: Mills 1 

Bingham, 400 acres, Forest 

Oil Co l 

Cranmer, Bradford Oil Co. 2 

Quintuple; Sherman Bros. 1 

Crook, t. ( lhapin .V Co ... . 1 

Ma. k.Gt Western Oil Co.. . 1 
Various tracts, Gi Western 

oil Co 10 

Marshburg, Venture oil Co 1 

Johnson <fc Co. 1 

Total 27 



KENDALL CREEK. 

(Producing. ) 

Mi Ivin, PC L&P Co 53 

" McCray* Thompson 4 

" Hamsher & Weaver. 4 

" R Sherman 5 

Jane Sehoonover, Anim, 

Seep & Co 5 

Jane Sehoonover, Georgi 

Leekey l 

Jane Sehoonover, H B Pot- 
ter l 

Jane Sehoonover, Sterrett 

& Roberts 3 

Cornen, purCA& DCornen 3 

" F S Reynolds. 2 

O P Buchanan, G A Leekey 2 
" Farnham & 

Gilbert 2 

C Storms, P Buchanan. . 6 

Wright* Strong 3 



74 



HISTORY UF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



C Morn.-. J O'Dell .. 4 
Knox. Leckey & 

Co 2 

C Storms, \-h .v Robinson 1 

Wright A: Sow 

.1 Heathcote.... 1 

P E Shearon.... 1 

Frank Moorr. Butt- & 

Moore 3 

•I V. llllff .VI" 

PC I..v P Co r 
Boden & Em- 

i r-ini ... 2 
B N Brooks 
Knox. Lecke.i & 

Co 4 

I) i n g iii :i n A 

O'Neill r> 

Buchanan, W •! Sherman. 6 
Anchor Petroli 

inn Co T 

Buchanan, FO Buchanan. I 

Mack, E K \V,-t H 

" Denman & Co 7 

Rochester OH Co 2 

" C 1- Doll .... 2 

ingellOilCo 8 

Johnson, Kittenger 

& Trefl 5 

i itt' rty, Ha ze\ » I Oil Co 22 

George Jl Van 

Vlcek :{s 

Lafferty, K II Thayer ti 

Johnson <fcCo and 

I'uiou Oil Co 27 

Lafferty, A B Smith A: D J 

Thayer 12 

Lafferty, Forest Oil Co.... 3 
" ' Hollow.OAChilds 

&Co 15 

Lafferty, ( .1 Lane 2 

W II Selkrigg.... 3 

Whi :it"ii a Seas | 2 

Totten, Suhr .v Shopperlee 8 

MHCollins 2 

Merrick & Harris. . T 

P Storm-. .1 Test Oil Co. IT 
Cheney .v. I>uf 

£ej : -J 

P storm-, u |> Buchanan.. 2 

" .1 W Sherman. .. 1 
" Sandein & Den- 

nigen 2 

Sill Sill r inn Oil : i 

" Kirk, Eaton A Co 3 

'■ Eaton ^ < o l 

II .1 Pemberton 3 

'■ MC Treat l 

" Hiram Sill 1 

" 1 1 F Spencer 2 

\ nchor Petroleum Co 

i s Owens 2 

Richardson, Munhall A: 

Sniitliinan 14 

Richardson, A B Walker 2 
James Pi ak l Hi 

i o 
Davis ,v \\ i -t 

ervelt 5 

Richardson, Ed Dolan 2 

O'Dell&Emer 

BOB 5 

Richardson, Kennedy 2 

Whipple, -I .1 Carter. ... 25 

Win Weston 2 



Whipple, Anchor Petrole- 
um Co 15 

w hippie, Knox, Leckey & 
Co... .... 11 

Whipple, John W Knox... 3 

UN Hurd o 

Larrabec a Mc 

Donald 4 

Whipple, Keller A: Wirtner 2 
Crandall .. l 

Norman iS Lester 
Morrison & Turn 

er 4 

Schoonovi ' \ i. 

■ i 6 

Oil Co 7 

I) II A II 

nover 5 

Scl nover, II Si hi 

over 1 

- i lark & War 

ren 2 

Schoonover, Clark. Warren 

& Child- 5 

Schoonover. Martin & 

I hilds 3 

Schoonover. J W Sherman 3 

Sollfield Ac 
Dodge 3 

Schoonover, Hunt A- Graff 2 
Smitli & Han- 
del 2 

Schoonover, < • P Buchanan 1 
P F Kimball 2 

Ent Transit Co's traet. 
.1 Lewi- & Co 8 

Ent Transit Co's traet. 
Linieman it Zimmerman 4 

Ent Transit Co's traet. F 
E Boden 5 

Ent Transit Co's tract, Ha- 
zelwood Oil Co 20 

Ent Transit Co's traet. 
( lurtis A: Jennings 3 

Ent Transit Co's tract. An- 
chor Petroleum Co 2 

Ent Transit Co's tract. W 

II I> Chapin & Co 16 

Ent Transit Co's tract. 

Adams Davis 11 

Ent Transit Co's traet. 

Forest Oil Co 

Ent Transit Co's tract, An- 1 

elior Petroli im Co 1 

Hollenlieck. E s Temple- 
ton 2 

Hollenbeck, Carmen A Co 
Anchor Petro- 
leum Co 2 

Hollenbeck. W .1 Porter.. . 4 
W II Brown 
.1 D Lupher. . 4 
" Jennings a 

I 5 

Hollenlieck, Bunton A: 

Husband 3 

Brennan, (i II Van Vleck. 10 

Berry, pur R 1 1 Thayer ti 

Test Oil Co.... t! 
Knight, Anchor Petroleum 

Co 9 

Anchor P Co, pur Anchor 

Petroleum Co 6 

Sawyer, M C Treat 1 

Evans, Pittsburgh Oil Co 9 



Richardson, P Buchanan 2 

.1 11 Perkins.. 3 
James Smith & 

Co :; 

Richardson, Mulqueen & 

Gahau 1 

Davis, -I I. McKinney A' Co t 

" Moor a i taj 1} 1 

• A 1) Smith 3 

" Rich A: Hostetter 2 

■ W II North 2 

" Roc luster Oil Co.... ."> 

Humes 1 

" Henderson 2 

Applebee A Rogers '.' 

■■ Edwards 1 

" Lobruck 2 

Holstein 1 

Sondheim 1 

Chamberlain, RochesterOil 

Co 20 

1 hamberlain, -I II Bruin A: 

Co ... 1 
1 in 1 lain, >» ingli &Co 
Giddings & 

Dewees "> 

Chamberlain, F C Giddings 2 
McElhany. . •': 
Stowell& Ea- 
ton 2 

Chamberlain, A O'Njel.... '•' 
Rich & Hos 

tetter 4 

Chamberlain, Westmore- 
land oil ( o 4 

Chamberlain, W II Wood. 2 
Boylston a: 

Co ' 

Chamberlain, Lang, Per- 
kins & Co 2 

3 
II a m 111 o nd 

Brothers 1 

Chamberlain, Tefft 4 

Linen & Win. 

ters ti 

Chamberlain, A W Boyd... 1 
Treat & Craw- 
ford 3 

Chamberlain, Ash & Rob- 
inson 1 

1 lhamberlain, Kerner & Co I 
Dingman & 

Co 2 

Chamberlain, Chamberlain 2 

Lany&Co.. 3 

Post .v Co... 2 
A W Boyd. Hayes a G 

tith..." 3 

AW Boyd. Benedict, V- \\ 

Speni 1 A Hen 

nis 2 

A W Boyd, II P Bate- a 
■■ ' Schofield . 

t,lass & DeGol- 

ler 3 

A W Boyd. Boulton Bros :i 
M u r \> h y & 

Smith ' 1 

\ \\ Boyd, Fo-ter 2 

E A Culver.... 4 

Wade Bio- .... 2 

Ellis A: Co 2 

Johnson & Sha- 

fer 3 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



75 



A W Boyd, C B Whitehead 2 

Fitzgibbous 

Bros 3 

A W Boyd, Shafer it Co. . . 3 
Richardson & 

Jones 1 

Melian. A T Palmer 12 

John I' Zane 3 

■■ Willoughby 4 

Rf-i Cochran 3 

ES Temple ton.... 3 

A L Avery 3 

•• AJCarr 2 

•• Dibble 1 

Dexter Moore, A S Palmer 4 
J S Patter- 
son 2 

Dexter Moore, C E .ludd. . 2 

Campbell, E Duthil 2 

Duthil &Co 2 

J M Wood 2 

Dallas B Whipple 2 

•T M Congdon 2 

J D Lupher 5 

Tucker & Sowers 3 
MeKevert, Lock- 
wood A: Co.... 10 
Wilson it Smith. 2 
Roberts it Sart- 

well 1 

Campbell, .1 C Donnell 1 

Chamber's well. . 1 

Corwin, Pickering & Smith 2 

Barney 5 

" A A Palmiter 3 

Stowell & Mat- 
thews 7 

Corwin. Stowell 2 

Eaton &Bundy 4 

Jarecki & Westh. . 6 
Richardson it 

Jones 4 

Corwin, Sonlt & Dower 5 

Varney 1 

Keeler & Downey 1 

I) Curtis &Co.... 3 

Corwin Bros & Co 3 

" N Grossmayer 4 

" J S Boyd 3 

McNiel&Co 5 

" Pittsburgh Oil Co 5 

Garlock, Lognu Bros 

ON Hazen & Co. 6 

C S Clark & Co... 5 

R G Cochran 3 

Black & Knight 3 

McCray Bros 3 

Frank Cooban 1 

Anchor Petroleum 

Co 3 

•' J O Johnston 3 

HiE Whiting 4 

Bowers A- Ohlwei- 

ler 3 

Porter &Waugh.. 5 

Frank Cooban 1 

J Schnitzius 3 

•• PM Shannon 1 

Winger Brothers. 3 

Fisher. Bradford Oil Co. . . 6 

" AT Palmer* Co.. 1 

Monroe, Ritts it Esliner. . . 2 

Ritts & Son 1 

C H Glass & Co... 5 

Ward it Anderson 3 



Monroe, E P Bligh 1 

C F DeGolier 3 

Bissett, Union Oil Co & 

Morgan 4 

Bissett, E (' Robbins & Co. 7 

Shear itMcGee.... 3 

Lynch it Snyder. . 4 

" E Lockwood 2 

Hoadley & Gamble 3 

Xoung, D J Thayer 6 

" Kennedy Bros 6 

Patterson. Huntly, Jamie- 
son & Co 2 

Patterson, Spellacy, & Mc- 

Tammany 3 

Patterson, Wm Alshousc . . 2 

C E Lovell 15 

" F C Brown 3 

W R Patterson.. . 2 

Nolan Bros 2 

" Potts Bros 1 

ForgieBros 2 

MeCalmont Oil 

Co 13 

Sample 2 

Tait, Stickney & Co 1 

■■ Pittsburgh Oil Co.. . 3 

■• Wagner 4 

" Duor&Roach 4 

•■ Artley&Co 3 

•• Detroit Oil Co 7 

•' Pittsburgh Oil Co & 

Broder 1 

Borden, Pittsburgh Oil Co. 3 
Purchases near K it E, 

Summit, Union Oil Co 14 

Spencer, Nye & Taylor.... 3 

Brenneman 5 

W P Logan 3 

R V Mitchell.... 3 

WJBovd, Zane & Taylor 7 

" S S Fertig&Co 7 

Farr, Pacific Oil Co 11 

" F E Tyler 5 

Finnegan&Co 3 

" Pittsburgh Oil Co... 3 

" SeUiregg it Son 6 

" Duor it Roach 5 

Shaw, John McCort 10 

Newell it Palmer. . . 5 

Finnigan it Co 3 

Lockwood it Roberts 4 

" EFWillets 5 

" .1 H Selkregg it Son 6 

F E Tyler & Co 3 

Henney, Tyler & Co 3 
Ethridge, A S Palmer & 

Son 4 

Ethridge, Bodine & Walker 3 

.1 TLannonth... 5 

" Frank Cooban.. 3 

Pratt. Perkins & DeGolier. 3 

M A Brookins 1 

" Hazen &Metcalf 1 

" Suhr it Shopperlee. . 3 
" Van Wermer it Mer- 
cer 3 

Pratt. G W &A A Plummer 1 

Deming it Gibson. . . 4 

Van Wermer & Craig 2 

" Mercer it Co 3 

'• M M McElwaine.... 4 

" CA it I) Cornell S 

" Limited Oil Co 6 

'■ (I' Dell it Harrow 5 



Pratt. Smith it Duncan.... 4 

" Steel it Whitney 3 

" Brown Bros 3 

" Dow it Thomas 3 

Taylor tract. Jones, Black- 
mar it Brown 15 

Taylor tract, John J Carter 11 
Mitchell it 

Jones 14 

Taylor tract, Koester it 

Mo-lev 4 

Taylor tract, Pine Tree Oil 

Co 4 

Taylor tract, Union Oil 

Co 9 

Whipple, Whipple Bros... 9 

Rew, J D Wolfe 3 

•' D Karns & Co 1 

•' Hopkins it Packard. . 3 

" James McKay 5 

" Hammond & Co 2 

•' Dyer it Ford 3 

" MeCalmont Oil Co... 7 

" Barlow it Clark 4 

" Johnson it Ritts.... 4 

Thompson Bros 5 

" Marian Bros 1 

" Dalrymple 1 

Hodge, *G Emery 2 

A C Emery 1 

John Stin-on 2 

Sceley it Broder.. 1 

" P O Buchanan. . . 2 

" Hazlewood Oil Co. 3 
" R Jennings & Son 

Sliney it Dodge. 2 

I H Shank 8 

" Pencer it Wing. . . . 1 
" Everson it Wood- 
ward 2 

Hodge, Whiteman it Bell. 3 

Shedd, Henry Fisher 14 

" A Linneman 2 

J C Linneman & 

Cbapin 7 

Shedd, P O Buchanan 3 

Fuller it Parsons. 1 
Bingham, Geo K Anderson 5 
Pittsburgh Oil Co 3 
Reed it Kcrwin.. 3 
Capt Taggart .... 4 
" Stewart & Mr- 
Donald 3 

Bingham (Tack farm), Me- 
Calmont Oil Co 16 

Bingham, lot 272, Tack Bros 7 

Mead ,t Ross.... 11 

Mead, Green &Co 3 
lot 383, Allen Oil 

Co 6 

Bingham, lot 383, Johnson 

&Co and LT Soule 1 

Bingham. .1 F Wykofl 10 

Bayne, Fuller & 

Co 10 

.1 11 Caldwell.... 4 
Tuna Valley Oil 

Co 10 

Bingham, lot 380, Niagara 

Oil Co 3 

Bingham, Applebee, Fisher 

&Co 4 

Bingham. Trio Oil Co 5 

lot 383, Johnson* 

( o and Union Oil Co 6 



7'-, 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



Bingham, lot384, Ocean Oil 

Co 15 

lot 385, Boden, 

Emerson A: Paj ne 10 

Bingham, lot 377, Union oil 

7 

Kellogg, Flisher & Farrel. 3 

Monroi \ N Simpson 1 
Simpson A: Sulli- 

van 1 

Monroe, Simpson, Sullivan 

& Co 1 

Monroi .i D Wolf 2 

James < I'Neil. ... 2 
Below Knox City, Warn- 

maker .v Greer 1 

Below Knox City, Turner. 1 
•i J Carter, pur John .1 Car- 
ter 21 

■I -I < artcr. pur 11 H Argue 1 

Total 1,090 

i \bandoru d. | 
Seward, Knox, Leckej .v 

Co '. ... l 

Scl nover, Martin Childs 

.V: Co 1 

Hollenbech, Anchor Petro- 
leum Co 3 

Hollenbech, M C Treat.. . 1 

P Storms, P Buchanan.. 1 

.1 \V Sherman 2 

8( hoonover, McLachlin.. . 1 

Crandall&Co 1 

Richardson, Gabriel Mosher 3 
Bissett, Union Oil Co .S 

Morgan 1 

Fisher, Bradford Oil Co... 1 

Pratt. M A Brookins 1 

Melvin, PC L & P Co 3 

Jane Schoonover, Amm, 

Seep & Co 1 

Jane Scl iver, Gillmor 

& Jamicson 1 

PStorms, Test Oil Co 1 

Total 23 



i MJ I . \l UiluN 1N|> KIXFORD. 

{Produciiig.) 

Bingham, Stevens Oil Co.. 4 

< lark A: Banna. <> 
Johnson & I o 

and 'I'll. ■ Union Oil Co.. * li 

Bingham, Davis & Haskell 13 

Picket! .v (o ... 2 
Wetmore A: Bos 

ley 10 

Bingham, John Conley 1 

A A 1 lo]. kins ... (i 
Bingham iS Rlxiord,Breei e, 

Boycr & Co 29 

McGn ■« pur 1. s Anderson. 10 

Mil.r.u Bros 28 
No '.'. MrCrrw 

Urns 2 

McKi ■■', ii & Hayes pur 

Mi I i od & Morrison 3 

Hawkins pur Billy O'Brien. 1 

Rixford, A \ Hopkins 1 

W K Vandegrift .. 2 



Rixford, Plumberton & 

Richardson 3 

Rixford, Dr Love 3 

State Line Oil Co.. l 

Archibald & Co 3 

" Howe it Daley.... 1 

Mayle & Campbell 2 

Huver & Co 4 

Howe & Hairy.... 2 

Evans A: Lockhart. 1 
McCullagh, Ernest W Ham- 
mond 2 

McCullagh, A A Hopkins 1 

A: Packard 4 

McCullagh, O'Day & Mc- 
Cullagh 4 

McCullagh, Knapp's Creek 

Oil Co 3 

McCullagh, Otto Oil Co... 7 
Cummings, A A Hopkins & 

Packard 4 

Cummings, Wells & Ken- 
yon 2 

Cummings, Christie A: 

Cameron 3 

Cummings, 'loin Mills 3 

"Little George" 2 

Failing, Win Melline 2 

Brennan A: Derby.. 4 
Knapp's ( Ireek Oil 

lo 3 

" Gerwig A Bacon. . 1 

Cooper pur Cooper Bros... 7 

Baker, Whitcomb 1 

l'ark> .V Co 3 

1 nknown 2 

Han ( lark 6 

" F E Williams & Co. 4 

Barton. Win Doe 2 

Longfellow, P T & W C 

Kennedy 2 

[nghram, M B Birdseye ... 2 
Mather, Mather A- Ander- 
son 1 

Mather, W 1. Perrin A: Co. 7 
Lockwood, Shattuck Son- 

&Co 3 

Stone, Bruin Oil Co 1 

Allen, Doe, Fell AC 8 

Vaughn, Johnson & Co. ... 4 
Carpenter, Knapp's Creek 

Oil Co 15 

Carpenter, John Baker. ... 3 
I'otts A: Slike pur Potts A: 

Slike 24 

Potts & Slike pur .1 W 

Humphrey 3 

Potts a Slike pur 1! II 

Boughton 5 

Bertram, Dr Zimmerman.. 4 
II II Boughton & 

Co 1 

" Bisher A- Snyder.. 2 

" Kane A Hazelton . 1 

A A Hopkins 3 

" .1 1. Snyder 1 

Cummings, Dollej A: Ar- 
nold'. 6 

HiDean 2 

" 1. S Anderson. . 1 

Lovell well.... 1 

Borden, Buzzell & Eckhart 4 

John ■) Carter 11 

Pittsburgh Oil Co. >'> 

iv« a Emerson.. . 2 



Borden, Tom Bradley 2 

WMcManus 4 

Matson 3 

Lee & Apple 4 

Shear Bros & 

Braunchweiger 6 

Borden, Broder a Goetler . 2 

I! H Thayer 3 

Duffield A- Breue- 

nian 2 

Carr a M. 'Km ire. :; 

Adam- A: Baldw in 6 

Pat Layman 7 

Davis & Co 7 

re Scott ;-; 

Kirk. McCali it Farm oil 

Co ii 

Bingham, Harrington 1 

T h oni ps o n A 

Siggins 1 

Bingham, Jones A: Brown.. 3 

Gardner, Wesley Chambers 2 

Chambers, Wm Chambers 8 

' • C u s h i n g & 

< Shambers 2 

Willet. & Coleman. Willet 

& Coleman 3 

Willet A: Coleman, K II 

Boughton &Co 1 

Willet & Coleman. Kane & 

Hazelton 2 

Willet & Coleman, Union 

oil Co 2 

Willet A Coleman. A B Me- 

Connell 3 

Cornish, Merriam Bros... 2 
Shear Bros A: 

Braunchweiger 2 

Cornish, ss Fertig A- Co. 

Sharp A lla/.en 2 

.1 I) Clark .V Co. ;; 

\\ oodburj . Wm Reader. . . 2 

Ed Hammond . . 2 

Bertram, Caldwell & Clem- 

enger 5 

Bertram. Steinberg 1 

Geo Gordon 3 

Anderson, M McFadden . 2 
Irons. Breeee. Boyer & ( 

Kemper 1 

i lodge, Dodge 2 

Rixford Gas Wells. 1 
Anderson, Anderson. Otis 

A: Co 2 

Anderson, I. S Anderson . . 1 

Wesley (ham 

hers ' 3 

Mitchell, F W Mitchell.... 4 
Sherman. Sherman A Sel 

kregg 2 

Sherman, Reek A" Ross.... 2 
Blackball, Spen- 
cer A Reardon 1 

Sherman, T P Thompson . . 2 

P a 1 in e t e r & 

Mosher 2 

Sherman, Cowles A: Atkin- 
son 

Sherman, Bradncr a Cos 

ford 3 

B T<& S, Tracy A: Pier 3 

Wm'Belsli 2 

Anderson Bros 

Meads & Cameron 2 
Egerl .v 11.— 



HISTOEY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



77 



B T <fe S, Gelm it Phillips. . 
WA&JSThomp- 

son 

B T & S, Butters & Shatter 
Tarbel, Robinson 

it Bisher 

Smith & Thayer, Smith & 

Thayer 

Holt, P T it W C Kennedy. 

•' Wood 

Thornton, Christie it Cam- 
eron 

Borden, Maekin Bios 

Stanton it Barrett. 
Reader & Haekeu- 

bury 

Whitehead & Bow- 
ens 

GB Whitehead.... 
Fisher it Weaver.. 

Kneeland Bros 

Reed it Kerwin. . . 
Mitchell it McKil- 

lop 

WAV Brown 

Bisher & Blackmar 
Cochran it Ander- 



4 

4 
4 

3 

i 
3 


COLE CREEK. 

(Producing. ) 

C C pur Columbia Oil Co 
J McLean 
" Barusdall & 

Briety 

" Barnsdall, Duke 
it Co 


19 
3 

4 

4 



E Ferran 

Custer it Grady. . . 
Northern Oil Co . . 
Clark, Warren & 

.Childs 

Logan it Frew 

" Nelson, Finnegan 

& Co 

Zeigler 

" McManus & Co. . . 
GO Gorden & Co . 

" Smith Bros 

" Patty it Armstrong 

Ira Wagner 

" Elkhart it Lavens . 
Stickney & Wag- 
ner 

" Boulton Bros it 

Mullen 

Spellacy it Koester 

Triangle Oil Co... 

" Butlers it Shaffer. 

" Williamson 

Anderrou, Looker & Wing- 
er 

Prentice, C A & D Cornen.- 

J D Luper it Co 2 

Peterson, Humlcy, Jam- 
ison it Co 1 

Bingham, Davis & Haskell. 13 

Total 651 

(Abandoned. ) 
Hawlin, Archibald it Co 

No 2 1 

Failing. Gervey & Beeon. . 1 

Total 2 



(Dry.) 

Lot 3353, Borden, H E 

Picket 

Lot 3353, Dennis, Bailey. . . 



Total. 



" Loan, Johnson 

&Co 

" Evans 

" Gorden 

Y O C pur Youngstown 

Oil Co 

Bingham, McCord, Tack 

Bros 

Bingham, McCord, Forest 

Oil Co 

Freeman, McLeod & Co. . . 

Hamlin, Lego it Son 

" Decker it Cotield. 
" Huver it Thomson 
" A Sheidemantel. . 
" Rochester Oil Co. 
" Jordan it Shannon 
" Hoganit Duffev.. 
" Howe it Parker. . . 
Brown, J L McKiuney it Co 
" FM Pratt&Co.... 
" Van Vleck&Co... 
" Stafford Potter & 

Thomson 

" Kemp & Armour. . 

Wright, Tack Bros 

" A Sheidemantel . 

Krug it Mechlin. . 

EC Bradley & Co 

" Kroger it Griffin.. 

Stahl, Avery & Co 

" Edmunds & Co. . . 

" M Russlander 

" Green & Co 

North Star Oil Co 
Wright, Allen & 

Pratt 

Yerdon, Forest Oil Co 

" Sam Giffln 

" Wesley Chambers 

" E O Emerson 

Union Oil Co 

Morse, Armstrong it Sharp 
" Kemp it Patterson. 
" Hart,Hieksit Mark- 
ham 

Wilber, E O Emerson 

" James Alum & Co 

Filkins it Wliite.. 

J W Humphrey.. 

Thomas Percy.... 

Mantz, Johnson & Co and 

U Co 

Reitter, Knox Bros it 

Palmer 

Reitter, Bayne, Fuller & 

Co ' 

Reitter, Johnson & Kitten. 

ger 

Reitter, St Clair it Haw- 
kins 

Reitter. O'Hare&Co 

Reitter, A Leiuex 

Reitter, Curry it Stack 

house 

Reitter, Pike it Co 



Reitter, Union Oil Co 3 

Reitter, Nolan it Wright.. 2 

Reitter, J M Harrison 1 

Reitter, John Barry 1 

Reitter, Clark & Foster. ... 4 

Reitter, Mahan Bros 3 

Reitter, Mitchell 1 

Geary, Bodeu pur Union 
Oil Co 16 

Brown it Geary pur Union 
OilCo 14 

Wilber it Emerson pur 
Union Oil Co 4 

Geary, A Lemex 1 

" WB Nolan 1 

" Brown it Beuuet. . . 3 
" F M Pratt it Co.... 1 
" A K Murray 4 

Moore, J W Porter 1 

Emerson, Forest Oil Co... 7 

SSFertig & Co. 10 

" Roter & Spreeter 4 

Curtis it Wood . . 1 

Y'ounger Emerson, Quar- 
tette Oil Co 4 

Younger Emerson, Duke 
Bros • 4 

Vincent, Stafford, Potter & 
Thomson 4 

Vincent, Straight & John- 
sou S 

Vincent, D A Wray 5 

Vincent, H W Williams, Jr 4 

Vincent, Evans it Houtz. . 8 

Bingham lot 263, Tack 
Bros 16 

Bingham lot 2(12. Johnson 
&C0&UOC0 17 

Bingham Anna Oil Co 9 

Bingham lots 387 & 394, P 
T & W C Kennedy 10 

Bingham lot 388, Beau- 
mont, Lyle it Kane 12 

Bingham (Hermit lot) 
Straight it Johnson 6 

Bingham (P it S pur) Un- 
ion Oil Co 12 

Bingham lot 431, Southard 
& Short 5 

Bingham lot 431, Hooper 
& Stevens 3 

Bingham lot 431, Tinsman 
it McNulty 2 

Bingham lot 431, Lawyer 
Mason 2 

Bingham lot 431, Curry it 
Stackhouse 2 

Bingham lot 431, Oliver it 
Hartwell 1 

Bingham lot 431, Bracken 
&Co 2 

Bingham lot 431, Oak 
Shade Oil Co 2 

Bingham lot 390, Forest 
Oil Co 10 

Bingham lot 395, Forest 
Oil Co 6 

Bingham lot 396, Forest 
Oil Co 2 

Bingham lot 399, Forest 
Oil Co 2 

Bingham lot 398, Forest 
Oil Co 4 

Bingham lot 397, Forest 
Oil Co 2 



7s 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



Bingham lot 4(i2. Forest 

Oil Co 7 

Bingham loi 430, Forest 

Oil Co 12 

Bingham lot 419, Forest 

nil Co 34 

Bingham (!) & M pur) Da- 
vis >\: Murphy 14 

Bin-ham lot 413,Jolnisun A: 

Co&l OCo 6 

Bingham lot 414, Johnson 

&Co& U o Co 4 

Bing ham lot 4;32, Johnson 

.v Co&TJO Co 1(1 

Bingham (five lots ), John- 
son & Co &TJ0 Co 9 

Bingham lot 42o>., .Johnson, 

Eittenger & Trefl 7 

Bingham lot 421 ; .,. John- 
son, Eittenger & Treft.. 5 
Binuham lot 483, .Tohnson 

&Kittenger 1 

Bingham lot 420, R H 

Thayer i I Bpoiled) 8 

Bingham lot 421, Smith & 

Thayer 9 

Bingham lot 412, Fertig 

Bros 7 

Bingham lot 418, Sowers A 

Miller 3 

Bingham lot 113, Kelly Oil 

Co 5 

Bingham lot 412, Fertig A 

Henne 9 

Bingham lot 380, Fertig A: 

Henne 6 

Bingham lot 381, Fertig & 

Henne 2 

Bin-liaiii lot 410, Fertig & 

Henne 7 

Bingham lot 400, George V 

Forman ~ 8 

Bingham lot K)3, Boyer & 

V. rv .' 8 

Bingham lot 404, Bennet & 

Quick 1 

Bingham lot 401, Henry 

Fisher '. 5 

Bingham, Munhall & Smith- 

■ 1 1 : ■ 11 17 

Bingham lot 4':::, T .1 Van- 

dergrift 8 

Bingham lot 439, ■) L Mc- 

Kinncy A Co 9 

Bingham lot -ion, .1 L Mc- 

kinnev A Co 1 

Bingham lot 409, J I. Mc- 

Kiim.\ &Co 3 

Bingham loi 501, .1 I. Mr 

Kinney A Co 6 

Bingham lot 500, Straight 

a Johnson :; 

Bingham lot 373, Tack Bros 9 
Bingham, Smith inn- Huff 

Bros 2 

Bingham, Smith pur C S 

Whitney 1 

Bingham, Smith pur Pratt 

A « 1 

Bingham, Smith pur Pep 
ser a Mehaffey 2 

Bingham, Smith pur Geo 
(livens 1 

Bingham, S P F & II pur 
F M Pratt & Co 2 



Bingham, s p F & II pur 

Rochester Oil Co 11 

Bingham, S P F & II pur 

r & Co 2 

Bingham, I nion Oil Co ... 10 
Hin-liam. ( i .V V pur Union 

Oil Co. : S 

Bin-ham lot 42i'., A J 

Thompson 11 

Hin-ham lot 891, A J 

Thompson 

Bingham lot 440. Bavin-. 

Fuller A: Co '. . . . 1 

Bingnam lot 463, Stanford 

&Co 3 

Bin-ham lot 464, 11 ( 

Werthman 2 

Hin-ham lot 4>T. Grace A: 

i loldsborough 10 

Bin-ham lot 486, (). F. 

Sehonblom & Co 7 

Bingham lot 41(1, Lee A 

\p|'h' ... 2 

Hill-ham. Palmer 3 

Bingham lot 485, Aiken Oil 

Co 2 

Bin-ham lot 40*, Maple 

Shadi nil Co 9 

Bin-ham lot 407, Bennett 

& Quick 7 

Bingham lot 411, R. Jen- 
nings A Son 10 

in lot 467, Hamlin 

A Rose 1 

Bingham lot 417. Forman 

A I nion Oil Co 1 

Bin-ham lot 418, Forman 

A Union Oil Co 4 

Bin-ham lot 424, Forman 

A Union OilCo 3 

Bingham lot 491, Forman 

A Union (lil Co 3 

Bingham lot 499, Forman 

A Union oil Co 2 

Bin-ham lot 498, Forman 

A Union Oil Co 2 

Hiii-ham lot 466, Logan a 

Buchanan 1 

Hin-hani, M \V II 000 acres, 

Black a George 5 

Bin-ham, M W H 600 acres, 

\ mi Vleck A Stow 7 

Hin-hani. M W II 600 acres, 

Bole A Patterson 2 

Hin-hani, M \V H 600 acres, 

Smith A Aiken 2 

Bin-ham. M W H600 acres, 

Spain, Grace A Co 2 

Bin-ham. M W H600 acres, 

Logan A Buchanan 4 

Hin-ham. M W II 600 acres, 

W W Thompson 1 

Bingham, M W II 600 a. n s, 

E II Bainiim 2(1 

Bin-ham. M W II 600acres, 

Leah Oil Co 3 

Bingham, MW H 600 acres, 

I: Jennings A Son 11 

Bingham, M W H 600 acres, 

F W Andrews A Co 1 

Total 939 

i IbcmcUmed.) 
Geary, J M Tait 1 



Dry.) 

Bin-ham lot 4H7. Hamlin 

a Rose 

Ml m.l Hollow, Bodi n. 

Hatch A Co 

Bingham, Warrant 2270, 

Graj A Van Vleck 

Sterling lot. Wing & Co.... 
" Montgomery & 

Co 

Wri-ht. Sellen a Co 

Queen City Oil Co. 

Total 



TRAM HOLLOW. 




i Producing. > 




rden, 1 lak Shade oil Co. 


1 


Mutual Pet Co 


:; 


Washington Oil Co 


2 


WelltwoUh A Co 


1 


Smith A Ingram . . 


2 


" Harris A Tuttle 


1 


llojraii A Co 


1 


" A .1 Thompson. . . . 


12 


.is Rogers 


9 


Argue A Akin , 
H Gallagher 


II 


2 


Frey, Bear A Simp- 




son 




" Saunders A Stan 




ford 




Wm ( hamher- . . . 




.1 .1 v. « andless 




" Lennox A Hanna . 




Johnson A Wilson 




Roanoke < 'ii ( o... 




Wri-ht A Loomis 




P E Applcbee 




(. W lliri- 




J J \ andergrift . . 


11 


Baker A Maloiir 


I'.i 


Bu-hnell A White 


5 


(1 1. Watson 


4 


.i i; Daniels 


14 


Booth A Ncwkirk 


3 


s s !■', rtig 


5 


Hoffman A Patter 




son 


4 


\tnlr, ■« - A Co.... 




Ralph Bros 




J \ an \ leek 




Van Vleck Oil 1 - 




Van A h k a Gray 




F E Boden 




.1(1 Cooper 




o F Sehonblom ... 




Beverlj A Burnett 




'A aug h A Co 




Macon a Co 




J 1. Johnson 




M Hughes 




A J \\ heeler , 




A (1 Bowell 




i Fos 




Whitney a Wheel. 




ii 


7 


Oil City Oil Co.... 


9 


A J 1 hompson .... 


1(1 


Smith a Thomp- 




son 


18 


F W Mitchell 


12 


R Jennings 


9 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



81 



Borden, Mini; 
Youn 



& Lawton.. 
Huntley & Jami- 
son 

Austin & Bennett.. 

II R Proctor 

" Caldwell & Penny 

Gibbs it Sterrett.. 

" Lane & Johnson. . 

Hogue & Duke . . . 

Struthers 

Newell & Palmer . . 

John Fertig 

" Bowers &Ohlweier 
" George Chambers.. 

St Joe Oil Co 

Elk City Oil Co ... . 

" Riter & Conley.. . . 

Hill&Herrick.... 

" R T Lane 

Bligh&Kyle 

CoultebaughA 

Townsend 

Trax& Co 

" J Grove 

" Curtis, Kehr & Co 
" Harris <to Wallace.. 
" Green & Winger. . . 
" Blanehard & Rich- 
ardson 

" "Derrick" 

" Brawley it Crouth- 

ers 

" Wiser & Overy 

W F Monger 

" Hooper & Stevens 

Forest Oil Co 

" Carter & Hurd. ... . 

J J Carter 

" Mike Gorman 

" Ralston & Co 

J B Daniels & Co.. 

Meldruni, E A Boyne 

D Richie 

RO Meldruni. . 
" Hogan & Mur- 
phy 

" Sunburst 

Wm Utter 

Curron & Alls- 

baugh 

" Bull of the 

Woods " 

Thco Heifer.... 
Lorn & O'Dell.. 

" Burnes 

Kern & Co 

Vandergrift, Gibbs & Ster- 
rett 

" Weiser 

Rutherford . . 
Doubleday, Lee, Milligan 
it Doubleday. 
" Carson Bros . . 
W A Nichol- 
son 

" Allshouee .... 

Chambers, Hazlewood Oil 

Co 

Keller, Bell Bros 

Cutting it Sterrett. 

Lego & McCool 

Healy & Wilder 

Backus & Straight,. 
Gaskall it Workman 



Keller, W J Morrcll 2 

" Pomeroy & Judd. .. 2 

B Kitlcy oc Co 3 

J T Williams 3 

" Williams & Keller .1 

" John Fagundus. . .. 3 

" Longwcil it Snow. . 3 

Morse, Irvin it Morgan. ... 1 

Slike * Williams... 2 

" J I Dunn 2 

" Applebee & Fisher 5 

Kerr it Eaton 2 

Lake Oil Co 7 

1 ' Mattisou 2 

RJ Walker (Swamp 

Angel) 1 

Watkin Bro 5 

OP Buchanan 3 

Polar Oil Co 3 

J 11 Sherman 2 

" Daniels 1 

J no Potts 5 

" Applebee A Rogers 2 

" McEnvoe it Co 1 

" Warren & Tidioute 

Oil Co 2 

Morse & Ball 1 

" SPBoyer 2 

Win Duke, Wilson & Heller 1 
W H & D W 

Longwell .... 2 

Wm Duke, Jr.. 1 

N C Clark 3 

White, John Eaton 5 

Bentlv A Thurston 4 

H L Blackmar 14 

H Beardsley 4 

A J Neil 4 

N P Stone 2 

Hontz & Ho wer . . . . 3 

Howe it Eaton 11 

Mitchell & Jones... 28 

Warren Oil Co 3 

Col.', Stewart A; McDonald 2 

" Fisher it Reeves 4 

■■ Eureka Oil Co 4 

" T B Buchanan 9 

" Maple Grove Oil Co.. 3 

•• Morris, Gillies it Co 3 

J Pepper (5 

" Carothers Bros 5 

Middaugh, I <; Howe 1 

Forest Oil Co.. 19 

J S Cooper 1 

Rochester Oil 

Co 17 

" A C Hawkins. .. 4 
[nghram, Patterson it Lee- 

dnlll ") 

Sanderson, W C Patterson 5 

Erie Oil Co.... H 

Skinner, R J Walker & Co 4 

" R M Brown it Co 1 

Swan Bros 1 

Scio, Devlin & Co 4 

" Kiug& Cutting 6 

" J H Mayer 3 

" Devlin & O'Connor. . . 5 

" Nichol & Rhodes 2 

" Scio Oil Co 1 

" Rochester Oil Co 1 

" WL Russell 1 

Rose, Blackman it Jackson 4 

W & J Duke, Hackett it 

Shirley 5 



J Duke, Sproalit Ilassou. . 4 

" Merket Bros s 

" John Duke 2 

Dow pur Johnson, Mc- 

Manus it Co 2 

Haines pur Carlin Bros it 

Golden ■ S 

" Reed it Brow n 2 

WL Russell.. 3 

" Kemp it Co. . 4 

Chas Duke, Chas Duke 3 

Duke Centre 

Oil Co 3 

Oil City Oil Co, Longwell it- 
Co 1 

Borden, A C Smith 3 

Chas Duke, S A Elliott.... 1 

AngellOilCo.AngellOilCo 14 

C O Co, Columbia Oil Co . . 18 

Borden, McKelvey & Co. . . 9 

Total 852 



(Abandoned. ) 
Borden, Duke & Hague No 

" Forest Oil Co'.'....! 1 

Rose, .1 S Rogers 1 

Total 3 



oil, VALLEY. 

I Producing. ) 
J E it WP Baldwin, Stew- 
art Bros it Co 

J E it W P Baldwin, Wil- 
ton & Emerson 

J E it W P Baldwin, J E it 

W P Baldwin 

E ct F W Sprague, Nunda 

Oil Co 

Noble, O Noble 

" GH Noble 

■• II W Noble 

■• J B McElwainc 

Keating, Hamlin 

DC Brawley 

W H Mel Jill' it Co 

" Young & Co 

Bia.lleyit Metealf 
" Tracy it Jenkins. 

HO'Robbins 5 

Strickland, W H Bull 

EB Rogers.... 3 
" Whitman Bros 

it Clark 4 

Boden & Emer- 



Field & Chat- 
tels 

H H Metealf.. 

Johnson & 

Ratlibon .... 

Atwater, R S Battle 

" Lupher Bros&Co 
Marvin, T B Clark ct Co... 

Moore, G N Moore 

F W Sprague, Carlin Bros 

& Golden 

F W Sprague, Millikiu 
Bros 



82 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



F W Sprague, Norwich Oil 

Co 4 

F W Sprague, Westmore- 
land Oil Co 3 

F W Sprague, S W Mason. 6 
F W Sprague, W A Hardi- 

son a Co 3 

F W Sprague, > F Conant . 4 

" F \V Sprague 7 

W F Sprague, J Galis 4 

Gates &Siple 2 

EichnerBros 2 
VauNormau 

AC i 2 

W R Love . . 4 
Sam Baldwin, Nunda Oil 

l o 3 

Sam Baldwin, C G Warner 1 
Hardison A 

Collins.... 11 

Nettie Pete 6 

Shadman... 3 

PennellBros 1 
Waugh & 

Sheakley. 2 
Grierson & 

Co 3 

Steel e & 

Tracy.... 2 

H P Boyd.. 4 
Wildwood, Wildwood Oil 

Co in 

Breckenridge, Brecken- 
ridge A- Harper 8 

Burden, unknown 2 

Rickerson, Alford A Curtis 3 

J Van Kleeeke 1 

E E Sprague, II P Boyd. . . 2 
" " John Ward & 

Co 3 

" Thomas & 

Jones 2 

straight, E O Emerson 1 

st Petersburg Oil 

Co 5 

Baldwin A- Mc- 
Coy 4 

C G Warner 2 

Carlln, Bros A 

Golden 4 

Slater, Huff Br.- a Parrel! 2 

" Hart 6 

• Chambers A Bros.. 4 

Kuinp a Nicholson 3 

nil Valley <ias Well 1 

" .1 B McElwaine 1 

Werthman, Hurtzel & Ne- 

sinitli 5 

Werthman, J N Pew 5 

s Watson 4 

(. N Moor...... 3 

S I, Wilson.... s 

Otto Germer. . 7 

11 C Werthman 7 
" W i 1 1 i a in s on 

Bros 3 

Boot Leg, L 1' Warner 9 

.1 a V II Bole... 5 

Boot Leg Oil Co 3 

W S McMullen. 3 

Luce A Perkin.. 2 

Lovell. s l. Wilson 4 

" Waugh , Porter <S I !o I 
Borden, Watson &Willock 

Oil Co 13 



Borden, Hefner 2 

Fisher A Co 2 

" Pew a Emerson. . 3 

H Boyer 2 

" Magbee a Whea- 

ton 2 

Brandeth A Wat- 
son 10 

Russell & Co 1 

Olass A Huff 3 

" Smith A Jones 2 

" Tanner A- Co 4 

" Bartles A Post.... 3 

Brooks A Hoffman 4 

Tafftfe Egbert.... 6 

C I'. Williams* I o 12 

Kerwin A Reed... 1 

Borden Oil Co.... 3 
" Willard a Weai er 
" Wilcox & Brene- 

inan 2 

J Knox A CO 3 

Brow n. South Shore Oil Co 1 

•• WLCalbet 1 

" J MeCort 4 

" Weible Bros 3 

" Westmoreland Oil 

Co 4 

" NK Connelly 2 

ANGFI.r. oil. COMPA.N1 'S I l: V I 

Ralston A- Benedict 6 

Harris A Wallace 3 

Guyer A Baseli 4 

1! Jennings A Sou 4 

Ballard & Barr (> 

.T B Daniels A Co 5 

J G&C B Williams 5 

Wallace Oil Co 3 

Frank Campbell A Co 4 

Piper A- Dally 3 

Forman & Lawton 3 

Ballard A Williams 2 

Angell Oil Co " 

Jaynes Bros 5 

M J Tufft 1 

Stewart A McDonald 2 

John Beno 3 

Hart, Hieks A Co 1 

AW Williams 3 

Burns Bros 4 

Havens A Wright 1 

Fargo Oil Co 4 

Waugh & Co 5 

WLPerrinACo 3 

Chauncy nil Co 1 

Hamlin, J B Daniels & Co 9 

Total ."''.14 



Kansas BRANCH. 

i Producing. ) 

Whitney A Wheeler. Taj 
lor A MeVev 

Whitney A Wheeler, Tay- 
lor A Rix 

Whitney A Wheelei , I 'an 
ner a Wheeler 

Whitney a Wheeler, A P 
Tanner 

Whitney a Wheeler, C F 
Allen' 



Dixon, Dalrymple Bros.. . . 2 
& Milli- 

ken 1 

Duke A- Howard, Dors. \ A 

Co 7 

Duke A Howard, An li. 

Oil Co s 

Duke & Howard, WG Duf- 

fleld 6 

Duke A Howard, (I Keyes. 4 
Duke & Howard, Stahl, 

McFarland A Co 2 

Duke A Howard, I) S Kemp 3 
H (i Stage 2 
Alex Me- 

Ginness. 3 
Winieher 

Bros.... 1 
Re w A 
Slioein' kr 3 
Johnson. Chubbeck & 

Drake 2 

Duke A Johnson, Reed A 

Brown 4 

Duke A Johnson, Mills. 

Guider A Co 5 

Duke A Johnson. J Wolfe 

A Co 7 

Duke & Johnson, Black 

Giant Oil Co 7 

Duke A Johusou. Taffv Oil 

Co '. .... 4 

link, a Johnson, Hackett 

& Shirley 6 

Duke A Johnson, C E Roh- 

liins A Co 6 

link. A Johnson, Varnej 

AC, ". 3 

W A J Duke, McPherson 

A Co 6 

W A J Duke, Merrick & 

Co ii 

Morton, J s ( looper 1 

" Monroe & Smith . 1 
" Heydrick Bros A 

Brown ii 

J D Downing A 

Co 13 

"■ White & Clark. . 3 

Dorse; Bros 3 

" Daniels A Co 1 

Keating, I. W Young A Co 3 

Forest Oil Co.... 21 

" Mountain Oil Co. T 

B Kirlev 1 

" A P Tanner 

Hamlin, Forest Oil Co 81 

\ Loop -in Downing A 

I o :... 3 

Baldwin Bros, Rauber A 

Eogan 4 

link,. Church A Baldwin, 

W'.ll.r A Nicholson. ... 3 
Duke, Church A Baldwin. 

Paul Kratzer 3 

Duke, Church A Baldwin, 

l: \ ■ nsel 3 

Duke, Church A Baldwin. 

RC Coulter 2 

Duke, Church A Baldwin. 

Anderson A 1 nard. ... 2 

I Hike Church A Baldwin, 

Blakeslee Bros 2 

Duke, Church A Baldwin. 
J B McElwaine & Co.... J 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



83 



Duke, Church & Baldwin, 

Hemlock Oil Co 9 

Duke, Church & Baldwin, 

Patterson & Hoffman... 4 
Duke, Church & Baldwin, 

It L Howard 4 

Duke, Church it Baldwin, 

Warren Oil Co 4 

Duke, Church & Baldwin, 

Calhoun & Slater 1 

Duke, Church & Baldwin, 

Wilder & Warren 1 

Duke, Church & Baldwin, 

Bronson A Curtis 3 

s» ink, Hamsher & Co 4 

Duke & Gorton, Kribbs & 

Co 4 

Duke .V- Gorton, John Duff 3 
Chauncey 
Oil Co.. 18 
Duke & Blackmar, Burt & 

Abe] 3 

Duke it Blackmar, Har- 
rington 2 

Duke & Blackmar, Lew.. . . 3 
Kentucky 
Oil Co... 3 
" Chautau- 

qua Oil 

Co 2 

J E Robinson, "Maude" 

wells 2 

Kapp pur " Maggie " 1 

Kansas Br Oil Co, Simonds 

&McGlll 13 

Kansas Br Oil Co, Tanner 

& Wheeler 2 

Kansas Br Oil Co, Braun- 

schweiger 5 

Kansas Br Oil Co, R M 

Brown & Co 3 

Kansas Br Oil Co, Mead & 

Co 2 

"ttfright, Husband it Co ... . 6 
Various tracts, J S Patter- 
son 10 

Total 343 

(Abandoned. ) 
Morton, White it Clark. ... 
" Daniels & Co 

Total 

{Dry.) 

Peffer, Lupher Bros & Co. 



Cooper, Safford 

Forest Oil Co 

J Campbell, Oak Shade Oil 

Co 

J Campbell, Evans & 

Thompson 

1 Campbell, Forest Oil Co 

Rounds, Oak Shade Oil Co 

Kemp & Patterson 

'• Evans & Thompson 

Forest Oil Co 

Dodge. Kemp it Patterson 

Rochester Oil Co. . 

Hooker, J D Downing & 

Co :... 

Hooker, L Loup 

Drake, Evans A: Thompson 
L Loup, Evans it Thomp- 
son 

L Loup, Bradford Oil Co & 

Follct Bros 

Zimmer, Brawley Bros 

" Gray Bros 

" Zimmer 

McNulty & Strong 
Spring Valley Oil 

Co 

" Forest Oil Co 

Henry Loup, J D Downing 

&Co 

Henry Loup, J .1 McNulty 
" Whitney itCo 

" Unknown .... 

Win Loup, Ferness 

Palniiter, Cavcy & Purtell. 
Spring Valley Oil 

Co 

.T L Eddy 

Swett 

Fry & Hayes.... 
Acre Oil Co 

" Boggs & I 'lll'tis 

C Phillips 

G N Smith 

ML Sweeny* Co 
" Emlenton Oil Co 
Barrett, Bartlett ,t Co.... 

" .1 K Bartlett 

Bennie & Co 

'• LE Mallory 

" Markham & Co. . . 

" Emlenton Oil Co. . 

M Loup, Hart & Hicks .... 

" James O'Neal ... 

Eric City Oil Co. 

" Kinney & Co 

Simms, Bradford oil Co. 
Sparger, " " ... 

Hamlin, Plummcr Oil Co. . 
" Vaudertirift it Mil- 



INDIAN CREEK. 

(Producing. ) 
Keyes, Indian Creek Oil 

Co IS 

Keyes, J Keyes 1 

Collins it Hardison 4 

" W A Hardison it Co 2 

" Tod, Anderson* Co 1 

Cooper, Oak Shade Oil Co . 1 

" J Kribbs 1 

NWood 3 



ler. 



" G W Strong & Co. 

" (Oak Shade pur) 

Forest Oil Co... 

M W Campbell, Spring Val 

ley Oil Co 

M W Campbell, Follett 

Bros 

M B Campbell, Spring Val- 
ley Oil Co 

M B Campbell, Morris, 

Smith & Co 

Elling, Forest Oil Co 

Hooker and other farms. 
Forest Oil Co, el al 



Hooker and other farms, 

Evans it Thompson, et al 18 
barse TRACT. 

Union Oil Co 9 

Siggins it Lincoln 5 

Smith it Crowky 1 

L P. Caldwell 1 

Wui Chambers 2 

Stover it Dilks 7 

S C Whitney 5 

McCort it ifancox 6 

St John it Co 5 

Curtis Bros 4 

W C Patterson 7 

DC Brawley it Co 5 

D 8 Gray... 1 

A C Hawkins 4 

Davis it Hyde 3 

Russell it Co 2 

II W Curtis it Co 3 

Geo V Formau 24 

Gilffllan 1 

Tobias it McGiven 2 

Smith it Bovce 5 

Mallory it Co 2 

Gray ei Stettheimer 1 

Fitzgibbons Bros 4 

BDCampbcll 3 

Steelsmith 1 

Lyon it Connelly 1 

Rovee St < !lawson 2 

Boston Oil Co 2 

Collins A: Hardison 8 

J D Downing <fc Co 6 

Emlenton Oil Co 2 

Robert Herse 1 

L E Mallory 3 

Tod & Anderson 1 

Morris A: ( !o 7 

Cape Cod Oil Co 1 

Galbraith .t Kennedy 2 

W A Hardison >t Co 1 

R Jennings & Son 6 

H Jennings & Co 2 

Major Wetter 3 

Total 387 

( . I ''undoned.) 

Barse, Union oil Co 1 

Shackleton it Co. . . 1 

McCort it llancox. 1 

Total 3 

{Dry.) 

McMullen 1 

Unknown 2 

Dodge, Kemp it Patterson 1 

Arthur Loop, unknown.... 2 

Total 6 



MIX CHEEK. 

(Producing.') 

Keating, J L McKinney & 
Co 27 

Burdick, Tack Bros 10 

Wheeler, Dusenberry, 
Wheeler it Co 34 

Comstock it Riddell, John 
Tonkin, Jr 5 



84 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



Mann, Geo F. Maun 

K II McBride, Haj maker. . 

Gale. Gale A: Sim 

Cave; & Purtell 

Templeton, Nott Bros 

Templeton.... 
Bennett & 

Brown 

Wright & Sawyer, C J Till- 

ford 

Hazzard & Hollister, G S 

Williams 

Cook, Kenyon 

Weston lot, Forest Oil Co. 
" Lee A: Apple. . 
" E H Barnuni & 

Co 

Weston lot, DininingOilCo 
JBKiley&Co 
Gibbs & Alex- 
ander 

Weston lot, s s Hemic 

CWPratt&Co 
Geo V Formau 

Total 

( Dry. ) 
Weston, Bole] & Co 

Smith A: Ames . . 

Lyman 

.1 I. McKinney & 

Co 

Weston, Geo V Forman . . . 
Annis, Brown & Bennett . 
( lark. .1 MeKinney & Co. . 
Cook, Andrews ifc'Comey.. 
Gilletts, C E Hatch Co 

Total 



< Prodi i 
Union Oil Co's track, Union 

( til Co, Kinzua wells .... 
Union ( >il Co'- traet. Union 

Oil Co, Gufley wells 

Union < til « Jo's tract, Union 

Oil Co, Bonanza wells.. . 
Bingham lands. Baker & 

Mai ! 

Bingham lands, Corwall, 

Parker & Co 

Bingham lands, Riter A: 

Conley 

Bingham lands, A Gillmor 

Jr & Co 

Bingham lands, lot 135, J 

M Tait 

Bin-ham lands, lot 136, .1 

M A Thomas Tait. 

Bingham lands. Byron & 

MeKeown ' 

Bingham lands. ( 1' Byron. 
La Fayette Coal Co's lands, 

Baton Bros 

La Fayette ' !oal Co's lands. 

Porter, Gillmor & Jack- 
son 

La Fayette i Hal t lo's lands, 

Boden<$ Co 



3 La Faj etb < oal< lo's lands 
Carter & Hurd 



Union t til I lo's traet. Union 
Oil Co No 4 

La Fayette Coal < lo's lands, 
M Brownson 

I.. i i :i 1 1 1 1. CoalCo'e land ■ 

; lot | Met alnioiit 

Oil Co 

La Fayette i loal Co's lands, 

Neuer & Davis 

CoalCi 
Porter, Gillmor A Jai k- 
son 



Total. 



I Dry. , 

Union ( til ( lo's tract, Union 
Oil Co Nos3and5 

Halsey lands. Westmore- 
land Oil Co 

Halsey lands. Knox, Leck- 
ey & Co 

Halsey lands. Wilcox a 
Knox 

Bingham lands. E L Bowen 
A- Co 

Kane lands, PC L & P Co. 
Marcus Hill- 
ings 

Hairadorn. Skater 

Bingham, Treat & Co 

McCullagb & i o 

Patterson, I' C LA PCo... 

Warrant 3901, .1 A IKIN.-il 

Lafayette Coal Co's lands. 
Van Yleek, Stow A White 

Lafayette I oal I o's lands, 
Hazlewood nil Co 

Lafayette ( oal I o's lands, 
Pittsburg (til Co 

Lafayette (oal Co's lands, 
Dutchess Oil Co 

Lafayette ( loal ( lo's land-, 
Union Oil Co 

Hoover lease. Win Dow. . . 

Newton. Martin ( ' stock 

Backus, Genera] Hamar. . . 



Total. 



tin II MILE. 

< Prodtu 
Joe Waters. Carroll Bros 

Howard & 

Baiiin 

Joe Waters, John R Bram- 

bley 

Jake Waters, E < Eoward. 
Jacob Moultrous, Robert 

Moultrous a Son 

Griffith, A Griffin & I o 

Harold a Byrnes.. 

Zimbauer, < loast Bros 

Rock Yi. u Oil 
Co 





Zimbauer. Merrill &( oasl 


-1 


10 


WF Coast 


2 




Parson's lot, Carroll Bros. . 


2 


113 


M I. Loi 

Pel. hie Rock . 


6 







4 




Parson's lot, Pioneer Oil( o 


12 




M I. Lot k 




1 


,V l o 






in. . Coast A( lark.. 




1 


" .1 H Boardman &Co.. 


1 




■• All. ■-any Gil Co 


7 




" Pel. Mr ROCk Oil CO.. 


■J 


2 


■• N A Dye & Co.... 


4 




" John H Borden & t .. 


-' 


1 


" Kerr & Biekle 


2 




" Boyle. Rogers &Co 


: 




" Argue & Aiken 


4 


1 


" Argue & Poole 

" BWBaum&Son 


-.' 




4 


6 


" Miller A- McNish 


1 




" T B ' lark A < 


o 




" I. H Ballard & Co 


(i 




" ueorge W ( lonsor. . . . 


2 




•' Brambley, Granger & 






Co 






Frank Water.-. Merrill & 




2 


i oast 


:: 




Frauk Waters, Calkins & 








11 




Van Campen, Geo Van 






Campen 


12 




\\ i.low I arrol, J Y\ eslej A 






Co 


-> 




Widow Carrol. Colliu- & 








3 




Widow (arrol. Ken* in & 








4 






1 




W .1 si, i, & 






Co 


1 




McCartney, S D Heffner . , 


3 




Roek City (til 






Co 


:; 




McCartney, G 1) Grannis & 






Co 


:-! 




M.( artnej . Rogers & 






8i i ley 


1 




Mel 'artnej . Clark Bros A 






Canfield 


l 




M ' artney, Tabor & Co . 


2 




Aiken Bros 


■j 




John R Brain- 












McCartney, 11 B Davis <S 1 o 


1 




Al.raiii- A 1 


1 


:>; 


Kinkai.l A ( .. 


1 




Lippert. Howard & Baum. 


■> 




Mary Water-. Howard ^V: 








3 






6 




Howard, Rumsej & Co 


6 


1 


Vandergrift A: 








1 


:; 


How aid. C B Williams a < o 


1 




Hayes Bros.. 


1 


1 




3 


1 


LO Taffel a i .. . 


a 




Griswold & Co 


i 


li 


.1 F John-on. \r-tie A Col 


■> 


; 


Garret t a 




t 




i 


r 


.1 F Johnson, Eaton a Howe 

Hut. hill-. .11 A 




4 


Stoughtori 


i 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



s.-, 



.1 K Johnson, Shear Bros.. 
Stichelbauer, F r a n c li o t 

Bros 

Stichelbauer, E Bailey 

Ferkel, Fraucliot Bros 

Geiger, Buffalo Oil Co 

Donahue, Ellis, Coleman it 

Co 

Donahue, Brown A: Norris 

Donahue 

Bueher, Wm Bueher 

" Pebble Rock Oil Co 

Stevens. Mil almont Oil Co 

Book & Rhodes. . 

.1 II Hughes 

" Caufleld 

Zaph, Franchot Bros 

Meade it Sargent 
J Brandall, Franchot Bros. 
John Harbell, Coleman, 

Meade & Co 

John Harbell. Hickey & 

N — i 1 

John Harbell. Capt J M 

Burns it Co 

John Harbell, .Sniitli A 

Howard 

John Harbell, MeNall it 
Lewis 



John Harbell, M II Byrnes 

& Co 

Jylm Harbell, Hogan it 

Murphy 

John Harbell, Meade it 

Craw bird 

John Harbell. J B Daniels 

&Co 

John Harbell, Allegany < >il 

Co 

Andy Harbell, Sniitli & 

Howard 

Andy Harbell, Franchot 

Bros 

Andy Harbell, Smith it 

lion nil 

United Pipe Lines. Franchot 

Bros 

Stewart, Crocker 

J (i it E M John, 
son 

Stewart. Morgan, Wilson 
it Co 

Frie-, Meade it Sargent.. .. 
Franchot Bros 

Hollander, Pebble Piock Oil 
Co 

Hollander, H E Brown it- 
Co 



Hollander. Colegrove & Co 3 

Johnson, Johnson & Co... 3 

HCGaskell 3 

J H Dilks 1 

" Allegany Oil Co. . 2 

C W Rhodes 1 

Total 339 



{Abandoned. ) 

Widow Carroll, .1 Lewis 
& Co 

Fries, Eaton it Stowell 

Monitions. Moultrous & 
Son 

A Harbell, Sniitli it Howard 

Total 



( Dry. ) 

North Pole, unknown 

Stevens, Roberts 

Austin, MeVey, "Taylor it 

Co 

Various section-, unknown 



Total . 



The Bradford Oil Field. — The production of the Bradford field from 
1868 to the close of 1889 is shown as follows: 



YEAR. 


Barrels. 


Wells 
Completed. 


Daily 
Runs. 


YEAR. 


Barrels. 


Wells 
Completed. 


Daily 

Runs. 


1868-75... 


36,000 

380,000 

1,450,000 

6,500,000 

14,200,000 

22,300,000 

23. 

18,000,000 


17 

376 

902 

2,026 

2,460 

3,803 

2,847 

859 




1883 
1884 
1885 

1886 

1887 
1888 
1889 


13,400,000 
12,200,000 
11,000,000 


789 
601 
484 


36,812 


1876 




33,052 


1877 




°9 °°S 


1878 
1879 
1880 

1881 

1882 


16.980 
::s.;,si; 
55,173 
70,811 
51,030 


19,000,000 
7,700,000 
5,400,000 
6,200,000 



413 

145 
47 
683 


26,980 
20,722 
13,992 
16,462 



The total product up to January 1, 1888, was 140,166,000 barrels from 
15,722 wells, of which 14,000 were producers prior to the shut-in of 1887. 
In 1885 there were 10,668,255 barrels sent through the pipes from the Brad- 
ford field; 9,847,911 in 1886, and 7,563,452 in 1887. During the years of 
1888-89 the yield fell from 22,422 barrels per day to 17,350 in the Bradford 
field, and from 5,702 to 935 in the Kane and Elk field; so that the actual yield 
for the two years is said not to have exceeded 12,000,000 of barrels. The fol- 
lowing table gives the average price of crude certificates, on the floor of the 
Bradford Oil Exchange, since March 1, 1879, to December, 1885: 



January .. . 
February. . 

March 

April 

May 

June 

July 

August. . . . 
September . 
October.. . 
November. 
December . 



ism 1SHII 1SX1 i 



113} 



110| 95 

103} 89+ 

Sit 82| 

76f; 84* 

80} 81* 

100 J 81 

101} 76+ 

90f 78f 

95* 92} 

96f 92J 

91}, 82* 



lss.'i 1SS4 1885 



921,111* 
101 104f 
97*100* 
92| 94 i 



73* 



78} 
70 

54*111 
57f!l08 
58|ll08|i 81 J 
71*112+; 78 
93«llli 71 
114J114J 72J 
95} 114+ 74S 



82} 
96| 
1005 
100| 
105* 



86 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Bradford was the field that produced such an extraordinary quantity of oil r 
tilling up the stocks in tanks until they reached 36,000,000 barrels with its 
field still yielding 60.000 barrels a day, or thereabouts. In regard to the posai 
bility of another such field being discovered Prof. Carll said he believed there 
was absolutely no likelihood of it. The number of experimental wells that 
had been drilled in search of another Bradford sand, in all parts of the coun- 
try, seemed to establish the fact that Bradford was unique and alone. He did 
not believe that such a petroleum deposit as this would ever be found in am 
country in the world. The Bradford field and its annex, in Allegany county, 
N. Y. , is apparently being drained to the dregs. At one time the production 
of the field was as high as 105,000 bands every twenty-four hours. Bradford 
has produced about 156,000,000 barrels of oil, and a pool that would yield 
the 156th part of this is something that the oil producer is eagerly looking for. 
He goes on to show how, in 18^6, the " Whitesand" horizon was producing 
daily 45,560 barrels, and the Bradford, or "Blacksand'" horizon was pro 
ducing 32,668 barrels (in all 78,228 barrels) daily, and how the steady decrease 
of production in both brought the figures down, in December, 1888, to 29,349 
and 20,680—50,029 barrels daily. 

To take in all the fields the following short table will show the decrease in 
the annual production: 1886, 25,080,400; 1887 (in spite of 1,694 newwells), 
21,286,560; 1S88 (in spite of 1,530 new wells), 16,126,580, the shut-down be- 
ing responsible for only about 1,500,000 of this decline; for the October daily 
average before the shut down was 58,942, and the December daily average 
after the shut-down was 50,029. In September, 1880, the producers of the 
Bradford field placed a cannon at Bradford, also one each at Coleville and 
Olean, to be used in boring oil tanks in case of fire. 

Shut-in by Producers. — Under date June 11, 1884, a petition was circu- 
lated by John P. Zane asking the producers to agree to a shut-down until Jan- 
uary 1, 1885. Within six days 200 producers signed this agreement, and by 
August 3 the great majority of oil men had signed it. [The names of majority 
and minority are given in the Era of August 4, 1884.] On the last day of 
October. 1887, the executive board of the Petroleum Producers' Association. 
and the advisory board, met at Oil City and signed the contract by which a part 
of the daily production was to be shut-in for one year. From this shut-in pro 
dncers were to receive the benefit which may accrue from the advance in the 
price of 5,000,000 barrels of oil set aside at 62 cents per barrel; the profit on 
the oil to be divided proportionally to the amount of production which each 
man shuts in. Out of the 5,000,000, producers were to give the profit on 1,000 
000 to laboring men, and the Standard set aside 1,000,000 for the same pur 
pose, and man} producers also agreed not to drill anymore wells for one year. 

On June 20, 1889, the Standard Oil Company purchased 3,500,000 barrels 
of this oil at 91i cents, giving a profit of $248,000, which was divided among 
the !H)0 producers. The Era referring to this great transaction, says: "Another 
particularly gratifying feature is the consummation of good faith between the 
parties to the great agreement entered into nearly two years ago. While the 
pecuniary results have not been so great as some of the more sanguine led 
themselves to hope for. the Producers' Association has accomplished the great 
purpose of its organization— reducing stock; and have further made a hand- 
some profit on the nil which was set apart without any expense to themselves 
for their own use in case thej kept their agreement inviolate." Prior to this, 
the profits on 1.000.000 barrels, set apart for the support of the laborers in the 
field who were thrown out of employment by reason of this shut in, were 
realized, returning a revenue of no small amount. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 87 

Pipe Lines. — ,-The idea of pipe lines is said to have originated with Gen. S. 
D. Karns in November, 18(35, when he proposed to construct a six inch line 
from Burning Springs to Parkersbnrg, Va. Hutchinson, of rotary -pump fame, 
explained his plan to John Dalzell and C. L. Wheeler, and the first line was 
placed from the Sherman well to the railroad depot on Miller's farm. Van 
Syckle detected the faults in Hutchinson's system, and at once constructed a 
line from Miller's farm to Pithole. Afterward William Warmcastle assisted 
Henry Harley in building a line from Benninghoff run to the Oil Greek Railroad, 
and out of this grew the Pennsylvania Transportation Company. A two-inch 
pipe line from Miller's farm to Pithole was completed October 10, 1865, by 
S. E. Van Syckle, H. C. Ohlen. Henry Harley, Charles Hickox, Charles W. 
Noble and Reed and Cogswell. It was placed at a cost of $50 per joint; while 
three pumping stations were found necessary in the 32,000 feet of pipe. 
Branch lines were also constructed to Cherry run, Bull run and Pioneer. Mr. 
Van Syckle, speaking of this venture, refers to the troubles and losses its 
building entailed as follows: 

At length the system was completed, and I began pumping oil into the pipe. The 
experiment was perfectly successful from the time the first barrel of oil was pumped into 
the pipe, and I had the pleasure of seeing m}' detractors silenced for a little while. But 
my success by no means quelled the opposition to me. Instead of the calm which I thought 
would follow the completion of my work, I raised a tempest. It was the teamsters now 
with whom I had to contend. They saw the value of this means of transportation, and 
they also saw their profits vanishing from them, and they tried every conceivable way to 
worry and annoy me. They pried the pipes with pick -axes or fastened log chains around 
them, hitched their teams to the chains and pulled the pipe apart. To put a stop to this 
I sent to New York for some carbines and armed a patrol to watch the line. Not long 
after the line was laid two partners who had joined with me to work the thing failed for 
a considerable amount, and as they were involved to the amount of $15,000 at the bank. 
I assumed the payment of the debt, and made an agreement with the creditors that they 
should take the line and run it until the debt was liquidated, which was done in the course 
of the next nine months. Not long afterward a tank line company was formed down 
East, and they came to me and wanted me to connect my pipe line with their system, in 
pa} f ment for which I should receive a certain amount of stock in the company. I agreed 
to this. They began to operate the pipe line and gave me a memorandum stating the 
amount of stock I was entitled to. It was not long before the company became insolvent, 
the line passed into other hands, and I had nothing but the memorandum which was of 
no earthly value. 

The Pennsylvania Tubing and Transportation Company's line from Pit- 
hole Valley to Oleopolis, or Island Well (nine miles), was the first important 
line. This was opened December 10, 1805, by the president, Joseph Casey, 
and superintendent, David Kirk. It appears Judge Casey met Mr. Kirk in 
the woods, and got from him the first word of encouragement, scientists 
pointing out tbat the pipe transfer of oil was an impossibility under the law 
of friction. Mr. Kirk was given an interest in the line, completed it, and 
while saving the original company from loss made a great success of the enter- 
prise before Pithole sunk into oblivion. 

The Titusville Pipe Company was organized in January, 1868, by H. E. 
Pickett, J. Sherman & Co., and the line completed from Pithole to Titusville 
(nine miles), in April of that year, at a cost of $120,000. Before the Penn- 
sylvania Titbing and Transportation Company's line, or the Titusville line, 
was completed, Henry Harley had a two- inch pipe from Benninghoff run to 
the Shaffer farm, on Oil creek, where the oil was shipped on the old railroad 
at that point. 

The Bradford & Olean Pipe Line (eighteen and a quarter miles long) was 
completed in December, 1875, for the Empire Transportation Company, of 
Philadelphia. The main pumping depot was on the Beardsley farm, four 
miles north of Bradford, where a 1.200 barrel receiving tank was used. When 



88 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

oil was first pumped at Bradford, the Erie Railroad Company charged $140 
per car to New York, and $8 storage. So soon as pipe-line construction 
commenced, the rate was lowered to $100 per car; again to 180; while the 
rate of the new line was placed at SI per barrel to New York, and 20 cents 
to Olean. The Tide Water Company dates back to 187S-79. when leases 
were made for a strip of land, two rods wide, from McKean county to the 
seaboard. This work was secretly and ably performed for some time, but 
the i agle eye of the Standard Company discovered the plans of the new com- 
pany, and every opposition was offered. Yet the Tide Water Company won. 
and their great work was completed. The station at Corrvville was moved to 
Rixford, in June, 18S0, and since that time many changes in management and 
operation have been effected. 

The Buffalo Pipe Company's station, on the divide between Indian creek 
and Four Mile creek, was completed in 1880. The point is 200 feet above 
the Buffalo end, so that the oil is pumped up from Bradford into the four 
25,000-barrel tanks, whence it is piped sixty-three miles to Buffalo. 

The Kane and Parker City Pipe Line, connecting Bradford with the lower 
country (sixty-five miles in length), was completed August 5, 1880. The 
Bradford Gas Company's tile pipe line was laid from Rixford to Bradford in 
August, 1880. 

The United Pipe Line Association was organized by J. J. Yandergrift and 
George V. Forman as the Fairview Pipe Line Company. In 1877 and subse 
quently the following named lines were consolidated under the title " United, 
Antwerp. Clarion, Oil City, Union Conduit, Grant, Karns, Relief, Pennsyl 
vania and Clarion Division of the American Transportation Company.'' Later 
the McKean Division of the American Transportation Company, and the Pren- 
tiss and Olean lines were absorbed, and J. J. Yandergrift was elected president; 
M. Hulings, vice-president; H. F. Hughes, secretary; E. Hopkins, manager, 
the president and J. T. Jones and D. O'Day being the executive committee of 
the association. 

In 1884 the company had 3,000 miles of pipe, and storage capacity for 
40,000,000 barrels. Their large depots were at Tarport, Duke Centre, Rich- 
burg and Kane, and the central offices at Bradford and Oil City. Through- 
out the held were 118 pumping stations; fifty-one of which were in the Brad- 
ford and Allegany fields. On April 1, 1884, the transfer of the United Pipe 
Lines to the National Transit Company was effected. The National Transit 
Company was organized in 1880. 

The average daily pipe line runs, bv barrels, of the Bradford field bv years 
have been as follows: 1878, 16,980; 1879, 38,586; 1880, 55,173; 1881, 70,811; 
1882, 51,030; 1883, 36,812; 1884, 33,052; 1885, 29,228; 1886, 26,980; 
1887, 20,722; L888, 13.992; 1889. 16,462. 

The pipe line runs for the year 1884 amounted to 12,096,950; in 1885. 
10.66s.25r.; in 1886. 9.S47.911; in 1887, 7,563,452; in 1888, 5,121.025. and 
in 1889, 6,018,737 barn-Is. 

Well Drilling, Past and Present. — The reminiscences of early days in the 
oil field furnish some interesting as well as instructive lessons. In 1888 George 
Koch, of East Sandy. Perm., contributed to the pages of the Petroleum Age 
the following history of old time and modern drilling operations; 

The first oil well drilled was finished August 28. 1859, at a depth of sixty-nine and one- 
half feet, and was known as the " Drake well." It was located near Titusyille. It was 
commenced in June, and seventy-four days later it was finished. The drilling was done 
with rope tools, and when drilling they made about four feet a day, " Uncle Billy Smith " 
and his sons, of Tarentum, Allegheny County. Penn.. doing the work. The drilling tools 
were made at Kier's shop, Tarentum. It was a four-inch hole. At that time experienced 




/ C/i&'vy / s^r 



HISTOEY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. ■ 91 

drillers could only Ik- had at Tivrenlum, where salt wells were being drilled, and Kier'sshop 

there was the only place where rope-drilling tools could he had. Drilling was done by 
hand, no engines being used. At Tidioute the first engine was used in September, 1860, 

for drilling oil wells, but for some years after many wells were drilled by hand. A g 1 

eight-horse portable engine and boiler cost about .$2,000 during 1864 and 1865. The cost 
of getting them to the oil regions before the railroads were built was the cause of them 
not being used generally. The drilling tools used during the early days of the business 
were very primitive. The auger stem was from twelve to fifteen feet long, and one and 
a half to one and three-fourths inches in diameter. The sinker was ten to twelve feet in 
length. The tools, ready to drill, weighed from 225 to 350 pounds. The men on the well 
would, when necessary, often cany the string of tools on their shoulders for miles to a 
shop for repairs. They used one and a half to one and three-fourths-inch rope for drilling, 
and iron jars. George Smith, at Rouseville, made the first set of steel-lined jars in 1866, 
for H. Leo Nelson. They did not prove a success The steel came out of them. They 
were used with a set of three-inch tools, the largest drilling tools then made, but they did 
not prove successful. 

The first well drilled through casing was located on Benninghoff run. It was drilled 
during the summer of 1868. This was the greatest invention ever conceived and applied 
to the art of drilling. Previous to that time all wells were drilled wet. No casing was 
used. Three to six months were required to drill a well 600 feet deep. Contractors at that 
time received from $3 to |4 a foot for drilling, and the well owner paid all expenses 
excepting the labor. It would appear that at that time the contractor received a very remun- 
erative price, but mauy of them failed. The trouble was fishing, and a lot of it was dene. 
Iron jars and poor welding, especially the welding of the jars and the steel in the bits and 
reamers, was the trouble. Fishing tools were very primitive. The valve sockets and the 
grabs were all the tools known for that purpose. When a bit, rimmer or part of the tools 
was lost in a well, the floating sediment or drillings would settle and fasten it. The driller 
knew but little about fishing at that lime, and the fishing tools were poorly adapted to 
the business. At this time, looking back over the tools used and the primitive methods 
then in vogue, it is indeed wonderful to think that up to 1868. 5,201 wells were successfully 
drilled. In 1808 the first well was drilled through casing, and the time of drilling was 
made fully two-thirds shorter. The device was not patented. Tool-fishing lost many of 
its terrors. Tools lost in a cased well do not become fastened by the drillings settling. 
When the oil sand is reached it can most always be told if it will he a paving well; in a 
wet hole hut littlecan be told until it is pumped for a time. All drillersdislike townrk in 
wet holes. The rig now 7 universally used is known as the'' Pleasantville rig," and was 
first used by Nelson on the Meade lease, at Rouseville. in 1866. The writer took out a 
patent November 11, 1873. on full size, fluted drills, which did away with the rimmer 
This invention was a great benefit to the oil business. It reduced the time of drilling 
from sixty to twelve days, and the price from $3 a foot to 45 cents. The writer and his 
brother VVilliam filed an application March 31. 18TT, for a patent on the bull-wheel now in 
use, and a patent was granted to them October 1, 1878. Tin's has also been of vast use to 
the oil men. hut it has been poor property to the inventors. We hereby grant all our 
rights and privileges in and to both patents to the benefit of the oil men during the full 
term of both patents. During 1887 drilling was done without a sinker, and at this time 
no driller thinks of using them. This has been a great benefit to the trade. Heavier tools 
can be used with but little strain on the jars. The common-sized tools are now forty-five 
feet long and three and three-fourths inches in diameter, with the jars screwed or welded 
on the top, and the rope socket screwed on to the jars. In formations, where but little 
sand is found, no jars are used. 

Oil Scouts. — From the clays of the Drake well to the present time the oil 
scout and reporter have been institutions in the oil field. The newspapers of 
the field were principally relied upon for reports up to 1882, leaving free scout- 
ing to the many who did not believe in geologists or newspaper men of that 
period. The Cherry (Trove and Shannon mysteries of that year brought the 
professional scout into existence, and soon Oildom was excited over the doings 
of "Si" Hughe--. Justus C. McMullen, J. C. Tennant. Joseph P. Cappeau, 
Daniel Herring. Patrick C. Boyle, Owen Evans, Jule Rathburn, John B. Drake, 
A. L. Snell and their disciples. A. R. Crum, in his sketches of famous scouts, 
refers to the late J. C. McMullen as the most painstaking of the little com- 
pany. This reference is transferred to the chapter on journalism, where men- 
tion is also made of Boyle. Snell and others. "Si" Htiohes explored the 
mysterious 646 well near Clarendon, belonging to Grace A: Dimmick, and gave 
$500,000 worth of information to the Anchor Oil Company. He is superintend- 



92 HISTORY OF MCKEAS COUNTY. 

ent of the Elk ( >il Company of Kane, Penn. The story of Tenaant's exploration 
of the Shannon mystery is told in the history of Elk county. He was one of the 
pioneers of the Macksburg (Ohio) field, until his removal to Kansas. Cappeau. 
now a resident of Pittsburgh, is a leading oil producer; Owen Evans is con- 
nected with the Philadelphia Natural Gas Company; Jule Rathburn resides at 
Kane, and is interested in oil lands. Herring is a hotel-keeper in New York 
State, and John B. Drake, a ranchman in Nebraska. P. C. Boyle is editor 
in-chief of the Era and owner of the Toledo Commercial, while A. L. Snell is 
managing editor of the Era. 

Well Torpedoes. — When the old wells began to show signs of giving out. ne 
cessity invented the torpedo. The Roberts Brothers patented the invention. The 
" torpedo kings." as they were called, had scores of agents in all parts of the oil re- 
gions exploding these torpedoes in wells for producers. Each torpedo was from 
ten to 200 quarts capacity, and the danger in carrying them over the country was 
very great. The agents were called '•shooters." They carried the nitro-glycerine 
in wagons drawn by one and often two horses. They often carried as much as 
L,500 pounds of the deadly stuff, and yet these men would become so reckless 
in their business that they gave little heed to the manner of their driving. 

When the patents expired by limitation the business of exploding torpe- 
does in oil wells was taken up by whosoever chose to engage in the hazardous 
undertaking, and now scores of firms are supplying the trade which formerly 
depended upon "Torpedo Roberts," as the doctor was called. He was origi- 
nally a dentist in New York, but coming to the oil country in the early days 
of the petroleum excitement, he and his brother engaged in the oil business, 
and soon secured a patent on a device for exploding nitroglycerine in the bot 
torn of oil wells to increase the flow. The device was simple, but it proved to 
be one of the most valuable inventions of the age, and certainly far exceeded 
the wildest dreams of the young inventors. The device was simply a tube 
made of tin to hold the explosive, supplied with a cap for exploding the sub 
stance. This was lowered into the well to the depth of 1. OKI) feet, if necessary, 
by means of a cord, and, when at the desired depth, a small iron weight called 
"go devil" was dropped down on the cord, and this striking the tube contain- 
ing the nitro glycerine a terrific explosion followed. These explosions shat- 
tered the oil bearing rock, and the result in nearly every case was an increase 
in the production of the well. The demand for these torpedoes was enor- 
mous. There were anywhere from 15,000 to 25,000 wells in the region and 
nearly all of them were torpedoed at regular intervals. "Torpedo accidents" 
were therefore a common occurrence. In dozens of cases man, team and 
vehicle were blown entirely out of existence. It was rarely that a cigar box 
would not hold all of the driver that could be found. In one case, that of 
"Doc" Haggerty, no vestige of a human being was ever found, and a few 
pounds of flesh identified by the hair as being all that was left of two horses. This 
was the strangest case of the many "torpedo explosions" in the oil country. 
Below Eldred, or near Ceres, resided a short time ago a man who was thrown 
high up into space, and beyond being filled with tiny pieces of tin he did not 
suffer much from the explosion. 

Miscellaneous. — He who supposes that oil men are specially exempt from 
ordinary human frailties is a miscalcnlator. They are much like ordinary men 
in many respects, but their dealings are on a larger scale, and their vision is 
more comprehensive. Looking over the pages devoted to the history of the 
Bradford field, one would suppose that the courts were always full of oily liti 
gants; but the records do not bear out this supposition. Of course leases of 
.iil lands have been questioned time and again, but the suits were of an agra- 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 93 

rian character. Indeed, with the exception of a few direct oil cases, the 
following memorandum may be considered a fair sketch of the heavy oil suits 
in MeKeau county: In 1868 the celebrated oil case, O'Connor vs. Tack Bros., 
was tried. The plaintiff appeared to believe that the price of oil would fall 
very soon, and so instructed his brokers, the defendants, to sell for the future. 
Oil did decline within a day or so, but immediately rose again, thus leaving 
O'Connor short. He charged his brokers with conspiracy, claiming $50,000, 
but the court awarded him $600 of the $1,000 due him by his brokers, and 
dismissed the conspiracy charge. In August, 1883, Col. N. D. Preston, of the 
Bradford Oil Exchange, was sued by Mrs. Maria A. Harm, for whom the 
Colonel held 30,000 barrels of oil. It appears he sold this oil, first formally, 
and secondly on change, but the arbitrators decreed that he should pay Mrs. 
Harm $24,000. The Roberts Torpedo Patent resulted in a series of lawsuits. 
"Every oil producer had to pay tribute to the Roberts Brothers, and finally 
the oil men sought to break the monopoly by attacking the validity of the 
patents. The producers organized to fight the patents in the courts, and long 
and bitter litigation was the result. The fight went on in every court for 
years, and finally the supreme court of the United States decided in favor of 
the Roberts Brothers, and they continued to have the exclusive right to man- 
ufacture and use the torpedo for seventeen years, the life of the patent." 

In November, 1885, the celebrated case, Blackmarr vs. Scofield, was tried 
at Smethport. On December 8, 1882, H. L. Blackmarr and C. W. Scofield 
entered into a contract, of which the following is a copy: 

Bradford. Pa., Dec. 8th, 1882. 
No 

Sold to C. W. Scofield, for account of H. L. Blackmarr. twenty-five thousand (25,0001 
barrels of crude petroleum at one dollar and twenty-five cents (SI. 25) per barrel of forty- 
two (42) gallons, in bulk, to be delivered at buyer's option at any time from the eighth 
day of December, 1882, to the sixth day of February, 1883, in accepted and — United Pipe 
Line receipts, pipage unpaid, and to be paid for in cash as delivered, with no notice from 
buyer to seller. Should no notice be given, deliver}' shall be made on the sixth day of 
February, 1883. Place of delivery, Bradford, Pa. Brokerage .... cents per barrel by 
sellers. No margins. Through 

Accepted by C. W. Scofield. 

This contract was written on a blank form, such as has been in use in the 
Old Exchange for many years, and a duplicate was given to Scofield. Feb- 
ruary 6, 1883, was, by the terms of the contract, the limit of the time for 
settlement, and Blackmarr received the following notification: 

Bradford, Pa., Feb. 6, 1883. 
To H. L. Blackmarr: 

Dear Sir: — You are hereby notified that a certain pretended contract alleged to have 
been made by and between yourself and C. W. Scofield about December 8, 1882, for a pre- 
tended sale of 25,000 barrels of oil at SI. 25 is illegal and void, will in no wise be carried 
out by me in any respect, and you are further notified that any attempt to establish a 
difference by a sale of the oil either publicly or privately will be the subject of an action 
for damages. Yours truly, 

C. W. Scofield. 

By Berry. Elliott ifc Jack, Attorneys. 

Upon receipt of the above Blackmarr tendered certificates for 25,000 bar- 
rels of oil, freshened to date, to Berry, he being the only representative of 
Scofield that could be found in the city. Berry refused to accept the oil, and 
it was sold by C. L. Wheeler, of the Bradford Oil Exchange, at public sale, 
for $1.04 J to C. P. Stevenson, who gave his certified check for $26,125. 
According to the terms of the contract this left a deficiency of $5,125 due 
Blackmarr. Scofield refused to pay the difference, on the grounds that he did 
not consider the contract legal, and consequently not binding. Blackmarr 



94 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

took legal proceedings to obtain the established difference, and the case was 
crowded over or postponed a number of times, until November 14, 1885, when 
it was decided by the jury that Blaekmarr should be allowed his claim of 
$5,125. The court charged the jury that if Blaekmarr had the 25,000 barrels 
of oil, or was able to procure the oil before the expiration of the contract, the 
defendant should be held for the difference. Scotield's attorneys were Berry, 
Elliott & Jack, and Brown & Roberts, of Bradford, and Jerome Fisher, of 
Jamestown. Blaekmarr' s were B. D. Hamlin, of Smethport, and F. L. Blaek- 
marr, of Meadville. The suits in re title to oil and oil lands in Forest coun- 
ty won notoriety at the time, and cost the litigants thousands of dollars. 

As illustrative of the manner in which much of the business was done 
in early oil days, and as evidence of the good faith that prevailed among oil 
men, the following incident is worthy of note: Soon after the Noble well was 
struck on Oil creek, Mr. Wheeler met Orange Noble on the streets of Titus- 
ville, and asked bim what he would take for 30,000 barrels of oil. Mr. Noble 
replied, " $1.50 per barrel." Mr. Wheeler said, "I will take it." No further 
record was made of this transaction, but before the oil was delivered crude had 
advanced to $7.50 per barrel, but every barrel was delivered and paid for as 
regularly as if the contract had been drawn up by an expert legal authority 
and recorded in the courts. 

John McKeown, the king of the oil regions, purchased from Mitchell and 
Van Vleck, in August, 1888, 1,200 acres of oil land, and fifty producing wells, 
in Keating and Lafayette townships, McKean county, the [nice paid being 
$90,000. This action on the part of this great oil owner showed his faith in 
the old held, which he aided in developing before his removal to the Washing- 
ton held. The recent Emerson purchase, for $100,000. is an equally material 
testimony to the faith of operators in the perpetuity of the greatest oil held 
in the world. 

During the last ten years crude ranged from 54J cents in 1882 to $1. 17.1 in 
1883. For some time prior to the summer of 1889 it was far below the dollar 
mark, but owing to the judicious action of the producers, it is now ranging in 
price above the dollar. 

" The Bradford held began to be known as early as 1875, but its total pro- 
duction for that year did not exceed 25,000 barrels. It attained its maximum 
in ISSl. when its average pipe-line runs were 70, Sll barrels a day. By 18^7 
these had declined to 20,722 barrels a day. During 1888 there was a decline 
to 13,992 barrelsa day. followed in 1889 by a recovery to 16,462 barrels for 
every twenty-four hours. This increase for 1889 is due to two causes: First, 
the termination of the artificial shutting-in of production, and the discovery 
of additional territory on the borders of Cole creek and in the vicinity of Mount 
Jewett. And to bring about this increase of 2,470 barrels a day in the pipe- 
line runs it has been necessary to drill 683 wells during the twelve months 
ending with December 31. 1889."* 

*From tlir Era. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 95 



CHAPTER III. 

PIONEERS AND PIONEER DAYS. 

Prehistoric Remains — Indians — Indian Land Purchases — Sale of Lands— 
Early Surveys and Settlements— Early' Tax Payers— Underground 
Railroad— Hunting— Storms and Floods— First Court-house — First 
Ball— Early Wedding — Early' Incidents and Reminiscences— County" 
centennial Celebration. 

THE pioneers were the self-commissioned explorers and settlers of the New 
Purchase. Some of them followed the retiring Indians so closely that they 
cooked their frugal meals by the deserted camp-tires of the evacuating tribes; 
others joined the adventurous band in the wilderness, while yet the Allegheny 
Divide was considered the limit line of settlement, and all may be considered 
satellites of that star which has carried empire westward since the days of the 
Revolution. Their objects and hopes belonged to that peculiar form of Ameri- 
can civilization which desires, to this day, to settle on the horizon, a feat of 
irresistible fascination to them, which they performed practically, although the 
thing was theoretically impossible. 

The Treaty Indians, whose old country they entered, were comparatively 
modern settlers. There were men here before them, who lived in the age of 
giant nature. On the Fisher farm, near Bradford, in the Tuna Valley flats, 
there were relics of a large race exhumed years ago. It appears an aged tree 
was felled and uprooted to make way for improvements, and beneath were 
found large skulls, any one of which could encase the head of any modern man; 
while thigh-bones and shin-bones were several inches longer than those of the 
present people. Near Kane are other souvenirs of prehistoric times, and on 
other sections evidences of possession by an unknown race are not wanting. 

On a map made by the French in 1763 the territory along the lake extend- 
ing southward is marked: "The seat of war, the mart of trade and chief 
hunting grounds of the Six Nations on the lakes and the Ohio. ' ' Sixty years 
prior to the date of this map Le Houton published an account of a decade 
passed by him among the savages on the south of Lake Erie — "the Iroquois, 
Illinois, Oumanies and others who are so savage that it is a risk to stay with 
them." The Iroquois had exterminated the Eriez and the Massasaugas about 
the year 1650. The Eriez were named in 1626, when the French missionaries 
first came among them, as the Neutre Nation, and were governed by a queen — 
Yagowania — whose prime minister was a warrior named Ragaotha. In 1634 
some Senecas murdered a son of the chief of the Massasaugas, and a deputa- 
tion from that tribe waited on the queen to ask for justice. Two Seneca war- 
riors also came, who, on learning of the queen's intention to set out with her 
warriors to give justice, fled to their people to give warning. On the approach 
of the Eriez the Senecas offered battle and forced the imperial troops to fly, 
after leaving 600 warriors on the fleld. In 1650 the Iroquois invaded the 
district and, though driven back seven times, ultimately conquered, particu- 
larly during the year of pestilence, wheu disease swept away great numbers of 
the nation. In 1712 the Tuscaroras were admitted to the Iroquois confed- 
eracy and the name " Six Nations " took the place of that of " Five Nations." 



96 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Their territory stretched from Vermont to the upper end of Lake Erie and 
embraced the country at the heads of the Allegheny and Susquehanna, with tin- 
seat of council in the Onondaga Valley. The Senecas, a tribe of the original 
Five Nations, occupied the territory along the Allegheny and near the Penn- 
sylvania-New York line, and in the treaty of 1784 they were particularly con- 
cerned. In 1789 a supplementary treaty was made and §800 granted to Corn- 
planter, Half- Town and Big Tree in trust for the tribe. This treaty was 
signed in 1791 by the chiefs, and in March, 1792, the triangle was purchased 
from the United States by the commonwealth. In April, 1792, the assembly 
passed an act to encourage settlement here, and in 1794 troops were stationed 
at Le Bceuf to keep peace, as many of the Senecas refused to respect the treaty 
and charged Cornplanter and the other chiefs with being traitors. The 
British emissaries of course urged on the disaffected braves, Brandt, chief of 
the Mohawks, being one of the diplomats; but their logic could not influence 
Cornplanter, although British interest in justice to the Indians was manifested 
by two armed vessels lying off Presque Isle to enforce the claims of the discon- 
tented Senecas. In 1795 other treaties were negotiated, and the threatened 
Anglo-Indian raid on the young republic was postponed. At this time then' were 
eighty Senecas at Cornplanter' s town, west of the present city of Bradford, 
where a large tract of land was reserved to them. In 1866 the legislature 
authorized the building of a monument to Cornplanter which was completed 
and dedicated at Jennesedaga October 18, 1867. The chiefs of the Senecas 
who signed the treaty in 1789 were Gyantwachia (Cornplanter i. Guyasota 
(Big Cross), Kanassee (New Arrow), Achiont (Half Town). Anachkont (Wasp), 
Chishekoa (Wood Bug), Sessewa (Big Bale of a Kettle), Sciawhowa (Council 
Keeper), Tewanias (Broken Twig), Souachshowa (Full Moon), Cachunevasse 
(Twenty Canoes), Onesechter, Kiandock Gowa and Owenewah. 

The purchase from the Indians (Six Nations, Wyandots and Delawares) in 
October, 1784, embraced all the territory lying north and west of a line from 
the mouth of Beaver creek on the Ohio; thence by said river up the Allegheny 
to Kittanning; thence by line to Upper Canoe Place on the West Branch of the 
Susquehanna; thence by that river to the month of Pine creek, and north by 
this creek to the New York State line. In 1758 and at other periods the 
Indians ceded their possessions in this district in small parcels, but the " New 
Purchase " treaties and the power of the whites .soon did away with requests of 
favors from the red men, and ended in the expulsion of the aborigines. The 
Susquehanna Company's purchase of 1754 is bounded by a Line drawn north 
and south through Benizette, Shippen, Norwich, Liberty and other townships 
to the New York State line. In 1785 the act of Pennsylvania declared that 
the laud purchased from the Indians in 1784 and defined in the treaty of Fort 
Stauwix and Fort Mcintosh, should be attached to Westmoreland and Northum- 
berland counties, and that the Allegheny river from Kittanning to the 
of Conewango creek should be the county line. The land office was opened in 
1785, but the homestead of 400 acres and actual settlement thereon, together 
with the Indian wars down to 1796, made the plan of sale useless. In 1 193 
an act was passed allowing the sale of lands in 1,000- acre warrants on condi- 
tion of settlement, except during Indian troubles. Under this permit the 
Holland Land Company purchased 1,140 warrants, and in L801 the condition 
of settlement being removed, this company, with the Keatings, Binghams and 
others, located their warrants at will, and within a few years essayed to develop 
the wilderness — John Keating being in the advance. 

Byron D. Hamlin, speaking on this subject, states that the legislature of 
17s"' provided for the sale of the "Waste Lands," as the whole territory was 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 1)7 

named. A lottery- wheel was the system of auction selected. An application 
ticket, with the number of acres applied for written thereon, was placed in one 
urn and a similar ticket with the warrant number, etc., placed in another. Of 
course each applicant drew in or about the number of acres he wished to pur- 
chase, and as early as May 17, 1785, some of the purchasers found their hinds 
in what are now known as Liberty and El tired townships. The survey was 
made in 1787-88. In the latter year it was seen that the desire to purchase 
this wild land was limited, owing to the price ($80 per 100 acres) being too 
high. It was reduced, and again reduced, in 1792, to $13^ per 100 acres, and 
in that and the following year the greater part of McKean and adjoining coun- 
ties became private property. William Bingham and the Holland Land Com- 
pany were the principal purchasers. In 1796 John Keating purchased a large 
area from the Binghams, and in 1816 Benjamin B. Cooper purchased the Hol- 
land Company's lands and sold to the Jones Brothers, the Ridgways, the 
Wernwags, Halseys and smaller owners. The first attempt at settlement was 
made at Ceres by John Keating' s agent, Francis King, in 1798. On July 1, 
1801, surveys of the Keating property were commenced. In 1804 the ceme- 
tery at Cerestown was platted; Coudersport was surveyed in July, 1807, and 
Smethport in August, 1807. At this time there was not a wagon road in Mc- 
Kean county. Every family had its own grist-mill; the meat market was the 
forest; the dry-goods factory was the family spinning-wheel or loom in the 
lean-to; nails and hardware for building were manufactured from wood; tea 
and coffee were improvised from the most convenient sources, and whisky was 
deferred for a more refined generation. Jersey Shore, one hundred miles dis- 
tant, was the nearest post office. Two weeks' travel through the wilderness 
(the carrier bearing his own provisions) were required to make the round trip, 
his pockets being the mail bag and his ardor for news his reward. The census 
taker had not then been seen. His first visit was made in 1810, when he found 
a population of 141 whites and one colored resident in McKean county, and in 
Potter county twenty-eight whites and one colored citizen. 

The original deed of Robert Morris, one of the Revolutionary fathers, and 
his wife Mary, to lands in McKean and other counties dated January 6, 1797, 
is in possession of Mr. Hamlin, and also one from William Bingham toOmer Talon 
(afterward conveyed to John Keating & Company), dated December 21, 1796, 
covers about 300,000 acres in McKean and Potter counties, for $80,000. In 
1801 Francis King surveyed the boundaries of the Keating lands, adjoining 
the New York and Holland purchase in New York State, and the lands of the 
Binghams, Ridgways and Joneses in Pennsylvania. When the New York & 
Pennsylvania boundary commission was in session this old field book was pro- 
duced. The present owner of this parchment, speaking of the early land pur- 
chases, calculates that up to 1874 each acre cost the proprietor $26. To arrive 
at this total he takes the original cost, 13^ cents per acre, with interest 
compounded at six per cent, and finds $15.12. Prior to 1840 wild lands were 
assessed 50 cents per acre on which a five-mill county tax and a five-mill road tax 
were levied, or a one-half cent per acre. From 1 840 to 1 860 the taxation was three 
cents per acre, and from 1 860 to 1874 five cents per acre was levied. Mr. Hamlin 
thinks that the total cost of each acre of wild land to the original owners was 
$35 including costs of transfers, agencies and other expenditures. 

The survey of the town of Smethport was a most important event of pio- 
neer days. The King survey notes read as follows: 

• 

The first of the seventh month, 1801. Began at a hemlock corner sixty-three perches 
westof the Holland Company's thirteen-mile stakeontne State line. when we found a south 
line, which proved to be a district line, dividing Districts 2 and 3. and traveled it south 



98 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

through a thick windfall. Second day. State Hue marked on a beech with the initials 
•■ T. W., October 10, 1793;" soil, chocolate colored; timber, white pine, hemlock, beech, 
sugar tree, etc. Our provisions being exhausted we returned home. On the twelfth of 
the icntli month. Found a line blazed for a road from the head of Pine creek to the head 
ol Oswayo in the fall of IT'.iT. We then went to meet the pack-horses on the south branch 
of the Allegheny Nineteenth of the twelfth month. Found a sugar tree corner with 
initials, one marked " O. 8. S." and under it the letters " S. T. E.' Seventeenth of the 
tenth month. 1805. Proceeded with the road and lodged at the Allegheny. Running of 
the tow n lots of Smethport, etc. Twenty-fourth of the eighth month. 1807, left home to 
go to Smethport and loaded at the mouth of our creek: 25th, continued up the river 
and lodged at the mouth of Potato creek; 36th, camped near the forks of the creek; 27th. 
still raining, went up the small branch, and built a camp; 38th, finished camp and moved 
into it: 1 '.Mb of the ninth month finished survey of the town. 

In 1832 Orlo J. Hamlin contributed to the pages of Hn:\ •;/•</' * Gazetteer, the 
history of this county published therein, parts of which are used in this work. 
After the publication of the Gazetteer, the pioneer historian of McKean county 
continued the good work, ami from among the documents in possession of his 
son. Henry Hamlin, one from which the following summary of early history 
i- extracted was found: 

Seventeen hundred and ninety-nine to 1800, Ceres township settled by Francis King 
and others, agent and employes of John Keating. .. .1808 (about), Corydon township 
settled by Philip Tome and others from the west branch of the Susquehanna. . . .1810-13 
(about). Hamilton township settled by George Morrison and others of the west branch of 
the same river. . . .1813-15 (about), Liberty township settled by ex-Judge Foster from New 
Jersey, ex-Judge Samuel Staunton. Sr., from Wayne county. I'enn.. L. Lillibridge, Dr. 
H. Coleman and others. .. .1810, Keating township i Farmers Valley), settled by Joseph 
and George Otto, the Stulls and others from Northampton county, Penn., six families 

.1808, Eldred township settled by the Wrights, Jacob Kuapp, Joseph Stull. Nathan 
Dennis, E. barrabee and others. .. .1815, Norwich township settled by Jonathan Cole- 
grove and fourteen families from North Atlantic States. .. .1809-14*, Sergeant township 

first settled at Instanter, next by Joel Bishop in 1811; Sweeten. David Combs. Sr., 

I! Beckwith and others settled in 1814 near Bishops summit, and at Clermont farm Paul 
E. Scull, John (iarlick, Philip Lee and others about 1819 30 ...1834 (about), Lafayette 
township settled b v George W. Griswold and others. :. .1823-24 (about), Bradford' first 
settled by Dr. William M. Bennett, the Fans. Scotts Fosters and others. .. .1646-47, 
Otto township settled by Arthur Prentiss and others. ... 1*22 -2U (about), Hamlin town 
ship first settled by Seth Marvin ...1840-41, Annin township first settled by Evans. Ken- 
nev and others. . . .1858 (aboul I. Wetmore township tirst settled by Grover and others. . . . 
1830-31, Clermont farm, named by Jacob Ridgway after his return from Belgium, where 
he was United States consul for a term. 

The olilest tax roll in possession of the commissioner's clerk covers the 
years 1806-12. The tax payers (of course non-resident) wefe William Bing- 
ham. John Barron, Ezekiel King, William Barker. Robert Blackwell. Henry 
Clymer, Henry Drinker, Robert Gillmor, Samuel Hughes, George Harrison. 
William Lloyd, George Meade. Nicklen Griffith, John Olden. Jonathan B. 
Smith. Thomas Stewarton. Thomas Willing. Charles Willing. Wilhelm W el- 
lick and H°nrv Wykoff. The valuation was 50 cents per acre, and the tax 
average I $2.47 on 990 acre tracts and $2.75on 1.099 acre tracts. Four year- 
later (in IS1II) Commissioners Pennington, (Hen and Herring of Centre 
county confirmed the assessment roll, and assessed the unseated lands of Mc 
Kean county at 50 cents per acre, on which a tax of two and one-fourth 
mills per dollar was ordered to be levied, the assessment to continue in force 
until 1813. 

Joseph Stull and his brother, Jacob, settled below Smethport, four miles 
above Eldred, on the Allegheny, in 1810. A few years later Indian- camped 
at the mouth of Potato creek, and while making for this camp a warm >r, being 
overtaken by night, wrapped his blanket around him and lay face downward 
to sleep. He was followed l>\ a panther, who sprung on him as soon as he 
laid down, striking the claws into the sides of the redman and the teeth into 
blstory of townships, and of Sergeant township for sketch of Instanter, 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 101 

his neck. The Indian caught a small tree near by, and, raising himself, stabbed 
the panther in the heart, and then lay down to' die with the beast. Next morn- 
ing his brother Indians set out in search and found the hero of the tight almost 
dead. They took him to Jacob Stall's house, where he recovered after some 
weeks. 

Asylum Peters died at the house of Walter Edgecomb, in Homer township. 
Potter county, November 24, 1880. He was born in Bradford, Penn., in 1793, 
and named after his native township. In 1806 he came to Ceres as cook for 
Gen. Brevost, a surveyor, and when that work was completed he was sold to 
William Ayers for $100 and the further consideration that he should receive 
a fair common education until he was of age, when he was to be set free. In 
1 SI 18 Ayers moved to the Keating farm, six miles east of Coudersport, on the 
old Boone road, then the only road in the county, bringing Peters with him. 

During the years when the abolition movement first gathered sympathizers, 
the King settlement above Ceres became an important underground railroad 
depot. As long ago as 1827 or 1828, Smethport was a way -station on the 
underground railroad leading from the South to the North, whereon runaway 
slaves used to travel in making their escape into Canada, then a land of free- 
dom to the black man. In other words, runaway slaves striking the Allegheny 
river at Warren, would take a short cut, the one used by lumbermen in this 
region returning from Pittsburgh, and reaching what was then known as the 
"Four Corners " pass through Smethport, Eldred and Olean, and so on by way 
of Buffalo to Canada. It was at the above mentioned, that four forlorn look- 
ing slaves, foot sore and weary, and terribly hungry withal, arrived in the 
little village of Smethport, and stopped at a hotel kept by Uavid Young. They 
acknowledged that they were runaway slaves, fleeing from hard-hearted mas- 
ters, and were also out of money. Through the kindness of several of the 
people of Smethport, the negroes were provided with a good meal at a hotel, 
a small amount of money furnished them, and were sent on their way. The 
next stopping place was in Olean, at the hotel kept by Backus. Fearing pur- 
suit from their masters, the slaves were directed to a lumber camp about one 
mile from the village, which shelter they used for a hiding place and also 
intended to make it their resting place for the night. Hardly had these four 
negroes left Smethport when two men on horseback arrived in pursuit, they 
being the owners of the runaways. Getting no information from the Smeth- 
porfc people, the horsemen hastened to Olean, at which place they arrived just 
as the slaves had entered their hiding place, though unseen by their mas- 
ters — and here comes the gist of our tale. The citizens of Olean, who were 
aware of the pursuit, and fearing that the negroes might be captured, employed 
a little strategy for the occasion. Sending messengers to the camp with infor- 
mation about the state of matters, the slaves speedily sought their safety. 
In the meantime the slave owners were informed that the objects of their pur- 
suit might be found in a certain camp near Olean, and kind hands directed 
their course to the desired point. But upon their arrival, a sad fate awaited 
them. A bucket of tar and a quantity of feathers were in readiness, and masked 
men spread the unsightly covering without stint upon the persons of the slave 
owners, and then left them to their own musings. The next seen of the pur- 
suers, who by this time had become sadder, but wiser men, was in a hotel kept 
by John Lee near by where the bridge crosses the Allegheny at Eldred. 
Through grease, soap, water and other appliances and a sojourn of a week, 
the unfortunate slave owners presented a somewhat better appearance and 
departed for their Southern homes, and their poor slaves reached the Mecca 
of their hopes in Canada. 



102 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

In the history of Potter county reference is made to the successful hunters 
prior to 1826. In January of this year McKean county takes her place as a 
distinct government, and the first order issued is that for 81 cents to Wheeler 
Gallup and Dan Cornelius for fox scalps; Rufus Cory received '27 cents and 
Ralph Hill, for wolf scalps, $12, while James Taylor, Eben Burbanks. Tim 
Kenney, Isaac King, Jonathan Colegrove, David Crow, Nathan White, Leon- 
ard Foster, Benjamin Chatsey, Hub. Starkweather, James Brooks, George 
Pinkerton, Henry Willard, Erastus John (an Indian), an unnamed Indian, 
James John (an Indian), and Hunter (an Indian) were rewarded for killing 
wild animals. In this year Squire Cole received $12 and Benjamin Freeman 
$17 for one old and one young panther, and an Indian named Jimmerson $12 
for panther certificates. In 1827 the panther hunters were Joseph Silverkee] 
(an Indian). Dan Killbuck (an Indian), Simon Beckwith, William Lewis. Dan 
Lewis and Ralph Hill. In 1828 there is no record of panther hunters, but in 
1829 Philander Reed brought in some trophies. 

Leroy Lyman, one of the great hunters of the past, was a natural philos- 
opher of a determined character. At one time he resolved to acquaint him- 
self thoroughly with the habits of the panther, and in all his expeditions looked 
anxiously to the time when this cruel habitant of the woods of this section 
would cross his track. The time came at last. Returning to his home one 
evening he felt that he was followed, and, after a time, beheld his pursuer. 
The latter kept an equal distance from the hunter until Leroy would stop, 
when the panther would halt for a moment, then purring, creep slowly along 
to leaping distance. This was repeated several times until the open country 
was reached, when the hunter made his last study, and prepared for battle. 
He was well armed, with a seven-shooter rifle, and halting suddenly waited 
his enemy. The panther halted as suddenly, then purred, crept forward, gave 
a blood-curdling scream, and at the moment he sprang forward, the daring 
hunter filled him with seven bullets. Not a moment too soon; for the next 
instant the panther was dead at his feet. . . .About fifty-three years ago Reuben 
Dennis and his brother, then boys, started into the bush near the homestead 
to find the cows, taking with them a small farm dog of a fidgety character. 
They were not far into the forest when they heard a terrible scream: but, not 
knowing the cry of the panther, paid no attention to the strange call, until 
they looked at the dog, whose hair stood out like porcupine quills. They 
shared the terror of the dog and fled toward home. On describing their expe- 
rience to Nathan Dennis, the pioneer, he told them they had just escaped an 
encounter with a panther, which, in pursuing other game, left the boys safe 
Mr. Dennis tells also of the old-time method of trapping bear. Many are 
acquainted with the bird trap (known as the dead-fall I used by boys of to-day. 
The pioneer bear trap was constructed on the same principle, except that in- 
stead of a box or cage a log sufficiently heavy to crush and kill a bear was 
used, the supporting timber being so fixed that bruin, in rushing forward to 
seize the bait, would displace it, leaving the heavy log to fall on him. 

Samuel Beckwith, Sr., one of the pioneers, came upon a bear suddenly, 
and firing at the animal, wounded it; but failed to kill. Believing that bruin 
would escape, he advanced knife in hand and a terrible encounter ensued. 
The bear hugged and tore and bit the desperate hunter, ami nearly carried the 
victory, when Beckwith thrust the knife into the animal's heart. The marks 
of the battle remained on Beckwith to his death. In 1828 29, while this 
Beckwith and O. J. Hamlin were surveying the turnpike route, the latter came 
upon a wolf asleep. The animal was so scared, that instead of jumping over 
the log, he crept under, where his head and fore shoulders were caught as ii> 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 103 

a trap. The pack-driver seized him by the hind leg, and opening the jack- 
knife with his teeth, cut off the hamstrings, despatched the wolf, and brought 
in the skin and scalp as trophies of the affair. 

In 1825-26 a road was opened from N. C. Gallup' s mill to the Potter county 
line, and a bridge was built by Lemuel Lucore over the Sinnemahoning, so 
that as the wild animals decreased such evidences of civilization increased. 
The existence of this road scared away the large game. The modern hunters, 
such as Henry Lascar, of Lafayette, and Jones, of Sergeant, tell some extra- 
ordinary stories of the doings of bear and panther here since 1880. 

From 1842 to the present time storm and flood have accompanied progress 
in this section, but there are few, if any, cases of destruction of life through 
such agencies. Lightning, however, has not been so merciful, for, during the 
last sixty years, it is estimated that over one hundred persons have been killed 
by electricity, and hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of property de- 
stroyed by it. Since 1878 electric storms as well as wind storms have been 
common. That of April 16, 1880, carried away eleven rigs in the Tuna Val- 
ley, four on East Branch, two on West Branch, thirty-six on Kendall creek, 
five at Foster Brook and two at Summit, together with farm and village build- 
ings, forests, fences and orchards; subsequent storms have destroyed oil -tanks 
by the dozen, as related in the chapter devoted to local history. The hail 
storm of May 19, 1888, swept through Marvin Valley and struck Smethport 
and other towns. The hail average the size of hens' eggs, and of course des- 
troyed much of the glass in its path. The heavy rains of the latter days of 
May, 1889, which led to the Johnstown catastrophe, also swelled the rivers 
and creeks of McKean county, entailing heavy losses on owners of valley 
farms, impeding travel, sweeping away bridges and flooding several villages. 
The rain storm of June 21, 1889, swept across the county, creating havoc in 
the forests and injuring buildings and orchards. Lightning played round the 
hill-tops, and at Big Shanty and other points left records of its destructive 
ness. 

The rain storm, which began on July 2, 1889, reached its climax on the 
3d, and continued until past midnight, carrying away a few small bridges and 
overflowing the lowland roads. The great anniversary morning, however, ap- 
peared wreathed in sunshine, and one of the most beautiful of summer days 
ensued. The first six months of this year were marked by a rain-fall never 
hitherto experienced. 

The second story of the first court-house was used on Sundays by Elder 
Folsom, the Unionist preacher, Elder Oviatt, the Baptist, and one or other 
of the various Methodist and Adventist preachers who visited this section from 
1826 to 1833. The jail, debtor's room and sheriff's residence were on the 
lower floor; the water supply was taken from a spring on the farm now owned 
by John W. Brennan. In this building Hall and Dikeman. counterfeiter and 
robber, respectively, found a home until they escaped from the " dungeon." 

In 1828 the first ball was held in the county. The tickets were printed at 
Buffalo in the following form: 

1828 — INDEPENDENCE BALL — 1828. 

At the hotel of Davis Young, in the village of Smeth- 
port, July 4, 1828. Yourself and lady are respectfully in- 
vited. Good music and first-class accommodations. The 
corapauy to assemble at 2 o'clock, p. m. 

MANAGERS. 

Almon Sartwell, S. A. Winsor, Horace King, Benjamin 
Corwin. Daniel Rifle and David Dunbar. 



104 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

At this timo Mrs. Willard's hotel occupied the site of George Moore's pres- 
ent house. She was indignant at the fact of her house being ignored, and 
threatened the sheriff with punishment should he allow the proposed orchestra 
(a prisoner then in jail) to be present. The sheriff's wife, knowing that Mrs. 
Willard would carry out her threats, dressed a dummy to represent the pris- 
oner, and the lady, looking through the keyhole, saw this figure, and was sat- 
isfied. The committee refused to issue a ticket to her. and thus the first ball 
led to dissension which was not healed for years. The open-air celebration 
was held beneath the shadows of the stars and stripes floating from the great 
hickory pole on the square. A long table of freshly planed pine boards was 
constructed, and above it was a roof of hemlock, pine and hardwood boughs. 
The procession formed at the lower tavern, owned formerly by William 'Will 
iams, and marched in couples — male and female— to the courthouse, under 
the lead of Jonathan Colegrove, a soldier of 1812. O. J. Hamlin was the ora- 
tor, Isaac Burlingame, tifer, and Asa Sartwell, clarionet player. O. R. Ben- 
nett or John E. Niles read the Declaration, but the drummer's name is forgot- 
ten. At the banquet Hiram Payne was toastmaster, and as each toast was 
given Marshal Colegrove would wave his sword as a signal to his squad of 
thirteen soldiers to fire a salute. The thirteen men were armed with flint-locks, 
and were converted for the occasion into an artillery corps, or, if the noise is 
considered, a fire cracker corps. Cheers generally followed the salute, bill 
when the musketeers were too slow the people cheered before the salute was 
given, while the marshal waved his sword wildly. Edward Corwin and Col. 
Elihu Chadwick, Revolutionary soldiers, were present. 

In the fall of 1832 or 1833 Hyde Rice, son of Justice Rice, of Ceres, mar- 
ried Angeline Rice, daughter of Allan Rice, of the salt works neighborhood, 
now in Cameron county. The wedding guests, some seventeen in number, met 
at Smethport, the following morning proceeded to Daniel Rifle's house (Cole- 
grove) for breakfast, and thence twelve miles through the forest to the sali 
works on horseback, where a feast was prepared at the bride's home. Allan 
Rice removed to Cincinnati shortly after his daughter's marriage. It is re- 
lated that on arriving at the salt works, twenty-seven deer, ranged in line, 
looked down on the bridal party from the hill. 

Joel Sartwell came with his father in 1816. He was a celebrated driver of 
oxen, and on one occasion hitched his team to a large pine, which he cut down 
in rear of his house (the Ransom-Beckwith House). Standing on the hill he 
piloted the oxen down by shouting " Gee Buck" — " Haw Buck.'* The snow 
was twenty-four inches deep, and the flight of the cleared tree down the hill 
side sent this snow flying to the top of the forest, but the tree and oxen got 
down all safe, with the exception of the tail of one of the animals, which was 
cut clean off. Among the pioneer women who resided at or near Smethport in 
1880 were Mrs. Ira Curtis, then in her eighty-seventh year. She knew Com- 
modore McDonough. and also Commodore Perry, who defeated the British 
fleet near Sackett's Harbor in LSI 2. and saw the historical rooster. Mrs. John 
Holmes came about 1830, and was eighty-two years old in 1880; Mrs. James 
Taylor, ninety-four years; Mrs. Cory, the tailoress, who made clothes for the 
Confederate officers of Houston, Tex., in 1861-65, ninety-two years; Mrs. 
Ghordis Corwin. daughter of Solomon Sartwell, settled in Farmers valley in 
1816, was ninety-two years old (when twelve years old she could spin yarn and 
weave cloth, and was asked to visit Port Allegany (Canoe Place) to help Mrs. 
Judge Stanton fix the loom and web). Throughout the county a few more 
women of the pioneer period resided in 1880, but the last nine years have 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 105 

thinned the ranks of the heroines of settlement. In January, 1847, the fol- 
lowing poetical tribute to the pioneer women appeared in the Yeoman : 

The mothers of our forest hunt 

Stout-hearted dames were they, 
With nerve to wield the battle brand. 

And join the border fray. 

No braver dames had Sparta, 

No nobler matrons Rome; 
The great and good shall honor them 

Throughout their own green home. 

The western line of McKean county is often called the Cornplanter line, 
for here lived the old chief for years. He was born at Conewaugus, on the 
Genesee river, to an Indian woman, who was the hunting wife of John O'Bail, 
a white trader from the Mohawk valley. In July, 1755, he is alleged to have 
been in the French service, opposing Braddoek, but later was present with 
the British, at the time of the Wyoming massacre, and on their death-dealing 
scout through the Schoharie Kill and the Mohawk valleys. When the success 
of the Revolution was assured, he hurried to the burial of the hatchet, and 
assisted in the post- Revolution treaties. For his services he was given a beau- 
tiful reservation, near Kinzua village (the river and valley being named from 
Kinzuquade, a contemporary chief), where he settled in 1791, and died in 
1836. The Indians who visited the settlements during the first two decades 
of this century are in their graves, but at long intervals a small band of their 
children visit the old hunting grounds. Jim Jacobs, the aged Seneca Indian, 
who, prior to the war, hunted in McKean, Elk, Potter, Forest and Cameron 
counties, visited throughout the county in November, 1880, to renew his old- 
time sport and observe the changes. Near the northwest corner of McKean 
county were 640 acres, the last piece of Indian land in Pennsylvania. Forty 
years ago the place was called "Burnt Houses." 

The County Centennial Celebration Convention, held in February, 1876, 
was presided over by B. D. Hamlin, with H. F. Barbour, secretary. Township 
committees were appointed, and other steps taken to insure proper observance. 



CHAPTER IV 



Transactions of the County Commissioners— Organization of the County* 
—Holland Land Company's Lands— John Keating's Liberality— Smetii- 
port, the County' Town— County - Administration — County' Buildings — 
Public Roads— Bridges— Poor Farm— Mortgages— Forfeited Lands. 

THE county of McKean was established March 26, 1804, being set off from 
Lycoming. On December 13, 1805, Gov. McKean appointed John 
Brevost, John Bell and Thomas Smith, trustees for the new county, under 
the act of March 26. In May, 1806, the trustees posted a notice at Ceres 
that they were ready to receive proposals for the county town. In November 
they assembled to consider the offers made by John Keating and Paul Busti, 
the latter being agent for the Holland Ltmd Company. In Busti's letter of 
June 13, he expresses his pleasure at the prospect of a new county, and agrees 
to lay off 200 acres of the Holland Land Company's lands, in either of tracts 



106 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Dumbered 2313, 2312, 2603, 2002, 2669, 2375, 2470 or 2573, on the com- 
pany's road, from the mouth of Bald Eagle creek, on the Susquehanna, to 
the State line. Of the 200 acres, two-thirds were to be conveyed to the county: 
1(1(1 acres adjoining were to be donated for the support of a minister of the 
Gospel, and 100 acres for the support of a school. This or 500 acres of wild 
land was their offer. 

John Keating was more liberal. He offered 228 acres at the forks of the 
Cononoclan (Nun-un-dah), one half the lots surveyed, 150 acres for the support 
of a school-teacher, and 1500 cash to aid in erecting a school building. He 
pointed oitt so very clearly the beauty and utility of the location that on Sep- 
tember 17, 18 and 19, 1807, he, with the trustees, visited the locality (Smeth 
port) and selected the spot September 21 that year. On April 19 following 
they made plans for building the State road. 

In October, 1815, J. Borrows, prothonotary of Lycoming county, residing 
at Williamsport, iuforms Samuel Stanton, Isaac Lyman and Joel Bishop of 
their election as commissioners of taxes for McKean county. On October 19. 
they met at Benjamin Burt's house in Eulalia, where they qualified before 
Justice Nathan B. Palmer. A day later they appointed Palmer clerk, John 
King, of Ceres, treasurer, and made an appointment with Messrs. Bell and 
Smith, the trustees of McKean and Potter, and appointed James Parmeter 
assessor of Eulalia. In 1810 Jonathan Colegrove was appointed assessor of 
Sergeant; Rensselaer Wright, of Ceres, and John Lyman, of Roulette; in April 
Joseph Otto was appointed, vice Stanton, and in October he was elected with 
Nathan B. Palmer. John King was chosen county clerk. At this time Israel 
Merrick, of Eulalia, Ransom Beckwith, of Roulette, Abram Baker, of Ceres, 
and Joel Bishop, of Sergeant, were appointed assessors. In 1817 C. Ellis, J. 
Colegrove and R. Wright were appointed auditors of Potter and McKean, and 
Israel Merrick, Jr., commissioner's clerk. W. W. Wattles was chosen clerk, 
in March, 1817; in October John King qualified as commissioner before Joel 
Bishop at Coudersport. In November Ezekiel B. Foster was appointed clerk, 
and Isaac Lyman, treasurer. The latter was requested to remove records, etc., 
to the house of the clerk. The tax levy was one-half cent per dollar, and the 
pay of treasurer five per cent. In January, 1818, the office was at Kings ville; 
John Taggart was elected auditor; Isaac Lyman, commissioner, vice Otto; I. 
Merrick, clerk, rice Foster, and in November John Taggart was appointed 
commissioner, vice Palmer, by the court of Lycoming county. In 1819 Rens- 
selaer Wright was elected commissioner; Joseph Otto was appointed clerk, but 
did not qualify, leaving the office to Merrick. Thomas Hays was commission- 
er's clerk of Lycoming in 1818. and in 1820 Philip Krebs was prothonotary. 
In November, 1821, II. W right and J. Colegrove were appointed to make a 
return of all tax payers and slaves in Potter and McKean counties. In 1822 
John Lyman was elected commissioner; Nathaniel Eastman was clerk, and 
Leonard Taggart, treasurer, and all qualified at Coudersport. Jonathan Cole- 
grove, David Crow and John Lyman were chosen commissioners in 1823, and 
Harry Lyman, clerk. R. Wright took John Lyman's place in 1824, and N. 
C. Grail up was appointed clerk, but he was succeeded by Nathan White in 
December of that year; Benjamin Colegrove was appointed treasurer, with 
Timothy Newell, John King and William Smith, auditors. N. White was 
elected commissioner in 1825, vice R. Wright, and Henry Scott chosen 
clerk (Keating township was established in 1824). In January, 1820, Paul 
E. Scull was appointed treasurer, the first for this separate organization; Tim 
othy Newell was elected prothonotary in October, having previously served by 
appointment, and in November Richard Chadwick was chosen clerk. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 107 

On May 31, 1827, the mason work on county buildings was accepted, and 
August 4 an order for $3,000 was given to the contractor, Solomon Sartwell, Jr. 
During this year deeds to a number of lots round the public square were sanc- 
tioned by the commissioners, White and Otto, they being the active members 
of the board. In November, that year, William Bell qualified, and in Novem 
ber, 1828, Messrs. Otto, Bell and Gallup formed the board. Bradford town- 
ship was established, also Liberty township. In June, 1829, Squire Man 
ning contracted to build a bridge over Potato creek for $310. Corydon town- 
ship was formed, and practical improvements authorized. In 1830 Messrs. Crow, 
Bell and Colegrove were commissioners, and O. J. Hamlin county attorney. 
On November 12, 1830, B. Freeman contracted to construct the primitive 
water works on the square, and the first privilege of using this water, after the 
supply at the public buildings, was granted to David Grow. A contract was 
entered into January 5, 1831, with B. B. Smith to do the county printing, and 
Paul E. Scull's treasurer's bail bond was signed by Nathaniel White, George 
Darling and Thomas Curtz, Jr. In September, 1831, moneys were paid to 
Burlingame & Co. for raising public buildings, and to Oviatt for leveling pub 
lie square. In 1831-32 Colegrove, Bennett and Fobes were commissioners. 
In May, 1833, Ghordis Corwin was appointed commissioner, and in Novem- 
ber Commissioner Patterson qualified. B. Freeman with Bennett and Patter 
son formed the board in 1834; Hamilton township was set off, and in Decem- 
ber Commissioner Smith took his seat. In November, 1835, Greene qualified. 
At this time the contract to line the dungeon with hewed stone was sold to 
Wheeler Gallup. Norwich township was established, and other measures taken 
to show progress. The contract for turnpiking the main street of Smethport, 
from John E. Niles' house on the northeast corner of the square, was sold to 
Gideon Irons, in June, 1836. In November, Col. Wilcox qualified, Smith 
and Greene being the old commissioners, but in May, 1837, Commissioner A. 
Lull was appointed, while Oviatt and Coats were elected that fall. Oviatt was 
re-elected in 1838, and Chapin elected. In 1840 Fobes was one of the commis- 
sioners, and later Squire Hunt and Robbins became members of the board. 
In October, 1831, Mr. Chadwick signed the records as prothonotary and 
clerk, and continued to sign until F. B. Hamlin qualified in 1842, and again 
from 1845 to January 21, 1851. In November P. Ford signed as his deputy, 
and January 7, 1852, Paul E. Scull qualified as prothonotary. In 1843 the 
contract for building a bridge at Canoe Place was sold to Solomon Sartwell, 
Sr. , Commissioner Corwin being on the board. In June, 1843, new streets 
were ordered to be opened at Smethport, and old ones repaired, and Lafayette 
and Eldred townships were established. Corwin, Robbins and Marsh were 
the commissioners in 1844, and in this year Hamlin township was organized. 

In 1845 Commissioner Eastey and Dr. Darling, with Marsh, formed the 
board. B. C. Corwin qualified as treasurer in January, 1846, and W. A. 
Williams as clerk at a salary of $100 per year. In the fall A. P. Barnaby was 
elected commissioner. In 1847 W. A. Williams was appointed county coun- 
sel at a stated salary of $25 per annum for actual business, and to be paid 
usual fees for extra time. Commissioner A. Martin qualified in 1848. In 
this year contracts for building the jail were sold. In October R. Wright was 
chosen commissioner, and Ira H. Curtis clerk. J. Marsh took Barnaby' s 
place in 1849. In July, 1850. Contractor William Bell agreed to enlarge the 
court house for $1,000, and on August 30 Wright and Martin were present super- 
intending the hanging of Uzza Robbins for the murder of his wife. J. F. 
Gallup was chosen commissioner in October, 1850, and at this time David 
Grindley proposed to enlarge the court-house for $300. A. Martin, with Gal- 



1' >8 HISTOKV OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

hi]) and Marsh, formed the board in 1851. S. Holmes > jualified. in June, 
1852, vice Marsh, while in 1853 \V. Y. McCoy, A. M. Benton and Holmes 
formed the board. Smethporl was incorporated in 1853, and Otto township 
was formed in INol. In IN-Vi Nelson Peabody, of Ceres, took Dr. McCoy's 
place. W. J. Colegrovo was elected in 1858, and in I860 Messrs. Colegrove, 
Keyes and Davis were commissioners. Howard being chosen in 1861. Annin 
township was organized during this year. 

The commissioner.--. Colegrove, Keyes and Davis, assembled November 30, 
L861, i" consider the question of relieving families "f volunteers, but what was 
accomplished at this meeting is not on record. The records of the period do 
not contain any valuable information, as the clerk appears to have been always 
in a hurry to go home or to the war. In .July, 1862, Associate Judge Darling, 
with Commissioners Howard, Davis and Keyes, resolved to pay $50 forthe relief 
of each family of volunteers, and a tax of two and i me half mills was ordered fi ir 
that purpose. In October. 1862, J. \Y. Starks was appointed commissioner, oia 
D. J. Keyes, while A. P. Brewer took the place of Davis, and B. C. Corwin that 
of Howard. W. S. Oviatt was appointed clerk January 5, 1863. James M. 
Baldwin was elected commissioner in October, 1863, and, with Corwin and 
Brewer, formed the board, and were prominent in managing the affairs of the 
county during these dark days of the Civil war. In August, 1864, the board 
appointed W. W. Brown, county agent, to recruit in the rebel States, empow- 
ering him to offer $100 to recruits for one year: $200 for two years and $300 
for three years. Mr. Brown refused to accept this office on account of ill-health, 
and the commissioners, failing to obtain the services of an agent for this pur 
pose, withdrew bounty offers and placed the matter of Idling the quota in the 
hands of the township authorities. August 20, same year, this resolution was 
rescinded and a $300 bounty offered. G. M. Smith, Baldwin and Brewer were 
commissioners at the close of the war. 

In 1866 -67 Messrs. Brewer, Smith and P. M. Fuller were commissioners. 
In June, 1867, J. C. Hamlin contracted to remove the old-time roof from the 
court house and place a heavy tin one thereon for $150. In 1868 Reuben Den 
uis, G. M. Smith and P. M. Fuller formed the board. In July. 1869, the 
proposition to abolish the old spring water supply and establish a deep well 
was carried, and the contract sold to Daly. Charles S. Rice replaced Fuller 
in December, 1869, and Oviatt took Smiths place in November, 1S70. In 
January, 1871, F. King was appointed clerk; in January. 1872, C. C. Melvin 
was appointed treasurer to fill vacancy, and Coleman took the place of Cum 
missioner Dennis. In 1873 J. It. Chadwiek was appointed clerk, and Commis- 
sioner Smith resumed his place on the board, vice Rice. Bradford borough 
was incorporated. In 187-4 Broder replaced Oviatt. In March. 1N75. the com 
missioners authorized the issue of bonds for $25,000, tin- proceeds to be used 
in building a jail. On April 6, the southeast corner of square No. 38, bought 
of Keating & Co.. was selected as the site and A. S. Bishop was employed as 
building foreman.' In January, 1876, the commissioners-elect, I'enjamin 
Bunker. W. A. Young and Orlando Gallup, qualified, and John K ChadwiGk 
was appointed clerk. In December, ls77. William D. Gallup qualified as 
treasurer. In 1879 Messrs. Colegrove. Abbey and Hover were commissioners. 
H. F. Barbour was appointed clerk at a salary of $500, S. W. Smith, attorney, 
and S. 1). Freeman, physician. In June. 1879, the board considered the recom- 
mendation of the grand jury in the matter of building a new court-house, and 

ordered such building to 1 reetcd on the site of the old house. In Septem 

ber, 1ST'.', the Methodist church house was rented for the purposes of a court 
room, and October 7. 1879, the building contract was sold to John .1. Ilogan. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. Ill 

of Erie, for $75,000. On November 24, the issue of $50, 000- bonds was author- 
ized, and December 16, 1880, a further issue of $60,000. J. W. Beeman was 
treasurer in 1880-81. 

The new court-house was completed, and opened September 12, 1881, B. 
D. Hamlin, presiding, with the following representatives of county sub divi- 
sions: Joseph Hodges, of Annin: B. C. Havens, James Broder and Loval 
Ward, of Bradford; W. R. King, of Ceres; Thomas Conover, of Corydon; John 
Duke, of Duke Centre; Eben Barden and William L. Chrisman, of Eldred; A. 
W. Buchanan, of Foster; Jabez F. Gallup, of Hamlin; James A. Anderson, of 
Hamilton; A. H. Cory, of Keating; Philo Ackley, of Kendall borough; A. M. 
Benton, of Liberty; James Hoop, of Lafayette; A. P. Brewer, of Norwich; 
Arthur Prentiss, of Otto; Adam Martin, of Sergeant; W. Y. McCoy, of Smeth- 
port, and O. D. Coleman, of Wetrnore. Lucius Rogers and John R. Chadwick 
were secretaries. That evening Judge H. W. Williams opened the September 
term of court, and P. M. Fuller qualified as associate judge vice F. N. Burn- 
ham, deceased. In January. 1882, commissioners F. S. Johnson, A. T. Pal- 
mer and Andrew Reilly replaced the commissioners of the court-house building 
days, and appointed John R. Sherwood clerk. In April the erection of fount- 
ains on the square was authorized. In January, 1883, T. A. Morrison was 
appointed county attorney, and E. G. Brown, physician. In July of this year 
more contracts for building iron bridges were entered into. In December, 1883, 
C. C. Melvin qualified as treasure]-. 

In September, 1883, a petition signed by a majority of the poor-masters 
was presented to the court asking for an election on the question of establish 
ing a poor farm. This was granted, and in February, 1884, 1,611 votes were 
cast in favor of and 885 against such establishment. In March, 1884, an issue 
of bonds for $50,000 was authorized; in April the Wilcox farm was purchased, 
and E. F. Richmond employed as superintendent of the farm. In April the A. 
I. Wilcox farm, 345 acres, was purchased for $15,515. In May the style of 
the Allegheny county poor buildings was adopted, and S. A. Bishop appointed 
architect. In July the contract for buildings was sold to Davitt. 0"Brien & 
Hart for $24,813.18; in December a further issue of bonds for $15,000 was 
authorized. In April, 1885, bonds for $9,000 were ordered to be issued. In 
May, 1885, D. H. Burnham was appointed general superintendent. In July, 
1885, the building was ready to receive poor persons. In January, 1886, E. 
G. Brown and H. L. McCoy were appointed physicians, and D. H. Burnham, 
superintendent; but in 1887 Dr. McCoy alone was appointed physician, Dr. 
Brown succeeding him in 1889, John R. Chadwick succeeding Burnham as 
general superintendent. C. S. King was appointed superintendent of poor 
farm in January, 1890. 

In January, 1885, Commissioners Andrew Reilly, R. A. Rice and W. D. 
Gallup qualified. In January, 1887, M. B. Greer was appointed county 
clerk; T. A. Morrison was re-appointed attorney, and Dr. S. I. Wells, physicinn. 
In January, 1888, Commissioners James Anglun, P. M. Fuller and James A. 
McKean took their seats to serve until January 1, 1891. Robert H. Rose was 
appointed attorney and E. G. Brown, physician, in January, 1889. 

The first mortgage was recorded June 1, 1827. It secured to Norry 
Hooker by Justice Rice 200,000 feet of good, merchantable pine boards, pay- 
able in 1828 for 100,000 feet of similar boards purchased from Hooker that 
year. All the mortgage transactions from 1826 to 1858 are contained in 
Record A or in 473 pages. The mortgage record was contained in Book A and 
part of Book B up to 1874, since which time thirty-three large records have 



II 'J HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

been tilled, and since 1864 sixty-three records of deeds and twelve miscella- 
neous records. 

During Asa Sartwell's administration of the prothonotary's office the county 
commissioners declared 100,000 acres in McKean county and 50.000 acres in 
Potter county forfeited for non-payment of taxes. He commenced to purchase 
such lands at from 3 to 10 cents per acre, and continued until he claimed about 
250,000 acres or even more. In time he sold to New York lumbermen the 
pine, hemlock and maple forests, and with the proceeds purchased from the 
Binghams a tract of 55,000 acres in this county (the greater part of which 
floats on an ocean of oil), Joe R. Ingersoll and William Miller being the agents 
of the estate at the time. In 1836 Mr. Sartwell sold all his lands, as pur- 
chased from the Holland Company in Jefferson county, as well as the Kersey 
tract in Jefferson and Clearfield counties to the United States Land Company 
of Boston. 

The townships of McKean county established when the county was or 
ganized are Sergeant and Ceres. Keating township was established in 1824; 
Bradford township, in 1S28; Liberty, in 1828; Corydon, in 1829; Hamilton, in 
1834; Norwich, in 1835; Lafayette and Eldred, "in 1843; Hamlin, in 1844; 
Otto, in 1854, and Annin, in 1860. Smethport was organized in 1853; Brad 
ford borough, in 1873; Foster township, in 1880, and Eldred, Duke Centre 
(since discontinued) and Kane boroughs since 187S; Port Allegany was or- 
ganized in 1SS2. Kendall borough in 1881. 



CHAPTER V. 

COURTS AND BAR. 

First Courts— Character ok the Early Bench and Bar, with Dates of Ad- 
mission of Members Prior to 1878— Celebrated Causes — Judges and As- 
sociate Judges— Prominent Attorneys, Prothonotaries, etc.— Attor- 
neys Admitted to the McKean County Bar since May, 1878, Term— Orlo 
.1 Hamlin— John W. Howe. 

THE first court of McKean county was held at Smethport, September 25, 
1826. Edward Herrick presided, with Joseph Otto and Joel Bishop as 
sociate judges. Prothouotary Timothy Newell and Sheriff Wright were pres- 
ent, while the bar of the circuit was represented by Anson Parsons* a young 
lawyer from Lycoming county (deputy attorney general), subsequently judge 
of the Philadelphia courts; Ellis Lewis,* of Wellsboro, later a judge of the 
supreme court; William Qarretson,* and Peter R. Adams,* of Tioga county, 
later judge of the Peoria circuit, in Illinois; Simon Kenny,* of Towanda, 
Penn. ; Henry Bryan* and Chauucey J. Fox,* of Olean, N. Y. In December 
of this year Orlo J. Hamlin* and John W. Howe* were admitted to the bar. 
Mr. Howe died in 1S73. and his wife, Sallie Howe, died April 17, 1880. In 
February, 1V_'7. Clarendon Rathbone, of Tioga county, was admitted, but no 
record is made of the May. September and December terms of that year. On 
the order book of 1826. however, there are no names of jurors given, but in 
May. 1827, the following-named citizens were paid small sums for jury service: 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN CODNTY. 113 

William Brewer, E. J. Cook, Levi Coats. Oliver Felt, John Smith, Jacob 
Minard, Jonathan Colegrove and William Bell. The other members, it is to be 
presumed, did not call for warrants. In September, 1827, the grand jury 
served two days. The members were William Housler, Robert King, George 
Jackox, Gideon Irons, Jacob Knapp, Simeon M. Morris, Jacob DeW'itt, Will- 
iam Bice, Hugh Moore. Harvey Abbey, Benjamin Billins, William Moore. Henry 
Garlick, Levi Davis, John R. Spencer, Ira H. Curtis. John Applebee, Ralph 
Hill, Ebenezer Burbanks, Smith Wolcott and Essek Smith. In February 
and May, 1828, court was regularly opened, and in September Horace Willis 
ton, of Bradford county, Robert Fleming, of Lycoming, George Miles, of Al- 
legany, N. Y. , and George A. Y. Crocker, of Cattaraugus, N. Y., were ad- 
mitted. 

Court was also held in December, 1828, and four terms were held in 1829, 
James Lowrey,* of Tioga county, being admitted in September. In February, 
1830, Judges Otto* and Bishop* were present; Richard Chadwick* was pro 
thonotary; S. Sartwell, Jr., sheriff; George Darling, coroner; Levi Bennett, 
crier. Judge Herrick* presided; Justus Goodwin,* of Tioga, and D. C. 
Bryan.* of Cattaraugus county, N. Y. , were admitted, and the former ac- 
cepted the office of deputy attorney-general which O. J. Hamlin declined. 
In September William Lowe,* of Cattaraugus county, was admitted, and also 
Abner C. Harding,* of Union county. Robert G. White,* of Tioga county, 
was admitted in December, 1830. 

Regular terms of court were held in 1831, with the judges and the lawyers 
of the old bar present. In February, 1832, Messrs. N. H. Purple* & May 
nard* were admitted; in May, John E. Niles, ex gratia; in December, L. fi. 
Cole,* of Coudersport, and S. M. Russell,* of Olean, became members of the 
bar. In May, 1833, Asa Sartwell signed the record as prothonotary ; in Sep- 
tember, James Armstrong, of Lycoming, and Josiah Emery, of Tioga, signed 
the roll, and in March, 1834, W. S. Oviatt and E. Patterson. P. B. Depew 
was admitted in June, also Horace M. Bliss. Lawyer White was present in 
September. Hiram Payne and Dr. W. Y. McCoy were appointed school 
inspectors for Keating township, and L. R. Hawkins was then deputy clerk. 
T. M. Keeler and Eli Rees were appointed school inspectors for Wharton 
township, in March, 1835. In September C. B. Curtis, of Warren, was 
admitted to the bar, and also Benjamin Bartholomew, A. S. Tiven and James 
D. Bryan. In December Judge N. B. Eldred presided. Joseph P. King was 
appointed crier, and Thomas Struthers, of Warren, signed tbe attorney's roll. 
The May term of 1836 was held before Judges Otto and Bishop. Messrs. 
Hamlin and Niles were j>resent as attorneys; F. B. Hamlin was admitted to 
the bar; tavern licenses were granted to P. W. Beach, of Smethport, and David 
Benson, of Ceres. In September Judge Eldred was present, with Attorneys 
Hamlin, Niles, Payne, Johnson, Bartholomew, Curtis, Wetmore, F. B. Ham- 
lin and L. B. Cole. George Weimer, a German, was naturalized at this 
time. A few insolvent petitions were presented, and the property of the debt- 
ors assigned for creditors' use. Probate business was also transacted. In 
February, 1837, Attorneys Johnson, Purple, Maynard and Bryan, with those 
hitherto named, were present. 

In December the divorce suit of T. B. Shepperd vs. L. Shepperd was 
entered, and also a similar suit by W. B. Otto vs. Lucy O. Otto, but the latter 
was granted her petition in 1838. Testimony regarding the death of Elihu 
Chadwick, a Revolutionary soldier, showed that he died August 30, 1837, 
leaving his widow, Rebekah. In February, 1838, Attorney DePue was pres- 



114 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

ent, and Anson Gibbs, of Cattaraugus county, N. Y., was admitted. In May 
S. P. Johnson was appointed deputy attorney-general for McKean county. J. 
Lowry practiced in this court during the fall term. D. C. Woodcock was 
admitted in December, and prosecuted the indictment for murder against 
Joseph and Sarah Brush. In this case the jury, com prising Erastus Cowles, 
Simeon Morris, David Crow, John Brockham, Richard Renshaw, Joseph O. 
Coleman, Samuel Holland, Jr., Walter Brush, Amos Flatt, William Smith, A. 
P. Barnaby and Joseph Rhodes, found the prisoners not guilty on the 22d. 
At this time a horn was used in calling court. In February, 1839, tavern 
licenses were granted to J. S. McCall, William Gibbs and Samuel Eastey. In 
May William A. Williams* was admitted to the bar. In September a lawyer 
named White appeared, and in December Judge McCalmont presided. Cros- 
by W. Ellis was admitted an attorney, also L. P. Williston and J. C. Knox, 
and in 1841 Alexander McDougall. In February, 1841, The Tomahawk was 
declared a nuisance by the grand jury. President Judge McCalmont. with 
associates, W. P. Wilcox and S. Sartwell, were present in May. Sheriff Rich- 
mond took McCoy's place, while Smith still held the office of coroner. M. 
Gallaher was admitted to the bar in September, and in November, 1842, H. 
W. Smith and G. W. Scotield. In 1843 N. White replaced Wilcox on the 
bench. In 1844 the name of Attorney Brown appears, and in September, 
1845, N. W. Goodrich and John McCalmont were admitted, and Isaac Ben- 
son permitted to pjractice. Nelson Richmond was appointed deputy sheriff, 
and in May, 1846, John K. Williams was admitted to the bar, and in Septem- 
ber Byron D. Hamlin was examined and admitted, and resolutions on the 
death of Judge White adopted. C. B. Curtis was appointed deputy attorney- 
general in December, 1846; Ford was sheriff. Joseph Morse was associate 
judge in 1847, succeeding I. S. Holmes, and A. S. Arnold held over. Attorney 
Knox's name was enrolled here in September, and also that of J. S. Mann. 
In June, 1849, Horace Williston was president judge and W. A. Williams, 
prosecutor. H. W. Souther was admitted to practice here, and Bard was 
sheriff. In January, 1850, the old court-house was considered unsafe, and 
court was held in the Methodist -church. There the trial of Uzza Bobbins was 
commenced, with O. J. Hamlin, Isaac Benson and N. W. Goodrich, prosecut- 
ing; S. P. Johnson, C. B. Curtis, C. W. Ellis and L. D. Wetmore, defending. 
Uzza Robbins was hanged August 30, 1850, and buried, but during the night 
the earth was removed, the murderer's head cut off, and carried to a carpen 
ter's shop, where it was found next day, and replaced in the grave by a com- 
mittee of citizens. Isaac G. Gordon was admitted in January, 1850. and C. 
C. Green and Arthur G. Olmsted, in October. A. D. Hamlin qualified as 
county surveyor. In 1851 Colegrove was sheriff, and Corwiu, coroner. George 
R. Barrett was admitted to the bar in June, and * J. C. Backus, M. W. Aldrich 
ami A. F. Frazer, in October. In January, 1852, Judges R. G. White, R. 
Chadwick and O. L. Stanton, with Sheriff Bennett, were present. F. W. 
Knox and Charles B. Curtis were permitted to practice here. S. F. C. Hyde 
took Richard Chadwick's place as prothonotary. In February, 1853, the court 
refused tavern license to eleven applicants. A year later E. B. Eldred prac- 
ticed here. In September. 1854, Warren Cowles was admitted, and in Febru- 
ary, 185(5, Oliver Payne was examined and enrolled as an attorney, while H. 
B. McKean and E. A. Brooks were permitted to practice here. In December 
Samuel C. Hyde signed the records as prothonotary. Judge White was presi- 
dent of the court, with S. Holmes and J. Darling, associates. In March, 185S. 
the bar petitioned for the removal of H. B. King, the old court crier, and for 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 115 

G. C. DeGolier's appointment. This petition was granted. In June, 1858, 
Judge John Galbraith, of Erie, presided. H. G. Rogers and John H. Boyle 
were admitted to the bar, and in December William A. Nichols' name appears 
as a member of the bar. C. B. Curtis presided, vice White, in June, 1859. 
In September of that year Joseph J. Bobbins was tried for firing John Dexter' s 
house, and acquitted. B. D. Hamlin and Prosecutor Cowles represented the 
State, while L. D. Wetmore and W. A. Williams defended, twenty witnesses 
being called for the defense and twenty for the State. The trial of James 
Dunn, for the murder of James Stocker, in Ceres township, July 1, took place 
at this time, and resulted in a verdict of guilty in the second degree, in June, 
L860; W. Cowles and L. D. Wetmore prosecuted, while B. D. Hamlin and S. 
P. Johnson defended. He was sentenced by Judge White to a fine of one 
dollar costs, and to twelve years solitary confinement. A. B. Armstrong, 
Philetus Ford and Samuel C. Hyde were admitted in 1860. In December, 
1861, Attorney Struthers' name appears. Judge Peabody took the place of 
Judge Holmes. Fred. E. Smith was admitted in July, 1862, and J. W. 
Ryan, J. W. Conley and W. W. Williard, in December. In February, 1863, 
J. B. Newton and G. W. DeCamp were admitted. 

In 1865 Judge Williams, with Associates Darling and Peabody, presided. 
The petition for the incorporation of Kane was reported on favorably. Attor- 
neys Laurie J. Blakely and Beardsley were admitted, and Wallace W. 

Brown appointed district attorney, vice Cowles, resigned. Judges A. T. Bar- 
den and A. N. Taylor were present in December, 1866, with Judge Williams, 
presiding; William J. Milliken was admitted to the law circle, and William K. 
King was appointed county surveyor. In February, 1868, Nelson Medbery 
was appointed crier of the court, vice King, but the latter was reappointed. 
Henry King was admitted to the bar in June of that year, and Charles R. 
Saunders, in February, 1869. The petition against the election of C. C. Mel- 
vin as treasurer was received in December, 1870, and was considered and re- 
considered until the subject was dropped. Manley Crosby was admitted to the 
bar in June, 1871, and Delano R. Hamlin's* name appears on the records in 
August of that year. Associate Judges W. S. Brownell and Loyal Ward 
qualified in December, H. W. Williams presiding, and in February, 1872, 
S. F. Wilson, the additional law judge, was present. At this session the 
name of E. Brown appears as attorney. D. C. Larrabee* was admitted in 
April, and George A. Rathbun in June, when the charge of murder against 
the Burns brothers was tried, one of whom was found guilty of murder in the 
second degree and sentenced to twelve years solitary confinement. Messrs. 
King, Williams and Clark prosecuted, while Backus and Milliken defended. In 
September F. W. Paine was admitted, the death of Warren Cowles announced, 
and H. E. Brown, of Warren, permitted to practice here, and later John G. 
Hall,* of Elk county. In June, 1873, Andrew Tracy signed the roll of attor- 
neys. J. R. Clark was present as an attorney in the fall, and Robert H. Rose 
was admitted to the bar. At this term the celebrated hunter, Leroy Lyman, 
was indicted for killing deer out of season. In June, 1874, Charles Dinsmore, 
of Warren, was admitted to practice, S. W. Smith in September, also F. D. 
Leet, of Cameron county; R. B. Power qualified as stenographer. The 
grand jury declared the jail and outbuildings nuisances; in December P. 
R. Cotter and C. Hollenbeck appeared as attorneys, and W. M. Lindsey was 
admitted. Edward Crow was indicted by a coroner's jury of killing Cal- 
vin H. Hobar, at Port Allegany, August 3. 1874. The same year he was 
tried for this offense and sentenced to a five-years term. He was defended by 



116 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

A. G. Olmsted, W. A. Williams and Charles Dolan. Charles H. Noye- was 
enrolled in September, 1875, and in December the contested election case — C. 
K. Sartwell vs. John R. Chadwick — in re office of prothonotary, was entered. 

B. A. Green was admitted to the bar at this time. In February, 1876, A. W. 
Barry. M. F. Elliott and George A. Berry were admitted attorneys, and H. N. 
Gardiner appointed stenographer. Eugene Mull in signed the roll in June. 
1876, and Roger Sherman, C. J Curtis and G. W. Kelly in December. Dur- 
ing the year a number of divorce cases were presented, and the records of the 
court began to assume large proportions as the population increased. In Feb 
ruary, 1877, Associate Judges Brownell and F. X. Burnham were present; 
among the members of the bar were *0. A. Hotchkiss, R. B. Stone, L. H. Cobb 
and C. H. Sherwood. Julius Byles was admitted a member. In September 
Sheridan Gorton, David Sterrett and H. McClure were admitted; in October 
H. C. Dornan, and in December D. E. Dufton, J. C. Sturgeon and C. L. 
Peck. In February, 1878, A. F. Bole was admitted and C. D. Longfellow 
was enrolled; in April J. C. Johnson, W. I. Lewis and W. B. Graves were en- 
rolled as members, and E. B. McCleery was admitted. Edward McSweeni y's 
name appears upon the records of 1876, and also that of W. B. Boggs. 

Andrew Tracy, a young lawyer of Smethport, was tried in February. 1 879, 
for the murder of his cousin. Miss Mary Reilly, at Smethport. District At- 
torney S. W. Smith, M. F. Elliott and \V. W. Brown represented the State 
while C. B. Curtis, A. B. Richmond, George A. Jenks, A. G. Olmsted and N. 
McSweeney defended. He was found guilty of murder, and, in April, sen 
fenced by Judge Williams to death. The Judge, in passing sentence, said: 
" The victim was a friend, not an enemy; a relative by blood; a modest and 
lovely woman, whose only offense was that she had struggled to overcome her 
affection for you, from a sense of duty toward the church to which she be- 
longed, and toward her parents whom she honored " Every effort was made 
to save this unfortunate man, but the board of pardons refusing to interfere 
with the sentence the law was carried into effect in December, 1879. This 
tragedy of September 18. 1878, may be said to have broken up one of the 
most hospitable homes of McKean county. 

The trial of Robert Butler for murder took place in March, 1880, resulting 
in a sentence of eight years solitary confinement. In December. 1886, the 
trial of John Thompson for the murder, on previous July 24, of John Yohe at 
Mount Jewett was heard. Messrs. Koester, Cotter. Mullin and McClure rep- 
resented tin' State, while Morrison, Apple, Elliott and Hastings defended. He 
was found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to imprisonment. 

Anthony Anderson Oaks, a Swede, was tried in May, 1889, for the murder 
of Henry Robinson, in Long Hollow, Annin township, February 12. L889, 
Messrs. Sturgeon and P. R. Cotter prosecuting, and Messrs. Mullin and Mc 
Clure defending. . . . In October, 1889. one of the heaviest eases ever brought 
before this court was presented — The McKean & Elk Land & Improvement 
Company vs. Elizabeth D. Kane. Plaintiffs originally owned 120,000 acres 
of land in this section of country, of which Gen. T. L. Kane was agent. The 
case involved the title to a large portion of this territory. A brilliant array of 
legal talent was employed in the litigation. F. B. Gowan and William W. 
Wilbank, both of Philadelphia, and R. B. Stone, of Bradford, were for the 
prosecution, and C. H. McCauley, of Ridgway, J. G. Johnson and E. W. 
Hanson, of Philadelphia, B. D. Hamlin, of Smethport, and M. F. Elliott, of 
Wellsboro, represented the defendant. Judgment was rendered in favor of 
Mis. Kane, and the title to the lands aud lots thereby settled. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 11 < 

In February, 1890, a Salvation Army case was presented to the grand jury. 
Three of the bills, ignored by that body, were brought by Gapt. Charles Lock- 
yer, the commander of the Salvation Army in Bradford. He charged two boys 
with disturbing one of the meetings at their barracks. In addition to ignoring 
the bills the grand jury placed the costs upon the prosecutor. The costs of 
the three cases amounted to $93.88. Neither the captain nor the members of 
his army who were present in court had the money, and the captain was com- 
mitted to jail in default thereof. The parting scene between the captain and 
his followers was an emotional one. He kissed the weeping sisters amid a 
chorus of - 'God bless you," and the prison door closed. The inmates of the 
jail, upon seeing the badge of their new comrade, welcomed him with a shout 
and a rapturous medley of "war cry" choruses. 

Another bill was presented to this jury asking an indictment for assault 
against G. W. Kelly. This indictment was the outcome of the trouble between 
the members of the W. V. K. U. which the national president, Mrs. Camp 
bell, attempted to adjust, and whom Kelly had arrested for the larceny of a 
charter. Kelly had the costs to pay in that case, when Mrs. Campbell was 
discharged. The grand jury in ignoring the bill against Kelly placed the costs 
on the county. 

The attorneys admitted to practice here since the May term of 1878 arc 
named as follows: 

George A. Allen, 1878; James Addle, 1877; George W. Allen. 1879; Isaac Asb and 
Harrison Allen, 1880; John N. Apple. 1882, and Fred L. Armstrong, 1884. 

John B. Brawley. 1877; Lewis F. Barger, W. D. Brown, C. L. Baker, R. C. Beach, 
F. L. Blackman, David Ball, W. E. Burdick and M. H. Byles, 1879; James C. Boyce II 
W. Blakeslee and Eben Brewer, 1880; B. T. Ball and W. C. Brown, 1881; Joseph W 
Bouton and C. Benedict, 1885; George H. Bemis and Charles E. Boyle, 18S7. 

\V. B. Chapman, 1877; S. E. Cheeseman, E. Grossman, A. A. Craig, F. J. Corbin* 
and C. L. Covell, 1878; John B. Chapman, S. M. Crosby and J. H. Cunningham, 1879; 
Mahlon J. Colcord and David Cameron, 1883; A. L. Cole and James Cable. 1889. 

M. E. Dunlap and W. M. Dame, 1878; John W. Dunkle, 1881; Joshua Douglass I s *:; 
W. F. Doyle, 1887, and S. M. Decker, 1889. 

Thomas F. Emmens and M. T. H. Elliott, 1880. 

John Forrest, 1879; W. L. Foster, 1883; G. N. Frazier, 1886. 

W. B. Graves, 1878; James George, F. F. Guthrie and J. T. Gealy, 1879; S. S. 
Geisinger, 1880; Henry X. Gardner, 1882; Sam. Trumbine, 188.'), and S. B. Griffith, 188(1. 

D. S. Herron. 1878; P. T. Hallock, William C. Holahan and C. A. Hitchcock, 1879; 
H. D. Hancock, M. J. Heywang, A. P. Huey and George H. Higgins. 1880; Watson 1. 
Hinckley, F. W. Hastings, Jacob Hockley, 1881; T. B. Hoover, 1882; H.J.Hammond, 
; J. D. Hancock, 1885, and ('. Heydrick, 1889. 

II. ('. Johns, 1S78: David H. Jack. 1880; Charles E. Judd, 1884; A. L Kinkead, 1*78; 
E. Koester, J. L. Kinkead and E. L. Keenan, 1879; W. C. Kerr, 1880; H. O. Kline. 1881; 
George C. King, 1882. 

W. J. Lewis, 1878; A. H. Low, 1879; William L. Lillibridge, 1881; W. H. Latham, 
1884, J. W. Lee, 1886, and George A. Lukehart, 1888. 

*B. S. McAllister. A. M. Metzger and C. H. McCaulev, 1877; *E. B. McHleery, E. It. 
Mayo, G. B. McCalmont, H. N. Mclntyre and William McSweeney, 1878; W. M. Mere- 
dith, Samuel Minor, Graham McFarlane, W, A. Mason, C. H. McKee, H. J. Muse, Henry 
McSweenev. T. A. Morrison, Robert Mackwood, William E. Marsh. Joseph M. Met 'lure 
and J. O. Marshall, lsT9 ; .1. C. Metzger, Miles S. Plummer and J. V. Mclntyre, 1880; 
Joseph A. McDonald, 1881; H. C. McCormack and J. P. McNarney, 1883; James J. Mc- 
Carthy. 1884; Charles McCandless, 1885; T. F. Mullin, 1886; J. B. McAllister and R. M. 
Magee, 1888. 

Herman II. North. 1880; Samuel T. Neill, February, 1890. 

N. M. Orrand *Omer Osmer, 1878; John Omerod, 1882; J. H. Osmer, 1883; George 
M. Orr, 1887. 

Louis K. Purviance and H. S. Payson, 1879; M. J. Peck. 1887. 

A. B. Richmond, 1878; F. D. Reaves. 1879; George L. Roberts, 1880; L. Roseuzweig 
and Hamlet £. Rossell, 1881; Thomas F. Richmond, 1882; J. E. Rouuseville, 1888, and 
W. E. Rice. October 15. 1889. 

G. F. Stone, N. B. Smiley* and J. W. Shaw. 1878; II. C. Scoville, G. A. Sturgeon, 

* Removed by death or emigration. 



1 1 8 HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

William Swansea. P. I.. 8eeley, William A. Stone and 6. -I- Stranahan, 1879; I. sin 
dei and M. Sullivan. 1880: H. N. Snyder, 1881, and W. R. Scott, 1884 

E. E. Tait, 1883; C. C. Thompson. 1885. 

.1. K. Wilson, .1. K. Wallace ami *('. L. Wescott. 1878; W. P. Weston. 1879; O. H. 
Wheeler, A. I.eo Weil. Oeorire .1. Wolfe. 18Nii; Irvine Watson, is*'.' m a K. Werdner. 
1883; S C White, 1887. 

Iu the history of Smethport the first night's experience of the pioneer law- 
yer. Orlo J. Hamlin, at the Willard House is described. Next morning Paul 
E. Scull and Judge Sartwell, then the only merchants at the county seat, in- 
vited him to visit the court-house. Accepting, the trio had to creep along the 
fence to escape the quagmire then occupying the present main street. To 
ameliorate matters, the merchants offered the young lawyer a retaining fee of 
$50, and immediately the cloud of "disappointment vanished, and Smefchport 

seei 1 clad in sunshine. He decided to stay, and was permitted to occupy the 

west wing of the brick court-house, then complete!. Obtaining some rough 
furniture he ranged " Blackstone, " "Peak's Evidence" and a borrowed vol- 
ute • of "Pardonis Digest" on the cross-legged pine table, and in December, 
1826, opened the first law office in McKean county. Practice was very primitive 
then. Prior to his coming a justice of the peace, afterward an associate judge 
here, rendered a judgment against the defendant for "six yards of calico"' 
(enough then to dress a woman), and in another case for "twenty five hemlock 
saw logs." The constable did not know how to execute the judgments legally, 
and time alone canceled them. The first case in which Mr. Hamlin partici 
pated here was tried in the Willard tavern. An employe of a saw-mill owner 
sued his employer for assault and battery with intent to kill. Hamlin was 

retained for the defense, while Counselor T prosecuted. The counselor 

was athletic and illiterate, but naturally a speaker and full of assurance. The 
bar-room was crowded, and the voting lawyer determined to prove his profes- 
sional training. He was very technical, and the justice was there to listen. 
Eleek Hall, equally powerful as a counselor, was then bar-tender, and while 
tin' rase proceeded, he helped the audience to what drinks were called for. 
Mr. Hamlin, knowing the physical character of his opponent, called Hall to 
assist him, and when Hamlin had examined and cross-examined the witnesses 

and badgered the counselor, he would wink to Hall to answer Counselor T . 

Eleek would step forward, smacking his lips and foaming with vehemence, 
and continue a doggerel speech until exhausted. The sun had set. and the jus- 
tice had sent the case to quarter sessions, holding the mill owner under bonds. 
The lattersoon drove away his employe, holding his wife as hostage for a small 
debt. At quarter sessions the banished employe did not appear nor did he ever 
C mi" to claim the wife he left as a hostage. 

About the third week in December, i 826, John W. Howe came to Smath 
port, ostensibly to seek employment as a school-teacher. His baggage was a 
small wooden box, which proved to contain only law books. The people soon 
learned that he was a lawyer and not a teacher. He was something of a wag, 
eccentric, sensible, honorable and energetic. After a stay of six years he 
moved to Franklin. Penn , and thence to Meadville. In May, 1827, Thomas 
Fuller came hither to settle, but after a few months returned to Bethany, X. Y. 

In the spring of this year Counselor T fell into a hornets' test. It appears 

Eamlin, Howe and Fuller determined to oust this individual, and their deter 
ruination succeeded; for the counselor, 'being unable to make war against the 
trio, 1 aine irritable and sat down, exhausted. Leaving Smethport at once, 

he never returned to practice here. No doubt he felt like the physician in the 

drama of Macbeth; 

Were I from Dunsinane away anil clear. 
Profit again should hardly draw mc here 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 121 



CHAPTER VI. 

POLITICAL AFFAIRS. 

introditctory— orlo j. hamlin— elections for governor, 1835— elections 
from 1840 to 1883— General Elections, 1884 to 1889— Prohibitory Amend- 
ment Vote, 1889. 

THE early election returns of McKean county are among the very few 
records which have been lost; so that the writer had to rely upon the 
commissioners' records as well as court records for the names of men successful 
in the political battles prior to 1840. 

In 1831-33 Orlo J. Hamlin represented the district in the legislature, and 
was re-nominated in 1833; but his name not being placed on the legislative 
ticket in Lycoming county he withdrew. He refused the nomination in 1835, 
but served in the great constitutional convention until the poor condition of his 
health compelled him to retire, when Hiram Payne, the alternate, took his 
seat. It was Delegate Hamlin who proposed to give a representative to each 
county, a proposition which has been carried out only in recent years. 

In 1835 there was an election for governor. Wolf being the nominee of the 
Democrats, and Joseph Eitner of the Anti-Masonic party. When the votes 
were counted Wolf was leading, and the merry Democrats of McKean county 
never dreamed of such a thing as defeat. To memorialize this victory a party 
of Democrats went out at night and imitated the howls of the wolf so thor- 
oughly that Squire Williams arose from his bed to re-examine the sheep-fold. 
Next day he met Squire Crow, Asa Sartwell, and others, to whom he related 
his night's experience with the pack of wolves; but Squire Crow knew all 
about the howlers, and turning to his Democratic audience said, " Well, boys, 
you have made your last howl." He was correct, for Ritner was chosen gov- 
ernor. Among the old voters of the county are N. W. Abbey, of Smethport; 
H. W. Burlingame, of Kasson; J. P. Evans, of Norwich; M. Ostrander, of 
Liberty, and Moses Dillenbach, of Annin, all of whom voted for Harrison in 
1810. Philetus Ford and A. H. Cory gave their votes to Martin Van Buren. 
C. D. Calkins, of East Smethport is said, by B. D. Hamlin, to have voted that 
year. Jeremiah Chadwick was here then. John Cousin, now of Friendship. 
N. Y. ; Amos Briggs, still a resident; Daniel Crossmire, a resident of Farmers 
Valley; James Daly, Jabez F. Gallup, James Hoop, and a few others named 
in the township sketches, are living representatives of the voters of 1840. 

The elections of 1840 gave 263 Harrison votes to Bernard Connelly, Jr., 
and 275 Van Buren votes to William Philson, the presidential electors. Davis 
Dimmock, Jr., received 305 votes and George Kress 211, for congress; James 
L. Gillis (D.) 266, and Perry Shearman (W. ) 240, for assembly; Nelson Rich- 
mond (D.) 323, and James Taylor (W.) 205, for sheriff; Abner O. Hunt (D.) 
307, and Leavitt C. Little (W.) 220 votes for commissioner; Samuel Eastey 
(D.) 297, and William Smith (W.), of Ceres, 220 votes for auditor. 

In 1841 L. B. Dunham (D.) received 242 votes, and C. C. Gaskill (W.) 
187, for representative; Jedediah Darling (W.) was elected coroner; David 
Crow (W.), treasurer; Nathaniel Robbins (D.), commissioner, and Ben. C. 
Corwin (D.), auditor. 



122 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

J n 1842 the county gave marked majorities to William P. Wilcox for 
senator; Joseph Y. James for representative; F. B. Hamlin for prothono- 
tary. and Asa P. Barnaby, for auditor, all Democrats. 

In 1843 Henry Chapin was chosen treasurer: David R. Bennett, sheriff, 
and J. F. Melviu, auditor. At this time the question of establishing a poor- 
house was defeated by a vote of 310 contra, 163 pro. The successful can 
didates were all Democrats. 

The elections of 1844 show 419 votes for the Democratic elector, N. B. 
Eldred; 340 for John Killinger (W.), and 3 for James Wood, the elector 
on the Abolition ticket. The vote for member of congress was given in the 
same ratio to James Thompson, Charles M. Reed and John S. Mann, respect- 
ively. For the assembly and county offices there were only Democratic and 
•Whig candidates, Rasselas Brown receiving 408 votes, and L. C. Little re- 
ceiving 314, for representative; Oshea R. Bennett (D.) was chosen coroner. 
A. H. Cory (D.) auditor. There were 151 votes recorded for and 498 against 
the sale of the main line of the Pennsylvania canal and railway. The three 
Abolitionists were John King, Henry Chevalier and Eleazer Wright. 

In 1845 Thomas Struthers (W.) received a majority over James L. Gillis 
(D.) for senator, Benjamin Bartholomew (W.) over Sol. Sartwell, Jr. (D. |. for 
representative; Richard Chadwick (W. ) over W. A. Williams (D. ) for pro 
thonotary; Benjamin C. Corwin (D. ) was elected treasurer almost unani- 
mously, and Joseph Morse (D.), auditor. 

James Thompson (D.) defeated James Campbell (W.) for congress in 1846 
in this county; Henry P. Kinnear (W.) received a majority over Solomon 
Sartwell for representative; Philetus Ford (D.) defeated Jeremiah Chadwick 
(W.) for the office of sheriff, and J. F. Gallup (D.) was chosen auditor. The 
charge of youth was preferred against Mr. Ford by the friends of Chadwick, 
who was then eight years younger than the victor. 

In 1847 Alonzo I. Wilcox (D. ) received a majority vote for representative; 
Ezra Bard (D.) for treasurer; B. C. Corwin (D.) was elected coroner, and J. 
F. Melvin (D.) and E. F. Carrier (D.), auditors. 

The elections of 1848 showed 367 votes for Taylor and Fillmore: 418 for 
Louis Cass and Butler, and 22 for Van Buren and Adams. James Thompson 
(D.) received a majority for congress; Timothy Ives (D.) for senator: A. I. 
Wilcox (D. ) for representative; Richard Chadwick (\V.) for prothonotary; 
Samuel Smith (D.) defeated William K. King (W.) for treasurer; B. C. Corwin 
il>. ) defeated Jedediah Darling (W.) for coroner, while O. L. Stanton (D. ) and 
Benjamin F. Cory (D.) were chosen auditors. 

In 1849 Glen W. Scofield (D.) carried the county for representative; Ezra 
Bard ID.) was chosen sheriff, and A. K. Johnson (D.), auditor. Sheriff Bard 
died during his term, when W. J. Colegrove (W.) was appointed. 

Carlton B. Curtis (D.) received 454 votes and J. H. Waltlier I W. ) 292 Eoi 
congress in 1850; W. J. Hemphill (D. ) was chosen representative; Byron D. 
Hamlin (1). ). treasurer by 391 votes against 356 received by Jedediah Darling 
(W.); Robert Hines, Jr. (D.) was elected auditor: A. D. Hamlin (D. ). county 
surveyor: William A. Williams (D.), district attorney by 84 to 54 received 
by N. W. Goodrich, while 588 votes were recorded for Constitutional Amend 
meiit and 2 against it. 

In 185] James L. Gillis (D. ) defeated Reuben Winslow (W.) here for 
representative; Robert G. White (D.) was elected president judge, receiving 
the whole vote (799). Richard Chadwick (W.) and O. L. Stanton (D.) re- 
ceived majority votes for associate judges; David R. Bennett (D. I was chosen 
sheriff; A. W. Needham (W.). coroner; Paul E. Scull (D. ). prothonotary; John 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 123 

C. Backus (D.), recorder, by a vote of 412 against 366 for C. D. Webster (W. ), 
and C. K. Sartwell (D.), auditor. 

The elections of 1852 gave 597 votes to Pierce and King for Democratic 
president and vice-president; 405 to Scott and Graham, Whigs, and 78 to 
Hale and Julien, Free-soil candidates. C. B. Curtis (D. ) defeated Patrick 
Kerr (W.) for congress; Byron D. Hamlin (D.) received a majority vote for 
senator, but the election was almost unanimous; A. S. Arnold (D.) for repre- 
sentative; B. O. Burdick (D.) for auditor; Jedediah Darling (W.) for treas- 
urer, and William Tenney (W.) for coroner. 

In 1853 A. S. Arnold (D.) was re-elected representative; N. W. Goodrich 
(D.), prosecuting attorney; Henry Hamlin (D.), auditor; Jasper Marsh (D.), 
surveyor; A. M. Benton (D.), commissioner. 

David Barclay (D.) received 441 votes for congress in 1854, against 228 
recorded for Kichard Arthur (W. ), Alexander Caldwell (D. ) received a large 
majority for representative; William M. Smith (D.) for sheriff; Wilber H. 
Sartwell (D.) for treasurer; Samuel C. Hyde (D.) for prothonotary ; Jasper 
Marsh (D.) for recorder, John Campbell for auditor, and John C. Backus (D.) 
for prosecuting attorney. The prohibitory liquor law was defeated by a vote 
of 481 against 415. 

In 1855 Henry Souther (W. and K. N.) received a majority vote for sena- 
tor; William A. Williams (D.) for representative, and A. J. Otto (D.) for 
auditor. 

The elections of 1856 show majorities for James S. Myers (R.) for con- 
gress; John Brooks (R. ) for representative; Jedediah Darling (R.) and Syl- 
vanus Holmes (R. ), associate judges; W. A. Williams (R.), treasurer; Joseph 
Housler (R.) and B. C. Corwin (D.), auditors; Alexander T. Barden (R.), 
coroner, and Horatio Bell (R.), surveyor. The vote in favor of Constitu- 
tional Amendment was 257 and against it 126. 

In 1857 Robert Matson (D.) and W. P. Wilcox (D.) had the highest num- 
ber of votes for representatives; Joseph Morse (D.) was elected sheriff; 
Samuel C. Hyde (D.), prothonotary; C. K. Sartwell (D.), recorder; L. R. 
Wisuer (D.) coroner; A. L. Rifle (R.) and Gideon Irons (D. ), overseers of the 
poor; E. B. Eldred (D.), prosecuting attorney. 

In 1858 Chapin Hall (R.) carried the county for congress by a vote of 
835 against 479 recorded for James L. Gillis (D.); Enos Parsons (R. ) was 
elected treasurer; V. P. Carter (R.), auditor; Nathan Dennis (D.), coroner, 
and Joseph Wilks (D.), poor house commissioner. 

In 1859 A. M. Benton (D.) received 649 votes; T. Jefferson Boyer (D.) 
599, I. G. Gordon (R.) 559, and William A. Nichols (R.) 578 for repre- 
sentatives; J. C. Hamlin (D.) and G. B. Gillett (D.) were chosen auditors, 
and Dr. George Darling (R. ), coroner. At this time the district comprised 
McKean, Elk, Clearlield, Jefferson and Forest counties. 

In 1860 Henry Souther, Republican elector, received 1,077 votes; Byron D. 
Hamlin, Democratic, 591, and Joseph H. Otswick, Union, two votes; John 
Patton received the Republican vote for congress, and James R. Kerr, the 
Democratic vote. S. M. Lawrence (R. ) and I. G. Gordon (R.) were elected 
representatives over A. M. Benton and — Brady, Democrats; James E. Blair 
(R.), sheriff; John R. Chadwick (R.), prothonotary; C. K. Sartwell (R.), re- 
corder; W T illiam K. King (R. ), treasurer; W. A. Nichols (R.), attorney; W. 
A. Wdliams (R.), auditor, and Enos Parsons (R.), coroner. 

In 1861 Robert G. White (R.) received 633 votes, and Rasselas Brown 
491 for president judge; N. Peabody (R.) and Jedediah Darling (R.) were 
elected associate judges: Alonzo I. Wilcox (R.) and Joseph B. McEnally 



124 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

(R.), representatives; Charles D. Webster (R.), auditor; P. Ford (R. ), attorney, 
and Ebenezer Barden (R. ), coroner. In the district were 6,983 votes, of which 
Judge White received 0,289. 

The elections of 1862 show 785 votes for G. W. Scofield (R.) and 625 for 
Milton Courtright, Democratic candidates for congress; Stephen F. Wilson 
(It. ) received a majority vote for senator; Martin H. Shannon (R.) and War- 
ren Cowles (R.) were elected representatives; V. Perry Carter (R.), treasurer: 
P. Ford (R.), attorney; H. D. Hicks (D.) and B. H. Lamphier (R.), auditors, 
and D. F. Finley, coroner. 

In 1863 Frank Bell (R.) and John Mahaffy (R.) received 717 votes, T. J. 
Boyer (D.) and A. M. Benton (D.) 625 votes for the legislature, the Demo- 
crats being elected. A. N. Lillibridge (R., 702 votes) contested for the 
sheriff's office with G. R. Moore (D., 642 votes); John R. Chadwick (R., 
7(jy votes) opposed J. B. Oviatt ID. 621 votes) for prothonotary ; Wallace W. 
Brown (R., 710 votes) fought against G. W. Sartwell (D., 617 votes) for the 
cilice of recorder, and James Bond (R., 693 votes) opposed L. R. Miner (D., 
620 votes) for the position of coroner. Warren Cowles (R.) and J. C. Backus 
(D.) received party votes, and Swift (R.) and Duntley (R.) were chosen au- 
ditors. 

The elections of 1864 show 767 votes for Isaac Benson, Republican elector, 
and 652 for John M. Irvine, Democratic elector. G. W. Scofield (R. ) had a 
majority for congress over Bigler (D.); Lucius Rogers (R.) had 649 votes for 
representative, against 575 given to C. B. Eldred (D.), who was elected in the 
district; James E. Blair (R. ) was elected treasurer; John H. Duntley (R.), 
auditor; Dr. M. A. Sprague (R.), coroner, and Thomas King (R.), surveyor. 

In 1865 H. W. Williams (R.) was elected president judge; John Brooks 
(R.) opposed E. B. Eldred (D.) for representative; Warren Cowles (R.) 
defeated S. R. Peale (D.) for senator; S. O. Tenney (R. ) and John S. Bean 
(D. ) contested for the office of auditor; William K. King (R. ) was elected sur- 
veyor; E. C. Olds (R.) opposed Dr. C. W. Robbins (D.) for the coroners 
office. The military vote was taken on the field. In 1866 C. A. Lyman 
(R.) received 848 and G. O. Deise (D.) 742 votes for representative; A. N. 
Taylor (R.) and A. T. Barden (R.) defeated Medbery (D.) and Brownell (D.) 
for associate judges; B. F. Wright 111 ) defeated Coon in the race for sheriff; 
Thomas Malone (R.) was elected treasurer over Dolley; W. W. Brown (R.), 
attorney, defeated Backus; J. R. Chadwick (R.) was elected prothonotary 
overt.'. C. Melvin; F. D. Wheeler (R.), auditor, and A. N. Lillibridge (K.i. 
coroner. P. M. Fuller (R.) received 851 votes and Andrew Reilly (D.) 734 
votes for commissioner. G. W. Scofield (R.) received a majority vote for 
congress in this county. 

In October. 1867, S. D. Freeman (R.) received 769 votes for representa- 
tive, against 185 recorded for Deise; Abram Anderson and W. Y. McCoy were 
elected jury commissioners, with W. Y. McCoy |D.) and W. K. King (R.), 
auditor. In this year the questions of "license*' and " no license " were 
submitted. The first received 715 votes and the second 47S. 

The elections of 1868 show 964 Scofield (R.) and 825 R. Brown votes for 
congress; 978 for A. G. Olmsted (R.) and 808 for A. M. Benton (1).). senato- 
rial candidates; 983 for John Brooks (R.) aud 798 for W. J. Davis (D.) for 
representative; E. B. Dolley (D.) was elected treasurer; Reuben Dennis 
(R.), commissioner, and H. Hamlin (R.), auditor. In November, 1.028 votes 
were cast for the Republican and 730 for the Democratic electors. 

In 1869 L. W. Crawford (R. ) carried the county for representative: 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 1'25' 

Henry King (R.) was elected attorney: Lucius Rogers (R.), protbonotary; J. 
D. Barnes (R. )> auditor, and J. E. Blair (R. ), coroner. 

G. W. Scofield repeated his success this time over Selden Marvin in 1S70; 
V. Perry Carter received a majority for the assembly; C. C. Melvin (D.) was 
chosen treasurer, receiving 804 votes against J. R. Chadwick's (R.) 762; F. 
W. Sprague (R. ) was chosen auditor; William K. King (R.), surveyor, and S. G. 
Curtis (R. ) and D. H. Comes (D.), jury commissioners. 

In 1871 B. B. Strang carried the county for senator over W. Y. McCoy; 
H. W. Williams (R. ) for president judge over M. F. Elliott (D. ); Lucius 
Rogers (R. ) received 940 votes for representative against 720 recorded for F. 
W. Knox (D.); W. H. Curtis (R.) was chosen auditor; M. J. Hadley- (R.), 
coroner, and Charles E. Bailey (D.), surveyor. There were 1,620 votes cast 
for congressional convention and eleven against. Loyal Ward was elected 
associate judge. 

In 1872 Thomas L. Kane (D.) received 1,000 votes, and C. B. Curtis (R.) 
956, for congress; Charles S. Jones (R.) 1,025 and F. W. Knox (D.) 953 for 
representative; W. J. Milliken (R.) 1,022 and D. R. Hamlin (D.) 946 for 
attorney; C. H. Foster (R.) was elected treasurer; M. A. Sprague (R.), pro- 
thonotary; M. N. Powell (D.), sheriff; D. A. Butts (R.), auditor; C. P. Rice 
(R.), coroner; while Jerome B. Niles, John S. Mann and M. F. Elliott were 
chosen delegates to the congressional convention. The Republican electors 
received 1,040 votes, and the Democratic 618. A unanimous vote was cast for 
the convention. 

The elections of 1873 resulted in 614 votes for Conrad Hollenbeck (D.), or 
six over his opponent, C. S. Jones (R. ), for representative; P. T. Kennedy (R. ) 
was chosen auditor; Andrew Reilly (D. ) and Orrin Vosburgh (R. ), jury com- 
missioners, and H. L. Burlingame (R.), coroner. In December the new con- 
stitution was approved by 1,093 votes and disapproved by 64. 

In 1874 Sobieski Ross (R.) had 922 votes and H. W. Early (D. ) 924 for 
congress; Almeron Nelson carried the county for senator; John C. Backus (D. ) 
defeated Butts (II.) for the assembly; A. H. Medbery (D. ) was chosen treas- 
urer; Thomas Callor (D. ), auditor and B. F. Wright (R.), coroner. 

In 1875 C. K. Sartwell and John R. Chadwick received 957 votes each for 
prothonotary, but Sartwell cpialitied; C. S. King(R.) was chosen sheriff; Pat- 
rick H. Cotter (D.), attorney; Eugene Mullin (D.) and J. L. Bean (D. ), 
auditors, and Euos Parsons (R.), coroner. 

The elections of 1876 show 1,427 votes for Republican (or Hayes) electors, 
1,320 for Democratic (Tilden), 12 for Greenback (Peter Cooper), and one for 
Prohibition (Green Clay Smith); John J. Mitchell (R.) received 1,414 votes, 
Henry White (D. ) 1,331, and John T. Davis (G.-B.) 3, for congress; C. H. 
Seymour (R. ), Dr. L. Granger (D.) received the respective votes for senator; 
C. H. Foster (R.), W. J. Davis (D.) and C. L. Allen (G.-B.) were the candi- 
dates for representative; W. S. Brownell (D. ) and F. W. Burnham (R. ) were 
elected associate judges; J. E. B. White (R.) and J. H. Anderson (D. ), jury 
commissioners; J. E. McDougall, coroner. 

In 1877 W. D. Gallup (R.) was elected treasurer; J. E. Blair (G.-B.), 
coroner, and G. H. Lyon (R.), surveyor. 

The elections of 1878 show 1,515 votes for John J. Mitchell (R.), 1,252 for 
R. B. Smith (D. ). and 774 for John T. Davis (G.-B.), candidates for congress; 
Lewis Emery, Jr. (R. ), received 1,652 votes for representative; Roswell Sart- 
well (D. ) 1,321 for sheriff, defeating six other candidates; John B. Brawley 
(D. ) received 1 ,516 votes for prothonotary, defeating H. F. Barbour (R. ) and two 
others; S. W. Smith (R.) 1,699 votes for attorney; O. D. Vosburg (R.) and 



12(5 



HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



J. J. Roberts (R.) were chosen auditors, and N. W. Abbey (R.), J. G. Boyei 
(D.) and W. J. Colegrove (R.), commissioners. 

In 1879 N. C. Gallup (R.) and O. P. Coon (D. ) were elected jury com- 
missioners. 

In 1880* the presidential vote was 3,693 (Garfield) Republican, 3,169 
(Hancock) Democratic, 16 (Dow) Prohibition, and 299 (Weaver) Greenback: 
Lewis Emery, Jr. (R. ). received 4. '233 votes for senator, and Arthur J. Hughes 
(D. i 2,768; David Kirk (D. I received 3,591 votes, and R. J. C. Walker (R. I 
3,541 votes for congress; W. L. Hardison (R.) 3.591 for representative, and 
I. \l Reardon (D.) 3,307; John W. Brennan (D.) received 3,712 votes for 
treasurer and was >'lected; G. H. Lyon (R.) was chosen surveyor, and 
Anthony F. Bannon (R. ), coroner. 

In 1881 Henry W. Williams (R.) was elected president judge; P. M. 
Fuller (R. ) and Henry Hamlin (R.). associate judges; A. I. Wilcox (R.), 
sheriff; John B. Brawley (D.), re-elected prothonotary; Edward McSweeney 
(D. ), district attorney; W. H. Higgins (D. ) and A. P. Brewer (R.), auditors. 

The elections of 18S2 show a majority for M. F. Elliott (D.) for congress- 
at large: almost a unanimous vote was recorded for Arthur G. Olmsted (R. ). 
additional law judge; 2,464 votes for W. W. Brown, Republican candi- 
date for congress; David Sterrett (R.) received 2,294 votes, and B. D. Ham- 
lin (D.) 2,277 for representative; E. F. Clark (R.) and D. F. Pattison (D.) 
were chosen jury commissioners. 

In 1883 Charles C. Melvin (D.) was elected treasurer, defeating John R. 
Shoemaker (R. ) by 120 votes; John King (R.) was elected surveyor, and R. 
A. Dempsey (R.), coroner. 



GENERAL ELECTIONS, 1884. 



Presidential Electors. 

Joseph A. Ege(R.) 3,820 

P. R. Ackley (D.) 2,980 

C. H. Dana (Pro.) 346 

George A. Webb (U. L.) 414 

( lONQRESS. 

W. W. Brown (R.) 3.533 

W ('. Kennedy (D.) 3.775 

John Brown (Pro. ) 323 

Senator. 

Lewis Emery, Jr. (R.) 3,956 

Eugene Mullin (D.) 3,276 

A. Cadugan (Pro 1 357 

Representative. 

Robert II. RoseiR.) 3.779 

0. L. Snyder (D.) 3.443 

C. E. Tucker (Pro.) 405 

Sheriff. 

\ i Bannon(R.) 4.012 

T. L. SarlwelI(D.) 3,009 



D. F. Connelly (Pro.) 222 

N. D. Preston (U. L.) 381 

Prothonotary and Recorder. 

.1. M McElroy(R.) :M!Ts 

J. M. Armstrong (D.) 8,329 

S. L. Rhodes (U. L.) 298 

J. G. Hann(Pro.) 322 

District Attorney. 

Ernest KoesIer(R.) 3,822 

G. B. McCalmont(D.) 

Q. J. Stranchan (U. L.) 381 

Auditor. 

A. P. Brewer (R.) 

G. N. Barrett (R.) 3.796 

Thomas Osborne (D.) 3.006 

C M. Capehart (D 1 2.947 

J. H. McKilopflJ. I..) 415 

.1 \V, Stearns (U. L.) 476 

Peter Findlav (Pro.) 359 

J. C. Young (Pro.) 362 



• Thomas L. Kane was a member of the Republican National Convention in 1880, and voted thirty-six ti 
in that assembly for Grant's nomination. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



127 



In 1885 D. Martin and M. S. Sheldon were elected jury commis 



ELECTIONS, 1886. 



Congress. 

HeDry C. McCormick (R.) 2,727 

Edward L. Keenan (D.) 1,893 

David Sterrett (Pro.) 497 

Representative. 

F. S. Johnson (R.) 2,138 

John K. Wilson (D.) 1,405 

ElishaK. Kane (Pro.) 483 

Ferd. Kriener (U. L.) 1,579 

Treasurer. 

John R. Shoemaker (R.) 2.686 

John W. BrennanlD.) 1,180 

Miles S. Howe (Pro.) 460 

Daniel Clark (U. L.) 1,296 



Coroner. 



William T. McCarthy (R.) 2.192 

Cornelius J. Lane(D.) 1,588 

J. S. Wilson (Pro.) 423 

M. D Ward(TJ.L.) 1,397 

Surveyor. 

C. M. Colegrove(R.) 2,339 

6. H. Lyon (Pro.) 429 

William M. Lord (U. L.) 1,449 

Fence Law. 

For repeal 2.204 

Against repeal 1,207 



Additional Law Judge.* 

Thomas A. Morrison (R.) 2,953 

Edward L. Keenan (D.) 2,811 

Prothonotary, etc. 

J. M. McElroy (R. ) 3,108 

T. H. Lowry(D ) 2,222 

A. J. Mdntyre(Pro.) 204 

Sheriff. 

William B. Clarke (R.) 3,235 

J. W. Stearns (U. L. and D. ) 2,5(1(3 

C. P. Cody (Pro.) 194 



District Attorney. 

George A. Sturgeon (R.) 2,70? 

J. W. Boutou (D.) 1,580 

W. L. Lillibridge (U. L.) 1,480 

Auditors. 

J. O. Sonburgh (R.) 2,891 

F. R. Foster (R.) 2,931 

A. B. Wicks (D.) 2,807 

B. F. Greenrnan(D.) 2,806 

J. C. Young (Pro.) 209 

O. B. Lay (Pro.) 210 



ELECTIONS, 



Presidential Electors. 

John W. Wallace (R.) 4, 

William Dent (D.) 2, 

Seymour J. Noble (U. L.) 

R. D. Horton (Pro. ) 

Congress. 

Lewis F. Watson (R.) 4, 

W. A. Rankin (D.) 2 

Charles Miller (Pro.) 

J. Whitely (U. L.) 

Senator. 

Horace B. Packer (R.-) 4 

G. D. HelwigJD.) 2 

A. H. Cory (Pro.) 

Representatives. 
William E. Burdick (R. ) 3 



922 

126 
295 

201 
758 
415 
337 



John T. Griffith (R.) 4.094 

Frank J. Collins (D.) 3,134 

James McDade (D.) 2,96? 

John R. McCarthy (Pro.) 384 

William Luck (U. L.) 455 

Daniel Clark (U. L.) 405 

Coroner. 

Samuel D. Heflner (R.) 4,061 

Philo Ackley (D.) 2,907 

A. W. Newell (Pro.) 418 

W. D. Murray (U. L.) 325 

Jury Commissioners. 

George Hyde (R.) 4,041 

M. S. Sheldon (D.) 2,882 

Gilbert Moody (Pro. ) 411 

J. W. Corwill(U. L.) 365 

The vote of June 18, 1889, on the Prohibitory Amendment, was 3,054 for, 
and 2,0l8 contra, showing a majority of 996, the vote by political divisions 
being as follows: 



* The district vote was 5.091 aDd 4. --'IS, respectively. 



12 s . HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



Hamlin 108 62 

Kane borough 1 72 79 

Seating township, 1st dist 149 77 

2d dist. ... 2!) 37 

3d dist. ... 88 20 

Kendall borough, Is) dist 05 31 

2d dist 80 44 

Lafayette township. 1st di>t. . 59 HI 

2d dist . 29 32 

Liberty 74 50 

Norwich 56 64' 

Otto township. 1st (list 142 105 

2d dist 103 24 

Port Allegany 119 72 

Sergeant 12 42 

Smethport 83 10S 

Wetmore 171 35 

The official canvass of votes cast in McKean county general election held 
November 5, ISNIt, was as follows: For State treasurer: Boyer (R.), 2,661; 
Bigler (D.), 1,685 and Johnson. 349. For county treasurer: C'apt. Rogers (R.), 
2.467; Broder (L>.), 2,037, and Cody, 278. For surveyor: Hadley, 2.424: King. 
128, and Kane, 606. Mr. King was voted for in several of the precincts by 
personal friends, but. positively declined to have his name printed on the tickets 
as a candidate for county surveyor. 

The township and borough elections of February, 189(1, are recorded in 
the pages of township and borough history. 





For. 


Against. 


Annin township 


137 


26 


Eradford ( ltv 1st ward 1st in , 


42 


84 


1st '• 2d dist 


32 


147 


2d " 


162 


102 


3d " 


93 


170 


4th ■ 


108 


125 


5th " 


71 


66 


Bradford township, 1st dist.. . 


120 


49 


2d dist . 


54 


31 




lis 
4 


35 




27 




US 


56 




[59 


52 


Foster township, 1st dist 


164 


55 


2d dist 


118 


46 


Hamilton township. 1st dist. . . 


30 


31 


2d dist.. . 


35 


3 



CHAPTER VII. 

MILITARY HISTORY. 



Forty-second Regiment (Btjcktails) — Colonel Kane Fifty-eighth Regi- 
ment, P. V. 1. — Eighty-third Regiment, P. V. I.— One Hundred and Fif- 
tieth Regiment, P. V. [.—One Hundred and Seventy-second Regimi m 
P. V. I.— Two Hundred and Eleventh Regiment, P. V. I.— Miscellaneous. 

forty-second regiment (bdcktails). 

THE Rifle Regiment of the Pennsylvania Reserves, changed in June, 1861, 
to the Kane Rifle Regiment of the Pennsylvania Reserve Corps or Forty 
second Pennsylvania Regiment, began organization a day before the telegraph 
flashed the tidings throughout the world of the breaking out of the Civil war. 
On April 13, 1861, Thomas L. Kane petitioned Gov. Curtin for leave to organ- 
ize a command in the" Wild Cat District," known now as Forest, McKean. Elk. 
and Cameron counties. On the 14th the petition was granted, and the news 
being carried into the valleys and mountains, a company of one hundred men 
assembled on the Sinnemahoning, April 24. and entered on raft building, si 
that when the proposed regiment would be formed this method of transports 
tion would be at their disposal. On April 26 three hundred and fifteen men 
marched onto three rafts then ready, and setting up a green hickory pole on 
one of them, the "'flag ship," placed above it a bucktail, and from this floated, 
the fla>r of the Union. 



« 



'*&$r& 



■**•* 




HISTORY OF MCKEAN CODNTY. 131 

The command moved toward Harrisburg without inarching orders from the 
governor. As soon as this movement was known, a message was sent to Lock 
Haven ordering the return of the men to their rendezvous, as only a limited 
number could be received. Gen. Jackman, who desired the service of the hardy 
woodsman, opposed this, and though his order was duly sent, it was never 
delivered. The men arrived at Harrisburg, and saluting the capitol with a 
rifle volley, made their presence known. After some days an order to muster 
in as the Seventeenth Regiment (three months) was issued, but as soon rescinded, 
owing to a regiment of that number being already enrolled. Col. Kane de- 
clined his commission, and entered the ranks May 13. The Warren Company, 
under Capt. Roy Stone, was organized out of similar material in the woods on 
the head-waters of the Allegheny river, while other companies of a kindred 
character nocked toward the capitol; so that on June 12 a regiment was or- 
ganized, of which Thomas L. Kane was commissioned colonel; Charles J. 
Biddle. lieutenant-colonel: Roy Stone, major; A. E. Niles, Hugh McDonald, 
E. A. Irvin, George B. Overton, Julius Sherwood, W. T. Blanchard, Philip 
Holland and John A. Eldred, captains. 

The captains named had previously petitioned Gen. McCall to have their 
companies united under Col. Kane, who resigned June 13, that Lieut. -Col. 
Biddle. a Mexican war soldier, might be commissioned. On the same day the 
captains (Langhorn Wistar's name now appearing) petitioned for change of 
regimental name as hitherto stated. This newly organized command, with 
Simmon's Fifth Regiment and Barr's Battery, proceeded on June 21 to Mary- 
land, and on the 27th established Camp Mason and Dixon on the State line. 
About July 7, immediately after Col. Wallace's regiment left for Martinsburg 
to join Patterson's brigade, Kane's rifles returned to the camp; on the 12th 
a scout of sixty men under Lieut. -Col. Kane moved to New Creek, Va. , 
where the first skirmish took place with McDonald's Confederate cavalry. 
Kane pursued the rebels to Ridgeville, and held that neighborhood until July 
27, when the regiment returned to Harrisburg. On August 6 the Bucktails 
reported to Banks at Harper's Ferry, and on October 20 Companies A, G, H, 
I and K, under Lieut. -Col. Kane, encountered the Louisiana Zouave Tigers 
near Hunter's Mill, and drove them back. Col. Biddle resigned December 12, 
leaving Kane to command on the 20th, at Dranesville. At noon on that day 
the enemy was reported advancing on the Centreville road, when Ord's artil- 
lery was sent forward, and the Kane rifles were advanced to check him. A 
little later Kane discovered the enemy flanking him, and the movement which 
led to the occupation of the brick house, the flight of the rebels, the wounding 
of Col. Kane, another officer and twenty-six men, and the death of two men. 
In January, 1862, H. W. McNeil was chosen colonel, and in March attached 
to Gen. Reynolds' first brigade, four companies being detached, under Lieut. - 
Col. Kane, for the purpose of drill under his new system until May, when the 
four companies reported to Col. Bayard, and were pushed forward to within a 
few miles of Hanover court-house. From May 25 to June the Bucktails led 
Fremont's army, with such spirit that the effective force was reduced to 128 
men. On June (5 Col. Kane and 101 men went forward to rescue the wounded 
of the First New Jersey Cavalry, who were reported to have fallen into an 
ambuscade near Harrisonburg. This little command came suddenly upon four 
Confederate regiments and a battery, and sending back a message, attacked, 
breaking their line. Recovering from the surprise the Confederate regiments 
prepared to advance, when Martin Kelly, volunteering to draw their fire, stepped 
from behind a tree, received a shower of lead and died next day in the glory 
of war. George McGowau was shot near him next day. While holding this 



132 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

position against such terrible odds, the while waiting for Fremont's aid, the 
wounded Col. Kane directed the battle. Private Holmes, who lay close by 
mortally wounded, hearing Gen. Ashby, of the Fifty-eighth Confederate Vir- 
ginians (then in Stuart's rebel brigade!, urge a bayonet charge, fired, killing 
the rebel general. The Fifty eighth was repulsed, but Johnson pushed ODward 
and drove the Federals from the bush, capturing the wounded Lieut. -Col. Kane 
and Capt. Taylor, latter of whom had returned in the face of the enemy to res- 
cue his colonel. Only then did the Confederates realize that the Bucktail rirle^ 
were the actors in this affair, the famous regiment losing fifty-two men in 
killed, wounded and missing, while killing or wounding 559 of the enemy. 

On June 8 Fremont encountered Jackson at Cross Keys. The former was 
driven back, leaving the Bucktails to cover the retreat, but to the surprise of 
all this command cut its way through, and further earned with them the guns 
which they were ordered to support, receiving marked thanks for the exploit. 
While Lieut. -Col. Kane's four companies were thus engaged Maj. Stone, then 
in charge of the other sis companies of 400 men, was engaged in the Shenan 
doah Valley. In June his command arrived at Dispatch Station in the Penin 
sula, and was found within four miles of Richmond, Va. On the 26th two 
companies were at the railroad and meadow bridge on Beaver Dam creek, and 
the other four in the neighborhood. Their fire checked the enemy's advance: 
but in the hurry, Stone learned that Simmons, who commanded the grand 
guard, had withdrawn the three Bucktail regiments in his rear, leaving the 
other three within the enemy's circle. Stone succeeded in bringing in Wis- 
tar's and Jewett's companies to the entrenchments, where were now the three 
companies formerly withdrawn, leaving Capt. Irvin's company within the 
enemy's lines. The latter withdrew to a swamp, where he held out for three 
days before surrendering. The Bucktails' loss in this affair was seventy-five in 
killed, wounded and missing. Maj. Stone's subsequent doings at Mechan- 
iesville and Gaines' Mills are matters of national history, his little force of 
Bucktails holding a whole division of rebels back and delaying the battle at 
Gaines' Mills until the Federal forces recovered strength to contest that field. 
It lost that morning and on the retreat half their men. being able to muster 
only six officers and 125 men on its arrival at Gaines' Mills, where it suffered 
a loss of one officer and twenty-five men. On the 29th slightly wounded and 
missing members rejoined the remnant of the command, bringing the force up 
to five officers and 150 men, with whom were incorporated five officers and 
eighty-four men of the United States sharpshooters. The battle of Charles 
Citj Cross-roads took place July 30. There the "Bucktails" did some 
extraordinary fighting, and barely escaped capture. On the night of that 
day McCall rode into a rebel command and was captured, leaving Stone to 
escape under a shower of lead. The Bucktails lost two officers and ninety 
men killed, wounded and taken prisoners, and their United States sharp 
shooter friends lost two officers and fifty-six men. At Harrison's Landing the 
work of bridging the river was assigned to the Bucktails. At 5 p. m. these for- 
esters began work, chopping the timber along the river. At sunrise, next 
morning, they had the 500-feet bridge ready for the artillery to cross. Soon 
after Maj. Stone resigned to take command of the One Hundred and Forty 
ninth Infantry, and Col. McNeil, who had returned, resumed command. Then 
some of those captured at Mechanicsville were exchanged, rejoined their com- 
mand, and all were present at the Second Bull Run, August 29 and 30, where 
live were killed, nineteen wounded and three missing. 

Returning to Col. Kane's four companies, they are found at Brandy Sta 
tion on August 19, 1S62, where Kane rejoined them after his term of imprison- 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 133 

meat. At this time they numbered 160 men. On the morning of the 23d Capt. 
Winslow's guard of fifteen men were seeking shelter from a heavy thunder 
storm when Gen. Stuart's rebel cavalry rode over his tent, taking all prisoners. 
Col. Kane rallied his men to the number of sixty-eight, and with this small force 
performed some of the most daring feats known to military men. That night 
he charged right and left, causing the stampede of the rebel army, losing onlv 
one man mortally wounded and four wounded of his sixty eight warriors. Next 
morning they crossed the Cub run bridge, which they destroyed, and Gen. 
Pope's army was saved. On September 7 Kane was commissioned brigadier- 
general, Edward A. Irvine, of Company K, taking his place as lieutenant- colonel 
of the Bucktails, while A. E. Niles was commissioned major, vice Stone, now 
colonel of the One Hundred and Forty- ninth regiment. 

On the day of the promotions just referred to Col. McNeil was ordered into 
Maryland, and, September 14, 1802, led the attack on South Mountain, losing 
eighteen killed and forty five wounded, among the latter being Lieut. -Col. Ir- 
vine and Capt. Mack. At the Dunkard church, Antietam, they led next morn- 
ning, when Col. McNeil, Lieut. William Allison and twenty-eight men were 
killed, and sixty-five men and officers wounded. Capt. McGee at once took com- 
mand, and, aided by Adj. Hartshorn, fought to the close of .that terrible day. 
This division of the Bucktails lost in the two days 110 officers and men, killed, 
wounded or missing. After this affair Capt. Charles F. Taylor, who was capt- 
ured while returning to save Kane at Harrisonburg, rejoined the command. 
He was soon commissioned colonel, and moved to the Rappahannock, where, on 
December 12, the Bucktails met the enemy, losing in killed Lieut. W. B. Jen- 
kins and nineteen others, with 113 wounded and missing. 

On February 6, 1863, the celebrated regiment is found with the First Bri- 
gade at Fairfax Court House. Maj. Niles is lieutenant-colonel, luce Irvine, re- 
signed on account of wounds; William R. Hartshorn is major, and Roger 
Sherman, adjutant ; Col. Taylor is commanding, and receiving old members from 
the hospitals. On July 2 the Bucktails are on historical Little Round Top. 
They have just arrived, and in time, for in a moment they are called upon to 
save the Union artillery. DashiDg down the hill, through the deep swamp to 
the wheat field, they drove the enemy, but paid dearly for the honor in the 
death of Col. Taylor and Lieut. R. Hall. Lieut. Col. Niles was wounded 
some time before, so Maj. Hartshorn took command, and the Bucktails fell 
back to remain in rest until the afternoon of July 3, when they again led in 
the capture of the Fifteenth Georgia Confederate Regiment. In this Gettys- 
burg affair Capts. Hugh McDonald, J. D. Yerkes, N. B. Kinsey and Frank 
Bell; Lieuts. J. E. Kratzer, T. J. Roney, J. R. Sparr and thirty-one men 
were wounded. 

In April, 1864, the Bucktail fighters were given Spencer repeaters instead 
of the Sharp's rifles of former times. On May 5 the regiment barely es- 
caped capture (having been deserted by the first brigade), by breaking 
through the rebel lines, near Parker's Store. On the 7th Maj. Hartshorn lost 
two killed and twenty-oue wounded. The day after his little command arrived 
at a point three miles north of Spottsylvania to find two divisions of the fifth 
corps engaged in a terrible struggle. On the 10th it participated in the two 
assaults on the rebel works at Mountain Run, and engaged incessantly until 
the morning of May 13, when it was given a day for rest, but resuming work 
next day continued in active service to their last battle on the Mechanicsville 
road, May 30, 1864. In the Wilderness campaign this command lost two offi- 
cers and twenty-six men killed, and six officers and 112 men wounded. The 
veterans and recruits were transferred to the One Hundred and Ninetieth In- 



l:il HISTOliY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

fantry, of which Hartshorn was commissioned colonel, arid the One Hundred 
and Ninetieth was mustered out June 11. 1864. 

The field and staff of the Forty-second Regiment comprised the following 
named officers: Col. Thomas L. Kane, mustered in as colonel May 12, 1861, 
1 > ii t resigning next day took a position in the ranks: promoted to colonel Jane 
l'_\ 1861, he resigned and was commissioned lieutenant-colonel June 13, 1861; 
I'ruin this period to the close of his service he was present at all those stirring 
affairs in which the Bucktails were always the leading actors. Charles J. 
Biddle was appointed colonel May 29, L861, and resigned February 1. 1862. 
Hii^'li \V. McNeil, promoted from captain of Company D to colonel January 
22, L862, was killed at Antietam, September 16, that year. Charles F. Tay- 
lor, killed at Gettysburg. A. E. Niles resigned the position of lieutenant- 
colonel March 28, 1864. Roy Stone, promoted colonel of the One Hundred 
and Forty-ninth August '2'.). 1862. W. R. Hartshorn, mustered out June 1. 
1864. John T. A. Jewett. captain of Company D. February 5, 1862 
Roger Sherman, adjutant, resigned March 21, 1864. H. D. Patton, quarter- 
master, in May. 1861. Lucius Truman appointed quartermaster on the same 
day. S. D. Freeman, surgeon, in May, 1861, resigned to be promoted sur- 
geoD of United States Volunteers, and was succeeded December 17, 1862, by 
Jonathan J. Comfort, who, in May, 1864, was transferred to the One Hundred 
and Ninetieth Regiment, and breveted lieutenant-colonel March 13, 1865 (Dr. 
Freeman was breveted lieutenant-colonel for distinguished services. I W. 
T. Humphrey, assistant surgeon in 1861, was promoted surgeon of the 
One Hundred and Forty-ninth regiment September 5, 1862. W. B. Jones 
was commissioned assistant surgeon August 2, Daniel O. Crouch December 1, 
1862, and Lafayette Butler September 30, 1863, the latter being transferred in 
1864 I o the One Hundred and Ninetieth regiment. W. H. D. Hatton. corn- 
mi sioned chaplain August 3.1861. resigned November 11, 1862 (charged with 
straggling by Roger Sherman), and had no successor. Sergeant-major Baker, 
Quarter-master Sergeant W. C. Hunter, and Hospital Steward J. J. Starr 
were transferred to the One Hundred and Ninetieth regiment in May. 1864. 
John Lemon, commissary-sergeant, was mustered out with Company K. June 
II. L864 R. Fenton Ward, first hospital steward, was promoted captain of 
Companj 1 July 1. 1862. Henry Zundel. principal musician, served to mus 
ter out. 

Companj I. of the Forty-Second Regiment, was organized in April. 1861, 
but not mustered in until May MO. L861, as related in the regimental history. 
William T. Blanchard, the first captain, was wounded at Harrisonburg June 
6, IV,:!, and resigned December 1 following. Lieut. Frank J. Bell, wounded 
at Antietam September 17. IS(VJ. was promoted captain March 1, 1863, and 
received discharge October 19, same year. R. Fenton Ward was promoted 
second lieutenant July 1. 1862; first lieutenant March 1. 1863; wounded in 
service, and transferred to the One Hundred and Ninetieth Regiment May 31, 
1864. Second Lieut Bruce A. Rice died June 14 of wounds received at 
Cross Keys June 8, 1862. Richard A. Rice was promoted second lieutenant 
M aj L8, 1863, and served until mustered out, June 11. 1864. Edward D. 
Curtis served as first sergeant, to date of muster out: Sergt. W. J. Kibbe 
mnded at South Mountain, and died September 18, 1862; A. G. Foster 

served as sergeant until muster out, (Dr. Fr nan states that Foster was 

kdle I); also L trenzo !'.. Prosser, while Sergt. Angelo M. Crapsey was wounded 
and made prisoner at Fredericksburg; Sergt A. Farnham was discharged on 
surgeon's certificate August 6, L861; Sergt. Charles 0. Bee was wounded at 
Fredericksburg, and died January 11. 1863; Sergt. John K. Haffey was dis- 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 135 

charged for disability February 22, 1863; Corp. Peter B. Porter was transferred 
to the One Hundred and Ninetieth Regiment; Henry L. Dewell, wounded and 
made prisoner at Second Bull Run, was transferred in 1804 to the One Hun 
dred and Ninetieth Regiment; Solomon S. King lost his foot at Fredericks- 
burg, but was able to be transferred to the One Hundred and Ninetieth Regi 
meut in 18(34. Wallace W. Brewer, wounded at Antietam, and Joseph D. 
Barnes, wounded at Fredericksburg, were mustered in June, 1864. Corp. 
Henry J. Hadley was killed at Gross Keys June 8, 1862, and Corp. F. C. 
Holmes died June 14 of wounds received at Harrisonburg June 6, 18<>'-!. 

The private troops who were killed or died from wounds are named as fol 
lows: Joseph A. Ames, died; Hero Bloom, Henry Magee, William M. Maxson, 
killed at South Mountain; Patrick H. Clyens, Joseph Hayter and Forest 
Sherwood, killed at Fredericksburg; William L. Dale and Milton G. Farr, 
killed at Harrisonburg; James Newpher, died October (>. 1862, and N. A. Delos, 
September 17, 1862, from wounds received at South Mountain; P. G. Elli- 
thorpe, wounded at Gettysburg, died; Joseph Keener died of wounds, also 
Nathaniel S. Nichols, and Franklin West, wounded at Cross Keys, Va. , died 
June 14. 1862. Joseph Little lost a leg and was discharged. 

The private troops who received wounds but recovered and were discharged 
are named as follows: James T. Alton, wounded at Cross Keys; Joseph Aus 
tin, at Gaines' Mills; Leslie S. Bard, at South Mountain; Samuel R. Beck- 
with, at Cross Keys (was promoted second lieutenant of Company G, One 
Hundred and Fiftieth Regiment September 3, 1862); Cornelius Cnlp, at Gettys- 
burg; Peter Close, at Antietam; Rev. Columbus Cornforth, at Fredericksburg 
(he was Baptist preacher at Smethport); D. V. Crossmire, at Second Bull Run; 
Frank B. Crandall, wounded and fled; Newell E. Howard, W. Snyder and 
Alonzo Mapes, at Fredericksburg; H. J. Hammond, at Harrisonburg; Samuel 
C. Hamlin, Albert Herglei, at Harrisonburg; Samuel M. Horton, at Fredericks 
burg; Russell Ingalsbee, at Harrisonburg; Sheldon Jewett, at Second Bull 
Run; Ferd. Kilbnrn, at Harrisonburg: Frank King, at Gaines' Mills; William 
A. Lafferty and Charles P. Rice, at Antietam; Charles Mulvaney, at Second 
Bull Run: Charles Mellison, J. M. Woods, William Richardson and Charles 
H. Robbins, at Harrisonburg; A. A. Walters, at Fredericksburg. 

The troops regularly discharged were Thomas Barnes, W . J. Bridge, G. 
W. Briggs, J. B. Belknap, H. G. Babcock, A. L. Buchanan, S. Berts. Jake 
Both, D. W. Brigham, J. O. Blauvelt, J. R. Coates, C. L. Clark. D. Case, 
Alpha W. Colegrove, Edgar W. Wells, G. A. Campbell, W. J. Curtis, N. M. 
Curtis, J. W. Cobhett, L. B. Danforth, J. Demars, C. D. Dickenson, E. W. 
Edson, J. M. Essiugton, B. H. Freeman, E. P. Fanning, J. A. Fish, H. K. 
Gould, A. T. Hoop, J. L. Johnson, W. A. Knapp, R. M. Keach, James Land- 
rigan, C. B. Lawrence, J. Leber, P. C. Lovell. W. Mulvaney, Joshua Moses, 
William Mason, J. R. Mains, W. Page, W. H. Rifle, D. T. Smith, S. G. 
Southwick, F. T. Smith, A. P. Smith, E. B. Seamans, B. A. Treat, G. W. 
Taylor, A. D. Townsend, C. Vandyne, G. O. White, A. Walters. John 
Whalen, C. H. W r eed. 

Among the names on the original muster roll of Company I, Forty-Second 
Infantry not given above, are S. D. Freeman, who was immediately promoted 
surgeon; John and Joseph Austin, Jacob Crow, G. A. Campbell, E. N. How- 
ard. Samuel Horton. F. King. Solomon S. King, R. T. Lane, Peter Porter, 
W. Richardson and A. J. Turpin. There were eighty-two private troops en- 
rolled. John W. Newell was first jiaymaster. 

A roster of the surviving members of the old regiment was compiled on 
July 1, 1SS9. Those then residing in McKean county are named as follows: 



186 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



Name. Postoftice. 

Brewer, W. W Mi. Jewett 

Barnes, J I 1 Kasson 

Brown, W. W Bradford 

■■ ' . A. \V Colegrove 

• im| bell, J. J Eldred 

Case, Dennis Bradford 

Curtis, William Custer City 



Name. Postoffice. 

Lucore, S. J Kendall Creek 

Mulvaney. William Sartwell 

Prosser, L. I! Kendall Creek 

Quigley, George 1! Gufley 

Rice, R. A Eldred 

Rifle, W. II Norwich 

Ryan, Thomas H Kane 



Clark, C. L Bradford Bmith, A. P Colegrove 

i oates, John R Annin Creek Seward, Levi Kendall Creek 

Dickesun, C. W Norwich Southwick, Samuel Smethport 

Dougherty, George Farmers Valley Simmons. AI Eldred 

Freeman, 8. D Smethport Snyder, T Kendall Creek 

Hanlan, Patrick Bradford Taggart, H. II Bradford 

Howard, E.N Custer City Walters, A. A Smethport 

Jewett, Sheldon Custer City Wood. .lames M Vnnin Creek 

Lane, R. T Bradford " Wright, B. F Smethport 

Looker.R.E Kane Wells, E. W Bell's Run. 

Lanigan, James Kane 

E. W. Seamans, one of the survivors, while in the Thornton House at 
Drainsville, Va.. was the objective point of a rebel battery. During that <lan 
geroua moment ho was discovered by Dr. Freeman, standing before a mirror, 
oiling his hair. The Doctor, amazed at the fellow's coolness, ordered him to 
take his rifle and "shoot down the rebels," an order with which he complied 
with equal coolness. At the re-union in October, 1887. Dr. Freeman read the 
historical address. 

FIFTY-EIGHTH REGIMENT, P. V. I. 

The Fifty-Eighth Regiment was raised at Philadelphia, also in McKean, 
Cameron, Potter, Elk anel adjoining counties, in the fall of 1861, and was 
organized February 13. 1862, with John R. Jones, colonel; Carlton B. Curtis. 
lieutenant-colonel, and Montgomery Martin, major. The forward movement 
commenced March 8, and on May II) the regiment was at Ocean View, en route 
to Norfolk, over which the flaw of the Fifty-Eighth was raised the night pre- 
ceding the morning on which the "Merrimac" was blown up. On February 
13, 1863, as if to celebrate the first anniversary of organization, the Confed 
erate camp al Sandy Ridge, on the head-waters of Cone creek, was captured 
and the buildings burned. At New Berne. March 1 1. this command, with others. 
withstood Pettigrew's attack, and on May 20 the works at Kingston were capi 
tired. From June 27 to December .'!1 the regiment was scattered mi detached 
service in the Pamlico river country, doing excellent and, in two instances, 
brilliant work. On the last date Col. McChesney, the successor of Palmer as 
commandant at Washington. X. C.. led an expedition to Greenville, where a 
hand to hand battle was carried on thai night. In May. 1864, the regiment 
proceeded to Bermuda Hundred, on the James river, and on the 9th lost 
twenty killed and wounded near Appomattox. The command arrived at Cold 
Earbor June 1, participated in the assault on the 3d, carried the rifle-pits, 
and was continuously at the front until June 13, and again at Petersburg until 
relieved on the evening of June 15. After return froma well-earned furlough, 
the command held the hill near Fori Wisconsin, on August 25, .-Mel on Sep 
tember 29 participated in the assault on Fort Harrison, which principal point 
of defense it capi nred. 

\t Star Fort, Spring Hill, Fort Harrison and Charles City Cross Roads the 
Fifty eighth completed a term of magnificent services, and commencing a new 
term (which resulted in the capture of Lee's army), served until muster-out, 
January '_' I. I 866. 

Company E of the Fil'U eighth was raised in ^McKean. Erie and Tioga 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 137 

counties. John C. Backus, the first captain, resigned February 12, 1863, and 
in March Lieut. T. J. Hoskinson was promoted, but resigned September 9, 
1864, when Capt. Philetus M. Fuller succeeded, and served until muster-out, 
January 24, 1866. Lieut. Charles D. Webster was gradually promoted until, in 
October, 1864, he was commissioned captain and assistant quartermaster. Syl- 
vanus Holmes was promoted adjutant in February, 1862. F. W. Davis rose from 
the ranks to lieutenant, and served until discharged, June 14, 1865. Second 
Lieut. Samuel B. Sartwell resigned, July 11, 1862, and DeWitt C. Kinsman 
was mustered out, December 7, 1864, at expiration of term. Sergts. Pontius 
Solomon, W. W. Richardson, J. H. Cobbett, Amos M. Preston and G. W. Fan- 
served from October, 1861, to January 24, 1866. Sergt. John Shaftsbury was 
discharged for disability in September, 1862; Melvin Hall for wounds, in July, 
1865; Theodore M. Clark and C. D. Gilbert mustered out in December, 1864; 
William E. Derning, in August, 1865, and W. A. Moore, for promotion, in 
August, 1864. Corps. Robert Walters, Jobn Lorson, William Grigsby, Alfred 
B. Loop, James A. Saurwine (a substitute), David C. Brown and Warden H. 
Gary were mustered out in January, 1865; Robert A. DeGolier in December, 
1864; John Toony (a substitute) in November, 1865; while James G. Booth, 
N. S. Grinnell, F. E. Patterson, David Quirk and Allen Tibbits (veterans), 
left in August, 1864, the State papers alleging desertion. James H. Doal 
served until 1865 as musician; M. McMillan was discharged in 1862, and R. 
Reed in 1863. 

The private troops who died during the war, or were killed on the field, are 
named as follows: Henry Baker, at New Berne, N. C, in 1863; George W. 
Beckwith, wounded, died at Hampton, Va. , in 1864; C. S. Cnlp, died at 
Hampton in June, 1863; S. P. Dikeman, at New Berne, N. C, in August, 1863; 
Orlando Foster, at Bermuda Hundred, Va. , July 15, 1864; J. H. Green, at 
Harrisburg in December, 1861; S. L. Goodwin, at Portsmouth, Va., in July, 
1862; G. W. Hall, at Alexandria, in June, 1864; Hugh L. Haughey, at An- 
napolis, in March, 1865; John S. Niles, at Harrisburg, in January, 1862; A. 
J. Rifle, at Fortress Monroe, in November, 1864; Joseph Tibbits, of wounds, 
at Arlington, in June, 1864; H. H. Van Gorder, at Bachelor's Creek, N. C, 
March, 1863; Dan Vanatt#, in McKean county. October 14, 1864; Abram 
Weed (substitute! at Fortress Monroe, in May, 1865. 

Company F was recruited in McKean, Elk and Warren counties, Lucius 
Rogers being commissioned captain in December, 1861. He resigned in Feb- 
ruary, 1863, when Henry Rogers was promoted. On his discharge for disa- 
bility, February 26, 1864. John M. Collins held command and served until 
January '24, 1866. Lieut. W. W. Wells died of wounds July 12, 1864, and 
was buried at New Berne, N. C. ; Lieut. C. J. Tubbs was mustered out in Feb- 
ruary, 1865; Sergt. P. M. Thompson, in January, 1866; P. T. Campbell 
in December, 1865; Robert M. Overhiser, chosen sergeant at organization, 
was promoted lieutenant of Company H in December, 1864, and veteranized; 
James A. Arnold served from October, 1861, to August 22, 1864, when, it is 
alleged, he deserted. Sergt. Ambrose C. Fuller, wounded in September, 
1864, was absent at muster-out. James C. Malone and James Phelan were 
on furlough. Jesse C. Chew served until January, 1866; M. J. Hadley, pro- 
moted sergeant major in June, 1865, was mustered out in January, 1866, and 
George W. Hayes is said to have deserted August 22, 1864. Corps. George 
F. North, John Walshe, F. A. Sutton, Patrick Walsh, W. H. Hewitt, and L. 
B. Gleason served until January, 1866; A. N. Farman was killed at Fort Har- 
rison, Va. W. H. Rogers was wounded there, and Hiram Peasley died of 
wounds received there in the affair of September 29, 1864. Elijah T. Davis 



138 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

was mustered out February 22, 1865. The musician, L. S. Lytle, served 
until January, 1866. Calvin Shepherd, an old hunter of Cameron county, 
served in this command. 

The private troops killed on the field or who died of wounds or disease are 
named as follows: William Alinder, at Bachelor's Creek, N. C. ; Joseph Black, 
wounded September 29, 1864. was buried at Cypress Hills; John Bowers, 
drafted, died at Point of Rocks, Va. , in February. 1865; Otis Copeland was 
killed at Fort Harrison; H. K. Conrad died at Harrisburg January 4, 1862: 
Ezra Daniels died at Hampton, Va. , of wounds, in October, 1864: W. E. 
Flanders, drafted, was buried at Staunton, Va. , July 29, 1865; R. M. Gibson, 
at Beaufort, N. C. , October 1, 1863; Andrew Henderson, died in Anderson - 
villc July 1. 1X64; Don D. Jones, in Cameron county July 16. 1 SU4 ; Peter 
Manning was killed at Fort Harrison September 29, 1864: James A. Mapes, 
died at Suffolk, Va., November 21, 1862; Alex. McCrady. at Washington. N. 
C October 10, 1863; George Peasley, at Petersburg, August 12. 1S65; James 
Peasley, at Washington, N. O, September 5. and Philander S. Peasley Decem- 
ber 28, 1863; Samuel Richardson, died at Harrisburg January 15, 1862: G. 
D. Rogers, at Point of Rocks, Va. , October 3, 1864; Jeremiah Sullivan, at 
Portsmouth, Va., August 6, 1862; James Vangarder, of wounds, at Hampton, 
Va., October 30, 1864. and William Whitaker, of wounds, October 12. 2864 

Company H was raised in McKean county October 1, 1861, with Asa H. 
Cory, captain. On his resignation August 21, 1862, C. C. Moses was pro- 
moted, captured July 6, 1863, but returned and was mustered out April 16, 
1865. Lieut. Roswell Sartwell resigned November 25. 1862, and F. N. 
Burnham was promoted. Robert M. Overhiser, transferred from Company F. 
was promoted captain April 17, 1865, but mustered out in 1866 with rank of 
lieutenant. Second Lieut. David Ludwig died at Philadelphia June 17. 
L863; Oliver Haines was mustered out in 1866; J. M. Pelton was discharged 
for promotion in August, 1863, and W. E. Moses was promoted second lieuten- 
ant of the First North Carolina Colored Regiment April 29, 1864. 

The sergeants of this company are referred to as follows: Joseph S. Vaughn. 
Norman J. Stanton, L. L. Dennis and Fernando Loop were mustered out in 
January, 1866; W. H. Richmond and W. M. Skiver, in December, 1864; 
Alonzo Cross and Ed. Baldwin in October, 1865; Allen Wightman died of 
wounds April 20, 1863, and John Bord is said to have deserted August 30, 
1865, and Theodore F. Ostrander on the same day. 

The corporals' records are thus given: Cyrus Baldwin, wounded at Cold 
Harbor; Charles Rodenbush and M. M. Griffin mustered out in January. 
1866; Niles Robbins and Clark B. Hopkins discharged for disability in l^r.j 
and 1863, respectively; E. C. Wolcott. George Ferris. Emory Skiver, W. D. 
Reitz, George' J. Reitz, William Shafftstall (the three last named drafted) were 
mustered out at close of their terms. W. P. Fowler died September 21. 
1864; Henry H. Metcalfe died in Cameron countv, returning from prison in 
1865; W. D. Burlingame died at Hampton, Va.. March 17. 1865; M. D. Jud 
son, transferred to the Fourth United States Artillery, and Augustus Short to 
United States Signal Corps. The musicians were Anthony Breithaupt la Bub 
stitute), sick at muster out, George'W. Bowen. discharged for disability in 
May. 1865, and Nathan Boylan alleged to have deserted December HI. L865, 
after long service. 

The deaths of private soldiers on the held, or from wounds or disease, are 
recorded as follows: Henry Blasdell, died at New Berne, N, ('.. Jul \ 16, 
1863, of wounds received April 20; James Baldwin, October 12. 1864, of 
wounds received September 20. 1863; C. J. Carter, October. 3, L864; Henry 



HISTOBY OF MCKEAN COONTY. 141 

D. Hagadorn, killed at Cold Harbor, June 1, 1864; H. H. Haines, died Janu- 
ary 24, 1865; John A. Jennings, February 23, 1868; Leslie Lyons, July 7, 
1864; Charles N. Lawton, wounded at Cold Harbor, died at Arlington; Jerome 
Notting, wounded September 29, 1864, died October 4 at Hampton, Va. , and 
Philip Koades, died September 24, 1864. In this command no less than 
eighteen substitutes are accounted for, nineteen drafted men and nine 
deserters. 

EIGHTY-THIRD REGIMENT, P. V. I. 

The Eighty-third Pennsylvania Infantry comprised, among others, Lieut. 
Plympton A. White, of Company D, who enlisted in McKean county, also 
Matthew Hayes, both of whom were wounded at Malvern Hill; William Schla- 
bach, Julius W. Day, wounded at Gettysburg; Thaddeus Day, at Malvern 
Hill; Eugene Clapper, Charles J. Nichols, died of wounds received at Mal- 
vern Hill; D. Coyle was wounded there, and killed at Gettysburg; Calvin H. 
Wilks, of Company H, died at Richmond, Va., of wounds received at Laurel 
Hill. Gott Lehman, of Roulette, served in Company I, also P. C. Glancy, 
John and Judson Ames, and Norman Scott, of Centreville. 

ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTIETH REGIMENT, P. V. I. 

The One Hundred and Fiftieth Regiment (New Bucktails) effected organi- 
zation at Camp Curtin September 3, 1862, and claims service with the One 
Hundred and Forty-ninth, sharing in many, if not all, of the successes and 
reverses of that command. Langhorne Wistar, of the old Forty-second, was 
chosen colonel; H. S. Huidekoper, lieutenant-colonel, and Thomas Chamber - 
lin, major. When the colors of the One Hundred and Forty-ninth Regiment 
were captured at Gettysburg, they were recaptured at once by the sister regi- 
ment, and later, when it became too evident that the President was to be sac- 
rificed to the policy of the Confederacy, the authorities called on Col. Stone to 
assign two companies of the One Hundred and Fiftieth to take the place of 
the United States troops as President's guard at the Soldiers' Home. On the 
arrival of Companies C and H there, they would not be received, as the regu- 
lars had no orders to retire, and so returned to their command. In the mean- 
time orders came relieving the regular troops, who marched, leaving the Home 
unguarded; but when these false steps were discovered Companies D and K 
were ordered thither, while later Company D was ordered to guard the Sol- 
diers' Home with Company A, leaving Company K to guard the place until 
relieved in June, 1865, when it was mustered out with the other companies. 

Company G, of this command, was raised in McKean county with Horatio 
Bell, captain. He was killed at the battle of the Wilderness May 6, 1864, and 
Lieut. Samuel R. Beckwith, commissioned captain, who served until muster- 
out. Lieut. Dan. J. Keys resigned in June, 1863, and was succeeded by James 
M. Robinson, commissioned May 7, 1864. Second Lieut. Daniel Beckwith 
served to the close; Sergt. Clark Weels was discharged in December, 1863; 
Cyrus W. Baldwin was killed on the North Anna river. May 23, 1864; S. De- 
Loss Taggart, wounded at Hatcher's run, died at Lookout, Md. , February 
20, 1865; J. L. Beers was mustered out at the close, also John Swink, Buck- 
ley D. Catlin and E. H. Judkins; Sergt. Lorenzo Hodges, who was wounded 
at Gettysburg, died July 16, 1863. 

There were no less than fifteen members of this company honored with 
the position of corporal: Putnam Barber, W. H. Haven, W. F. Lovejoy, 
William Brown. C. D. Winship, Al. L. Lanphere, William A. North, Wilson 
W. Tubbs, H. M. Kenny. H. L. Burlingame, H. A. Young and C. C. Tripper 
served to the close of the war. Theo. Yardley was killed at Hatcher's run; 



142 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Joseph 13. Otto, died October 30, 1862, and 'William J. Holmes, wounded at 
Gettysburg, died July 23, 1863. The only musician, Daney Strickland, 
Berved from September, 1862, to June, 1865. 

The private troops who fell on the held, or who died from the effects of 
wounds or other causes, are named as follows: L. M. Adams died in 1864; 
Melville Baldwin, at Richmond, Va., in 1864; A. M. Beckwith, in 1863; Ben 
Fulton, John Benson and Nathan Hand were killed at Gettysburg. July 1, 
1N63: Delos Otto, at the battle of the Wilderness, and Philetus South wick, 
at Spottsylvania, in May, 1861: William P. Carner died in captivity, Decem- 
ber 11. 1864; T. D. Colegrove, November 21, 1862, and D. A. Mors... Octo 
ber -in. same year, at Washington; L. F. Haven died in prison, August 31. 
1863; Oscar Moody died in Kichmond prison February, 1864; W. Merrick, a 
prisoner, died July 20, 1863; W. J. Mills, in Andersonville, August 6. 1864; 
J. A. Morris, in March, 1865; Isaac Pelgrim, wounded at Gettysburg, died 
July 1, 1863; Steve Seymour died March 13, 1863; Charles B. Slocum died 
in captivity in May, 1864; Jeffry Kenny died March 3, 1863. 

The record of discharged soldiers after a full term of service contains the 
following names: William Brockam, Joseph D. Ball. Willard Cummiugs, Jos- 
eph Coats, M. M. Catlin, Charles Dickerson, Edward Finnegan, John Mead, F. 
Fuller, Robert Graham, J. S. Hodges, L. F. Hovey, George Loomis, George 
T. Otto, Samuel L. Provin, William T. Strickland. Wesley Starks, Thomas 
Smith and Judson Skiver. Robert B. Warner was discharged for disability. 

The private troops discharged on surgeon's certificate were Merrit J. Bald- 
win. W. H. Baker, Silas A. Devaul. Richard Goodwin, Thomas Good, Elias 
Grimes, John B. Gleason, Moses R. Ford, Levi Holcomb, Charles Karr. 
Ebenezer Leonard, Wellington Lord, George Loomis and Edward Simpson in 
1862-63. S. DeLoss Taggart died some years ago. The transfers to V. R. 
C. included Joseph D. Ball and Benjamin Treat; William Ellis was sick at 
muster-out; John B. Litch, was wounded at Hatcher's Run, and in hospital 
at date of disbanding; Miles Lovejoy was transferred to the United States 
army in 1862. The alleged deserters were Miles Hess, in 1S62. and John 
Barron, in 1st',:;. 

ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY-SECOND REGIMENT, P. V. I. 

The One Hundred and Seventy-second Regiment was organized at Gamp 
Curtin, in November, 1862, with Charles Kleckner, colonel. Elk and Me 
Kean counties contributed detachments to this command, who accompanied 
the regiment to Yorktown, December 2, to relieve the Fifty-second Pennsyl 
vania Infantry garrisoning that post. In July, 1863, the command nunn I to 
Hagerstown, Md., was attached to the eleventh corps, joined in the pursuit of 
the Confederate forces to Williamsport. returned to Warrentown. anil was 
mustered out August 1. L863. 

TWO HUNDRED AND ELEVENTH REGIMENT, I>. V. 1. 

Company C, of this regiment (one year) was mustered in Sept ember 16, 1864, 
Willi Warren ( 'owles, captain ; A. J. Sparks, lieutenant; John M. Peltori and 
William (' Smith, second lieutenants. Cowles was mustered out with com- 
mand -h '_'. 1865, as brevet major; Sparks was killed at Petersburg, April 

'_'. 1865; John M. Pelton died of wounds received there, and Smith, who took 
his place, was mustered out. Sergt. Harvey D. Hicks was killed at Peters 
burg; Sergts. H. H. Sparks. J. Shattsbury, K. A. Smith and F. B. Harvey 
were mustered out. Corps. M. S. Sheldon. Joel Hancock and Eli Stevens 
were wounded at Petersburg; while John Smith. J. G. Otto, R. E. Gerrish, 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 143 

T. Thompson and S. L. Holcornb were mustered out unwounded, also Musi- 
cians S. R. Seamans and N. M. Tubbs. 

Of the private troops Andrew Calhoun was wounded and died at Peters- 
burg; John Largey died October 21, 1861; Simon Martin, Charles D. Mc 
Keown, Peter W. Struble and Jonathan Studley were wounded at Petersburg; 
Sanford Provin and Martin VanSickle were wounded at Fort Steadman, Va., 
March 25, 1865; Henry McDowell and William Nuff died in February, 1865, 
and were buried at City Point, Va. ; John \Y. Nobles was missing at Peters- 
burg, and C. H. Besse was captured September 29, 1864. 

The private troops mustered out were H. and J. Arnett, A. A. Acre, J. C. 
Allen, I. B. and A. J. Brown, E. Barton, F. S. Bradford, A. R. Barnaby, 
Williarn Cooper, J. Cavanagh, J. M. Caldwell, M. Cummings, M. L. Camp- 
bell, M. Daley, M. G. Dennis, J. Dunbar, G. Emigh, J. Frugen, Enos Grover, 
J. R. Greene, J. E. Graham, A. Gray, Reuben and H. M. Gross, A. Giles, 

A. Holcomb, J. Jund, M. J. Coons, J. D. Kessler, W. K. Kidder, E. R. and 
Al. Loop. Henry Largey, John Leahy, Thomas Madden, A. C. and Josiah 
Myers, J. McQuoine, William M. and William Mcintosh, J. T. and Hymen 
Otto, J. Patterson, Le Rov Paugh, Henry Reedy, W. T. Ross, Benson and 

B. F. Robbins, A. Stockdill, F. Sanderson, W. F. Stewart, A. Sharp, F. 
Thorpe, W. M. VanSickle, F. Verbeck, W. Wiley, A. G. Walters, George 
Wood and James Walsbe. Henry Sperhouse was a prisoner from November, 
IStjl to March, 1865, and J. C. Lewis was alleged to have deserted. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

Lieut. Patrick Kelliher, Twenty-eighth United States Infantry, served with 
the Pennsylvania Volunteers during the war. and died at Fort Davis, Tex., in 
1876. 

In May, 1861, a Juvenile Home Guard company was organized at Smeth- 
port. The ages of the troops ranging from five to fourteen years, the arms 
were wooden guns, and the music, tin whistles and a tambourine. 

In June, 1863, Judge Holmes, of Bradford township, was appointed dep- 
uty provost-marshal for this district, and he appointed Sheriff Blair, O. Vos- 
burg, L. S. Bard and Thomas Malone enrolling officers, the two last named 
being disabled soldiers of the old Bucktail regiment, the latter working in the 
Citizen office when he went into the Bucktails with William R. Rogers. 

In 1863 the enrolling officer struck a family who believed that Andrew 
Jackson ran for president every four years. The old man and his several sons 
annoyed the officer and even, when he was leaving, one of the boys called out: 
"Hello there, you haven't enrolled the old dog yet," referring to a dog lying 
near the house. "Well," says the officer, " I have all the pups down, and 
they'll answer for the first draft." 

The draft of August, 1863, met with resistance on several quarters, and near 
Port Allegany, it is alleged, an organization to oppose conscription was in ex- 
istence. In January, 1864, H. S. Campbell, then provost-marshal of the 
Nineteenth Military District, called for ninety men from McKean county, while 
five deserters, taking refuge in Liberty township, were sought for. In March, 
1864, the quota of McKean county was placed at 153. On March 12 a 
meeting of citizens of Bradford township, presided over by William Barton, 
with A. T. Newell, secretary, resolved to issue bonds for $7,000 to pay county 
troops. 

Jonathan Colegrove enlisted in the Chenango County (New York) Military 
Company for the war of 1812, and served at Sacketts harbor until discharged 
for disability. 



144 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

The Soldiers' Monument was dedicated June 2. 1886, according to the G. 
A. R. ritual. Lewis Emery, Jr., presided, and A. \Y. Norris delivered the 

add] 888, 



CHAPTER VIII. 

NEWSPAPERS -SCHOOLS— PHYSICIANS. 

Newspapers— Introductory— Journals and Journalists— Bradford News- 
papers—Bradford Press Club— Miscellaneous Journals. 

Schools— Grant of Lank and Munki hy John Keating— First Schools 
Primitive Eleemosynary Institution— Early school at Smethport— 
Education Law— School Commissioners and Delegates— School Tax— 
St vtistical Report for 1888. 

Medical— Physicians, Past and Present— Early Practitioners— Indian 
Doctors— Remarkable Cure— Itinerant Disciples of iEscuLAPius — Mc- 
Kean County Medical Association— List of Medical Men who have 
Registered in McKean County since 1881. 

newspapers. 

THE beginnings of journalism are contemporary with the beginnings of com 
mercial and political progress. Like these two important branches, jour- 
nalism advanced slowly but certainly, and toward the close of the eighteenth 
century, assumed pretensions, which have since become governing principles. 
The newspaper took its full share in the trials and sacrifices of the Revolution 
here, and even before that time, pointed out to the peoples of France and 
America the odious system of class government, defining it as aristocracy — a 
coalition of those who wish to consume without producing, to occupy all pub- 
lic places without being competent to fill them, and to seize upon all honors 
without meriting them. 

The journalists of that period were of the Franklin type the world over, 
but cast in another matrice of thought: they knew nothing of the spirit of 
Republicanism, if we accept a few publicists of France who dared to arraign 
the aristocracy that grew wealthy on the robbery and degredation of thousands 
of human beings. When great political reformations followed revolutionary 
teachings, their attention was given to educating the enfranchised masses. Titles 
were abolished, and ten thousand symbols of old-time ignorance and viciousness 
were swept away. The Bohemian era was introduced under the newdispensa 
tion, and with it came some of the best and the most liberal thoughts of the 
emancipated world. 

Bohemia has none but adopted sous; 

lis limits, where fancy's bright stream runs' 

Its honors not garnered for thrift or trade, — 

For beauty and truth men's souls wen- made. 

The vulgar sham of the pompous feast, 

\\ hi re the heaviest purse is the highest priest, 

The organized charity — scrimped and iced 

In the name of a cautious, statistical Christ-. 

Tin- smile restrained, the respectable cant. 

When a friend in reed is a friend in want 

Where the only aim is to keep afloat, 

And a brother maj drown with a cry in his throat 

Oh, I long for the slow of a kindly heart and 
the grasp of a friendly hand. 

And I'd rather live in Bohemia than in any other land. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 145 

When the county was organized, and up to 1826, when the fiYst courts were 
held at Smethport, not one of the pioneers dreamed of a printing press. In 
1827 D. Gotshall was county printer, his office being at Williamsport or 
Wellsboro. The following bill, presented to Sheriff R. Wright, is the evidence 
of the county' s first expenditure for printing : 

January 13. to one year's paper $2 00 

April IT, to advertising proclamation 2 50 

July 34, to libel for divorce and sale 4 25 

August 22, to proclamation 1 3? 

September 13, to printing band-bills 4 00 

November 13, to advertising sale of real estate 1 00 

November 27, to libel for divorce and probate 5 00 

Total |20 12 

Rankin, Lewis & Co. also did some printing for the county this year. 

In 1828 Benjamin B. Smith of the Phoenix, Wellsboro, was appointed 
county printer, for on April 29 he gave to Joseph Allen an order on the com- 
missioners for $29.34, being very near the total amount of contract. This 
order was given to cover a judgment obtained by Allen against J. F. Donald 
son, but was not paid until September following. In 1831 A. H. Cory entered 
the Phoenix office, and set type for McKean advertisements. A few years 
passed by. when Hiram Payne, who came to this county in 1830 from Brad 
ford county, Penn., established the Forester, as related in the history of 
Smethport. This was the pioneer newspaper of the county and the first in 
the district, except the papers at Wellsboro, Warren and Franklin, which were 
in existence in 1832, when in the State convention Mr. Payne claimed to rep- 
resent more territory, more bears, more wolves, more porcupines and more 
wild-cats than any five members of the convention, and the members called his 
territory " The Wild-cat District." Miner, his son, is in New York city, and 
Fred, is at Waverly, N. Y. A daughter married a son of John E. Niles. Vol- 
ume II, No. 19, of the Forester and Smethport Register was published June 
14, 1834. Mr. Payne died two years ago at Waverly, N. Y. The press 
used in his office was brought hither from Philadelphia, and was known as a 
' ' Ramage Press. 

The McKean County Journal was issued by Richard Chad wick in 1834. 
This life-long prothonotary of the county published the paper until Septem 
ber, 1837, when he sold the office to Asa H. Cory for $300. 

The Beacon and McKean Count// Journal was issued in September, 1837, 
although No. 51, of Volume I. is dated April 13, 1839. It bears the name of 
Asa Howe Cory as publisher. He bought the office of the Journal. Among 
the advertisers were John Montgomery, of the Williamsville limekilns, twenty 
miles southwest; of Holmes & Co. 's Smethport tannery; S. Sartwell, Jr., a 
stock of fulled cloth, and B. Freeman, a stock of general merchandise. O. J. 
Hamlin and Hiram Payne were the resident lawyers, and W. Y. McCoy, resi 
dent physician. [Dr. George Darling moved to Brookville before this 
period.] Thomas Hunt, a boy of seventeen years, left home, and for his 
recovery the father, John Hunt, an English shoemaker, offered a reward of 
one cent. The academical exhibition to be held on April 3, 1839, was also 
advertised. Mr. Cory sold to J. B. Oviatt. who established the Settler and 
Pennon. 

The Settler and Pennon, published at Smethport in the summer of 1839 
by William S. Oviatt, was continued in 1845 by J. B. Oviatt. Volume II, 
No. 10, is dated December 24, 1840. Mr. Oviatt abolished Chadwick's inde- 
pendent ideas, and espoused the Democratic idea of the time. 



146 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

The Tomahawk and Scalping Knifi was the name given to a sheet pub 
lished at Smethport fifty years ago. In February, 1841, it became so objec- 
tionable as to be brought before the grand jury and pronounced a nuisance. 
Dwight Holcomb was the printer, and he and others were editors. 

The McKean Yeoman and Elk County Advertiser, Volume III, No. I 1 *. 
bears elate April 28, 184!t. A. H. Cory bring editor. No. 1 was issued in 
December, 1846, by B. F. and A. H Cory, publishers. The journal was 
Democratic. In its pages the legal advertisements of Elk county were contin- 
ued for some years, and a good deal of attention was given to Elk county 
political news. 

The McKean Orbit, Volume II, No. 27, published by J. 15. Oviatt, was 
issued August 2, 1851. The first paper was issued October 13, 1849, by N. 
W. Goodrich and J. B. Oviatt. John R. Chadwick thinks that the Yeoman 
was merged into the Orbit in L849. 

The McKean News, Volume I, No. 52, published by George B. Backus, is 
dated October '_'. 1852. the first number being issued September 13, 1851, as 
a Whig journal. Backus is said to have sold the office to F. A. Allen, and 
moved to Colorado, where he died about the year 1870. The News was 
neutral in politics. 

The Cili -.i'ii was established by F. A. Allen (who moved to Mansfield, 
Penn. , and established the Soldiers' Home there) in September, 1853, and was 
conducted by him until the spring of 1858, when he sold to Lucius Rogers, 
formerly of the Warren Mail, who published the paper at Smethport up to 
July 14, 1860. when the office was moved to Shippen (Emporium), and the 
paper issued December 28. Volume I, No. 42, of the McKean Citizen is- 
dated April 7, 1855, and bears the signature of Charles H. Allen, editor. 

The McKean County Miner, successor of the Bradford Miner, was issued 
June 6, 1863, by L. Rogers, the news pages being devoted to war items. 
In May, 1871, E. H. and J. C. Bard were publishers, and L. Rogers editor, 
of the Miner; but on July 27 following, H. F. Barbour took the place of J. 
C. Bard and also that of Capt. Rogers. On March 11, 1880, E. H. Bard, 
who for the greater part of eighteen years was connected with the Miner. 
and who, in 1873, sold his interest in the office to H. F. Barbour, repur- 
chased the office and was publisher until January, 1883, when Mr. Barbour 
again took control, selling to Capt. Bogers in Januarys 1884. 

The McKean Democrat was established at Smethport in 1879 by Clark 
Wilson, one of the oldest newspaper men in the State. This journal is devoted 
solely to Democratic interests. 

In 1831-32 Orlo J. Hamlin wrote the historical sketch published in ls:i2 in 
Hazard's Gazetteer, and in 1850 Josiah Priest wrote a history of the Oswayo 
Valley, which was never published. 

The Bradford Miner was established at Bradford in 1858 by Daniel Kings- 
bury. J. K. Haffey and others. The editor. John Keenan Haffey, a native of 
Armagh, Ireland, bom in 1831, died at Beverly, N. J., in November, 1881. 
In 1852 he came to Bradford, married Diantha DeGolier, in 1S5S established 
the Bradford Miner, and in 1861 entered Col. Kane's regiment as sergeant of 
Company I. On returning in 1865 he was one of the first to be interested in 
the oil exploration on the outskirts of the present city, and became active 
in nil circles. The New Era was founded at Bradford in 1875 by J. K. Haffey 
as a semi-weekly newspaper; but six months later he sold to Ferrin & Weber. 
After the death of Daniel Kingsbury, Col. Haffey aided the I'niversalist 
Bociet] in securing the property at the corner of North Mechanic and Corydon. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 147 

streets, and after the collapse of the first society organized a second. In 1878 
he established the Banner at Beverly, N. J. 

The Bradford Era was issued 'October 29, 1877. in Bradford, from the 
office of Weber, Ferrin & Persons (over the old Star Clothing House on Main 
street). The salutatory points out its independent principles, and further 
states as follows: " We do not run the paper for glory or notoriety; that we 
could have obtained by becoming the president of a savings bank, pocketing 
the depositors' money and then going to State prison. * * * * We 
have faith in the Latin proverb, Omnia Vincit Labor." In 1878 Mr. Thorn- 
ton, now of the Bradford Era, took the position of oil reporter on the old Era, 
and in September of that year furnished the first perfect review of the Brad- 
ford oil field. 

The Daily Breeze was established in the fall of 1878, at Bradford, by David 
Armstrong for a stock company. L. C. Morton, who died at Montreal in 
1884, was one of the staff, and altogether it was credited with being one of the 
leading daily journals of the State. S. K. Dunkle was the first business man 
ager until succeeded by Mr. Linderman. Early in 1879 the publishers of the 
Breeze purchased the opposition Era office, and Jordan, Longwell & Co. took 
charge of the consolidated journals and continued the publication of the Era. 
W. P. Jordan was editor, with P. H. Linderman, business manager, J. C. 
McMullen, oil reporter, L. C. Morton, night editor, and E. A. Bradshaw (who 
succeeded Frank Vogel), city editor. The notice of incorporation of The 
Era Publishing Company appeared in August, 1887, when H. McSweeney, C. 
H. Lay, Jr., F. G. Ridgway, John R. Campbell and William T. Scheide peti- 
tioned for a charter. Patrick C. Boyle was then editor of the Era, with George 
S. Bright associate manager, who resigned to take charge of the Jamestown 
News, when A. L. Snell, who was previously oil editor, was promoted asso- 
ciate manager. Tln> present staff comprises P. C. Boyle, A. L. Snell, C. Den 
nison (who succeeded C. H. Steiger transferred to Toledo) and A. H. Thorn- 
ton. There are fifteen printers employed. Mrs. Ada Cable is reporter for the 
Era, the only lady engaged in reportorial work in the city, and with the ex- 
ception of Miss Malone, of Kane, the only one in the field. 

The Bradford Sunday Herald was issued in Bradford, August 4, 1878, by 
the Herald Company, in the interests of the labor party and greenback money. 

The Sunday Neivs was established April 15, 1879 [On the Sunday prior 
to April 11, 1879, the Era ceased publication of a Sunday issue.], by Butler 
Bros., now of Buffalo, who continued publication up to November, 1883, when 
P. H. Linderman purchased the office. This journal has been regularly pub- 
lished down to the present day. 

The Daily Blaze was established by David Armstrong in April, 1879. On 
one occasion the paper was printed in blood-red ink, to signify its terrible hos- 
tility toward the Standard Oil Company. His staff comprised S. K. Dunkle, 
manager; and J. L. Howell, foreman and local editor. The office was on the 
corner of Newell avenue and Webster street, adjoining the old Academy of 
Music. The Blaze went down in a blaze of glory within three or four months, 
and the editor- in chief moved to Canada. 

The Star was established in 1879 by Eben Brewer (now editor of the Erie 
Despatch) as an evening journal. Late that year the office became the prop- 
erty of F. N. Farrar and A. J. Carr, and in May. 1880, H. F. Barbour pur- 
chased the latter' s interest, and the same fall sold to R. B. Stone, who was 
practically sole owner. In 1883 the office was sold to George E. Allen & Co., 
who conducted the Star until May, 1884, when Mr. Barbour became half- 
owner and editor. In June, 1885, the Star Publishing Company was incor- 



14:8 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

porated, with H. F. Barbour, president, and R. E. Whiteley, .secretary and 
treasurer. In October, 1885, the office was moved from the old stone building 
on Pine street, to the present quarters in the Producers' Exchange. There 
are fourteen hands employed. George E. Allen, who posed as a lazy man while 
running the Star, was making a success of the Railway Magazine, of Buffalo, 
in 1885. 

The Petroleum Age was issued in December. l^S'J, by W. J. McCullagh 
and A. J. Carr. In July, 1880, A. L. Snell came to Bradford as correspond- 
ent of the Oil City Derrick, and became connected with the Era. In 1882 he 
joined the Cherry Grove Scouts, and in August, 1883, he purchased the 
Petroleum Ayr. then published by W. J. McCullagh cv, Co.. J. C. McMullen 
and W. C. Armor being the partners in the new purchase. On December 1, 
1887, -Mr. Snell and Mr. Armor sold their interests to McMullen, who con- 
tinued publication until his death. The Age was very ably conducted. 

The Sunday Morning was established at Bradford in 1882, Phil. J. Welch 
being then editor, and Benzinger & Edwards proprietors. This journal is 
said to have run only a short time, and closed with the publication of \\ all 
Whitman's poem. Blades of Grass, the issue selling for SI per copy. 

The Sunday Mail was established at Bradford by A. J. Carr. Toward its 
latter days it was printed in the .Star office, and in 18S4 was absorbed by the 
Star, hence the hyphenated name, Star-Mail, given to the weekly edition of 
the Star. The paper was established in 1881. 

The Kendall Church Visitor is published at Tarport. 

The Evening < 'all was issued at Bradford in November, 1885, to oppose 
the Star, which then opposed the Typographical Union. The life of this 
journal was short, indeed, having ceased publication early in the following 
December. 

The Daily Oil News was issued at Bradford October 3, 1887, by J. C. Mc 
Mullen and E. A. Bradshaw. The journal continued regular publication until 
June, 1888. 

The Bradford Press club was organized January 29, 1884, with Will F. 
Jordan, president; George E. Allen, vice-president; P. H. Linderman, treas- 
urer; A. -J. Carr, financial secretarv; C. H. Steiger. recorder; George H. 
Leader. Col. L. M. Morton, T. E. Kern, L. E. Fuller and J. C. McMullen, 
directors; Joseph Moorehead, E. A. Bradshaw, Dr. N. L. Willard, L. F. 
Camp and Col. L. M. Morton, committee men. 

The Reporter was established at Port Allegany by A. J. Hughes. May 27, 
1874. The editor made many specious promises and, what is better, more 
than fulfilled them; for seldom, if ever, has a local journal, more complete in 
news items and historical and industrial reviews, been examined by the writer. 
F. A. Thomas, now of the Miner, was the first typo here. As Mr. Hughes lias held 
the editor's chair continuously since 1874, he may be considered the senior 
member of the newspaper circle of McKean. He witnessed the establishment 
and fall of many newspaper enterprises, the while building up his own office, 
until now it is one of the most perfect news and job establishments in this 
congressional district. From the iiles of the Reporter many interesting items 
of history have I leen obtained. Among the officers of the Pennsylvania Edi 
torial Association, elected at Harrisburg. January 'I'l. L890, was A. J. Hughes, 
of the Reporter. 

C. E. Wright, who died here in March, 1889, was born in New York State 
September 5, 1M 1. In L838 he married Martha Wright, of Eldred, and soon 
after moved to Honesdale, where he published the Herald. Later he returned 
i" Deposit. X. Y., and founded the Courier, in which office "P. V. Crosby" 




^^ 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 151 

served his apprenticeship. From 1855 to 1874 or 1875 Mr. Wright resided at 
Janesville, except while assisting in compiling the Chicago Directory. Charles 
E. AY right, his son, died in 1869, while on the editorial staff of the Times. 
A short time prior to his death he contributed a few papers on local history to 
the Miner, and for years was a contributor to the Reporter. 

The Ceres News was issued at Ceres in 1874 by Jerry Barker. One volume 
was issued within fourteen months, when a humorous valedictory was issued. 
The disappointed editor died a poor man, at Machias. The second paper 
published at Ceres was the Courant, issued by J. P. Herrick in the summer of 
1886. The success of this journal under Mr. Herrick is told by the fact that 
in May, 1889, a two story building was completed, and opened as the office. 
The Oswayo Valley Mail is the new name of the Consolidated Ceres Courant 
and the Sharon Leader, of which Mr. Herrick is publisher. The consolidation 
dates to April. 1889. 

The Eldred Express was issued at Eldred August 17, 1878, by Judson 
Howden, publisher, and A. J. Hughes, of the Reporter, owner. In September, 
1879, this journal was consolidated with the present Reporter of Port Alleganv. 

The Eldred Eagle was issued at Eldred by A. D. Gould, August 24, 1878, 
as an independent journal in politics. "When the Express people witnessed 
the failure of the Eldred oil field, they ceased their contest with the American 
bird, who has held the field successfully down to the present time. 

The Herald was issued at Duke Centre in November, 1879, by Wellington 
& Carr. Other journals followed during the great oil fever at this point: but 
now the Auger is the only journal published. A number of small papers were 
issued at various oil camps since 1878, such as the Bordell Bazoo, The Driller. 

The Kane Blade was published at Kane as an independent weekly news- 
paper by O. B. Lay, from 1879 to 1882. It was printed in Ridgway, until the 
fire of September. 1882, destroyed the printing office there, when the Blade 
suspended publication. 

Kane Leader.— On July 2, 1885, Earl Bros., of Sterling and T. J. Malone, 
of Ridgway, formed a partnership and published the Kane Leader. Earl 
Bros., on March 11, 1886, sold their interest to a friend of Mr. Malone' s. 
December 24, 1886, Mr. Malone transferred his interest to Miss Ada C. Ma- 
lone, who, under the name of "The Leader Publishing Company" manao-ed 
the paper until May 5, 1887, when it was purchased by Eugene J. Miller. 
During the Prohibitory Amendment Campaign of 1889 Mr. Miller sold the 
paper to a Prohibitionist who desired to control it, and Miss Malone ao-ain 
became its publisher in 1889. The Leader is a weekly journal carefully edited, 
and replete with local news. 



The school history of McKean county begins in September, 1807, when 
John Keating, the donor of the county seat, set aside 150 acres for the sup- 
port of a teacher, and subscribed $500 toward a school building. A refer- 
ence to the transactions of the commissioners will show that for fifteen years, 
at least, no steps were taken to utilize this liberal grant. The first school, 
however, was opened at Instanter in 1809. Joseph Otto taught the second 
school in the county at his house. It was an eleemosynary institution, sug- 
gested by the ignorance and wants of the times, and, like the age, very 
primitive. In time the academy was established at Smethport, a few sub- 
scription schools were opened throughout the county, and the system of com- 
mon schools was adopted. 

Richard Chadwick taught a school at Smethport in 1828, havino- constructed 



152 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

a Irauii' house for that purpose in roar of the present Methodist church. Mr. 
Chad wick compiled an arithmetic, and had it printed at Williamsport, which 
was used for a number of years. The Red School -house was erected on the 
lot where Dr. Freeman now resides, in about 1834. Jedediah Darling, Anson 
and William Burlingame and Dr. Graves were among the first teachers, and to 
them the children of the pioneers went to be educated. 

In November, 1834, the education law was in force here, Amos Patterson, 
Brewster Freeman and John Smith being commissioners. John Morris was 
delegate from (ere-; Lemuel Lucore, from Shippen; Orville Ketchum, from 
Keating; Ambrose Corey, from Bradford; Russell M. Freeman, from Cory- 
don, and Henry Scott, from Sergeant. All agreed on appropriating moneys 
for common schools, and levied a school tax of one mill per dollar valuation. 
In L835 the delegates were Hensselaer "Wright, John Chandler. Nathaniel 
White. A. Corey. David Cargill and Daniel A. Esterbrooks, from the respect- 
ive townships, with Asa P. Barnaby, of Liberty, and Epaphas Root, of Hamil- 
ton. A mill tax was authorized in the face of strong opposition. In 1836 
William White represented Norwich as school delegate; James Greene took 
Freeman's place as commissioner, and a one-half-mill tax was authorized. 

The growth of the system is shown by Supt. W. P. Eckels' report on the 
schools of McKean county for the year ending June 4, 188S. This document 
gives the following figures: 163 school -houses, or 190 rooms, 6 houses being 
built during the previous year; 63 male and 202 female teachers; 4,668 male 
and 4,360 female pupils, of whom 6; 435 attended school; school tax, $93,- 
599.28; State moneys, $7,212; total revenue, $117,833.53, of which the sum 
of $64, 762.36 was paid to teachers. The total expenditures amounted to 
$111,51 1.52. 

There were fifteen graded schools, and twenty- four districts in which books 
are supplied free. At Bradford there were five school buildings, containing 
thirty-two rooms. There are 1,905 pupils enrolled, presided over by thirty - 
three female teachers, of whom Miss Ella M. Boyce was superintendent. The 
Catholic separate schools, in charge of the Sisters, alsoclaim a large attendance. 

PHYSIC I lns. 

In IS 1 7 Dr. Butterfield, who settled at Clermont, then called Instanter, 
attended, in ISIS. Richard Chadwick, of Rich Valley. Dr. Coleman was a 
farmer and hotel keeper near the Coleman homestead. He was a very excel- 
lent citizen, but did not make medicine a profession. 

Dr. George Darling, the first physician of the county who devoted his time 
to the profession, settled at Smethport in 1827-28. Dr. R. B. Graves was 
school-teacher and physician. Dr. W. Y. McCoy came shortly after, and mar- 
ried Dr. Darling's daughter, who died in 1832. She was the first person 
buried in the old Smethport cemetery. William Printup, a native physician 
of the Oneida Indians, was born during the Revolutionary war, and conse- 
quently was too young to share with his tribe in their removal to Canada, 
or death. At the time that George Long, George Saltsman, Peter Grove and 
the other great frontier men were carrying on their warfare against the In- 
dians on the Sinnemahoning, Printup was a boy, but he remembered the two 
dies of Oneidas one of twenty-five men (hunters), one of forty men 
(warriors) who were still working under the British license. This Printup, 
with the remaining Oneidas. hunted through this district until 1845. Elihu 
Chadwick. Jr.. was dangerously ill at Lafayette Cornels, twelve miles west of 
Smethport, in June, 1831, and the local physicians failing to cure the sufferer, 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 153 

Printup took charge of the patient, and within ten days had him able to ride 
home in an ox sled, Edmund Freeman and Gideon Irons assisting. 

Dr. Jedediah Darling died February 22, 1871. He was born in Massa- 
chusetts September 25, 1814, and came to Bunker Hill with his father in 1822. 
After a term of study in Dr. McCoy's office he began practice. Dr. Joshua 
Baxom was at Smethport prior to 1837. The house in which he lived, while 
being moved in 1838, careened, killing Joseph Barnes, who was assisting in the 
work. Dr. Jones is said to have practiced at Smethport as early as 1840; 
Drs. Nobles and E. C. Olds were at Littleton (Bradford), and also Goit Brown 
and McDougall. About this period a number of physicians, whose names are 
scattered throughout the sketches of townships and boroughs, were here. Dr. 
B. F. Cory studied in Ohio, and practiced here as early as 1844, then moved to 
Ironton, Ohio, in 1852, where he now resides. Dr. Wisner came here early in 
the "fifties," moved to Michigan after the war, where he died about 1887. 
Silvanus D. Freeman came in 1856, and still resides here. Henry L. McCoy 
came after the war. Kanistanaux, an Indian doctress, was a professional vis- 
itor in 1806, and also Dr. A. C. Jackson. 

The McKean County Medical Association was organized July 24, 1880, 
with Dr. F. M. Follett, president; Dr. Hand, vice-president; Dr. S. B. Dorn, 
secretary, and Dr. Murdoch, treasurer. Drs. Matteson, Buss, Dorand, Wallace 
and Wright, with the officers, were the constituent members. Dr. Shoemaker, 
of Bradford, died in 1888. Dr. S. D. Freeman, Dr. Dorn, Dr. Buss, Dr. Henry 
L. McCoy, have served the society as presidents. 

The following is a list of the medical men who have registered in McKean 
county from 1881 to 1889, inclusive: 

Those who registered in 1881 were as follows: 

Silvanus D. Freeman. Buffalo, 1856. Abram Mayer, Bavaria, 1866. 

Edward G. Brown, Buffalo, 1875. F. M. Follett, Buffalo, 1863. 

Thomas H. Carroll, Buffalo, 1881. G. S. Wykoff. Buffalo, 1877. 

Wilfred W. Streeter, Washington, 1875. J. A. Wallace, Philadelphia. 1869. 
Matthaeum M. Griffith, Philadelphia, 1867. G. W. Weaver, Philadelphia, 1873. 

Henry Wilson. Buffalo. 1872. James L. Carnahan, Cleveland, 1874. 

Joteph H. Shuey. Cleveland, 1876. John C. Swan. Philadelphia, 1876. 

W. P. Shoemaker, Ann Arbor, 1874. H. Scott Baker, Ann Arbor, 1855. 

Mvron A. Todd. Cleveland, 1876. A. R. Baker, Cleveland, 1879. 

Bela E. Phelps, Buffalo. 1847. James T. Kinsler. Bellevue. N.Y., 1867. 

O. S. Wright, Ann Arbor, 1875. Julius Scheffer, Germany. 1865. 

David E. Matteson. Cleveland. 1873. Urban G. Mease, Philadelphia, 1867. 

T. J. Martin. Philadelphia, 1878. W. L. Craig. , 1871. 

Aug. F. McKay, Georgetown. 1872. W. F. Couners, New York, 1880. 

A. F. Groves, New York. 1879. W. H. Kinnier, Albany. 1881. 

Chester S. Hubbard, Ann Arbor, 1877. Merritt Wilcox. Philadelphia, 1866. 

Sylvester S. Satterlee, Cleveland, 1872. Horace A. Place. New York. 1878. 

Charles D. Buss, New York, 1876. W. R. Dorand, Philadelphia, 1870. 

G. H. Monegan, Cleveland, 1880. Thomas D. Ross. Cleveland. 1878. 

L. B. C. Phelps. Columbus, 1877. Henry L. McCoy, Buffalo, 1868. 

Henry A. Page, Yale. 1865. W. Robert Hand. Cincinnati. 1877. 

W. W. Powell, Ann Arbor. 1854. John E. McDougal. . 1871. 

Frank H. Murdoch. Ann Arbor, 1873. James V. Otto, Buffalo, 1878. 

Thomas H. Stewart, Berks. Mass, 1844. John S. Stearns, Buffalo. 1872. 

Khv A. Sweet, Buffalo, 1880. A. K. Corbin. New York. 1881. 

Justin C. Elliott, Buffalo, 1851. H. T. Dunbar, Cincinnati. 1876. 

H. A. Canfield, Ann Arbor, 1877. Nathaniel Sweet, Buffalo. 1865. 

.Turtles Love. Pennsylvania, 1851. W. A. Hobday. Buffalo. 1881. 

Edwin A. Walter, Cleveland, 1879. C. H. Gumaer. Ann Arbor. 1878. 

G. W. Rae, Canada, 1875. Thomas E. Lewis. U. S. Cert.. 1863. 

G. E. Benninghoff. Cleveland. 1879. Albert H. Smith. Buffalo. 1865. 

Sidney E. Ford, Cleveland, 1878. Fred C. Cluxton, Canada, 1870. 

John D. Maloy, Buffalo, 1875. Luther Phillips. Cincinnati. 1850 

A. M. Williams, Philadelphia. 1867. W. C. Tracy, Bostou, 1866. 



154 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

J. II. Harmon, Pennsylvania, 1869 G. H. Preston, New York, 1879. 

Comfort Carpenter, Pennsylvania, 1871. Simon B. Stevens, Cincinnati, 1877. 

Samuel G Ginner, Pennsylvanis L871. S. B. Hartman, Philadelphia, 1857. 

Sullivan B. Dorn, Pennsylvania, 1870. Jacob E. Kincaid. Buffalo. 1879 

p Ailing Cleveland, 1862. John R. McCarthy, Buffalo, 1866. 

[Deck Ann Arbor 1878 Lewis Balfour, Edinburgh, 1871. 

eman Buffalo 1865 G. H. Gol try, Buffalo, 1860. 
o. \V. Sadler, Chicago, 1868. 

Those who registered in l^ v _> were as follows: 
W v McCoy, Ohio, M I 1877. Thomas C. James, New York, 1874. 

c II Reed New York 1876 Andrew Meisell, Austria, 1843. 

F. w Hogai iffalo, 1868. Emily A. Corbin, 1868. 

Those who registered in 1883 were as follows: 
JacobC Batdoi l v, '>l James Nichols, Buffalo. 1864. 

Roberl .1 Sharp, New York. 1883. Elmer E. Livingstone, Buffalo. 1882. 

F. W. Johnson, 1883 Rufus A. Egbert, Ann Arbor, 1875. 

Those who registered in l^M were as follows: 
Francis II Linning, Am. Ec, Ohio, 1881. \Y. II. Perdomo, New York. 1882. 

E. O. Anderson, Philadelphia, 1880. - S. Herman. Buffalo. 1884. 

Evanum (». Kane, Jefferson College, 1884, Henry J. Nichols. Buffalo, 1882. 
Ed. Van Scoy, Ec. Pennsylvania, 1872, James Johnston, Canada l s ~-i 

Those- who registered in 1885 were as follows: 
Erwin M ( loss, Buffalo, 1884. John P. De Lancv. New York, 1885. 

Martin E. Drake, Cleveland, 1885. J. C. F. Bush. Baltimore 1880 

Elizabeth l> Cane, Women's Medical Col- Harriet A. Eane, Women's Medical Col- 
lege of Pennsylvania 1883 lege of Pennsylvania. 1885. 

Those who registered in 1886 were as follows: 
Gardner 1!. foung, Ni w York, 1886. S. M. K. Wells, Buffalo. 1883. 

Thomas L Kan.-. Philadelphia. 1886. H. C. Chesney, Fort Wayne. 1883. 

David Howard, McKean county, 1866. Pram is E. Waits, ( hicago, 1883 

F W. Winger, New York. 1886. 

Those who registered iii 1887 were as follows: 
.lames M. Peebles, Philadelphia, 1876 Walter B. Bottell, Cleveland, 1886. 

\\ .1 Armstrong, New York, 1883, Joseph B. Colcord, Baltimore, 1885. 

James II. Douglass, Baltimore, 1882. Joseph Ward, Cleveland, i ss "> 

Orra M. Cain. 

Chose who registered in l^ s s were as follows: 
B. I hadwick, Philadelphia, 1888. Thomas Eddy, Cincinnati, is", i 
Dunham E. Ash, Ohio, 1887. C. M. Blakeslee, , 1859. 

Those who registered in 18S9 were as follows: 

J. <;. Taylor, — 1864 John C. Brown, Buffalo, 1889. 

Eli Monell, — . 1870. W. J. Fredericks, I'liiladelphia. 1889. 

James li. Slew-art, Cincinnati. lHss. Walter J. Russell, Philadelphia, 1889. 

A M Straight, Ohio, L871 John L Wright, Philadelphia, 1881. 

Emma Griggs, Chicago, 1888. Abigail Grace, Philadelphia, 1887 

A Grace White, of Bradford, registered William R. Gibson. Augusi 12, issji. 

in June, 1889. Nelson Chene] September, 5, 1889. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 155 



CHAPTER IX. 

RAILROADS. 

The Kinzua Viaduct— The Warren Railroad Convention— Sunbury & 
Erie R. R — Buffalo, Bradford & Pittsburgh R. R.— The Turkey Rath 
—Sale of the Western New York & Pennsylvania R. R.— Olean. Brad- 
ford & Warren R. R.— Bradford & Foster Brook R. R.— The " Peg-Leg " 
Line— Bradford, Bordell& Kinzua R. R— Bradford, DeGoliek ,tSMETii- 
port R. R.— Pittsburgh, Bradford & Buffalo Ry., and Big Level & 
Bradford R. P.— Big Level & Kinzua R. R— Bradford R. R. and Kinzua 
R. R.— Bradford & State Line R R. Co.— Buffalo Division of Rochester 
& Pittsburgh R. R. Co — Miscellaneous. 

IF variety be a recommendation to railroad systems, McKean county is 
singularly well endowed. Here have been constructed roads, ranging 
from a single rail to a double track of six-feet gauge, and from a prairie level 
to a grade of 264 feet per mile. In the matter of viaducts the county is no 
less blessed, for every form of bridge from the common wooden culvert to the 
Kinzua viaduct is found. This latter structure completed September 2, 1882, 
may be classed as one of the world's wonders. This bridge rests on founda- 
tions of sandstone, quarried near by. It consists of twenty lower spans of 
thirty- eight and a half feet each, and twenty one intermediate spans of sixty- 
one feet each. The trains run 301 feet above the creek bed, and the length of 
the structure is 2,051 feet. The first watchman (Stafford) used to inspect 
three of the twenty towers every day. In the winter of 1883-84, while en- 
gaged in this work, the air benumbed his hands, so that he could not cling 
longer to the braces, and losing his grip, fell sixty-five feet into a deep snow- 
drift which saved him. On another occasion some one hailed him from the 
track, and, forgetting his location, he let go his hold and was falling from the top 
girts, when a friendly iron brace, within reach, saved his life. The old " Peg- 
Leg " Railroad, now a thing of the past, was wonderfully unique. It belonged 
to Bradford's infancy and for this reason is referred to historically in the 
sketch of that city. To-day a ride on the Bradford, Bordell & Kinzua Rail- 
road, is almost as exciting as a chariot-race or bull fight, and a trip from 
Bradford to Smethport, or south on the main line, is something at once enjoy- 
able and instructive. A reference to the first chapter will point out the sharp 
high elevations over which our engineers have carried this and other local rail- 
roads. 

The Warren railroad convention of June, 1851, claimed Representatives 
O. J. Hamlin, Hiram Payne and N. W. Goodrich, of McKean county; Henry 
Souther, James L. G-illis and C. K. Early, of Elk county, on the executive 
committee. Many other citizens, however, were present as delegates. Work 
on the Sunbury & Erie Railroad was soon after commenced, and the comple- 
tion of that road through McKean. Elk and Cameron counties in 1864 followed. 

The Buffalo, Bradford & Pittsburgh Railroad from Carrollton to Gilesburg, 
twenty-six miles, was consolidated in 1859 with the Buffalo & Pittsburgh and 
the Buffalo & Bradford Railroads, and opened January 5, 1866. 

The Turkey Path was proposed in 1872. and $50,000 was expended on sur- 



L56 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

\c\ and right of way. Asa H. Cory was agent for purchase of right of way, 
and B. D. Hamlin attorney, in 1873. This road was graded through Farmers 
Vallej h\ Contractors A. I. Wilcox and Capt. Murphy, who abandoned it the 
same year. 

Jn April, 1881, the Western New York & Pennsylvania Railroad was sold 
to Etcher X. Martin. This sale covered the main line, 121 miles; the Olean, 
Bradford & Warren Narrow Gauge (twenty-three miles of which were then 
built); the Kendall & Eldred Narrow Gauge (eighteen miles opened July 30, 
ISTTi: the McKean Railroad from Larrabee, twenty-three miles up to the coal 
mines, together with 16,000 acres of the Buffalo Coal Company's lands. The 
price paid was $4,850,000, exclusive of $3,000,000 first and §1,000,000 second 
mortgage bonds. Sherman S. Jewett represented the old company, A. N. 
.Martin represented the purchasing syndicate, while the city of Buffalo, owner 
of $700,000 stock, was also represented. The Olean, Bradford & Warren 
Railroad was opened in 1878 to the State line (twelve miles), and from the 
State line to Bradford the same year. 

The Bradford & Foster Brook Railroad Company was incorporated in Octo- 
ber, 1877, with Col. A. I. Wilcox, president; John B. Brawley, M. N. Allen, 
S. H. Bradley, Roy Stone, George Gilmore and E. W. Codington, directors. 
The object was to build a railroad from Bradford to Gillnior City, on Foster 
Brook, the gauge not to exceed three feet. Among the stockholders were the 
officers named, with C. W. Staats and T. J. Skidmore. The work of construc- 
tion was soon commenced, and in January, 1878, the road was opened to Tar- 
port, running in opposition to the Olean & Bradford Narrow Gauge, com- 
pleted February 11 that year. Eli Perkins, who traveled on the Peg-Leg in 
February. IS78. describes the road as follows: 

The cars run astride an elevated track on a single rail. This rail is nailed to a single 
wooden stringer which rests on the top of piles. So evenly balanced is the train, that 
passing over a pond <>r creek al the rate of twenty miles an hour the water is hardly dis- 
turbed. The motive for building is economy, the price per mile being So. o.ni, and the 
rust of a ten-ton locomotive, $3,000. The locomotive is a queer looking tiling. An Irish- 
man here compared it to a gigantic pair of boots swung over a clothes line. The boiler 
is without a Hue. the engine without a piston, and the driver without a crank. I rode 
with Qen. Stone around corners and up steep grades at thirty miles an hour. 

Eli exaggerated somewhat, as this speed was never attained, there were no 
corners, and little or nothing in the way of grades. The Peg-Leg depots were 
Bradford, Tarport, Foster Brook, Babcock's Mill, Harrisburg Run and Derrick 
City. Ten double trips would be made daily, and an accident was chronicled 
almost every day. The accident of August, 1878, was a trivial one. It 
appears that immediately after the two flat cars were pulled out of the depot, 
\>\ the new locomotive, A. I. Wilcox, the timbers holding the single track gave 
way and the flat cars fell ten feet, leaving the engine on the track, in May, 
Eugh Brawley, new deputy prothonotary, was appointed conductor. In De- 
cember he moved to Smethport, leaving George Grogan to take his place. On 
January 27. L879, the explosion of a boiler, during the trial of the Gibbs tV 
Sterrett locomotive, over the Peg Leg. resulted in the death of six men and 
the mutilation of three others: George Grogan (conductor). John Addis (brake- 
man), John Vaughn (engineer), Charles Shepherd (assistant superintendent). 
Michael Hollevan (fireman) and Thomas Luby (engineer) being killed, and 
Sterrett. Peterson and (iartside injure,!. In February, 1879, the road was 
sold to \ lien A Skidmore, and in March, ISM', it was disposed of at sheriffs sale. 
The Bradford, Bordell A: Kinzua Railroad Company was incorporated 
March I. 1880; among the local directors were F. E. Boden, W. F. Jordan, 
James Broder, W. W. Brown, G. L. Roberts, of Bradford, and C. H. Knox, 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 157 

of Kendall. On April 17 the first locomotive was placed on the track for 
construction purposes, and the road was opened for traffic June 7, 1880, to 
Kinzua junction, the train being in charge of Conductor Stubey, with A. T. 
Harris, engineer, and Reuben Sweet, express messenger. The officers of this 
company for 1890 are as follows: President, J. J. Carter; vice-president, W. 
W. Brown; directors: John E. Hansom, of Buffalo, N. Y. ; A. S. Murray. 
Jr., of New York; John C. Havemeyer, of New York; August Stein, of New 
York; M. L. Hinman, of Dunkirk, N. Y. ; W. W. Brown, of Bradford, Penn. ; 
A. I. Wilcox, of Bradford, Penn. ; George A. Eckbert, of Titusville, Penn. ; 
John C. McKenna, of Bradford, Penn. ; John J. Carter, of Titusville, Peon. 

In September, Craigie, Rafferty & Yeomans signed the contract for build- 
ing the road from Simpson's to Smethport, and December 10 the first train 
arrived at the county seat, with President J. J. Carter, Attorney W. \V. 
Brown, F. E. Boden, James Broder, A. I. Wilcox and J. W. Humphrey, of 
Bradford, among the passengers. The first freight was received by Ed. 
Schenck, of the Bennett House. 

Col. Carter, lessee of the Bradford, Bordell & Kinzua, reported a total tonnage 
of 430,000 tons five years ago, when he took charge, and 2,000,000 tons in 
1889. This road is now known as the Bradford & Smethport Railroad, and 
forms part of the old Bradford, Bordell & Kinzua system. The officers elected 
in 1890 are as follows: President, J. J. Carter; vice-president, A. I. Wilcox; 
directors: J. J. Carter, J. C. McKenna, W. W. Brown, G. L. Roberts, A. I. 
Wilcox, J. E. Ransom, M. L. Hinman, L. J. Backer, August Stein. The 
other officers of the roads elected are as follows: Superintendent, J. C. Mc- 
Kenna; treasurer, C. T. Griggs; secretary, J. E. Ransom; auditor, W. R. 
Diffenbach. 

The Bradford, DeGolier & Smethport Railroad Company was organized 
April 16, 1880, under charter, with L. Emery, Jr., president; Eben Brewer, sec- 
retary; Robert H. Rose, treasurer; R. B. Stone, George A. Berry, M. A. Sprague, 
C. S. King, P. H. Towell and W. C. Kennedy, with the officers named, directors. 
The people of Smethport soon entered the project, B. D. Hamlin, D- Sterrett 
and R. H. Rose, leading, and by April 22, $8,000 dollars were subscribed. In 
May, 1880, the Bradford, Bordell & Kinzua Railroad Company was consoli- 
dated with the Bradford, DeGolier & Smethport Road, the condition being that 
the latter' s charter be surrendered, and $30,000 subscribed to the stock of 
the first named company. 

Under the management of Col. C. W. Mackey, of Franklin, the Pitts- 
burgh, Bradford & Buffalo Railway was extended to Kane in 1883. The 
same year it was consolidated with the Big Level & Bradford Railroad (par- 
tially constructed in 1881 by Gen. Kane) and the united railroad was in turn 
consolidated with the Pittsburgh & Western Railroad, and completed to 
Mount Jewett. Difficulties of transfer from narrow to standard gauge at 
Mount Jewett however prevented the development of much traffic until, in 
1886, Elisha K. Kane joined with five of the stockholders of the Pittsburgh & 
Western Railroad, and built the Big Level & Kinzua Railroad from Mount 
Jewett to Ornisby station on the Bradford, Bordell & Kinzua Railroad. Con- 
tracts were then entered into by which the Bradford, Bordell & Kinzua Rail- 
road Company gained control of the line from Ormsby to Kane, and have since 
operated it greatly to the satisfaction of the people of Kane, and to the devel- 
opment of traffic. *. 

The railroad accident of January, 18S4, on the Bradford, Bordell & 
Kinzua Road, three miles from Bradford and one from Tarport, resulted in the 
death of three female passengers and one male, and injury to many others. It 



158 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

appears that oil from the Anchor Company' stank on the Buchanan farm leaked, 
in large quantities, down the steep hill to the railroad track, and running along 
the track formed a pool 1,000 feet below. Engineer Patrick Sexton and Fire 
man Walsh did not suspect the presence of oil until the gas caught the engine 
fire, and in a minute the engineer opened the throttle wide to fly through the 
flames. It was a terrible ride, the air-pipe couplings were burned, and the 
train plunged down a grade of 130 feet per mile, until derailed at the curve, 
the engineer and fireman being at their posts until their roasting tlesh com 
polled them to plunge into the snow. The persons burned to death were Mrs. 
Fair, of Kinzua Junction; Mrs. Jones, of liew City; Miss Moran. of Allen, and 
the aged Prof. Fought, of Tarport. 

The Bradford Railroad, fourteen miles to the intersection of the Kinzua 
Railroad, was opened in July, 1881. The Kinzua Railroad from that point to 
Kinzua, twelve miles, was also built. The Bradford & State Line Railroad 
Company was incorporated September 23, 1881, to build a road from Bradford 
to the crossing of the State line at Tuna creek. The consolidation of the Alle- 
gheny & Kinzua and Bradford & Corydon Roads, embracing what is known as 
the."Bullis Lumber Roads,' - was effected in February, 1890. The Allegheny 
& Kinzua had ten miles of road constructed from Red House on the Western 
New York & Pennsylvania Railroad to Freck's lumber station, the Bradford 
& Corydon Railroad, fifteen miles from Bradford to Coffey run. S. S. Bullis 
was chosen president, and C. D. Williams, of Bradford, superintendent. The 
branch road connecting Freck & Gilbert's mills up the west branch, runs 
through ton miles of dense forest. 

The third railroad connecting Bradford with Buffalo was opened November 
19, 1883, by the Rochester & Pittsburgh Railroad Company. It is known as 
the Buffalo division, extending to Punxsutawney, about 182 miles. The inaug- 
uration train was in charge of Joe Consalus, with William Hayden, engineer, 
and .lames M. Nevins, baggageman. 

In December, 1878, a meeting was held at Eldred to consider the question 
of building the Wellsville & Eldred Railroad, Guerdon Evans presiding. In 
May, 1881, this narrow gauge railroad was commenced, W. F. Jones being 
president; William Duke, vice-president; L. S. Anderson, secretary: \V. A. 
Baldwin, treasurer, and C. A. Farnurn, attorney at the time. Work on the 
Eldred & Rew City Railroad was commenced May 28, 18S2. In May. Ism'.. 
the contract for building the narrow gauge from Mount Jewett to Ormsby was 
sold to Tennant & Johnson. This road was suggested in 1858 by Gen. Kane. 
The Mount Jewett, Kinzua & Riterville Railroad Company was chartered in 
April. 1NS9, with Elisha K. Kane, president. The capital stock was placed at 
$80,000. The line is eight miles long, extending from the junction of the Big 
Level & Kinzua Railroad at Mount Jewett to the junction of the New York, 
Lake Erie & Western Railroad, near Crawfords Summit. The work of con 
struction was at once entered upon, and by the close of July the road was ready 
for the iron to Kushequi, or crossing of Kinzua creek, where McClellan & 
Kane's large saw-mill was being built. The road was completed to Doyle's 
mill, two miles below, in September. It is proposed to build the road through 
to the mouth of the Kinzua. The Philadelphia & Erie Railroad branch between 
Johnsonburg and Clermont was completed in May, 1889. 

In 1885 86, during the oil excitement at Kane, James Bros., of Kane, 
constructed the Kane Oil Field Railroad, from Jo-Jo Junction, one mile south 
of Kane, tn Jo-Jo, an ephemeral village near the confluence of West and Wind 
runs of East Branch, Tionesta creek. It is not now operated. 

In 1886 West t V Britton, of Kane, constructed a lumber railroad, which 




C. W;^o^& 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 161 

they called the North Kane Railroad, from the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad, 
at Kane, for two miles down the south branch of Kinzua creek. In 1SSS they 
sold their mills at North Kane and the railroad to G. W. Campbell & Sons, 
who made the North Kane Railroad form a portion of their Kinzua Creek & 
Kane Railroad. The Kinzua Creek & Kane Railroad was chartered to ran 
from Kane to Neely's mill on the Western New York & Pennsylvania Railroad, 
and about sis miles have been completed. In consideration of right of way 
and of a loan of money necessary for its construction this railroad was ex- 
tended to a connection with the Pittsburgh & Western Railroad, forming a belt 
line through the borough, and entered into a permanent contract with Elisba 
K. Kane, by which any manufacturer locating upon its line within borough 
limits is entitled to free use of the tracks, or to have cars brought to his works 
and returned to the main railroad at a charge of only 75 cents per car. 

In 1882 a railroad was built between Coudersport, in Potter county, and 
Port Allegany, in McKean county, known as the Coudersport & Port Allegany 
Railroad. The Kinzua Creek Railroad Company was chartered in February, 
1890, to build twelve miles of track from Anderson switch, of the Western 
New York & Pennsylvania Railroad, to the big bridge on the New York, Lake 
Erie & Western Railroad. 




L62 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



CHAPTER X. 



BRADFORD TOWNSHIP AND CITY OF BRADFORD. 

Bradford Township — General Description— Census Statistics — Early 
Settlers — Land Warrants and Companies — Early Schools and 
Churches— Some First Things— Bradford Village in 1875— Township 
Officers Elected in 1890 — Villages. 

City of Bradford Pioneers— Origin of the Town— Oil Boom, Etc. — 

Fires— Municipal Affairs— Light and Heat Companies — Banks, Etc. — 
Oil Exchanges — Post-Office— Hotels— Schools— Churches— Cemeter- 
ies— Hospital— Societies, Etc.— Manufacturing and Other Industries 
—Conclusion. 

BRADFORD TOWNSHIP is bounded on the north by the south line of 
Foster township, south by Lafayette and Keating townships, east by 
Otto township, and on the west by Gorydon township. The east branch of 
Tuna creek*, running north from Lewis run, near the center of the south line, 
forms a confluence with the west branch at Bradford, while at Tarport and 
Babcock the main stream receives Kendall creek and Foster brook. The west 
branch heads in Two Mile run and flows northeast from the southwest corner 
of the township to Bradford city. Kendall creek rises in the southeast corner 
and flows northwest to Tarport, and Foster brook rises near the east line of 
the northeast quarter of the township, flowing almost west to Babcock. Ma- 
nila creek, the principal feeder of the west branch, comes down from the 
heights in the northwest corner. A hundred smaller streams are found here, 
some rinding a way to the main streams through deep canons. Mount Raub, 
a mile east of Bradford, is the highest measured point, being 2,225 feet above 
level. The lowest point (1,415 feet) is where Tuna creek enters New York 
State. All the higher points are capped by Pottsville conglomerate, which is 
either the Kinzua creek sandstone or the Olean conglom., while in the south 
and west the Johnson run sandstone is found resting on its Alton coal bed. 
The dip of the Olean and. consequently, the oil sand from Rock City to Tar- 
port (nine miles) averages five and one-half feet per mile; Tarport to Bradford, 
thirteen feet; Bradford to DeGolier, twelve and one half feet; DeGolier to 
Lewis run, thirty-seven feet; Bradford to Marilla summit (summit elevation 
2, (l-td feet, and distance six miles), three feet per mile, and the average dip 
from Tarport to the southeast corner of the township is fourteen feet per mile. 
The total thickness of rocks explored in the outcrop or wells is 1,977 feet ex- 
tending from cap of Mount Raub to the Chemung formations. Bold outcrops 
of Olean conglomerate are visible in the Tana Valley, and west of Custer 
City they take the peculiar features of the formation at Olean, Rock City, 
where the summit is 2,350 feet above tide. In the Marilla region occurs the 
extreme northern outcrop, in the United States, of the Appalachian coal basin, 
but the area is so small it is held in little estimation by coal men. At Lewis 
run is the black band iron ore (under a bed of black band shales) which \ ielded 
on test 13.75 per cent of metal. Near the head of Two Mile run, just across 

*Tuna creek derives its name from the eddy at its mouth, called by the Indiaus Ichunuagwaut or Big 
Cove willi Large Mouth. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 163 

the south town line, live varieties of ore exist, one of which yields 48.65 per cent 
of metal, and one as low as 23. 10 per cent. The mineral paint ore on the Foster 
farm was largely used by the Erie Railroad Company some years ago in paint- 
ing depots, bridges and cars. It was ground and mixed with crude oil, and 
found to be very desirable for an outside paint. There being no mill near in 
which it could be ground, the expense of transporting it to Buffalo, having it 
ground and then sent to market, was too great for the limited capital of the 
party engaged in its manufacture. A barn now standing near Smethport built 
some years ago by Col. Wilcox is entirely constructed of McKean county prod- 
ucts except the nails, and is painted w T ith the paint in question. 

The population of Bradford township and village in 1870 was 1,446, of 
which 100 were foreign born citizens. In June, 1874, the number was esti- 
mated at 1,500, including 350 in the village. The oil production for the pre- 
ceding six years was roughly estimated at twenty-one barrels per day. which 
sold for $ 1 . 30 per barrel. One lumberman ran over 5,000, 000 feet of white pine 
logs and manufactured over 3,000,000 shingles that year, and with the other 
lumber and bark interests of Zeliff, Clark & Babcock, Peterson, J. W. Hilton 
and P. T. Kennedy brought to the township at least $150,000. Three hun- 
dred cows yielded $12,000 worth of butter and $3,620 worth of cheese, while 
grain and root crops, cattle, sheep, hogs and horses contributed largely to the 
township's wealth. 

The population of Bradford township in 1880 was 2,699. In 1888 the 
township gave 270 Republican, 132 Democratic, 41 Prohibition and 19 Labor 
votes, or a total of 462. This number multiplied by six, as in the case of 
Bradford city, gives the population, at the close of last year, 2,772. 

The population of Bradford city in 1880 was 9,197. Of this number 2,622 
resided in the First Ward, 1.704 in the Second, 2,603 in the Third, 1,520 in 
the Fourth, and 1,228 in the Fifth. In November, 1888, there were 178 
votes cast in the First Ward for the Republican candidate for president, 265 
for the Democratic, and 8 for the Prohibitionist; in the Second Ward the 
figures were 242, 112 and 15, respectively; in the Third, 143, 181 and 17; in 
the Fourth, 228, 106 and 7, and in the Fifth, 122, 73 and 9. while Streeter 
received 7 votes in all the wards, or 913+737+56+7—1,713, multiplied by 
6 equals 10,278, the population based on vote. 

The resident tax-payers of Bradford township in 1844-45 were Philo Ack- 
ley, N. J. Buel, Smith Barton, William Coleman, John Dudley, James Cooper, 
Orrin Fuller, C. Lukins, Hiram and J. O. Beardsley, Phil. Barron, Chester 
Barron, Asmit Brown, Bradley & Fobes (saw-mill owners), Jones and A. L. 
Buchanan, A. W. Buchanan, George Brookmire, William Beardsley, Aaron 
Boon, James Babcock, H. C. Blakesley; James Blair (assessed $100 for a gold 
watch), Andrew and W. P. Browne, John Boyd, Henry Conklin, Erastus 
Croak, Ed. Case, J. L. Colegrove, Dyer Cramer, John Corwin, Henry Collins, 
John and Orrin Coleman, J. F. Clark, Jared Curtis, Philetus Corwin, Dana 
& Smith (grist- and saw-mill owners), William Dikeman, Joe DeLong, Ben., 
Dan. and Sam. Dikeman, Lorenzo and Silas Drake, James, Abel, David and 
William DeGolier, Nathan DeGolier (saw-mill owner), F. E. Dodge, Tom 
Doloff, Samuel and Darius Emery, H. Edson, P. D. Dean (owner of a gold 
watch), L. Dewey (owner of a silver watch), Nathaniel, Newton and Warren 
Edson, William Fisher (saw-mill owner), G. W. Fisher, H. Fox, M. Filler, 
Jonathan Fuller & Son, Isaac Farr, Ephraim Foster, David Foster, Edmond 
Freeman (farmer, near Custer City), C. D. Foot, L. S. Foster, Daniel and H. 
W. Glass, R. Gates, Nathan Green, A. and A. L. Houghton, Hiram Hagadorn, 
William Hook, O. Hegle, Orrin and Benjamin "Havens, Simon Hamond, A. O. 



164 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Hunt. Hunt, Bradley & Fobes (saw-mill owners), John and Absalom Hutchi 
son. Lyman Iruus, John Inglebee, G. W. and Timothy Kelly, James Lilly. 
James Meddock, William Miller, W. G. McKean, William and Simeon Morris, 
Amos Moore (saw-mill owner), Dr. McDongall, J. F. Melvin, Melvin & Whea 
ton (saw-mill owners), G. W. Mantz, Michael McCullough, Sands Niles, Dr. 
E. C. Olds (tan-yard owner), Barnabus Pike, R. C. Phillips, R. B. Rogers, 
George Reynolds, John Rutherford. Seth Scott, William Sherman (saw-mill 
owner). Silas Stormes, J. P. S. Snape (a foreigner), \V. Snyder, H. Stellon, 
Amos Shepherd, W. C. Shedd, Silas Sutton, William Tanner, Jerry Totton, 
Gol. L. C. Little (agent for Boston Land company), William Vansickles, L. 
R. Vaughn, Henry Webb (saw-mill owner), Roswell Walker, J. S. and T. L. 
V. Waggoner, Allen Whittaker, Matt. Woodruff, Matthew Withrow (saw-mill 
owner), Sabines Walker, Henry Welks, John & Willard Whipple (saw-mill 
owners) and Eli Whipple. L. S. Foster was assessor. 

In 1840 the stores in Bradford village were those of L. C. Little, A. K. John 
son, R. Walker & Co., Melvin & Wheaton and R. P. Allen, the grocery of Seth 
Scott and the tavern of S. Walker. In December of this year Kingsbury & 
Fuller, the Boston Company, Sam. W. Bradley and Noble & Tozer were 
merchants. 

The merchants of Bradford township in 1852 were S. Holmes & Co. (J. H. 
Porter), J. F. Melvin, B. Chamberlain and B. McCoy, H. Hazzard&Co., David 
Hunt, G. A. S. Crooker and Daniel Kingsbury. McCoy, Melvin & Co. paid 
a tax of $10, while the others paid $7. 

In 1829 David DeGolier and his wife took three days to move from the 
site of the present town of Eldred to their farm on the east branch of the Tuna. 
The Beardsleys, Fishers, Dollops and Fosters were then in the valley, and 
Henry Bradford Dollop was the first white child born there, in that same house 
above Sawyer City which was destroyed by the glycerine explosion of 1880. 
Of the two first houses built on the site of Bradford, one was occupied by the 
Hart family, six boys and six girls, including three sets of twins. The Deacon 
speaks of wolves being very plentiful, even in 1867, when the well drillers 
appeared on the west branch, the time whistles would be chorused by packs of 
wolves. He further states that No. 1 well, on the Tibbett farm, was the first suc- 
cessful one on the east branch. The farm was purchased by Louis Emery, Jr. 

Warrant 3906 dated July 17, 1793, to William Bingham, the consideration 
for 1,100 acres being £5, 8s. The patent was signed by Gov. Mifflin Decem- 
ber 12, 1794. On February 6, 179."). Bingham deeded the warrant to Robert 
Munis and John Nicholson, but it fell into the hands of the Binghams in 
1799 as shown in Deed Book F, page 41. In 1851 the United States Laud 
Company deeded this tract to Daniel Kingsbury. 

Col. Levitt C. Little, agent for the United States Land Company, who had 
purchased 250,000 acres in McKean county, settled where Bradford city now 
is, and the place was called Littleton. The first log house was constructed in 
December, 1837, where the old calaboose stood; but later a frame house was 
erected where the Berry block stands. The plan of the town was drawn in 
lb>:i8 by Leech, of Boston, after the Colonel's idea. In 1840 another plat was 
drawn by C D. Webster, wherein is shown the space for a church -house where 
is now the St. James Hotel. Main street was known as the Smethport road; 
the south extension of Mechanic street, the Warren road, and northward, the 
Olean road. Congress street was a short alley, which connected Main street 
with the Corydon road. The old lumbering town of Littleton was down in 
Egypt until 1858, when a weekly newspaper, the Miner, was inaugurated, and 
the name of Bradford assumed. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 165 

In December, 1849, when Judge Ward came from Cattaraugus county, N. 
¥., be settled at Tarport and took charge of the large school there. He was 
at once struck with the remarkable progressive character of the people and 
merchants, and equally so by the pupils. Prof. F. A. Allen was then county 
superintendent and principal of the Sniethport Academy. Tarport was then 
the business center of the Bradford lumber field, and here were the large stores 
of John F. Melvin (who came as a lumberman in 1826), and Benjamin Cham- 
berlain, his partner, who lived in Cattaraugus county. Sylvanus Holmes and 
Joseph Porter also had a large store there. Hiram Hazzard was also a mer- 
chant, and like the others, engaged in lumbering. David Hunt was solely a 
merchant; Sabines Walker carried on his grocery; Harvey D. Hicks was post- 
master (it is thought deputy to Mr. Melvin) and hotel-keeper: Dr. Groit Brown 
was physician there, while Dr. Peckham was at Littleton. Johnson & Leech 
were sole dealers in pine lumber and shingles. There were four saw-mills run- 
ning, of which W. R. Fisher owned one and Melvin & Chamberlain the remain- 
ing three. The school building was a large one, ornamented with a cupola, 
and in this building the Methodists, Baptists and Congregationalists used to 
worship. Elder Porter (who owned the farm on which Judge Ward's house 
now is) was minister of the last-named denomination, while the energetic Will- 
iams watched over the Methodists and Elder Prosser over the Baptists. Judge 
Ward presided over this school for two sessions, then moved to Bradford to 
take charge of the village school, and about 1855 he established the Bradford 
Academy, with Mr. -Sellick, assistant. This select school continued only two 
years, but Judge Ward continued teaching at Limestone, and after the war 
completed his school experiences at Salamanca. After Mr. Kingsbury's office 
was really established Tarport began to decline, and Littleton to advance. 

At Littleton was Daniel Kingsbury's little store, also that of G. D. H. 
Crobker. The Boston Company's land office was just opened with Mr. Kings- 
bury in charge, and Col. Little, agent. The double mill stood just west of the 
Mechanic street iron bridge; a frame school-house stood on what is now the 
corner of Corydon and Mechanic streets. Therein religious services were 
held by the preachers named in the history of Tarport. From this period 
the progress of Littleton dates. Thomas J. Melvin, Loyal Ward (who, 
about war times carried on a store at Tarport) and Nelson Parker estab- 
lished their business at Littleton after the war. E. C. Old's tannery was here 
in 1849. Among the leading lumbermen were Fuller and Miller, of Bolivar 
run. The firm of Bradley & Fobes had three mills on Foster brook. At the 
State line, on the Tuna, was the Webb and Leech & Johnson mills; up Ken- 
dall creek was F. A. Moore's mill, also Whipple's and Silas Sutton's. Up the 
south branch was N. DeGolier's mill, and above Bradford Fobes & Bradley 
had a mill. The Judge is convinced that this list covers the mills in operation 
forty years ago. All over the country shingle makers found a home, bringing 
the shingles to the lumberman in the evening and receiving their pay. The 
square timber industry was also very extensive, as the pines were large and 
clear. The large timber was rafted and run down the Tuna to the Allegheny, 
and thence to the Ohio. 

The first golden wedding celebration ever held in Tuna Valley was that of 
July, 1883, by W. R. Fisher and wife. Forty years prior to this date they 
settled on the Tarport road in a log cabin which this old settler erected. In 
1847 he built the house in which the celebration was held. Dan Glass, 
who for forty years played the violin throughout the Tuna and neighboring 
valleys, contributed the music on this occasion. 

In September, 1875, when C. L. Wheeler came to Bradford, the business 



166 HISTOEY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

of the village was represented by Thoaias Melvin, who kept a general store, 
Frank Davis, the druggist and telegraph operator, and Wilbur DeGolier, 
watchmaker and postmaster. J. K. Pomeroy kept a dry goods store; Albert 
DeGolier had a general store, the popular Bradford House, Green's Hotel on 
Main street, while the old St. Nicholas Hotel stood where the Producers' Ex- 
change now is. The hotel formerly kept bv P. M. Fuller was in existence in 
L875. 

The officers of the township elected in February, 1890, are as follows: 
Supervisors, J. L. Morris, H. Boss; school directors, W. H. Emery, H. G. 
Cutting; auditor. M. Ingalsby, Sr. ; collector, J. L. Morris; constable, G. W. 
Eddy: town clerk, H. G. Chesney; judge of election. First District, C. A. 
Wilbur; inspectors, ' C. E. Seely, Louis Brown; judge of election, Second 
District, W. W. White; inspectors, George A. Brown, James Bell. 

Villages. — Custer City, south of Bradford, was brought into existence dur- 
ing the days of the oil stampede up the east branch. Here are the works of 
the Hock Glycerine Company noticed in the history of the city. The bull and 
bear tight of July 1, 1879, took place at Custer City, under the management 
of one Marsh. The officers of the Pennsylvania society for prevention of 
cruelty to animals, tried to stop the tight; but the people threatened to pitch 
them into the pit, and ultimately drove them as far as Bradford. The tight 
went on, but the bear, escaping from the infuriated bull, ran through the 
crowd, was recaptured, placed in the pit and made tight to the death. The 
agent had twenty men arrested for participation in this brutal affair, but with- 
out satisfactory results. The fire of December 16, 1881, destroyed seven 
buildings, including the Straight House. In March, 1885, the explosion of 
6,000 pounds of glycerine at Custer City resulted in the deaths of H. V. 
Pratt and William Harrington. 

DeGolier, north of Custer City, was named in honor of the pioneer, of 
whom mention is made in the history of Bradford. As a settlement it is 
among the oldest in the western part of the county. The DeGolier Cemetery 
Association was incorporated in December, 1869, with M. Ingalsby, H. J. 
Hammond, Phil. Shaffner, Aug. M. Cram, Michael K. Dexter and John K. 
Haffey, trustees. The United Brethren Church of DeGolier was incorpor- 
ated April 12, 1888. with L. E. Cutting, Allen T. Foster, W. C. Freeman, 
M. Ingoldsby, G. W. Foster, Spencer Tibbits and H. E. Bryner. officials. 

Howard Junction, near the south line of the township, is a lumbering 
village. 

CITY OF BRADFORD. 

Throughout the pages devoted to general history and particularly those on 
the Bradford oil field, a good deal has been written relating to this capital of 
oildom. In the foregoing sketch of the township many names, inseparably 
connected with the early agricultural and lumbering interests of this section 
are given, so that little of the early history of the old village remains to be 
told. How often the Indians camped in this beautiful valley of the Tuna will 
never be learned any more than the history of the people who were here before 
them. How often the ancient Mount Raub was ascended by the watchmen of 
the tribes to give warning of the advance of hostiles of the same race, or to 
signal the approach of friends, as they turned the distant valley curve, can 
never be known, but enough has been told by the Cornplanters to point out 
the fact that Indians hunted here before the coming of Seneca or Delaware, 
and that the valley, from Foster brook to Marilla creek, on the west branch, 
and Rutherford run on east branch, was a favorite site for their camps. As 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 167 

told in the third chapter, remains of ancient settlement were unearthed a few 
years ago. 

From 1823 to 1827 the pioneers of a new race appeared on the scene. Dr. 
William M. Bennett, after whom Bennett's branch is named, the Pikes, Farrs, 
Scotts, Fosters, Beardsleys, Harts, Dollops and Fishers came into the beauti- 
ful wilderness. This immigration took place almost a quarter of a century 
after Robert Morris, of Revolutionary fame, lost his title to lands here, leav- 
ing them to revert to the Binghams. The Hart family, fourteen members, 
settled on the site of Bradford in about 1827. For years they held possession 
of the Forks, welcoming new comers and hailing new settlers. They saw a 
thriving village built up north of them at Tarport, and south of them the De- 
Golier settlement was winning recruits; but their chosen spot was merely a 
mark in the forest. 

In 1837 Col. Little purchased 250,000 acres in and around Bradford, and 
built a log house. In 183S the village was surveyed, and named Littleton. 
In 1851 a large tract was sold to Daniel Kingsbury by the United States Laud 
Company, and to that year we must look back for the first faint beginnings of 
the city, though not until 1858 did the new proprietor make a determined 
effort to build up the place. Thirty-two years ago the name Littleton was 
cast aside, and the present name chosen. Messrs. Kingsbury and Haffey estab- 
lished a newspaper to aid in building up a village; Old's tannery, the mills, 
stores, schools and religious societies referred to in Judge Ward's reminiscences 
were all here sharing in the hopes of Kingsbury; but all their efforts were 
rewarded with very limited results, the mercantile and manufacturing interests 
named in the history of the township being the only material response. During 
the Civil war the oil fever penetrated the valley, and new hopes were built up, 
only to be cast down; after the war, a series of disappointments waited on the 
attempts to find oil ; but amid all such reverses men came and remained, a few 
of whom in after years, took a foremost place among those to whom the honor 
of developing the resources of this section is credited. They decided to carve 
out for themselves a home in this valley and fashion out a city in the forest, 
which would one day be regarded as the goal of enterprise, where scholars 
would find a home and religion 10,000 adherents. They built well! Only a few 
years of hope deferred, and a city sprung out of the ancient forest, extending 
from hill to hill, and stretching down the valley. In 1873 the people asked 
for borough government, and the demand was granted. Within three years the 
locality was filled with busy men, and the oily ocean was yielding up its wealth 
of petroleum; the forest fell, and in its place hundreds of houses and a thous- 
and derricks grew up, as it were. 

In 1880 eight large brick buildings, including the Riddell House, and 500 
frame buildings were erected; the swamp was reclaimed and a number of new 
streets laid out. 

Col. A. K. McClure, of the Philadelphia Times, visited Bradford in May, 
•1883. In his description of the city, he says: "The houses as a rule are 
pitched together like a winter camp, with here and there a solid brick edifice 
to mock the make-shift structures around it. The oil exchange is a beautiful 
building, and looks as if it was expected that oil gambling would continue, 
even after the day of doom, regardless of the shifting of oil centers. * 
Oil is just now on a boom. Everybody talks oil, and the visitor must talk oil 
or endure the unconcealed pity of all around him. Oil had struck somewhere 
about $1.12 on Tuesday. * * * They sold oil by the million of barrels, 
without a speck in sight, and with only a small percentage of margin money 
to give substance to the hazard. Five million barrels, and even more, are sold 



168 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

in a day, and speculators make one day to lose the next. * * * The one 
tiling that the people of this great center of oildom pride themselves upon is 
their hospitality. They are, as a community, a broad gauge, manly, generous 
people, with little affection and much merit." 

The first public observation of Decoration Day at Bradford was that of May, 
1876. On May 13 a subscription list (now in possession of F. S. Johnson) 
was circulated, and thirty persons paid §2 each to aid in defraying expenses. 
The first subscribers were Ezra Holmes, E. F. Clark, John McGill, Joseph 
A. Hughsto, E. J. Carew, George Wright & Co., G. A. Berry. A. L. Hughes, 
J. E. Butts, Jr., J. Moorhouse, H. J. Pemberton, D. E. Matteson, J. H. 
Norris, Ed. Dolan, A. DeGolier. J. K. Haffey, C. S. Whitney, L. C. Blakes- 
lee, G. D. H. Crooker, J. Amm, P. T. Kennedy. P. M. Fuller. F. W. Davis, 
L. Emery. Jr., A. B. Walker, P. L. Webster, E. Parsons, Bell Bros.. F. S. 
Johnson and J. C. Jackson. The oration was delivered by R. C. Beach, on 
the public square, and the cenotaph erected there. 

Fires. — The Bradford House, valued at $10,000, and one of the first buildings 
there under the rule of progress, was burned .May 30, 1S6S. The oil fire, one 
mile from the center, of June 13, L876, arose from lightning setting fire to the 
gas from the Olmsted Well No. 1, on the Sandford farm. It communicated 
with the McKean county pipe line tank, then with the P. C. L. & P. Com- 
pany's tank, P. T. Kennedy's mill. Prentiss & Co.'s tanks, Jackson & Walk- 
er's well and tank, J. B. Farrel's well, forty empty wooden car tanks of Pren- 
tiss & Co., and Riley's dwelling, the total loss being placed ai $90,000. 

The fire of November 15 and 16, 1878, destroyed forty buildings, great 
and small, including the Riddell House, the machine shops and foundry of Bo- 
vaird & Seyfang, the planing mills and tank shop of Stewart, the United 
States Express Company's building, besides numerous stores, saloons, board- 
ing houses, and shops of every description. The area burned over extended 
from Boylston street on the north through and across Main street to Corydon 
street on the south, easterly to the Erie railway track, and west on Main street 
to Osgood's dwelling house on the north side and Burgess' green grocery on 
the south side. The total loss was placed at $150,000. The following list 
embraces the names of owners of destroyed buildings in the order of location 
on Main street, looking east along that street: Fred Schutt's. where the lire 
was stopped, still standing; Hogau & McCartey's unfinished building; Dila- 
berto's barber shop; Keystone clothing store; Boyd & Dickson, drugs; Cor- 
bierre & Benson, billiards; cigar store and Brunswick saloon; Theatre 
Comique, where the fire originated; Union House; United States Express office; 
George S. Stewart, planing-mill; office, occupied by Williams & Cushman, vit- 
rified stone flues; Sanborn & Co.'s news room; Tinker's hardware store; 
Pierce House; Riddell House; Lockwood & Haggerty, bakery and confection- 
ery; Osgood & Howard's, occupied by Misses Rogers, millinery: Osgood. 
owner, Mrs. Clark, occupant, boarding house (damaged, but fire stopped); 
Thompson & Co., feed and flour; Riddell House laundry ; Johnson's, Ryder's 
Shaw's and Mrs. Went worth's boarding houses; Palmer's dwelling and grocery; 
Wallace Lawkes', scorched and damaged, but fire stopped; Kennedy's build- 
ing (Brady, tenant); Newell's building; Bradley's oil well rig; Whitney & 
Wheeler's oil well rig and tank; Bovaird & Seyfang's boiler shop, damaged, 
but fire stopped; Seyfang & Bovaird's machine shop, consumed; planing mill. 
George S. Stewart; Oyster Bay, Pete Heaton; Bradford Ice Company's store 
room, ice melted; House that Jack built; Bell Mahone's house; Bradley's oil 
and well rig, tank and two old buildings; the union and elevated railway 
depots were scorched, but saved. The fire did not cross the Erie track. 




hi <& 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 171 

The fire of April 3, 1880, originated in the Sawyer House, in the room oc- 
cupied by James Wilson, who was burned to death. Four acres of buildings 
were destroyed, the total loss being over $100,000. The following list of losses 
is taken from the Era's report of the tire: On the south side of Main street, 
R. G. Wright & Co.'s grocery store, where the tire terminated on the west; 
loss on stock, $6,000; on building, $1,000; insurance, $4,500. John C. Holmes, 
wholesale liquors and cigars; loss, $9,000; no insurance; owner of building un- 
known; loss, about $3,000. Sawyer Bros.' saloon and restaurant; loss on 
building and stock, $2,500; no insurance. Applebee & Rogers, grocers; loss 
on building and stock. J8,500; insurance, $4,300. Titusville House, T. Mc- 
Goldrick; loss on building, $5,000; insurance, $2,500. Harvey Hill; loss on 
furniture, $500; insured. Academy of Music, John Nelson; loss, $18,000; 
no insurance. Philadelphia Oyster House, Irving Campbell, proprietor; loss, 
$1,500; no insurance. R. Michael, clothing, Academv building; loss on stock, 
$1,700; no insurance. Ownev Williams, billiard room; loss, $200; insured; 
building owned by John H Shaver; loss, $2,000. Rush building; loss, $3,000; 
occupied by P. Hanlan, saloon; loss, $500. Stephen O'Leary, hotel; loss on 
building, $2,000; insurance, $450; on stock, $400; insured; occupied by 
Luther & Draper; loss, $600; no insurance. Thomas Bradley, building; loss, 
$1,000; fully insured; occupied by G. H. Dewitt, saloon; loss, $300; no in- 
surance; goods partly saved. Italian fruit stand; goods partly saved. L. E. 
Dnnton, watchmaker; loss, $200; goods partly saved. Billy Howard and 
Billy Rose, saloon; stock mostly saved; loss, about $100. Barber shop; stock 
damaged by moving. Greenewald Bros., clothing; damage, $700; fully in- 
sured. A. Mayer & Co., liquors and cigars; damage by moving, $300; in- 
sured. Folwell & Mott, druggists; loss on building. $1,250; insurance, $500; 
on stock and fixtures, $550; no insurance. Whitlock, liquors; loss, $100. 

On the north side of Main street considerable damage was done by the in- 
tense heat and removal of goods. James Casey, liquors. $100; insured. Mc- 
Carty, billiards, $100; insured. N. Lazarus, saloon, $70; insured. Borchert, 
Daggett & Co., $100; fully insured. T. Bradley, express office, $150; in- 
sured. A. & G. Hochstetter, loss, $50; insured. Daniel Clark, $150; in- 
sured. Nick Weiss, loss, $50; insured. On Webster street, behind the 
Academy of Music, was Judge Newell's building and office, totally destroyed; 
loss, $1,500; fully insured. Bullis, meat market, loss on building and stock, 
$1,000; no insurance, as far as could be learned. J. W. Ruble, Washington 
House; loss on building, stock and fixtures, $2,000: insurance, $600. Mrs. 
P. McNamara, Corry House; loss on building and furniture, $2,000; insur- 
ance, $1,500. Amos Williams, Williams House; loss, $2,500; no insurance. 
Traveler's Home, owned by Whitman & Trainer; loss on building, $800; fur- 
niture, $200; no insurance; saved part of contents. Parker House, Lewis & 
Davie, proprietors; damaged by fire, $2,000; $1,000 on furniture; insured. 
McBean, from Tonawanda, N. Y. (old Frew House), in charge of C. A. Dur- 
fee; damage, $250; insured. Jamestown Bottling Works, damage, $150; in- 
sured. 

The fire of May 31, 18S0, originated in Wheeler's rig, in rear of the 
Parker House. Hostetter's building, occupied by R. G. Wright & Co. as a 
storehouse, and the rig, were destroyed, and other buildings were damaged. 

The central office of the United Pipe Lines was destroyed by fire June 
22, 1882, the loss being placed at $20,000. The fire of December, 1882, 
destroyed Habenrig's store on Mechanic street and public square, the Ho- 
tel La Pierre, the Hotel Florence, and Irvin's livery stable. 

The fire of June 19, 1884, destroyed the Burt House and three adjoining 



172 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

buildings. . . .The burning of Mrs. Charles Reibley' s bakery and hotel occurred 
July 11, 1884, when Mrs. Reibley, her two children and a Swedish girl were 
burned to death. A few months before Mr. Reibley was drowned in the Al- 
legheny at Canollton . . . . The lire of December 19. 20, 188(5, destroyed five 
buildings on Kennedy street. . . .The fire of January 11, 1889, destroyed the 
Palace Hotel nearly opposite the Riddell House, burning out P. P. Bate- 
man, McEvoy Bros., A. F. Moore, Samuel Ames, J. Krienson, Ardizone Bros. , 
J. B. Fox, A. Lino, I. Marks and others in the Durfey & Walshe buildings, 
and damaged the Greenwald Bros. ' stock. 

A number of small fires are recorded, many of them occasioned by light- 
ning, such as that which destroyed Park & Hazzard's rig. The great oil fires 
are recorded in the sketches of Foster and Keating townships, while a few be- 
longing to this township are noted as follows: The glycerine explosion of Sep- 
tember 15, 1878. on the farm of Jared Curtis, near Bradford, and opposite 
Toad Hollow, resulted in the destruction of the Mclntyre Torpedo Company's 
magazine and the death of N. B. Pulver, A. P. Higgins. C. Page and J. B. 
Burkholder . . . . The oil fire of July 14.15, 1880, at Custer City, Lewis run 
and Coleville. caused by lightning, resulted in the burning of a 30,000-barrel 
tank belonging to the Acme Oil Company, and the destruction of three N. P. 
L. oil tanks at Custer City and other property in the Minard run neighborhood 
....The Custer City fire of December 10, 1881, destroyed seven buildings, 
including the Straight House then conducted by r William Dean. 

The Bradford fire of November, 1889, originated in the Stewart building 
on Main street. The Bradford Stone Company lost $1,000; L. L. Higgins, 
$6,000; F. N. Merrian, $400. and George S. Stewart, $4,500. Insurance 
reduces the total loss to a few thousand dollars. 

The fire of January 19, 1890, destroyed the Protestant Episcopal church 
building on Chatauqua place. The fire was assisted in its rapid progress by 
the Christmas evergreen trimmings, which had become dry and had not been 
removed since the services for which they had been put up to commemorate, 
and the flames thus reached the steeple, which afforded them an excellent 
draft. It was the universal remark that a fire was never seen to spread 
with so much rapidity and burn so fiercely as did this one .... The fire of Feb- 
ruary 19, 1890, originated at 118 Pleasant street, destroying the houses of 
John Hutchinson and Myers, and damaging that of James Gleason. The fire- 
men worked like heroes to save the property', but their work was made slow 
and difficult by too much mud and too little water. . . .McAmbley's lumber mill 
was totally destroyed by fire February 26, 1890, entailing a loss of $6,000. 

Municipal Affairs. — Bradford borough was incorporated February 26, 
1873, and the first election held the last Friday in March. P. T. Kennedy was 
chosen burgess; P. L. Webster, assistant burgess; F. W. Davis, E. Parsons, 
J. Moorehouse, J. H. Matteson and A. T. Stone, councilmen: G. D. H. Crooker 
and James Broder, justices; W. Lord, constable; G. D. H. Crooker with H. 
\Y. Davis and S. Emery, assessors; A. C. Switzer and P. Woodward, poor- 
masters; J. W . Hilton, A. DeGolier and G. D. H. Crooker, auditors; J. H. 
Matteson, H. S. Baker, P. T. Kennedy, W. J. Morrow. J. Moorehouse and E. 
D. Foster, school directors, and J. Moorehouse, treasurer. F. W. Davis was 
appointed clerk. A. DeGolier. John A. Evans and Loyal Ward were elected 
justices prior to 1878. 

Borough elections were held February 17, 1S74. when the following votes 
were recorded: Burgess: P. L. Webster, 33; P. T. Kennedy, 17, and A. K. 
Johnson, 2. Councilmen: A. DeGolier. 35; E. Parsons. 44; P. Woodward, 
12; J. Moorehouse, 39; J. W. Morrow, 38; J. R. Pomeroy, 3S, and Con 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 173 

Lane, 32. There were eleven other candidates, who received from one to nine 
votes. The school directors elected were E. D. Foster and P. L. Webster. 
Mrs. J. Colby and five other candidates received a nominal vote. In 1875 J. 
W. Brennan, A. C. Switzer and A. DeGolier were elected directors, the latter 
being succeeded, in 1876, by A. T. Lane and E. A. VanScoy. The council 
centennial year comprised P. L. Webster, C. J. Lane, J. A. Evans, F. W. 
Davis, A. C. Switzer and J. W. Brennan. A. DeGolier was chosen assessor; 
M. W. Wagner, auditor; W. Lord and P. Woodward, poor-masters; Samuel 
Emery, constable; Con. Lane, inspector, and P. Woodward, judge of elections. 
A. DeGolier was appointed clerk. 

The burgess' office has been since filled by the following named citizens: 
J. W. Brennan, 1875; P. T. Kennedy, 1876; J. H. Norris, 1877; J. M. Fuller, 
1878. In February, 1879, the first city election was held. James Broder 
received 483 votes and P. T. Kennedy 222 for mayor; Will F. Jordan received 
a large majority for mayor in 1S81; James Broder, 1883; P. M. Shannon. 
1885; E. A. Dempsey, 1887; Edward McSweeney, 1889, and Loyal Wardj 
1890, for three years. The assistant burgesses elected annually up to 1877 are 
named af follows: T. J. Melvin, 1875; P. L. Webster, 1876; H. Friedenburg, 
1877. 

In 1879 K. P. Miller was appointed clerk, serving until April 30, 1883, 
when James A. Lindsey was elected by the council, and has since held the office, 
except for nine months in 1S87, when S. M. Decker filled the position. 

In 1S75 G. A. Crooker was treasurer; in 1876, C. J. Lane, succeeded in 
July by J. W. Brennan; F. S. Johnson, in 1877; L. G. Peck, in 1878. Treas- 
urer Critchlow was elected in 1880. 

In February, 1882, City Treasurer Critchlow was arrested on the charge 
of embezzlement, but on the 23d was discharged on common bail. On the 25th 
F. W. Davis was appointed treasurer .... In May, 1879, Messrs. Daggett, 
McElroy and Logan were elected by council members of the first city board of 
health .... In January, 1880, C. D. Webster was chosen city engineer. Build- 
ings for the Johnson and Era Hose Companies were authorized, the Whitney 
Hose Company having been hitherto supplied with a building. The bondsmen 
of R. J. McMath, absconding collector, asked for the appointment of a collector 
for balance of taxes, and G. W. Moorehouse was appointed. 

The officers of the city elected in February, 1890, are as follows: Mayor, 
Loyal Ward (R.), who received 801 votes against 689 recorded for Gardner; 
city treasurer, R. T. Lain (R. ); city controller, M. Albert (R.); city assessors, 
N."J. Stanton (R.), George P. Booth (R.), E. A. Boyne (R.). 

Select Council— J. L. Andrews (R.), John P. Zane (R.), Matt Ruddy (D.). 
I. G. Howe (R.), C. R. Harrington (R.). Republicans, four; Democrats, one. 

Common Council — F. A. Moore (R.), Felix Steinberger (D.), L. E. Ham 
sher (R.), W. K. Laney (R.), E. Quigley (D.), Bert McAllister (R.), W. C. 
Kennedy (R.), S. D. Weaver (R.), Thomas A. Flynn (R.), T. W. Roberts (R.). 
Republicans, eight; Democrats, two. 

School Controllers— C. A. Durfey (D.), W. O. Neely (D.), J. T. Jones (R.), 
W. R. Weaver (R.), H. H. Adsit (R), A. M. Mayer (D.), W. A. Booth (R.). 
A. Miller (R.), Samuel Huff (R.), M. D. Harris (R.). 

Constables — Thomas Osborne (D.), George R. Gibbons (R.), Thomas Fen- 
nerty (D.), C. A. Spreeter (R.), W. W. Tadder (R.). 

The vote by wards is recorded as follows: 

First Ward, First Precinct — Select council: Andrews (R.), 77; O'Donnell 
ID.), 66. Common council: Steinberger (D.), 84; Moore (R.), 80; Ruble (D. ). 
65: Hawkins (R.), 53. School controller: Durfey (D. I. 7<: Neely (D. ), 71. 



174: HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Constable, Osborne (D.), 91; Hayes (Iud.), 51. Assessor: Osborne, 89; Brin- 
ton (R.), 50. Judge of election:'?. Fragner (R.), 78; G. W. McMullen (D.), 
40. Inspector of election: C. M. Heudrickson (R.), 68. 

First Ward, Second Precinct — Select council: Andrews (R.), 139; O'Don- 
nell (D. ), 97. Common council: Steinberger (D.), 158; Ruble (D.), 135; 
Moore (R.), 124; Hawkins (R.), 4. School controller: Durfey (D.), four 
years, 18(1; Neely (D.), two years. 1 IS; Greenewald (R. ), 30. Constable: Os- 
borne (D.), 151; Hayes (Ind.), 94. Assessor: Osborne (D.), 151; Brinton (R.) r 
SO. Judge of election: P. H. Gallagher (D.), 152; H. E. Welch (R.), 58. 
Inspector of election: T. F. Mayer, 158; C. A. Dickinson, 55. 

Second Ward— Select council: Zane (R.), 201; Sondheiin (D.), 89. Com- 
mon council: L. E. Hamsher (R.), 210; W. E. Lanev (R.), 211. School con- 
troller: J. T. Jones (R.), 210; W. R. Weaver (R.), 210. Constable: Gibbons 
(R.), 206. County assessor: Thomas (R.), 2/5. Judge of election: John R. 
Zook (R.), 206; B. F. Smith CD.), 84. Inspector of election: W. B. Chapman 
(R.), 204; J. H. Dibble (D.), 84. 

Third Ward— Select council: Ruddy < I). ). 21 16 : Hockenberrv (R.), 111. Com- 
mon council: Quiglev (D. ). 162; McAllister (R.), 159; Coffey (D.), 158; Lucas. 
151. School controller: Adsit (R.), 214; Mayer (Ind. ). 163; Hager (D. ). L29; 
Wilcox (D.), 71. Constable: Fennerty (D.), 207; McMahon (R.), 107.' County 
assessor: Fennerty (D.), 191; Blair (R.), 124. Judge of election: M. W. 
Chaffee (D.), 174; George Duffev (R.), 145. Inspector: Clarence Merrow (D.), 
175; C. Hill (R.), 142. 

Fourth Ward— Select council: Howe (R.), 187; Flynn (D.), 100. Com- 
mon council: Eennedy (R.), 283; Weaver (R.), 131: Scott (D.), 59. School 
controller: Booth (R.), four years, 288; Miller (R.), two years, '_M7; Davis(D.), 
two years, 71. Constable: Spreetor (R.), 2S8. County assessor: Haggerty (R. }, 
215; Robbins (D.), 71. Judge of election: W. F. Robinson (R.). 288*. In- 
spector of election: N. J. Loveless (R.), 219; Frank Costello (D. i. 71. 

Fifth Ward— Select council: Harrington (R.), 127; Rusch (D.), 65. Com- 
mon council: Flvnn (R.), 429; Roberts (R.). 11 'J; Murray (D.), 87; Brooks 
(D.), 52. School controllers: Huff (R.), two years. 121; Harris (R.), four 
years, 118; Walker (D. ). four years, 75; Mallick (D.), two years, 10. Con- 
stable: Tadder (R.). 117; Harrigan (D.), 70. County assessor: Gowdy (R.), 
122. Judge of election: William Maginn (R. ). 122; J. W. Slattery (D.), 70. 
Inspector of election: John B. Pierson (R. ). L20; W. Enches (D. ). 72. 

City Finances. — Prior to 1SS7 there were two valuations of taxable prop- 
erty in the city, one for city purposes and one for county purposes. The val- 
uation for county purposes was at least one-third, and often one-half, less 
than the valuation for city purposes. But it happened that the supreme court 
in I NN(') declared the act of 1875 (the act under which two assessments were 
permissible) unconstitutional. This made it necessary to fall back to the 
county valuation as a basis for the city assessment in 1887, which brought the 
valuation down from §1,500,000 to $1,000,000. 

The bonded indebtedness of the city, December 31, 1888, as shown in 
Mayor Dempsey's address, is as follows: 

Bends issued December 1, 1881, to purchase old water-works, due December I. L891, 

purchased by sinking fund commissioners, $1,000; leaving a balanre outstanding 

10; cash in treasury. $1,157 04, which leaves a balance of $1,342 '.»i to lie raised in 

three years, or $447,435 this year, together with interest on $3,500 amounting to $210, 

making a total of $65'i 65 

Bonds issued May 1. 1883, for the erection of tin- city building and funding the Boat 
ing debt, $17,900; purchased for benefit sinking fund. $1,900; leaving a balance oiitstand 
in:' oi $16,000; cash in treasury, $6,431 87, which leaves a balance of $9 568 63 to be taken 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 175 

care of in four years, or $2,376.99 this year with interest on $17,900, amounting to $1,074, 
making a total this year for principal and interest of $3,450.99. 

Bonds issued December 1, 1883, for building new water works, due December 1, 
1893, $20,000; purchased for benefit sinking fund, $8,000; balance outstanding. $12,000. 
Amount in treasury to be credited to payment of these bonds, $2,857.88, which leaves a 
balance to be paid in five years of $9,142.12 or $1,828.42 to provide for the incoming year. 

Bonds issued December 1, 1883, due December 1, 1898. Amount of bonds. $20,000; 
cash in treasury, $2,381.20, leaving a balance to be paid in ten years of $17,618.80; in 
order to liquidate this we will have to raise this year $1,761.88. 

Bonds issued December 1, 1883, due December 1, 1903. Amount of bonds, $25,000; 
cash in treasury to apply. $1,984.33; amount to be raised in fifteen years, $23,015.67; 
amount required to be raised this year, $1,534.37. 

Total to be provided for this year. 

Bonds due December 1. 1891, $657.65; bonds due May 1, 1893, $3,450.99; water bonds 
due December 1. 1893, $1,828.42; water bonds due December 1, 1898, $1,761.88; water 
bonds due December 1, 1903, $1,534.37; interest on water bonds, $3,900; all showing a 
total of $13,133.31. 

The total assets of the city on January 1, 1889, were estimated at 
$141,885.27, of which the water-works were said to be worth §102, 000; the 
city building, $8,000, and fire department houses and outfits, $5,200. 

The municipal act of May, 1887, was declared unconstitutional in 1888, 
and some difficulty in managing the affairs of the city ensued; but the act 
of 1889 remedied this, and in April, 1890, the city officers chosen in Febru- 
ary, under this act, assumed their duties. 

Police Department. — The oldest police record dates back to 1879 when 
Thomas Murphy was chief, with Abel Edick, Nelson Morrell, John C. McCrea, 
S. H. Emmerson and Thomas McDonough, policemen. In 1880 John C. 
McCrea took Chief Murphy's place, and William Quirk and William McAn- 
drews were added to the force. In July, J. D. Fiscus, J. W. Riley and S. 
W. Truck were added. On the 21st of this month no less than fifty-one arrests 
were made within houses of prostitution. The old officers may be said to 
have continued in service until 1887, when John Wilson, Cummings, and Bent 
and Hills were appointed, and Ed. Ronan came in later, vice Wilson. In 
1887 N. J. Stanton succeeded John C. McCrea as chief, and he was succeeded 
in April, 1889, by Thomas E. McCrea, chief, who along with William Rohne, 
Matthew Donahue and P. H. Donnelly form the present police force. The 
police docket, which was opened December 17, 1888, was filled up January 28, 
1890. It contains 500 pages and represents about 1,500 arrests. 

In years now gone forever the position of the police officer was no sinecure. 
Desperate men and even women came here at intervals. Even the obsequious 
Chinaman got into trouble in those days. In June, 1880, Wah Lee delivered 
a bundle of laundry goods to some girls on the island, who refused to pay him. 
He battled for repossession, but was driven to retreat, after leaving marks of 
his visit on the faces of the girls. Charged with assault, he was brought before 
Justice McClure, and after a ludicrous attempt to defend himself, was re- 
manded for trial, and subsequently was punished. 

The first murder ever recorded at Bradford was that of Maj . Ashton, a col- 
ored man, August 23, 1883, George Gordon, another colored man, being 
charged with the murder. 

Fire Department. — A movement to organize* a hose company resulted in the 
formation of the F. S. Johnson Hose Company No. 1. This took place on August 
2, 1877. The company was furnished with 1,000 feet of hose and a two- wheeled 
cart, by the borough. Tbe hose-house was on Barbour street, in Whitney & Wheel- 
er's old barn. Another barn located on the public square was used as a place of 
meeting. In the loft of that building the first needs of the hose-boys were 

♦From the Era. 



lit'i HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

brought up and acted upon, with Frank Whalen in the chair. Later on the 
Johnsons fitted rip a building on Pine street and made their headquarters there. 
Their first fight with the fiery enemy was the conflagration which destroy ed the 
old Bradford House. In recognition of their gallant services at this fire the 
citizens purchased a carriage for them, and since that time they have played 
well their parts in saving life and property from the devouring element. Their 
present headquarters are in the city building. This company was incorporated 
March 7, 1881. The following is a list of the present officers: President, 
Thomas Blakely; vice-president, Thomas Osborne; recording secretary. B. 
McAllister; treasurer. George Carney; foreman, D. A. Ropp; first assistant 
foreman, Jacob Heckel; second assistant foreman, Charles Robbins. 

One of the foremost organizers of the fire department was Mr. J. L. 
Andrews, who for several terms held the position of chief engineer. He helped 
to build up the department, and the fame of Bradford's excellent organization 
spread all over the country. Mr. Andrews laid the foundation for the Era 
Hook and Ladder Company, which was the second fire-fighting company organ- 
ized in Bradford. This was in June. 1.878. Mr. Andrews raised the money 
and went to New York and purchased the truck, which cost $1,000, and has 
served its purpose admirably. As a company for work the Eras are second to 
none in the State, and, as the name implies, " they are up with the times." 
They belong to the era in which we live. Headquarters, city building. The 
present officers are: President, H. H. North; vice-president, Charles H. Steiger; 
treasurer, Robert L. Edgett; secretary, Fred. Humbert; financial secretary. 
Frank Levens ; wardrober, Charles F. Genthner; foreman, Charles F. Genth- 
ner; first assistant, J. J. Hutchinson; second assistant, J. Disney. 

Citizens' Hose Company No. 2 was organized November 27, 1878. Their 
first conveyance for carrying hose was a sleigh, the runners of which were made 
of bent pipe two inches in thickness. The motto of this hose company, s< mper 
paratus, is well sustained by their record in checking the ravages of fire. Will 
iatu M. Williams, now of Buffalo, was their first foreman. This organization 
has furnished the two latest chief engineers of the department, James E. 
Grainger, and the present incumbent, J. F. Campbell. Their headquarters 
are on Newell avenue, near Webster street. They are earnest and effective in 
their work. The present officers are: President, J. C. Greenewald; vice presi 
dent, Herman Frank; treasurer, M. Schaaf; recording secretary, Len. Chad- 
wick; financial secretary, J. W. Ruble; foreman, J. H. Burns; first assistant 
foreman, James Casey. 

Whitney Hose Company No. 3 was organized November 12. 1S7S. and 
commenced a brilliant career with the Johnson's old pumper and -""'Hi) feet of 
rubber hose. They soon acquired a good footing, and established their head 
quarters on Barbour street, where they now have a fine building and first class 
equipment. E. N. Southwiek, who has been elected to the positions of first 
assistant and chief engineer, was presented by the company with a hat. belt 
and trumpet in 1880. The presentation was made by William McVeigh, fore- 
man. These were his remarks: "Nate, here is something the boys got you — 
the speech will be ready next week." Nate was nearly overcome, but man- 
aged to say: " Much obliged. Bill; my speech will be ready at the same time." 
The Whitney boys are firemen of the " first water." The present officers are: 
I 'resident. W. B. Potter; vice-president, T. Whiting; secretary, James Bell: 
an, Thomas White; first assistant foreman, D. Smith; second assistant 
foreman, C. Hudson. 

The Weaver Hose Company (independent) is an organization composed of 
employes of the firm of Emery & Weaver. They are well prepared for service, 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 177 

being backed up by the steamer ' ' Lewis Emery, Jr. ' ' They are thorough 
firemen. The present officers of the Weaver Hose and Steamer Company are: 
President, M. B. Bailey; treasurer, C. D. Evans; secretary, Ed. Caldwell; 
foreman, E. A. Guy; assistant foreman, G. F. Guy; engineer of steamer, 
John Doty. 

The Central Hose Company (independent) was organized in the fall of 
1885, and since that time has accomplished good work in fighting fire. The 
majority of the members belong to the Central Iron "Works and the Oil Well 
supply shops. They beat the record in a hose race in this city September 1 of 
the present year by running 100 yards in 31 seconds. They should join the 
department. The present officers are: President, H. W. Eaton, Jr.;. vice- 
president, W. J. Bovaird; recording secretary, J. M. Crawford; financial sec- 
retary, W. H. Zahnizer; foreman, C. S. Flick; first assistant foreman, S. H. 
Nightingale; second assistant foreman, J. J. Crosby. 

The Falcon Hose Company is a Third Ward independent organization 
which is always ready to respond to an alarm. It was formed to protect 
property remote from the other companies' headquarters, and deserves 
encouragement. 

The present officers of the Bradford Fire Department are: President, Her- 
man Frank; vice-president, J. B. Fuller; secretary, M. Cohn; treasurer, J. 
C. Greene wald; chief engineer, J. Campbell; first assistant engineer, Bert 
McAllister: second assistant engineer, Harry Campbell. 

The Bradford Exempts are firemen who have seen veteran service, and have 
retired on their laurels. They own a large and finely furnished building on 
Kennedy street. They are firemen to the back bone. Their handsome quar- 
ters are a favorite resort. The parlors are furnished with pictures donated by 
citizens, and the floor is covered with a costly carpet. Here the Exempts meet 
and talk over old times. The Exempts have a striking parade uniform and 
always command the lion's share of the public attention. Mr. C. L. Wheeler 
has served as president since the organization of the company. The present 
officers are: President, C. L. Wheeler; vice-president, M. McMahon; secre- 
tary, George L. Blakeley; treasurer, J. C. Greenewald; foreman, J. L. An- 
drews; first assistant foreman, Thomas Osborne; second assistant foreman, Col. 
B. Adams; directors, J. W. Ruble, Arthur Colby, J. F. Campbell, T. C. Kelly. 

Two steam fire engines, known as "L. Emery, Jr.," and "City of 
Bradford," are two fine machines that are useful adjuncts to the efficient fire 
department. The " Emery ' ' steamer is housed in the rear of Emery & Weaver' s 
store, Main street, and the "City of Bradford" is kept in the city building. 

The Bradford Fire Police Brigade was organized in December, 1878. The. 
object of the organization was to keep crowds from interfering with firemen 
while at work, and to stop the operations of thieves. While this company 
lasted much good work was accomplished in that line of duty. The fire police 
disbanded and sold their effects some months ago. 

The United Hose Company No. 4 was organized March 25, 1879. This 
company was composed of men employed mostly by the United Pipe Line. 
They were originally organized to protect the Pipe Line property in the 
city, but were admitted to the department in July, 1879. Their record is a 
good one. This company disbanded a few years ago, much to the regret of 
all citizens. 

Water- Works. — The Bradford Water- Works Company was incorporated in 
June, 1877, with C. S. Whitney, president; T. J. Melvin, treasurer; T. A. 
Hylands, secretary; A. W. Newell, Lewis Emery, Jr., Thomas Bradley and 
H. J. Pemberton, directors. The capital stock was placed at $7,000, which 



1(8 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

was owned by fifty stockholders. In October, 1879, Fuller, Bayne & Whitney, 
representing the Water-Works Company, proposed to sell to the city for 
$1 7,961.66, if the annual rental would not be increased to .14,600, but a propo- 
sition by the city was accepted. As told in the pages devoted to the organiza- 
tion of the city, Bradford owns the present water-works system. 

Light and Heat Companies. — The Keystone Gas Company of Bradford 
was chartered in February, 1882, with J. B. Bradley, E. O. Emerson, E. C. 
Bradley, J. N. Pew and John A. Johnson, directors. The object was to sup- 
ply gas and heat to the people along the summit from State Line southwest 
to Big Shanty, and to drill and pump oil wells. The Bradford Light and Heat- 
ing Company, incorporated in June, 1879, offers additional advantages. 

The Bradford Electric Light and Power Company purchased Thornton's 
big rink building in October, 1889, and converted it into an immense electric 
light establishment. Among the incorporators are J. H. Rose, D. W. Robert- 
son, W. C. Walker & Co., D. Phillips and Potter & Wood. 

Banks, Etc. — The McKean County Bank was chartered May 13, 185 1. with 
Solomon Sartwell, George B. Backus, John C. Backus, Samuel C. Hyde, Syl- 
vanus Holmes, Samuel L. Casey, Wells D. Wallbridge, A. M. Benton and 
Daniel Kingsbury, directors, who were appointed to establish a bank at Srneth- 
port on a capital stock of $150,000. Contrary to the charter some of these 
financiers determined to locate at Bradford, and called a meeting to elect 
directors for June 8, at the office of Daniel Kingsbury. The Smethport 
stockholders protested, and had O. J. Hamlin prepare such protest. This was 
partially successful, for the wily bankers did pretend to have headquarters at 
Smethport for a time. In January, 1858, a certificate of capital stock was 
issued to Hannah L. Hamlin for two twenty-dollar shares in this concern. 
Samuel C. Hyde and John C. Backus signed the certificate as commissioners, 
while Solomon Sartwell, Jr., was the third commissioner. 

Col. Henry, in his reminiscences of this bank, states that " a long- 
legged, gander-heeled, old bank swindler from Rhode Island, with Timothy 
O. Grannis and one Deidrich, of Utica, N. Y. , came to Smethport, bringing 
with them three or four boxes said to contain about $34,000 in specie. They 
interested Daniel Kingsbury and others in their plans, had a charter from 
the State, elected Kingsbury president, Grannis, vice-president, and Deidrich. 
cashier, and placed their bills in circulation. Kingsbury was ultimately left 
liable for large sums, while the cashier walked off with $75,000 in bills, but 
was captured and made disgorge." 

The Bradford National Bank commenced business July 25, 1879, succeed- 
ing the Bradford Bank (limited), capital $100,000. The first board of directors 
were as follows: W. C. Allison, T. E. Allison, James O'Neill, G. A. Berry, 
R. F. Borckman. The following were the officers: R. F. Borckman, presi- 
dent; O. F. Schonblom, vice-president; J. F. Merrill, cashier; J. F. Thompson, 
assistant cashier. On January 8, 1S84, the management changed, the follow- 
ing being the new board: O. F. Schonblom, P. T. Kennedv, W. C. Kennedy, 
G. A. Berry, S. G. Slike, with O. F. Schonblom, president; P. T. Kennedy, 
vice president; T. H. Tomlinson, cashier; J. M. Fink, assistant cashier. On 
January 13, 1885. the board changed as follows: P. T. Kennedy, O. F. 
Schonblom, W. C. Kennedy, H. F. AVhiting, R. J. Straight, with the following 
officers: O. F. Schonblom, president; P. T. Kennedy, vice-president; T. H. 
Tomlinson, cashier; C. A. Mitchell, assistant cashier. The above named have 
all remained in office except the cashier, of which office S. P. Kennedy is 
now incumbent. On September 21, 1886, the capital was increased from 
$100,000 to $200,000. and the surplus is $40,000. 




» 




&0^i-^ij 




-iX7-< 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 181 

On March 6, 1888, about 11 a. m., while several customers were transacting 
business, a man, wearing a mask and a long rubber coat, entered the front 
door of the bank. Approaching the cashier's window, he presented a revolver, 
and ordered the official to open the door. Without pausing, he rapidly 
walked a short distance toward the rear of the bank, and suddenly sprang 
over the seven-foot railing, landing directly behind the paying teller. So 
quickly was this done that the attention of the teller, who was engaged in 
checking out a deposit, was not attracted. Mr. Tomlinson had apparently 
kept an eye on the man, and as he vaulted over the partition the official started 
from his post and met the robber, who instantly placed his revolver against 
the cashier's abdomen and tired, the bullet passing entirely through his body. 
The desperado then turned on the paying teller, and, covering him with his 
revolver, drove him toward the rear of the room. Then seizing what money 
lay on the counter (about $600) be escaped through the cashier's room and 
the front door of the bank. A crowd gathered and started in pursuit. 
After running a short distance the robber turned and fired upon Louis Bleich, 
who was in advance of the crowd, the bullet striking Bleich in the bowels 
and passing through his body. The robber continued his flight about 1,500 
feet farther, when, apparently thinking escape impossible, he placed the 
revolver to his head and fired, dying almost instantly. The name of the 
desperado was George A. Kimball. He was formerly a resident of Bradford, 
but for some years had lived at Garden City, Kas. Several parties who have 
known Kimball are of the opinion that he was insane, but it was believed 
generally that the robbery was the well-planned act of a desperado. 

The First National Bank is presided over by F. W. Davis (the successor in 
that office of J. M. Fuller), with C. C. Melvin, vice president, W. W. Bell, 
cashier, and George H. Mills, assistant cashier. The directors are S. G. Bayne, 
D. O'Dav, Joseph Seep, T. Wistar Brown, Trust Company (Philadelphia), A. B. 
Walker, "F. W. Davis, C. C. Melvin, J. M. Fuller and W.W. Bell. Among its 
stockholders may be named Byron D. Hamlin, Henry Hamlin, A. G. Olmsted. 
L. Emery, Jr., J. T. Jones, C. E. Hequembourg, L. E. Hamsher, C. M. Farrar, 
L. F. Lawton, S. Auerhaim, John Weiss, P. W. Roth, John McKeown, Robert 
C. Simpson, W. R. Weaver, F. D. Wood, Asher Brown, John Loy, P. L. Web- 
ster, Joseph Stettheimer, Robert Long, I. W. Shirley, A. Hochstetter, James E. 
Blair, A. B. Smith, Kenton Saulnier, E. T. Howes, J. D. Case. The capital is 
placed at $150,000, and the surplus at §80,000. 

The Tuna Valley Bank of Bradford, established in 1875-76, by Whitney 
& Wheeler, was forced to close its doors, owing to the fierce pressure brought 
to bear on financial houses during the year 1884. In February, 1886, the 
final dividend, with interest, was paid to creditors, and the honorable pro- 
jectors were the only losers. 

The Commercial National Bank was opened in March, 1890, in the O'Don- 
nell Building, on Main and Pine streets. The entire capital stock of $100,000 
was easily disposed of, and the new bank started out with a solid backing, 
both in a financial and a patronizing sense. At a meeting held in January, 1890. 
the following officers were chosen: P. F. Borckman, president; C. H. Lavens, 
vice-president; W. H. Powers, cashier; R. L. Mason, assistant cashier and 
teller; C. H. Lavens, Alexander Urquhart, John R. Zook, J. C. Lineman, E. 
H. Barnum, J. H. Healey, R. F. Borckman, directors. 

The People's Building, Loan & Savings Association was organized at 
Elliott & Edgett's office, July 18, 1889, when the following-named officers 
were chosen: W. W. Brown, president; George A. Sturgeon, treasurer; 
Roy W. Edgett, secretary; Silas G. Elliott, manager; Stone, Brown & Stur- 



1 82 HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

geon, attorneys; board of appraisers: E. J. Boylston, A. T. Godfrey, James 
H. Roche, Frank W. Boss and C. M. Carr. At this time no less than 116 
shares were subscribed for. 

The Bradford Building & Loan Association is presided over by H. S. 
Southard, with H. H. North, secretary. The second scri.N of stock was au- 
thorized to be opened February '_', 1890. 

The McKean County Board of Underwriters was organized some time ago, 
and presided over by E. V. Cody, with John Troy, of Olean. vice-president, 
Fred W. Groves, secretary, and William Haskell, treasurer. 

Oil Exchanges. — The Tuna Valley Oil Exchange was presided over in 
January, 1877, by A. I. Wilcox, with Col. D. Gardner, vice-president, and 
C. Everson, secretary. 

The Bradford Oil Exchange may be said to have been established March 
L9, L878, when a meeting, over which C. L. Wheeler presided, considered the 
question of organization. A. J. Stephenson was secretary; J. M. Fuller, L. 
Emery, Jr., C. L. Wheeler, G. H. VanVleck and F. E. Boden, executive and 
building committee, and A. F. Kent, treasurer. Stock to the amount of 
$30,000 was at once subscribed, and in May plans by E. A. Curtis were 
adopted, and the old Johnson homestead on Main street, purchased for 
S 10. ill III. The building contract was sold to Henry Shenk, who commenced 
work June 13, 1878, and completed the house in February, 1879, the total 
cost including lot being $44,000. Charles L. Wheeler, the first president, 
has been elected annually down to the present time. The officers of the 
Bradford Oil Exchange elected for 1890 are C. L. Wheeler, president; J. E. 
Haskell, vice president: Winfield Scott, secretary and treasurer; J. B. Jayne, 
F. W. Davis, C. C. Melvin, F. L. Blackmarr, E. Bpyer. W. R. Weaver, S. 
H. Durston. A. B. Walker. J. E. Cochran and John Denman, directors; F. 
H. Roberts, A. Thornton, F. P. Leonard, W. E. Gould and J. M. McElroy, 
arbitration committee; C. L. Wheeler, E. P. Whitcomb and J. T. Jones, 
conference committee; C. K. Thompson, judge of election; E. J. Boylston 
and I. G. Jackson, inspectors of election. 

The Producers' Petroleum Exchange was chartered in December, l^ s '_'. 
and early in 1883 the inaugural meeting was held in Armory Hall, with 500 
members, each of whom carried a $100 share. In June, 1883, a site for the 
Exchange building was obtained, and January 2, 1884, the house was com- 
pleted and opened, David Kirk, the president, delivering the address. Messrs. 
McKevett, Williamson and Lockwood formed the building committee. Mr. 
Kirk, referring to the progress of the county, said: " Congressionally we are 
in the same condition. For six years of the ten at least we must continue to 
be the tail end of a wild-cat district. Politically we amount to no more to day 
than when the population of McKean county consisted of a few men in the 
lumbering camps of the wilderness. Our representatives must lie held ac 
countable. One of them, with a vulgar display of wealth, has tendered money 
in place of services." 

The Association of Producers was organized June 11. 1SS4, with H. L. 
Taylor, president; David Kirk and W. J. Young, vice-presidents; F. W. 
Mitchell, treasurer; W. H. Johnson, secretary; John L. MeKenney, John 
Satterfield, J. A. Cadwallader, W. W. Hague," F. T. Coast, J. T. Jones. B. 
Goe, W. R. Weaver. C. S. Whitney. J. S. Davis, F. W. Andrews, James 
Alum. W. J. Young and H. B. Porter, executive committee. A meeting was 
held August 21, ISM. when the secretary read the report on the "shut-down" 
prepared by the executive committee, and with it the agreement, signed by 861 
individual owners of wells or representatives of linns, while the total number 



HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 183 

of wells in the Bradford district, connected with the National Transit and the 
Tide Water Lines, was 13,328. 

The Producers' Protective Association elected the following named officers 
September 3, 1889: T. W. Phillips, of New Castle, president; H. L. Taylor, 
of Buffalo, vice-president; James R. Goldsborough, of Bradford, secretary; 
R J. Straight, of Bradford, treasurer. The association was organized two 
years before this date, and is credited with introducing the new era of pros- 
perity in the oil field. 

The W. P. Driven Well Protective Association was organized at Bradford 
in 1883, with A. J. Edgett, president; Dr. M. A. Todd, secretary; A. De- 
Golier, treasurer; P. T. Kennedy, C. C. Melvin and James E. Blair, execu- 
tive committee. 

Post-offi,ce. — In 1879 W. F. DeGolier was postmaster at Bradford. His 
direct salary was $2,300, with $1,500 allowance for clerk hire. During the 
first quarter of the year 1879 money orders for $31,000 were issued, and 
$5,890 worth of stamps sold. In March, 1885, the citizens of Bradford peti- 
tioned for the extension of the free-letter delivery system. The petitioners 
were given an idea of the mills of the gods, for the department devoted four- 
teen months to the consideration of their prayer. The present postmaster, 0. 
B. Whitehead, took possession of the office May 28, 1886, and within thirty 
days the welcome letter-carriers were distributing letters among the people. 
In 1887 the volume of business was far in excess of any preceding year, and 
an increase in business marks every month since that time. 

Hotels. — The Riddell House was sold in November, 1881, by Dr. George 
Riddell, to Chamberlain & Gelm for $40,000. The Doctor built a large frame 
house in 1878, on part of the site of the present structure. Late that year it 
was swept away by fire. In 1879 the present house was built by him. Ander- 
son & Co. purchased Chamberlain & Gelm's interests; Mitchell & Anderson 
bought the house from them on July 23, 1885; F. P. Holley purchased Mitch- 
ell's interest, and in 1887 he became sole owner. The Riddell is a first-class 
hotel, admirably managed. 

The St. James Hotel, at the head of Main street, near the exchanges, 
banks, newspaper offices and leading business houses, is equally as well man- 
aged as the Riddell House. The building is quite modern, and the location 
unexcelled. 

The Henderson House comes next in importance. It is a most popular hos- 
telry, and well conducted. The hotel is a large building, one block from Main 
street, but near the business center, the churches and schools, and convenient 
to the railroad depots. 

The American House is spoken of with favor by visitors from various 
sections of the Bradford field; while several other houses have their admir- 
ers, leading one to suppose that the city knows no such thing as a poor hotel. 

In January, 1847, Sabines Walker petitioned the court to grant him a 
license for keeping a house of entertainment in his dwelling on Tunuanguant 
creek, where the Sniethport and Ellicottville road passes. In January. 1848, 
Sylvanus Holmes asked license for this house. For about thirty years Bradford 
and neighborhood were happy in the old-time inns referred to by Judge Ward, 
and when the modern inns came to replace them, fire swept away a few of the 
new institutions, as related. 

Schools. — In the reminiscences of Judge Ward, references are made to the 
early schools of Bradford. In 1877 the old school building became the prop- 
erty of the Catholic church, and on its site stands the present St. Bernard's 



18-4 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

church and convent schools. At that time the common-school system of the 
city placed the foundation stone of its present greatness. 

In his first report to the State superintendent in 1SS2, George F. Stone, 
then superintendent of the city schools, said: " In submitting my first report of 
the condition of the schools of the city of Bradford, you will permit a refer- 
ence to the peculiar difficulties with which our city in its infancy has labored. 
Within seven years our school population has increased more than twelve fold, 
and the number of schools in like proportion. It has been found necessary to 
erect within the last two years three school buildings, furnishing accommoda- 
tions for thirteen schools, and during the present vacation another building 
has been enlarged to accommodate two additional schools." In 1882 there were 
in the city twenty-one schools, employing twenty-six teachers. The average 
attendance was 1,037 and the average percentage was ninety-two. The total 
amount of tax levied for school and building purposes, §39.619.21. In l^ s 3 
the number of schools had increased to twenty four, the number of teachers 
to thirty-five, and the average attendance had swelled to 1,080. The sexes 
were about evenly divided. In this year the total tax was $29. tSS. Pi. Din- 
ing the school year ending June 2, 1884, the capacity of the schools was 
again severely tested, and a new brick building was erected on Congress street. 
This structure contains a library, a laboratory and a printing office. In this 
year the number of schools was swelled to thirty-two, employing thirty-eight 
teachers, with an average attendance of 1,106. The total amount of taxes 
levied was $27,578.46. In 1885 the schools were not increased. The num- 
ber of teachers employed was thirty-nine, and the average attendance was 
1,300. The total amount of the tax" levy was $38,091.07. In the spring of 
1886 the central school building was destroyed by fire. It was replaced by a 
larger and more commodious structure. In this year there were thirty -four 
schools, which gave employment to thirty, nine teachers. The average attend- 
ance was further increased to 1,315. The tax levy was $31,287.18. In 18cS7 
there were thirty-one schools, employing thirty-five teachers. The enrollment 
consists of 912 males and 968 females, a total of 1,880. The average daily 
attendance is 1,387, and the average cost of each pupil $1.03 per month. The 
total amount levied for school and building purposes is $27,180.74. In 1888 
phenomenal progress was reported. In June of this year the discussion on 
the question of the superintendent's salary created a stir in school circles and 
brought from the superintendent a letter of which the following is a copy. 

Bangor. Me., June 22, 1888. 
To the Board op School Control, Bradford, Pa. 

As I read in the Era of to-day that I have been charged with disloyalty to the schools 
of Bradford in advising teachers to ask higher salaries elsewhere, and thus oblige the Brad- 
ford board to increase them; also, that the public are dissatisfied with the increase made 
in my salary, I again ask the Bradford board to release me from my engagements for an- 
otheryear. A superintendent may be found whose desire for a position may be so great 
lhat he will be willing to keep silent when he is unjustly accused. Fortunately my op 
portunities in life are so many that I am not so placed. I again thank the Board for the 
uniform courtesy I have received at their hands. 

Respectfully. 

Ella M. Botce. 

The lady did not lose her position; on the contrary her salary was advanced, 
and in July, 1889, the following assignment of teachers was made, which was 
adopted by the board: Central Brick Building: Anna McBride. principal; 
Helen M. Biscoe. first assistant; Oriana Wycoff, principal; Christine Miller. 
assistant; Sarah Bruce, Sallie Harnor. Luella Harris, Bessie Johnson, A. Hag- 
gerty, A. Herrick. — Annex : L. Heard. M. Silberberg. — Synagogue: Bertha 
James.- Central Wooden Building : Helen Shepard, Miss Angell. Annie Miller, 



HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 185 

K. Murphy, J. Simons, H. Horton, B. Huff, M. Brown.— Third Ward: Belle 
Minard, Nellie Lewis, Cleora Prosser, L. Morton, S. Lewis, Francis Wann. — 
Fourth Ward: Jennie Renninger, Delia Neely, H. Mason, A. Brennan. — 
Fifth Ward: M. Wann, M. Mead, H. A. Brown, I. Blanchard. 

The actual expenses were, for year ending June, 1889: Salaries of superin- 
tendent and teachers, $16,559; of secretary and librarian, $411; of janitors, 
$1,242: fuel and contingencies, $1,078; supplies, $823; miscellaneous, $339; 
total, $20,452. 

Late in the fall of 1878 the work of erecting the schools attached to St. 
Bernard's Church was begun, and school opened in them in September of the 
following year, the services of the Sisters of the Order of St. Joseph having 
been secured as teachers in the same. The maintenance of these schools is 
quite a heavy burden upon the congregation. These schools are free to all. 
There are some three hundred pupils upon the school roll, who are instructed 
and well grounded in all the primary branches without any expense to the tax- 
payers of the city. Of her educational advantages Bradford has good reason 
to be proud. The public school system is very nearly perfect, and the advanced 
methods, the thorough training, and the excellent discipline by which they 
have been distinguished, have drawn to their cordial support a class which in 
other cities depends almost wholly upon private schools. The newspapers of 
the city are, however, the great practical educators. 

Churches. — The First Baptist church is contemporary with the first settle- 
ment at Bradford. In 1840 Rev. N. E. Chapin had an appointment as mis- 
sionary pastor, preaching in what was known as Col. Little's house, near the 
present oil exchange. 

The Regular Baptist church of Bradford was organized under State laws 
in September, 1S52, with Enos Parsons, Truman Sherman, W. F. Peckham, 
E. C. Olds, James DeGolier, C. Storms and Edwin Colegrove, trustees. In 
1S74 the church was reorganized under the labors of State Missionary Stowell, 
and T. J. Knapp, of Parker, became pastor in June, 1878. His labors were 
continued until July, 1879, when he resigned. The church was left pastorless 
until February, 1880, when Rev. Alfred Rose, of Westerfield, N. Y., accepted a 
call. The society was organized under legal form in December, 1880, and the 
constitution signed by the following named members: W. W. Brown, T. J. 
Powers, F. Z. Trax, P. T. Kennedy, W. H. Dennis, M. S. Cody, C. P. Cody, 
E. B. Chappelle, Alfred Rose, W. H. Powers, E. Crossman, Clara Prosser, 
Jessie Browne, Jennie E. Rose and D. DeGolier. Among the trustees were 
Isaac Jones and A. K. Johnson. Services were held in the Opera House and 
other places until January 16, 1881, when the present house was dedicated. 
In April, 1882, Mr. Rose resigned, and in May following was succeeded by 
Rev. W. R. Baldwin, who served until February 15, 1884. At this time the 
church numbered 125 members, and was carrying a debt of $8,000. On Au- 
gust 1, 1884, Rev. James P. Thorns, of Cazenovia, N. Y., began his pastorate. 

The Methodist Church of Tunuanguant was incorporated in July, 1848, 
with John F. Melvin, John O. Beardsley, Absalom Hutchinson, Seth Scott, 
Thomas Dolloff, William Beardsley, Daniel Warner, William R. Fisher, H. 
Webb, L. W. Fisher and A. S. Wheaton, stockholders or subscribers. 

The First Methodist Church of Bradford was incorporated May 30, 1878, 
with Loren G. Peck, J. H. Harris, A. DeGolier, H. S. Baker, L. B. Blakes- 
lee, A. W. Newell and John Brown. The object of legal association was to 
acquire property and build a house of worship. For many years before this 
an organization existed in Bradford, but regular services were not commenced 
under the auspices of such organization until October, 1876, when Rev. J. A. 



186 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Copeland was appointed pastor. Until March, 1887, the Opera House was 
used for public worship. At that time their new church was completed, which 
has since been enlarged. Mr. Copeland was succeeded in 1879 by Rev. ('. \V. 
Gushing, D. D., and in 1882 by Eev. D. \V. C. Huntington, D. D. The mem- 
bership of the church at present is over 500, and the average attendance at the 
Sunday-school is almost 400, under the care of fifty-five officers and teachers. 
Eev. G. Chapman Jones concluded a four-years term as pastor in September, 
1889. At that time he reported 553 members and thirty probationers. Mr. 
Huntington was reappointed in the fall of 1889. 

The First Congregational Church of Bradford was organized in May, 1854, 
with T. Lambert, V. Waggoner. W. W. Norton, E. D. Norton. M. C. Fuller, 
C. D. Webster and E. S. Niles, trustees. Samuel Porter and P. L. Webster, 
with the trustees, signed the petition for incorporation. 

The Bradford Meeting-House Association was incorporated June 21, 1871, 
with P. L. Webster, J. E. Blair. T. W. Cole, Benjamin Jewett, Thomas J. 
Melvin and Abram K. Johnson, trustees. The society was formed to control 
the property of the Congregational Church, vice E. D. Norton, A. K. Johnson 
and F. Newell, the trustees of the old Congregational society of 1853-54, of 
Littleton Village, who were acting in 1866. 

The Universalis! Church was organized here early in the " fifties," as told 
in the sketch of Editor Haffey, but meetings were irregular. In later days serv- 
ices of this denomination have been held here. 

St. Bernard's Church. Previous to the discovery of oil in the northern 
field there was no resident Catholic pastor in Bradford. The few memlwi-s of 
that denomination located at this point and in the immediate vicinity were oc- 
casionally visited by a priest from Newell creek, and among the first to thus 
visit them was Very Rev. J. D. Coady. now pastor of St. Titus Church, Titus- 
ville. His field of missionary duty, though extensive in respect to territory, 
embracing, as it did, the counties of McKean, Potter, and parts of Elk. was. 
however, limited in respect to numbers. The summer of 1S77 witnessed the 
climax of the oil excitement in this section; people began to flock to it from 
every point of the compass, and Bradford grew rapidly from a mere hamlet 
to a full-fledged city. It was in the fall of this year that Rev. William 
Coonan, present pastor of St. Bernard's Church, was appointed by Bishop 
Mullin. of Erie, to look after the spiritual wants of the Catholic population, 
and build up the church. After some debts, which had been contracted pre- 
vious to his taking charge, were satisfactorily adjusted, immediate preparations 
were made for the erection of a suitable church edifice. Heretofore the little 
congregation had worshiped in what used to be the old village school-house, 
which, together with the grounds attached, they had purchased, and upon 
which the present church parsonage and schools are erected. In the spring of 
1878 the present church, 44x100 feet, was commenced, and was occupied the fol- 
lowing December, though not dedicated until the summer of 1879. at whirl) I ime 
it was almost completely paid for. The school buildings were begun in the fall 
of 1878, and opened by the Sisters of St. Joseph in September. 1879. In 1 S M 
the Catholic cemetery was established on the Brown farm, one mile south w< si i if 
the city. Work on the proposed large brick and stone church will, it is said, 
commence in the spring of 1890. 

The First Presbyterian Church of Bradford was incorporated in June, 1879, 
the following named having hitherto signed the constitution: Theodore Ladd, 
C. D. Webster, A. M. Davis. C. H. Hoffman, A. L. Kinkead, J. M. Arm- 
strong, R. G. Williams and William M. Boggs. Among the directors were 
Bernard Hook and W. J. McCullough. The societv was originallv organized 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 187 

June 19, 1877, with twenty-four members. For more tban two years the con- 
gregation was without a regular place of worship, during which time services 
were held in Wagner's Opera House, the Universalist Church, the Academy of 
Music and other places. In the fall of 1875 the lecture room of the church 
was completed, and a place was thus provided for the services. The church 
edifice itself was not finished until the following spring. On May 30, 1880, 
the church was dedicated, $5,000 being raised on this occasion to pay for the 
same. The following autumn the excellent pipe-organ, which is still in use, 
was purchased at a cost of $1,600. Rev. R. G. Williams, now of Nelson, 
Penn., was the first pastor of the church, and continued his ministry for one 
year and a half. He was succeeded by Rev. J. Ross Findley, now of Con- 
neaut, Ohio, who was pastor of the church from May, 1879, until May. 1882. 
The present pastor. Rev. Edward Bryan, was installed November 15. 1882. 
The church is now in connection with the presbytery of Erie, to which it was 
transferred from the presbytery of Buffalo by the general assembly. On Sep- 
tember 4, 1S89, Bryan resigned his office as pastor after seven years' service. 
During that period $51,172 were collected for missionary and church purposes. 
Rev. M. J. Eccles came in February, 1890. 

The Protestant Episcopal Church of the Ascension petitioned for incor- 
poration May 27, 1880. The signers were W. W. Mason, A. B. Put- 
nam, L. C. Blakeslee, W. F. Crane, I. Beam, J. A. Ege, S. L. Wilson, J. R. 
Mattock, S. H. Durston, T. L. Shields, E. F. Willetts, A. C. Scott. J. F. 
Merrill, Peter T. Kennedy, C. L. Wheeler, Ed. R. Shepherd, Lynford Lard- 
ner, C. A. Seigfried, H. G. Cutting and F. Winslow, of Bradford, with C. A. 
Cornen and W. N. Hanna, of Kendall. The Rouseville, Penn., church build- 
ing was moved to Bradford, rebuilt, and was used up to January 19, 1890, 
when it was burned. The society proposes to erect a new building this year. 

The United Brethren Church is one of the modern religious organizations 
of the city. The membership is small, but nourishing. 

Beth Zion Congregation was incorporated in December, 1880, with Jacob 
Olshoffsky, Philip Nusbaum, Alexander Simpson, Moses Ruslander and A. M. 
Mayer, trustees. The names of S. Auerhaim and Asher Brown also appear 
on the record. A temple was erected on South Mechanic street, and dedicated 
in the spring of 1881. The services are conducted according to the reform 
principles of modern Judaism. That is to say, prayers and sermons in the 
English language are connected with the Hebrew ritual. Rev. Sanmel AYeil 
has been the Rabbi ever since the founding of the congregation. The congre- 
gation numbers forty members, besides many seat-holders. The Rabbi con- 
ducts, besides the Sabbath-school, a day school in which Hebrew and German 
are taught. 

The First Bradford Orthodox Hebrew Congregation was incorporated in 
March, 1881, with P. Freidman, David Levi and Isaac Nusbaum, trustees. 
The petition was signed by Joseph Rosenberg, H. Cohn, Dan. Silberene, 
Raphael Michael, B. Jacobs and L. Graff. 

The African Methodist Church was organized in the spring of 1880 by 
Rev. Mr. Cyrus. The following fall Rev. R. H. Jackson was appointed to 
this charge, and for three years served the church in the capacity of pastor. 
He was succeeded by Rev. R. H. Henderson, who, after serving for two years, 
was succeeded by Rev. S. H. Lacey in a pastoral service of one year. Rev. 
C. H. Brown was then appointed. The highest number of members in con- 
nection with the church at any one time is seventy-two; the lowest reported 
membership, thirteen. 

The Swedish Church was incorporated September 4, 1888. The congrega- 



188 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

tion, like others of this faith in the southern townships of McKean county, 
pushes forward valiantly to gain a place among the old religious societies of 
the city. 

Rev. Clim Giro, educated in the Lane Seminary for Presbyterian mission 
work, came to Bradford in 18S1 to address Judge Ward's Sunday-school class 
of Chinese pupils. 

Ben Hogan, referred to in the history of Tarport, is now an Evangelist. 
The following concerning this extraordinary man is taken from a local paper: 

Ben Hogan. old-time gambler, cracksman, confidence man, bounty jumper, dive- 
keeper and pugilist, who left the oil country eleven years ago with the reputation of being 
the wickedest man in the world, is back again after his long absence, going from town to 
town, visiting bis old haunts, greeting Ids old friends, and — preaching to them the gos- 
pel' Packed houses greet him, and although crude, ungrammatical, and with a vocabu- 
lary not at all extensive, be holds the interested attention of ignorant and cultivated 
alike with the forceful and rudely eloquent recital of bis past adventures, and the story 
of his marvelous conversion. As he looks from the platform he can see the faces of many 
of bis old patrons — the man who drank Ins liquor at Pithole, the habitue of his dance- 
bouse a1 Babylon, the ex oil prince who spent his $100 a night on board the infamous 
" floating palace " at Parker's Landing, and the driller who patronized bis place at Tar 
port. They all come to bear Ben preach the gospel. For bow many men does the whirli- 
gig of time work such wonders as it has for Ben Hogan, Evangelist'/ 

Cemeteries. — About fifty-seven years ago three acres were donated to the 
settlers of Littleton for a free burial-ground. This tract was located on Ken- 
nedy street. In the winter of 1880-81 the cemetery ou the Tarport road was 
opened. 

The Oak Hill Cemetery Association of Bradford was incorporated in De- 
cember, 1883. with W. R. Weaver, Enos Parsons, C. C. Melvin, P. M. Fuller 
and P. L. Webster, stockholders. In 1S81 the Catholic cemetery on Washing- 
ton street was opened. This is located on the H. Brown farm, one mile south- 
west of the city. 

Hospital. — The project of establishing a hospital was first started by < len. 
Kane. He recognized the necessity for an institution of that kind to care for per- 
sons disabled in the oil field; and in April. L881, the McKean County Relief Soci- 
ety was organized and incorporated. A hospital was to be erected on Mount 
llaub, but on account of the General's death the project was abandoned. Rev. D. 
B. Wilson, well known for his charities, next revived interest in the matter, but 
before his plans could be properly carried out he died, in 1885. The Brad- 
ford Hospital Association was incorporated August 4, 1885, on petition of the 
following named supporters: H. F. Barbour, M. B. Pierce, A. L. Weil, P. 
M. Shannon, L. Emery, Jr.. H. W. Eaton, R. B. Stone, Edward Bryan, J. 
T. Jones and M. McMahon. By public and private donations aud entertain- 
ments the hospital fund grew, and that worthy institution was placed upon a 
substantial footing. The hospital was opened in May, 1887, and placed under 
the direction of Mrs. M. Krider, matron. 

Societies, Etc. — In the order of Masonic* advancement and organization, 
the Blue Lodge comes first under consideration. 

Union Lodge No. 334. Up to the year 185S there was not a lodge of Free 
and Accepted Masons within the borders of McKean county, and there was 
none nearer than Warren, known as North Star Lodge No. 241. In that year 
a number of Masons living in the village decided to form a lodge. The con- 
sent of North Star Lodge No. 241 having been given, the following brethren 
petitioned the grand lodge of Pennsylvania for a warrant of constitution: 
Samuel Boyer, Montour Lodge, 108, N. J.; Nelson Parker. North Star Lodge, 
241; G. F. Peckham, Ellicottville Lodge, 307, N. Y. : William Beardsley, 

• Masonic history is taken from the Star of July, 1889. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 191 

Ellicottville Lodge, 307, N. Y. ; J. L. Savage (lodge not given); Jasper Marsh, 
North Star Lodge, 241; Jonathan Marsh (lodge not given); J. C. Ackley, 
Brownville Lodge. At a quarterly communication of the grand lodge, held 
March 7, 1859, the warrant of constitution was granted for a lodge in the vil- 
lage of Bradford, Penn., to be known as Union Lodge No. 334, signed by the 
following grand officers: Henry M. Phillips, R. W. G. M. ; John Thompson, D. 
G. M. ; David C. Sterrett, S. G. W. ; Lucius H. Scott, J. G. W. ; Peter William- 
son, grand treasurer; William H. Adams, grand secretary. On August 3, 1859. 
the lodge was duly constituted, and on that day held its first meeting. The 
first officers were Samuel Boyer, W. M. ; Nelson Parker, S. W. ; George F. 
Peckham, J. W. ; Wilson Beard sley, secretary; Jasper Marsh, treasurer; J. S. 
Savage, S. D. ; J. C. Ackley, J. D. The following have served as masters of 
the lodge: George F. Peckam, S. Boyer, A. K. Johnson (three years), William 
Burton, H. W. Glass, T. H. Stock, Nelson Parker, George T. Keith, L. B. 
Prosser (two years), G. D. H. Crooker (two years), James Broder, J. W. 
Brenuan, F. W. Davis, T. J. Melvin, James E. Blair, F. P. Wentworth, E. 
D. Matteson (two years), G. L. Wheeler, E. A. Boyne, D. S. Kemp, Walter 
Grubb, William K. Laney. The officers of the lodge in 1889 were A. D. 
Sloan, W. M. ; James M. Stevenson, S. W. ; Henry Trumbower, J. W. ; Lewis 
C. Longaker, treasurer; C. P. McAllister, secretary; and in 1890, J. M. Stev- 
enson, Henry Trumbower, S. R. Dresser, C. L. Wheeler and C. P. McAllister. 
C. L. Wheeler is district deputy grand master of the Twenty-second District of 
Pennsylvania, comprising the counties of McKean and Potter. Up to 1875 the 
lodge grew in numbers but moderately. At that time the remarkable growth 
of the city set in and the lodge felt the effects of it in an increased prosperity 
and interest. The lodge has now a membership of 240, and its members not 
only comprise many of the leading and best citizens of Bradford, but are scat- 
tered all over the land, in almost every State and Territory. The lodge is 
also in a flourishing condition, financially, being out of debt and having $2,000 
in property and invested funds. Applications for membership are received at 
nearly every meeting, and the total inadequacy of the present lodge room to 
accommodate comfortably one-half the membership has made the building of 
the new Temple a necessity. There were 225 members in March, 1890. 

Bradford Chapter, R. A. M., No. 260. In the summer of 1880 a number 
of Royal Arch Masons residing in this city discussed among themselves the 
formation of a new chapter, and the result was an application to the grand 
chapter for a charter signed by the following companions as charter members: 
G. L. Wheeler, Joseph H. Simonds, W. R. Weaver, W. A. Ris, James Broder, 
J. C. Sturgeon, W. M. Keeler, G. D. Buss, W. H. Clarke, W. G. Husband, 
John Stinson, Michael Murphy, W. F. Jordan, E. P. Pooler, C. C. Melvin, 
Henry Trumbower. The charter was granted by the grand chapter, and on 
September 6, 1880, Bradford Chapter, R. A. M., No. 260, was constituted and 
the new officers installed. The occasion was one of great interest in Masonic 
circles for many miles around. The grand officers of the State were nearly 
all present and conducted the impressive ceremonies in the presence of a large 
assembly of chapter masons, including many distinguished men of high posi- 
tion and character. The first officers, of the new chapter, installed were 
Joseph H. Simonds, M. E. H. P.; William R. Weaver, king; William A. Rix, 
scribe; Charles L. Wheeler, treasurer; Robert T. Thompson, secretary. The 
chapter at once entered upon an era of unexampled growth and prosperity. 
At the end of the first year the membership had been increased to eighty-seven, 
at the end of the second year to 122, and at the end of the third year to 155. 
Since then the growth has been steady, and at the present date the roster num- 



192 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

bers 210 companion's, and the invested funds and property of the chapter 
amount to aboui $2,500. Following are the past high priests who have 
in thai capacity since the constituting of the chapter: Joseph H. 
Simonds, W. K Weaver, W*. H. Clarke, David S. Kemp. Phillip M. Shannon, 
H. Trumbower, Elias Urquhart, Francis W. Sprague and E. F. Sawyer. 
This chapter elected the following named officers in December, 1889: F. J. 
Collins, II. P.; George W. Ashdown, K. ; James M. Stevenson, scribe: Charles 
I.. Wheeler, treasurer; Charles P. McAllister, secretary, and F. W. Sprague, 
representative. The membership is now (1S90) 200. 

Bradford Council No. 43, R. & S. M. In the early part of January, 1888, 
a number of royal and select masters residing in Bradford met to consider 
the advisability of establishing a council of royal and select masters. At an 
informal meeting held February 9, 1888, it was decided to apply for a charter 
at the grand council meeting at Erie, Penn. On Friday evening, May 4. 1SSS. 
the grand council held a special meeting in this city, constituted Bradford 
Council No. 43, B. & S. M. . and installed the following officers : F. J. Collins, 
I I <.. M. : L. E. Mallory, D. I. G. M. ; J. H. Youngs, P. C. of W. ; C. L. 
Wheeler. Treas. : E. F. Sawyer, Rec. With the exception of P. C. of W. and 
recorder, the above 'officers were re-elected for this year. Companion Youngs 
and Companion Sawyer declined a re-election, and Companions D. C. Greene- 
wald and C. P. McAllister were elected as P. C. of W. and recorder. The offi- 
eers < 1 1' this council elected in December, 1889, were L. E. Mallory, T. I. G. M. ; 
S. R. Sheakley, D. I. G. M. ; C. S. Hubbard, P. C. of W. ; C. L. Wheeler, 
Treas.; C. P. McAllister, Rec; J. R. Goldsborough, F. W. Sprague and J. 
\\ Hogan, trustees. The membership is 147, or the third in strength in this 
State. 

Trinity Commandery, No. 58, K. T. In the early months of 1881 the 
man. riif instituting a Commandery of Knights Templar began to be discussed. 
Among the new residents of the city were many members of the order who 
had located in the great northern field to stay, and they wanted a templar 
home. On April 30, 1881, a preliminary meeting of members of the order was 
held, and a petition for a dispensation forwarded to the grand commandery, 
with the following charter members' names affixed: J. H. Simonds, C. L. 
Wheeler, Victor Gratter, Casper Taylor, R. T. Thompson, James Broder, W. 
I; Weaver, A. ('. Hawkins, ,1. M. McElroy, E. A. Drake, J. R. Goldsborough, 
C. H. McKevitt. .1. B. Panel, ( ). F. Schonblom, L. E. Hamsher, W. H. Brad- 
ley, Marion llenshaw, John Bird, Joseph Overv, W. L. Yelton, J. C. Stur 
geon, H. Trumbower, T. B. Hoover. W. C. Hayes, D. S. Scoville. W. P. 
Shoemaker. John T. Farmer. W. II. Spain, F. M. Cole, W. H. H. Fithian, 
J. M. Stevenson, W. Warmcastle, M. A. Sprague, W. F. Kelley, D. F. Sieg- 
fried, John Eaton, J. B. Wheaton, W. C. Husband. H. C. Sanderson. Sey- 
mour Peck, W. H. Clark... Alfred Smedley, Charles A. Bailey, J. E. Haskell. 
W. \. Rix, Frank A. Smith, W. F. Jordan. J. B. Flisher, John Stinson, A. 
B. Walker, Charles D. Buss, John C. Holmes, Enos O. Adams and Ed. Good 
1 i Ma\ 1 3 the dispensation was granted, and on May IN. 1 SSI, the first con - 
I Trinity commandery was held, with the following officers: Joseph 
ds, eminent commander; C. L. Wheeler, generalissimo; Victor Gratter, 
captain-general; Casper Taylor, treasurer; Robert T. Thompson, recorder; 
John (' Sturgeon, prelate; James Broder, senior warden; William H. Clarke, 
junior warden: J. R. Goldsborough, standard hearer; William A. Rix, sword 
bearer; John Stinson, warder; W. H. H. Fithian, sentinel. At the meeting 
of the grand commandery in that same month the charter was duly granted. 
and R. E, Sir George W. Kendrick, grand commander.il' the state of Penn- 



HISTOBY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 193 

sylvania, appointed Wednesday, September 28, 1881, for the constituting of 
Trinity Commandery, No. 58, K. T. The members of the new commandery 
resolved to make the occasion one long to be remembered, both as a social and 
Masonic event of the city, and they more than succeeded. The most elaborate 
pi'eparations were made, both for the reception of the grand officers and the 
entertainment of the guests of the occasion. The new commandery so auspi- 
ciously constituted increased rapidly in members, and soon ranked as one of 
the most vigorous and most ably officered and conducted templar organiza- 
tions in the State. At the present time the membership numbers 198. The 
commandery has within the last few years lost many prominent members by 
death, among them the First Commander E. Sir Joseph H. Sitnonds, to 
whose earnest intelligent efforts are due more than to any other one man, the 
constituting of both the chapter and commandery, and their success and effi- 
ciency. Following are the past commanders in order of service: Joseph H. 
Simonds, Joseph M. McElroy, Charles L. Wheeler, Phillip M. Shannon, Win- 
field Scott Watson, James R. Goldsborough, Harry A. Marlin. The officers 
for 1889 were James R. Goldsborough, eminent commander; Henry F. Bar- 
bour, generalissimo; William R. Weaver, captain- general; Phillip M. Shan- 
non, treasurer; W. H. H. Fithian, recorder. The officers for 1890 are H. F. 
Barbour, E. C. ; W. R. Weaver, G. ; F. J. Collins, C. G. ; C. L. Wheeler, 
Treas., and C. P. McAllister, Rec. The present membership is 200. 

In the summer of 1889 the proposition to build a Masonic Temple was 
favorably received, and the lots on which the Roberts' block was standing, 
purchased. The old building was removed and the elegant edifice erected. 
Mr. Curtis, of Fredonia, is the architect, and the Masonic Temple Association, 
with S. B. Dresser, president, W. R. Weaver, vice-president, and C. P. Mc- 
Allister, secretary, had charge of its construction. 

Tuna Lodge No. 411, I. O. O. F., was instituted June 1, 1877. The 
Past Grands of this lodge are W. H. Adams, C. W. Bartholomew, E. I. Bald- 
win, J. J. Cole, J. C. Greenewald, D. C. Greenewald, C. A Huggins, Ber- 
nard Hook, F. E. Hinkley, J. G. Hann, Lee Kennedy, Dave Kibler, John 
Kelly, Ed. Kahn, D. C. Macon, A. G. Moulton, John Meyers, J. W. Piatt, J. 
H. Ralph, E. N. Southwick, John Theetge, W. R. Weaver, F. Steinberger, 
V. E. Bryant and John Cummings; A. N. Heard has served as D. D. G. M. , 
and R. A. Dempsey as secretary. The membership is about 100. 

McKean Encampment No. 266, I. O. O. F., was instituted June 18, 1884. 
The P. C. P's. of this organization are W. R. Weaver, D. C. Greenewald, 
J. H. Ralph, J. C. Greenewald, James A. Lindsey, V. E. Bryant, John Cum- 
mings, W. H. Adams, E. G. Baldwin and John Myers. C. V. Cottrell has 
served as scribe, and J. H. Ralph as D. D. G. M. There are forty-five mem- 
bers with encampment property valued at $1,300. 

Tuna Valley Lodge No. 453, K. of P., was instituted December 9, 1884, 
with the following named members: W. H. Malick, Sanford Gordon. F. S. 
Parker, G. R. Mabb, G. B. Watson, E. J. Chambers, H. Frank, E. T. Wright, 
J. S. Fritz, C. M. Carr, G. W. Willis, Thomas Fitzpatrick, Charles A. Bailey, 
J. A. Lindsey, N. A. Hollenbeck, P. Fragner, E. N. Robinson, L. M. Finney. 
M. A. Todd, J. A. Nelson, T. J. Beridge, T. J. Collins, C. H. Hogans, W. 
C. Leonard, G. B. McCalmont, John Slocum, J. E. Grainger, E. A. Durham. 
Following are the names of P. Cs. : Thomas Fitzpatrick, H. Frank, Sanford 
Gordon, J. W. Willis, W. A. Hutcheson, S. M. Wilcox, H. M. Wilson, W. H. 
Malick, J. S. Fritz, A. D. Sloan, E. T. Wright, J. C. McCrea, M. H. Fitz- 
giblion, M. Reis, Charles Morris, G. R. Mabb, Joseph Kilgore, J. L. Andrews, 
J. T. Burkholder and J. A. McCready. F. S. Butler was elected chancellor 



L94 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

in June, 1889, and G. R. Mabb re-elected K. of R. & S. The present num- 
ber of members is 125, and value of lodge property $500. T. Fitzpatrick is 
representative to the grand lodge, and the other officers in lodge rank are E. 
)>. Matteson, G. W. Double. P. J. Nolan, \V. J. Loucks. J. W. Baker, G. R. 
Mabb, W. H. Malick, E. T. Wright, W. F. Robinson and J. C. Malick. 

Bradford Division No. 22, U. R. K. of P., was instituted December 22, 
1885. The early members of this division were Henry S. Tucker, Thomas 
Fitzpatrick, Charles M. Carr, James A. Lindsey, Edwin P. Wright, Andrew 
R. Bun is, Fred S. Parker, James A. McCready, M. H. Fitzgibbons, John C. 
McCrea, J. S. Fritz, William H. Malick, Edwin J. Chambers, William H. 
Hall, George W. Slocum, C. L. Bradburn, John A. Nelson, William G. Kahl, 
C. L. Casterline, J. L. Tracy, J. F. Lasher, John W. Vantine, James O'Hara, 
Frank E. Bradley, James E. Grainger, Sanford Gordon, M. Herron, Isaac V. 
Averill. A. W. Swanson, Charles Brown, C. Hazelmaier, William C. Howe, 
David W. Lerch, P. H. Linderman. The seven first named were elected of- 
ficers in the order of rank. The officials in 1889 were A. D. Burns, James 
O'Hara, E. D. Matteson, W. H. Malick and E. P. Wright. The present 
membership is thirty. 

Bradford Post No. 141. G. A. R., was instituted August 13, 1879, with the 
following members: J. A. Ege, Peter Grace, Joseph Moorhead. J. W. Shaw, J. 
\\ . Searls, Henry A. Page, W. H. Perrigo, J. K. Graham. Clinton J. Smith, A. 
Wicks, W. W. Brown, F. M. Lockwood, C. G. Cooper, J. C. Sturgeon, T. J. 
Fennerty, J. F. Collins, A. S. Sinclair, M. W. Ferris, Lvnford Lardner, G. H. 
Lyons, G. H. Baldwin, S. M. Potter. P. M. Fuller, H.'B. Huff. E. B. Cham- 
berlain, W. M. Boggs, S. M. Saver. E. S. Pier, Benjamin Franklin and J. P. 
Siggins. Tin- commanders have been E. R. Sherman, R. A. Dempsey, J. T. 
Bishop, W. VY. Brown and William Dobie, who is now commander. The posi- 
tion of adjutant has been filled by J. K. Graham, W. C. Rockwell and E. R. 
Sherman. E. R. Sherman is the present adjutant. The trustees are F. H. 
Roberts, J. C. Hughes and E. R. Sherman. S. Howard is S. V.; A. N. 
Heard, J. V. The number of members is 180, and the value of post property 
$1,500. A few years ago a number of the members of this post formed the 
Union Veteran Legion, and were duly installed. Later on another body of men 
from the same post organized Union Veteran Union, and in 1889 another posi 
was formed 1 > v members of the parent post. 

John S. Melvin Post No. 585, G. A. R., was mustered June 21, 1889, by 
J. M. McElroy, mustering officer, assisted bv the following officers: W. Dobie, 
S. V. Coin.; .'l. E. Baldwin, J. Y. Com.: B. F. Wright. Chap.: George Grif- 
fith. Q. M. ; H. M. Choate, Adjt. ; F. H. Robert's, O. D. ; Thomas Ryan, O. G. ; 
M. B. McMahon, I. S. ; W. W. Brown, escort. The charter officers, in order 
of rank, were P, M. Shannon, C. P. Byron, W. L. Yelton, W. C. Rockwell, 
L. E. Hamsher, J. W. McFarland, W. B. Chapman, C. T. Cummings, C. H. 
Babcock, Arch. Gilchrist, J. T. Bishop, T. J. Fennerty, I. G. Howe, and the 
trustees. R. McAllister. S. D. Heffner, T. J. Fennerty. The present officers 
areas follow-: ('.. I. (1. Howe: S. V. C, S. D. Heffner: J. V. C. W. L. 
Yelton; Chap., Warren G Gray; Q. M., W. C. Rockwell; Adjt.. J. L. Adams; 
O. D .,\Y. B. Chapman; O. G., S. Fisher; Surg., E. I. Baldwin; Sergt. Maj., 
C. F. Cummings; (,). M. S . T. J. Fennerty. 

In February, L890, \\". B. Chapman was elected judge advocate-general of 
the National Encampment of the U. V. L. 

Camp No. 7, Union Veteran Legion, was instituted July 29. 1886. Among 
the first officers were C. C, S. D. Heffner; L. C, W. K. Laney; M. , C. E. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



193 



Harrington; A., M. Albert; Q. M., T. Gallaher; O. D., N. S. Siggins; C, W. 
B. Tracy; O. G., Thomas Fitzpatrick. The membership at close of year was 
eighty rive. 

Gen. Kane Command No. 6, Union Veteran Union, Department of Penn- 
sylvania, was instituted August 20, 1887, with thirty-live members. The first 
officers were C, T. J. Fennerty; L. C, Callip Tibbetts; M., G. W. Eddy; A., 
N. Wilkins; Q. M., C. H. Rhodes; C, D. F. Wolcott; O. D., M. C. Canrow; 
O. O. T. G. , J. H. Leffler. Command No. 6 elected the following named offi- 
cers in October, 1889: T. J. Fennerty, Col.; C. B. Tibbetts, Lieut. -Col. ; C. 
P. Byron, Surg. ; D. F. Wolcott, Chap. ; L. F. Egbert, Q. M. ; T. C. Mosier, 
O. of D., and L. Wolfe, O. of G. 

During the G. A. R. reunion of August, 1888, the pipe wherein the blue- 
colored fire was burning, exploded, killing three men: Robert Hurley, Ed. 
Duel and Wallace E. Curtis, and wounding many others. In September, 
1888, the second annual reunion of the Bucktails was held at Bradford. 

The Bradford Military Company completed enrollment August 30, 1880, 
with a roster of eighty-seven men and asked to be assigned to the Seventeenth 
National Guard Post. This was subsequently assigned to the Sixteenth. 
Among its charter members who answered roll-call in September, 1885 (five 
years after muster) were T. F. Conneely, J. C. Fox (the present captain), A. 
McAlpine, F. E. Bradley, T. Scroxton, H. Field, A. D. Burns, John J. Lane, 
W. F. Robinson, R. C. Hazelmair, Ed. J. Boylston and W. G. Kohl. 

The score made by this company in January, 1890, the years of service 
and names of candidates for sharpshooters' medals are given as follows: 



T. F. Conneely, lieutenant 47 2 

F. E. Bradley, lieutenant 46 8 

W. B. Chapman, private 45 2 

T. B. Bahew, private 43 2 

T. W. Scroxton, sergeant 42 7 

F. F. Eiliben, private 42 4 

F. W. Webster, sergeant 42 5 

C. G. Griffith, private 41 3 

C. L. Griffin, sergeant 39 4 

W. F. Robinson, sergeant 39 2 

J. B. Fennerty, private 39 2 

C. W. "Wallace, " 37 3 

M. M. Neal. " 36 4 

E J. Boylston, sergeant 36 4 

E. E. Blair, corporal 36 6 

G. F. Bullock, corporal 35 5 

V. C. Elliott, private 34 1 

T. F. Mullen, private 34 1 

F.E.Cloud, " 34 2 

W. J. Bovaird, " 34 1 

G. W. McKay, '* 33 1 

O. B. Cutting, " 32 2 

R. H. Slone, corporal 32 2 

J. D. Snyder, private 32 2 



J. W. Maybee, private 31 

C. L. Blakeslee, corporal 31 

C. W. Conneely, musician 31 

I. O. Cloud, private 31 

N. R. Baker, private 31 

A. F. Campbell, corporal 30 

J. C. Fox, captain 30 

H. C. Chesney, private 30 

C. AV. Heard, private 30 

G. O. Slone, private 29 

M. H. Riley, corporal 29 

J. J. Crosby, private 28 

H. C. Chattle, private 27 

E. F. Mclntyre, private 27 

W. N. Crane, private 27 

S. B. Burton, private 27 

A. D. Burns, lieutenant 27 

E. F. Riley, private 27 

E. A. Sherman, private 27 

J. E. Begel, private 26 

F. N. Levens. private 26 

J. W. Crosby, private 26 

A. F. Leonard, private 25 

E. P. Wilcox, private 25 



The Armory Hall Company was incorporated in April, 1881, with Charles 
A. Bailey, president; Thomas Connolly, secretary, and F. E. Bradley, treasurer. 
There were sixty shares of $100 each subscribed, the president and secretary 
each holding thirteen shares. 

Bradford Relief Corps No. 13 was organized January 29, 1885, with the 
following named members: Madams M. A. Wallace, N. J. Heffner, E. R. Sher- 
man, Lucy Siggins, E. M. Gillespy, J. E. Broniger, Allis Smith, A. O. Baker, 
Rachel Troup, W. G. Shaw, Laura Switzer, Amond Siggins, S. C. Jayert, 



Lltt'i HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

M. J. Mitchel, C. Hill, I. S. Woursly, E. J. Chambers, G. Graff, B. Brown, 
L. 15. Chirk. S. E. Artly. A. Jones, L. A. Levans. M. A. Rockwell, J. Hood, 
I,. .1. Sherman, D. Goodwin, Lottie McAlister, J. McEntyre, G. Asbdun, 
/.. Gareman ami H. Laurence. Madams HI. A. Wallace, Culbertson, Sher- 
man and Earns have presided over (be corps, while Madams Gillespy, God- 
frey, Langworthy, Green and Bergman have tilled the office of secretary 
Mrs. Chapman, of Bradford, was elected color bearer of the Ladies' Auxiliary 
of the National Encampment of the U. V. L. 

Tunungwant Lodge. No. 111. Ancient Order of United Workmen, was in- 
stituted June 1, 1877, with the following members: H. H. Adsit, J. L. An- 
drews, A. L. Avery, L. B. Brown, T. J. Powers, H. Wilson, P. D. Wright 
and O. C. Cutting, who are now members, with others who have removed. 
The pas! masters are named as follows: J. L. Andrews. J. T. Bishop, J. W. 
Bogardus, Robert Collins, George E. Davis, Frank Fowler, I. G. Howe, 
•lames A. Lindsey, T. J. Powers, C. A. Sinclair, J. W. Siggins, S. D. Wear- 
in". ('. R. Cosolowsky, C. A. Spreater. F. H. Bailey, T. J. Fennerty, A. Simp- 
son, W. W. White. A. A. Perkins, H. Wilson, H. M. Harkness, A. P. Odell, 
T. Kavanaugh. John Wilson, Otho Gash, H. R. Waiger, S. D. Winter and F. 
W. Hastings. The office of secretary has been held by J. A. Lindsey. John 
Kelly and F. W. Hastings. The membership is 190. The officers elected for 
1890 comprise C. Burnsides, J. W. Siggins, W. W. White, J. A. Lindsey, F. 
\\ Hustings, J. G. Howe. F. Fowler, Otho Gash, S. D. Winter and A. P. 
Odell. 

Bradford Legion No. 16, S. K. A. O. U. W. was organized July 30, 1884, 
wit li the following named officers: J. T. Bishop, C. ; James A. Lindsey, V. 
('.; .1. S. Harlow, Lt. C. ; W. L. Beardsley, Rec. ; A. Simpson, R. T. ; A. L. 
Wyman, Treas. ; J. Franklin, Chap. The names of commanders are J. T. 
Bishop, J. A. Lindsey, A. P. Odell, M. L. Thorn, Otho Gash. W. W. White. 
Jacob Turk and S. A. Smith, with E. Burnsides, M. ; J. P. Eaton, S. B. ; B. 
Sackrand, Sr. W.; J. Turk. Jr. W. : M. L. Thorn, G. L. The position of Bec- 
i ctary has been held by W. L. Beardsley, J. M. Denny and D. H. Rook, who is 
the present recorder. There are thirty-six members. The officers elected in 
1890 are W. W. White, Charles Burnsides, F. W. Hastings, W. H. Coleman, 
Otho Cash. D. H. Rook, J. A. Lindsey. A. P. Odell, H. S. Earns, Jacob 
lurk ami 11. Boss; James A. Lindsey is P. G. C. and treasurer. 

Bradford Council No. Mill'. Royal Arcanum, was instituted March 24, 1*79. 
with the following members: S. L. Kinkead, M. Danson, E. W. Barker. Ezra 
Holmes. A. Thornton. C. B. Seymour, F. M. Sweet, C. W. Dennis, H. M. 
11 R. Lamb, J. M. Armstrong, F. D. Wood. F. M. Loekwood. F. 
11. Murdoch, W. A. Brown, P. (I. Andrew. C. A. Siegfried, R. Pettibone. F. 
I' Morris, C. Murray, L. Eennedy, A. A. Perry. J. N. Markham, George Shef 
I eld, I. Beam, A. L. Ewing, O. N. Hazen. M. D. Harris and G. Chapman. 
The name- of pasl regents are -I. \Y. McFarland, J. A. Ege, J. T. Evans. H. 

M Spe E. H. Murdoch. .1. E. Barrett, J. A. Lindsey. W. C. Henry, A. 

Thornton, 1!. McAllister, P. D. Tangney and the present regent, John C. Mc- 
Kenna. The names of secretaries are S. L. Kinkead. J. T. Evans, J. L. Bar- 
rett, and J. T. Evans, the present secretary. The present membership is 
twenty four. In ten vears this council has losl seven members bv death, and 
rl {21,000 in benefits. The officers for 1890 are P. W. Howe. E. K. 
Shepard, J. C. McKenna, J. B. McElwaine, G. H. Mills, J. T. Evans. F. P. 
Slocum, S. L. Rhodes, C. Spangler and A. Thornton. 

Eeystone Council No. Ill, Catholic Benevolent Legion, was instituted 
April : 2S, 1886. Among the firsi officers were P. C, J. T. Einsler; 1'.. A. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 197 

H. Blomer; V. P., John E. Sullivan; O., J. F. Leonard; S., J. H. Ossenbeck; 
C, A. Gillis; T., W. Hanley; Sr. C, C. P. Byron. The officers elected in 
December, 1889, are C. J. H. Ossenbeck; P., A. Gillis; V. P.,M. J. Berry; 
O., Phillip Wise; R. S., D. Healey; C, A. H. Blorner; Treas., Joseph Fischer; 
M., James E. Henretty; G., J. M. Englehaupt; Trustees, John E. Sullivan, 
J. F. Leonard, P. H. Maroney. 

Bradford Branch No. 13, Catholic Mutual Benevolent Association, was in- 
stituted April 16, 1879. Among the past presidents of this association the 
names of J. T. Kinsler, J. B. Fox, James Casey, A. H. Blomer, J. H. Ossenbeck, 
M. McMahon, J. E. Sullivan, T. A. Flynn and Dennis Healy are recorded. 
John O'Brien is recorder. Other officers of long service are J. A. Myers (of 
Dake Centre), John Madigan, Leonard Wkoler, J. J. Cleery, B. Healy and J. 
J. Lane. 

Osmer Lodge No. 2365, K. of H., was organized February 5, 1881. The 
past dictators are H. C. Hacock, J. P. McGibbenny, S. Gordon, F. Perkins, 
W. C. Henry, S. D. Miller, J. N. Mapes, F. W. Hastings, H. Frank, J. L. 
Dulin; P. S. D., Col. J. A. Ege; P. G. D., James A. Lindsey, John H. Cos- 
ford, N. Sweet, M. D., I. G. Howe and J. M. Geiger. James A. Lindsey served 
this lodge as secretary for seven years, E. N. Hallock for two years, and in the 
directory F. W. Hastings is credited with holding the position in 1889. There 
are eighty-four members. The present officers, in order of rank, are C. H. 
Swift, W. H. Conklin, D. McKenney, W. T. Magaw, J. A. Lindsey, F. W. 
Hastings, J. G. Howe, J. P. McGibbenny, J. W. Fritts, A. Brown, D. Gren- 
nells and H. C. Hacock. 

Bradford Encampment No. 56, Knights of St. John and Malta, was insti- 
tuted September 2, 1885, with S. L. Koonse, J. A. Waldo, W. Bople, A. S. 
Ackerly, K. F. Howland, D. B. Croll, W. L. Ford, C. A. Cummings, A. L. 
Wyman, M. D. Murray, W. B. Van Horn, P. A. Darby, F. G. Tennv, N. W. 
McCoort, T. F. Howe, J. Z. Wise, H. C. Murray, J. Eobinson, H. C. Brown, 
J. H. Flynn, C. H. Dubois, E. J. Cross, J. A. Lindsey, M. A. Todd, R. A. 
Beatty and J. E. Simons, members. The names of past commanders are 
R. A. Beatty, J. A. Lindsey, A. P. Odell and E. J. Boylston, with C. A. Cum- 
mings, assistant chancellor. There are 171 members. R. A. Beatty is most 
eminent grand commander of the chapter general of America, and A. P. Odell 
is grand prior of the State of Pennsylvania. The present officers in encamp- 
ment rank are L. D. Gowdy, E. C. Dean, W. T. Johnson, D. H. Rook, E. J. 
Boylston, C. A. Cummings, S. L. Koonse and seven minor officers. There 
were 163 members reported in March, 1890. 

Star Conclave No 171, Improved Order of Heptasophs, was organized Feb- 
ruary 16, 1888, with the following officers: Past archon, L. B. Lockard; ar 
chon, George S. Bright; provost, H. W. Eaton, Jr. ; prelate, James George; sec- 
retary, G. H. Mills; financier, F. W. Hastings: treasurer, E. B. Pemberton; 
inspector, J. W. Leasure; warden, N. W. McCourt; sentinel, M. Henlein; H. 
\V. Eaton, Jr., was archon in 1889, and G. H Mills, secretary. There were 
forty-rive members in July, 1889. The officers for 1890 are T. A. Sangster. A. 
W. Coburn, G. H. Mills, E. B. Pemberton, F. W. Hastings, W. F. Rhone, A. 
Simon, C. R. Cosolowsky and W. H. Johnson. 

Don Abarband Lodge No. 85, Independent Order Sons of Benjamin, 
claimed the following named officers in 1889: G. Herz, H. Friedenberg, I. J. 
Yampolski, S. Werthman, B. Ash, A. Simon, M. Sidorsky, Rev. D. W. Ja- 
cobson, L. M. Kreinson, J. B. Levine, M. A. Todd. Among the past pres- 
idents are H. Friedenberg, A. Simon, L. Kronenberg, Gustav Herz, N. Lev- 
inson, S. Grange, B. Ash, H. Frank and H. S. Sakolski. The officers chosen 



198 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

iu January, 1890, in lodge rank are H. Frieilenberg, H. Frank. B. Ash, S. 
Werthman and D. Andriesse. The present membership is forty-seven. 

On November 12, 1888, W. C. ZT1 of the Patriotic Order Sons of America 
was instituted at Kane. July 9, 1889. National Representative Clarence F. 
Eeeth, of Philadelphia, and J. T. Campbell, district president of AleKean 
county, assisted by W. ('. ->T'_' of Kane, instituted Washington Camp No. 452 at 
Bradford. The Degree Team of "372" conferred the degree of the council. 
The first officers, elected Julv S. were R. L. Edgett. M. A. Henlein. Otto Koch, 
W. K. Andrus, L. C. Blakeslee. R. W. Murray, A. R. Simons, M. I. Deuel, 
Mat. Neil, and Trustees W. K. Andrus. L. B. Waters, A. N. Heard. 

Bradford Lodge No. 1111, K. & L. of H. , was instituted December 10, 
1885, by (i. P., L. B. Lockard, and D. G. P., A. N. Heard. Among the pres- 
idents of 1 1 » i — society may be named I. G. Howe, Mrs. J. M. Brooks, F. W. 
Bastings, Mrs. E. M. Wheeler and H. H. North. Ascension Lodge No. 1345 
claims Mr. Heard as protector, and Mrs. S. Nobles, secretary. 

Bradford City Lodge No. 103, Independent Order Free Sons of Israel, was 
instituted iu April, 1881. The past presidents of this lodge are A. Leo Weil, 

E. Kalm. I. Rich, B. Foist, Fred. Silberburg, A. Silberburg, J. Elosk.-v. M. 
Cohn, I. Kahn, Felix Steinberger. A. M. Mayer, S. Fisher. The secretary in 
1889 was A. M. Samuels. In 1890 J. Weiss was chosen president, with H. Cohn, 
A. Silberberg, Fred Silberberg, I. Rich, H. Frank and H. Leny tilling the 
other offices. 

Bradford Lodge No. 50, Order of the Golden Chain, was instituted October 
7. 1885. Among the commanders were F. P. Sloeum, W infield Scott, A. W. 
Johnson and H. W. Eaton: James Geary was secretary in 1889. The offi- 
cers, in lodge rank, elected in January, 1890, are H. W. Eaton, Jr., P. H. Lin- 
derman, W. H. Murphy, J. Freerkson, A. R. Stewart. W. Scott. J. L. John- 
son. S. D. Weaver. Thomas Banker and C. E. Thompson. At date of election 
there were thirty-eight members reported. 

Tuna Valley Council No. 70, Home Circle, was instituted October 8, 1883. 
The past leaders include W. C. Henry, E. R. Shepard, J. P. Taylor and D. 
Et. MacKenzie; F. D. Williams was secretary in 1889. The elections of 1890 
resulted in the choice of L. C. Longaker, for leader; C. E. Black. V. L. : W. 

F. Robinson, instructor: M. A. Freeman, secretary; H. T. Crandall. E. S., 
and -lames Robinson, treasurer. There are thirty-two members reported. 

Dewey Onion No 5, Equitable Aid Union, was instituted June 7. 1879, by 
Supreme President Dewe\. The 1'. Ps. are Frank Fowler, L. B. Hill, Delos 
Armstrong, Mrs. E IS. Barley, W. Walters. T. O'Connor and L. W. Smith. 

Che Bradford Aid Union was organized in 1880, and the petition for incor- 
i signed January 1">. by 1). Whiticar, George Young, C. H. Sherwood, 
Nathaniel Sweet and A. J. Edgett. The latter was first president. 

The Equitable Aid Society of Bradford was organized June 1">. 1881. Its 
were P. P., W . I). Lucas; P., J. B. Rutherford; V. P., S. Ann-: s.. 
Miss A. J. Lucas; T.. Mrs. A. H. Smith; F. C. Airs. S. A. Lucas, Miss A. 
J. Lucas, S Ann- Messrs. Lucas and Rutherford tilled the offices of 
president and secretary in 1889. L B. Thompson was first secretary, and is 
now filling that position. The officers of thi- union for 1890 are -I. Hurt, pres 
ident, with I'. T. Fitzgerald, E. I>. Chappell, M. Nusbaum, Airs. Burt, David 
Drummond, Airs. Lyons. Alr>. Bender, Mrs. AN 'ightman and J. D. Burt, 

Bradford Local Branch No. 316, Order of the Iron Hall, was instituted 
February 3, 1886. The chief justices of the past are H. Harmon, N. Wise 
and \\ . S. Robison. R. T. Shaw is accountant succeeding W. L. Ford. 
Among the first members were D. H. Rook, R. Gregg and L. E. Avery, and 




4&C~«su4^& &Lt*^^ '„ . 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. '201 

the officers named. The officers chosen in December, 18S9. are as follows: 
Past chief justice, D. H. Rook; chief justice. W. L. Ford; vice-justice, C. F. 
Cummings: cashier, L. E. Avery; accountant, John M. Crawford; adjuster. 
W. L. Robinson; prelate, Joseph Franklin; herald, W. C. Maxwell; watch- 
man, F. L. Bodine; vedette, D. Campbell; trustees, Joseph Franklin, D. 
Campbell and S. D. Winters. 

Bradford Tent No. 4, Knights of the Maccabees of the World, was insti- 
tuted May 31, 1884. Among the early members were N. J. Stanton, J. R. 
Porter, J. B. McCutcheon, R. F. Howland, P. A. Derby, T. J. Berridge and 
R. W. Murray. The present sir knight commander is F. D. Matteson and the 
other officers in tent rank are G. O. Slone, G. B. Watson, R. McAllister, John 
Burton, Di\ N. Sweet, T. J. Baterhan, John Bogart, F. B. Hazelton, John 
Lyons, John Lustig and T. J. Berridge. M. G. Raub, the record keeper, re- 
ports a membership of 290. 

Bradford Lodge No. 97, Sons of St. George, was reorganized January 
16, 1887, with the following named officers: P. P., V. Stanford; P., John 
Hocking; V. P., John Slocum; S., T. J. Parkes: T., H. D. Hulme; trustees, 
William Dickson, H. T. Hulme. M. W. Ferris. 

Bradford Branch No. 690, Robert Emmett Land League, was organized in 
July, 1882, to forward the political interests of the people of Ireland. Among 
the officials were T. F. McManus, Marshall McMahon, Edward Frawley, D. 
A. Dennison, J. J. Lane, John J. Sheehe and F. T. Flynn. The officers for 
1890 are B. Healy, M. McMahon, P. H. Davitt, L. Gushing and D. A. Den- 
nison, the corresponding secretary. 

Bradford Lodge, I. O. G. T., was organized September 18, 1867, with 
thirty-two members. A. C. Switzer was first W. C. T., and Mrs. Caroline 
Holmes, W. V. T. 

The Ladies' Temperance Association of Bradford was organized September 
11, 1872, with Mrs. J. Colby, president; Madams Young and Crandall, vice- 
presidents; Mrs. A. DeGolier, treasurer; Madams Pomeroy and Osgood, sec- 
retaries; and Madams P. T. Kennedy, Foster, Blair, J. N. Brown, Frank and 
Miss Dieter, executive committee. 

[The Temperance Reading-room Association was incorporated in Ma]', 1879, 
with W. W. Brown, T. J. Powers, W. J. McCullough, R. M. Sayer. A. W. 
Newell, C. L. Wheeler, G. L. Watson, H. E. Norris and N. Bushnell, direct- 
ors. There were no less than sixty-two subscribers.] 

The Women's Christian Temperance Union was organized October 13, 18S0, 
with the following uamed members: Madams C. H. Hoffman, H. A. Page, F. 
T. Davis, W. Chambers, W. Boggs, L. C. Blakeslee, C. Johnson, J. S. Wilson, 
O. Stone, T. B. Hoover, -Whitman, J. N. Bolard. J. R. Findley, C. E. Hatch, 

C. D. Greenlee, O. Hotchkiss, J. Bondson, J. Morgan, C. E. Garton, J. Roger- 
son, J. Erwin, A. Metcalf. Mrs. H. A. Page was first president; Mrs. O. 
Hotchkiss, second president; Mrs. J. N. Bolard, third president, and Mrs. W. 
Chambers, fourth president. Mrs. J. K. Purse is corresponding secretary, 
and Mrs. D. A. Burnett, recorder. There are 150 members, and seventeen 
honorary members, with property valued at 82,000, including hall, which was 
built in 1888. The officers for 1890 are Mrs. W. Chambers, president; Mrs. .1. 
K. Purse, corresponding secretary; Mrs. D. A. Burnett, recording secretary: 
Mrs. J. A. Kennedy, treasurer; Mrs. F. J. Davis, vice-president at large. 

Tuna Council No. 17, Royal Templars of Temperance, was instituted Sep- 
tember 27, 1887, with the following officers: P. C, T. M. Shearer; S. O, 

D. H. Rook; V. C, T. M. Griffith; R. S., C. G. Essler; F. S., H H. Lock; 
T., C. E. Tucker; S. P. C. G. L. and G. T., D. T. Seeley. The officers for 



202 HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

L890 are as follows: S. C. D. T. Seeley; V. C, Mrs. E. B. Laraway; P. C, 
D. H. Book; C, Mrs. L. Messner: F. S., W. W. Laraway; B. S.. Mrs. E. 
M. Adam-: T. . \\ . G. Long; H., Mrs. E. M. Arnold; G., B. F. Shergerland; 
S . ( '. G. Esler. The number of beneficiary members is thirty-four and of hon- 
orary members thirtv-two. 

United Council No. 80, R. T. of T., was organized August 10, 1886. The 
in 1887 were P. C, E. K. Sherman: S. C, A. N. Heard: V. ('.. S. 
Howard; B. S. , John Bogart ; F. S., Martha Sherman; T., Mrs. L. Westbrook: 
!'. c. |., \i Wheeler. In 1890 the following named officers were elected: 
S. ||ii ward. .Mrs. Knerr. A. Simpson, Mrs. Lenehan, R. S. R. Knerr, Miss 
Smith, E. E. Comstock, William Campbell, Miss Abbey, Miss. Hacock and E. 
\Y. Maim. The membership at present numbers 110. 

Women's Protective and Reform Association of Bradford was incorporated 
in May. 1882, with the object of aiding women seeking a virtuous livelihood. 
Amanda T. Jones was president; Artie B. Willard, vice-president: Margaret 
B. Stone, Mary A. Wolcott, Mrs. John Browu, Augustus W. Newell and H. 
S. Davis, directors. Among the members were Mrs. F. H. Stanford, M. D. , 
and Mrs. J. J. White. 

The Young Men's Christian Association was organized May -<, ISM', when 
a board of managers was appointed. This board comprises C. P. Cody, F. D. 
Cleland, H. S. Thompson, J. T. Evans, J. L. Davidson, W. W. Brown, H. 
W. Blakeslee, J. W. Davis, W. H. Dennis, E. E. Tait, E. T. Howell, J. A. 
Perkins, P. A. Kent, John McCrum and S. Hollenbeck. The association pro- 
poses to rent the principal room on the second floor of the new Masonic Tem- 
ple. i\i lN'.tO W. H. Dennis was chosen president; P. A. Kent, vice-president ; 
J. T. Evans, treasurer; S. Hollenbeck, recorder, and J. G. Purple, general 
secretary. Total number of members L31. 

The Cherra Bicker Cholim Relief Society was incorporated January 14, 
1884, on petition of Rev. S. Weil. K. Berwald, H. Sigel. A. Joseph, H. Cohen 
and I. Cohen. 

Typographical Union No. 185 was organized in May, 1879, with George 
•I. Klilim. \\ . B, Barnwell, James Howell, R. A. Russell, James Spear, C. H. 
Widgeon and Harry K. Welsh, members. The corresponding secretary of 
this anion is .lames W. Leasure, and the recorder, George O. Slone. Among 
the members arc B. A. Russell and H. K. Welsh of the first organization, W. 
J. Cotter. 1). A. Bopp, George Hummell, S. C. Oilman and A. G. McKenna. 
The officers Eor L890 comprise R. A. Russell, president; George O. Slone, sec 
retarj ; J. W. Leasure, correspondent; H. K. Welsh, treasurer; W. J. Cotter. 
vice president, and .1. Fetterley, chairman of executive committee. There 
were sixteen members in March, 1890. 

<>il Exchange Division No. 254, Locomotive Engineers, was formally organ- 
ized June 7. and completed organization July 7. 1884, with L. J. Jones, chief; 
• lames Wheeler, first engineer; J. B. Banta, second engineer; H. G. King, 
II. Kendall and ( ). Burke, assistant engineers; C. A. Clough, guide, and C. 
1.. Shaffer, chaplain. 

I'olwell Lodge No. 326, Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen, was insti- 
tuted July 10. L886. Among the officers were E. Bellington, G. P. Clough, 
•). H. Penner, C. W. Palmer and P. T. Lane. The following named are the 
officers for L890: G. 1'. Clough, master; C. H. Alger, secretary: G. E. Love- 
lace, collector, and M. \\ . Maybee, magazine agent. 

The Cigar makers Union claimed the following named officials: President, 
!i Coeninberg; vice-president, I'. Hopkins; financial secretary, J. Semhauser; 
corresponding secretary, 1'. II. Kieley; recording secretary, P. H. Kieley; ser- 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 203 

geaut-at-ariiis, M. Singer; trustees, W. Ruple, J. Harbrecht, and treasurer, 
John Bohne. The four principal officers for 1890 are P. Hopkins, J. Har- 
breeht, T. J. Gary and J. Casterline. 

The Well Drillers Union was incorporated November '27, 18S8, with C. H. 
Snively, James G. Winger, H. Gosser, C. H. Ley and D. W. Brenton, 
trustees. 

The Bradford Athletic Club was organized in February, 1886, and secured 
spacious rooms in the Producers' Petroleum Exchange for athletic exercises, 
as well as club quarters. The list of members in 1887 was as follows: H. A. 
Marlin. C. R. Huntley, Tom Kennedy, C. M. Dodge. C. H. Lavens, J. M. 
Fuller, B. F. Smith, E. P. Whitcomb, H. C. Brooks. J. L. Johnson, W. H. 
Powers, L. E. Mallory, E. W. Wolfe, C. M. Brennan, Fred Davis, Heber Den- 
man, John Denman, M. B. Pierce, C. K. Book, B. F. Kennedy, L. E. Ham- 
sher, Sam Kennedy, R. C. Sherman, W. R. Weaver, C. A. Mitchell. W. G. 
Gray, J. L. Barrett, Fred McKee, J. P. Taylor, J. A. Johnson, G. L. Roberts, 
William Cochran, S. G. Bayne, G. H. Mills, T. B. Flynn, J. C. Flynn, W. J. 
Alexander, C. P. Cody, R. H. Gibson, W. S. Watson, H. K. Williams, C. E. 
Tucker, W. L. Curtis, B. M. Bailey, G. F. Groves, Harry Egbert, T. P. Thomp- 
son, S. C. Rhodes, P. M. Shannon, J. H Evans, W. J. Russell, H. J. Seig- 
fried, C. B. Shepard, A. Willoughby, G. K. Hawkins, G. L. Watson, W. F. 
Robinson, J. B. Buttrv. G. A. Bodine, W. C. Leonard, H. B. Goe, G. H. 
Potter, Walt Willis, R. L. Edgett, D. H. Jack, H. C. Sanderson, E. H. Bar- 
num, F. D. Wood, C. S. Hubbard, C. F. Collins, Kenton Saulnier, D. J. 
Thayer, F. E. Wood, J. A. Walker, J. C. Gormely, Robert Long, T. E. Mc- 
Crav, L. B. Prosser, W. P. Shoemaker, Bateman Goe, C. A. Norton, Frank 
Gifford, S. M. Reid, W. C. Higgins, A. L. Avery, C. C. Youmans, W. W. 
Bell, I. W. Sherley, A. C. Hawkins, J. E. Haskell, J. C. Greenewald, D. C. 
Greenewald, J. K. Wilson, M. Matson, J. W. McCray, W. H. Scott, H. M. 
Spence, S. G. Slyke, C. Foley, E. S. Williamson, W. F. Flynn, R. T. Shaw, 
J. C. Boyce, R. W. Carroll, W. G. Carroll, D. O'Donnell, J. A. Simonds, C. 
W. Dennis, E. A. Weart, Clark Hayes, F. H. Willis, F. W. Groves, B. New- 
comer, John R. Zook, W. G. Mason, Walter Bovaird, J. B. Farrell, C. C. Con- 
roy, E. L. Adams, M. H. Byles, M. Compton, E. B. Pemberton, D. Marks, S. 
G. Coffin, C. H. Filkins, James Robinson, F. G. Boyer, C. E. Hequembourg, 
A. P. Huey, E. Given, W. W. Splane, C. C. Melvin, A. B. Smith. John P. 
Zane, E. R. Shepard, E. J. Boylston, J. T. Evans, C. P. Byron, J. W. Van- 
Tine, E. T. Johnson, W. H. Orcutt, C. D. Evans, T. N. Barnsdall, J. B. 
Chapman, L. A. Brenneman, Henry Wilson, William Hanley, F. P. Atkinson. 
E. W. Coleman, George B. Morgan, J. H. Healey, J. E. Wolf. F. A. Griffin, 
George A. Sturgeon, J. F. Wilson, W. E. Pickering, H. G. Morrow, F. P. 
Wentworth, John B. Brawley, R. B. Johnson, John O'Brien, H. H. Stowe, J. 
H. Field, F. P. Leonard, A. B. Walker, Frank Chapman, T. J. Powers, John 
McCrum, W. B. Chapman. B. F. Cushing, J. M. McElroy, J. B. Janes, G. C. 
Scott, W. C. Kennedy, M. J. Lowe, T. J. Melvin. F. L." Smith, David Kirk, 
.lames Flanigan, L. W. Oaks, E. A. Van Scoy, F. T. Coast, A. M. Straight, 
J. D. Wolf, O. B. Comfort, Charles'Samuels, Harry Brinker, R. L. Mason, A. 
Fraser, J. W. Jeffry, Joseph Albertson. 

The Board of Trade is an important institution in Bradford. An enterpris- 
ing party of Bradford men organized a stock company for the purpose of estab- 
lishing and conducting in this city a furniture factory. The project was car- 
ried into effect. From that organization sprang the Board of Trade. The 
glass works were started under its patronage, the present shops of the Buffalo, 
Rochester & Pittsburgh Railroad and several other industrial enterprises. The 



■Jill HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Board of Trade was allowed to become inactive for a few years, but was reor- 
ganized for service early in 18S7. Since that time its members have been 
untiring in their efforts to aid Bradford by encouraging manufacturt rs to 
I eate here. The board is composed of some of Bradford's best citizens. 
Col. A. I. Wilcox was general agent. C. B. Whitehead, B. B. Stone, W. W. 
Brown, C. H. Kennedy, A. J. Edgett, D. C. Greenewald, C. J. Lane, A. W. 
Newell, J. K. Merriam, H. F. Barbour. Loyal Ward, A. M. Mayer, H. S. 
Southard, P. W. Groves, S. G. Elliott, C. P. Cody were among the first offi- 
cers of the revived organization. In January, 1S88, the Board of Trade 
elected the following named directors: B. B. Stone, W. W. Brown, A. M. 
Mayer, A. J. Edgett. L. Emery, Jr., John P. Zane, F. W. Groves, J. K. 
Merriam, D. C. Greenewald. G. S. Stewart. A. W. Newell, H. S. Southard, 
G. A. Berry, C. P Cody, C. H. Kennedy, B. A. Dempsey and S. G. Elliott. 

The Bradford Telephone Exchange was opened in April, 1S80, with F. A. 
Newell, manager. Derrick City, Bed Bock, Gillmor and Tarport were con- 
nected on April 6. The system has been extended in every direction within 
the last nine years. In June, 1883, the strike of telegraph employes was 
inaugurated at Bradford, and continued four weeks. During the strike Bar 
ret! & Harvey constructed a private line between the Producers' Exchange and 
Bradford Exchange, and transacted business at live cents per message. The 
postal telegraph line was built through Bradford in January, 1884. 

The Pompelon Club, organized some time ago, is one of the leading liter- 
al \ societies of the district. The officers for 1890 are C. L. Wheeler, presi- 
dent; Mrs. K. B. Stone, vice-president; L. H. Simons, historian; H. H. North, 
treasurer; Loyal Ward. Eugene Mullin, Mrs. Ada Cable, O. B. Comfort and 
John I'. Zane, members of committee on literary exercises; W. B. Chapman, 
Miss McBurney, Miss Biscoe, Ferd KreinerandW. L. Curtis, members of the 
executive committee. The topics for discussion are of a philosophical character, 
such as the •"Future of the Republic," by W. J. Milliken; "Free Coinage of 
Silver," by W. W. Brown: "The Future of the Africo- American," by P. K. 
Cotter; "The Congressional Embargo," by H. F. Barbour, and "Trend of 
Thought Favorable t<> Republican Forms," by T. F. Mullin. 

The Columbian Club was organized in the fall of 18S9, with L. B. Loek- 

ard, president; A. H. Blomer and C. C. Melvin, vice-presidents; George B. 

Morgan, Becretary, and C. P. Byron, treasurer. In October fjhis circle of social 

Democrats purchased a two-story building in rear of Whitney & Wheeler's 

i' dull oses. 

TheBradford Driving Park and Fair Association was permanently organ 

ized October 11. 1889, with A. C. Hawkins, president; F. H. Chapman, vice- 

ent; C. C. Melvin, treasurer: W. P. Weaver, secretary, and they with 

L E. Mallory, L. E. Hamsher, Joseph Klench, C. C. Kimball. H. G. Cutting, 

James Baylor, C. DuBois, 11. A. Dempsey and P. Newell were directors. 

Manufacturing and < Hher Industries. — In former pages references are ma di ■ 
to the pioneer saw mills and shingle makers of this section. Late in the "' iif- 
ties" the manufacture of oil from local coal was attempted; in 1861-62 oil 
explorations were begun, but not until 1S7S was a practical effort to discover 
the oil ocean made. 

In the fall of 1S71 Foster built a derrick, and began work on the Henchie 

farm, lie struck a log at a depth of ISO feet and farther down a fifteen barrel 

the first in the district which paid expenses. This well soon gave out, 

and in 1ST:! the Putt- .v Foster, the Olmsted. William Bamsdall's, on the 

irm and that on the Buchanan farm were the only evidences of oil suc- 

cesses. Theo. E Barnsdall pumped the first two producing wells, and states that 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 207 

121,000 were realized from them before they were abandoned. In 1875 Jack- 
son. Walker & Co. struck their well on the Kennedy farm, and found it to be 
a 100-barrel one, being the only true producer at the time. Jackson & Walker 
had from ten to twenty wells in operation before work on the Quintuple com- 
menced. 

The village proper of that day contained about 300 inhabitants, but the 
stampede which followed this discovery soon swelled the population to thou- 
sands, and the modern Bradford was commenced. 

The Emery Manufacturing Company's Refining Works were established 
in 1887 by Mr. Haggerty, on the north city line, as a small oil refinery of two 
cheese-box stills, with a capacity of 150 barrels each. The works became the 
property of Lewis Emery, Jr. , under whom the little refinery was conducted 
until the explosion last winter. Early in 1889 two hall-stills, perfected by 
Mr. Wilbur, were added, enlarging the capacity considerably and changing the 
whole system materially. The Commercial Gazette, referring to this new in- 
dustry in August last, says: 

Their entire works will be completed and in full operation bj' about the middle of Octo- 
ber, and then they will consume 1,000 barrels of crude per day. They will be operated by 
an entirely new system, called the Hall improved process. The Hall system gives a con- 
tinuous distillation, and this industry will be the only one in the country having it in use. 
When it can be said that Mr. L. Emery, Jr., the proprietor, has a pipe line of his own; a 
tank line of his owu; owns a sufficient production of crude to supply the works; has a 
house in Philadelphia supplied with plenty of tankage and distributing wagons with which 
to speedily deliver his products to dealers; and in fact is provided with everything to per- 
fect such an enterprise, it can be safety said that the success of the Emery Manufacturing 
Company is assured, and that Bradford can lay claim to the most modern oil industry of 
the age. Mr. Emery is one of the " old-timers" in the oil business, having followed it since 
1865, when he made his debut at Pithole. He came to this city July 28, 187.5, and in the 
following September completed three miles north of here by contract the second well in the 
Bradford field. His experience in the refining of petroleum is also cpuite extended, he hav- 
ing been one of the firm of Logan, Emery & Weaver, of Philadelphia, who disposed of their 
plant there iu 1887. The products of this institution are high-test burning oils, and an 
article they are now making that is meeting with much favor wherever introduced is 
their " petroleum linsine," used in the mixing of paints, taking the place of linseed oil. 

The Rock Glycerine Company, R. A. and C. G. Dempsey and N. Francis, 
members, established their business in 1881. The factories at Custer City, 
Penn. , and Lima, Ohio, turn out nitro- glycerine, dynamite and torpedo sup- 
plies in large quantities, supplying the two fields and outside territory. This 
company also own over thirty oil wells. 

H. G. Cutting, a resident of Bradford since 1876, now operates about 
fifty wells, the gas from which is used for heating and illuminating purposes in 
the city. 

The Bradford Oil Company was incorporated in 1876 with J. T. Jones, 
president, T. J. Powers, treasurer, and H. E. Brown and H. H. Adsit, 
directors. This company own over 300 wells in this and the adjoining Alle- 
gany county, N. Y. , yielding about 800 barrels per day. For almost fourteen 
years the members have held a leading place among oil producers. 

Whitney & Wheeler established their house in 1875, and the same year 
founded the Tuna Valley Bank. The dual business was conducted with uni- 
form success until the panic of 1884, when by the failure of their New York 
correspondent — The Metropolitan National Bank — the firm were obliged to 
suspend and make an assignment for the benefit of their creditors. The sus- 
pension occurred in 1884, and through no fault of theirs the ty-m found them- 
selves suddenly deprived of the business that they had worked so hard and 
faithfully to build up. Undaunted by this great disaster, however, they went 
manfully to work to retrieve their losses; and to their honor and credit be it 



208 HI8TOBJ OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

at bj February, 1886, they had paid their creditors in full with interest, 
introl of their property. Since commencing business the firm 
isivelj to the conduct of their extensive produc- 
ing interests Their property in this connection is of the most valuable in the 
thej are among the heaviest producers of petroleum in this 

The "il Well Supplj Company, sand reel and hand wheel shop, located on 
employs fifteen men. and its product is valued at 140,000 
v. The officers of the company arc JohnEaton, president. Pittsburgh, 
K. Chickering, secretary, Oil City, Penn.; E. T. Howes, treasurer, 
an.; K Saulnier, assistant treasurer, Bradford, Peun. The 
I Cole £ Burnham Company, of New STork, and Bridgeport, Conn., are 
the Eastern correspondents of this company, and arc equally well and favora- 
bly known. This i- the only establishment in the world from which can be 
obtained everything necessary to drill and equip oil, gas or artesian wells. 
The machine shops are located on North Mechanic street, where fifty men are 
steadily employed. Labor, iron, steel and other incidentals bring the total 
I i the BUm of $10 'J 11 N » per annum. 
I I i.rker i~ one of the heavy jobbers in nitro glycerine and torpedoes, 
i I Casterline is also an extensive dealer in this class of goods. R. Jen- 
have I n t I production Bince 1870, and now hold a 

leading position among the well proprietors of this field in which they own 
125 wells. 

Sucker Rod Factory of Gideon Chapman was established here in 1878. 
W '■ Chapman' 6 -hop on Dresser avenue employs three men, who turn out 
■ worth of rods annually. 

firm of Wheeler & cas organized in 1877, and the office has 

I uin Bradford sh 1879, The business of the firm consists in the pro- 
duction of petroleum, valuable fields being owned in But lei-. McKean, and 
Other counties, from which the annual output is of vast magnitude. S. A. 
Whee the oil regions from 'Toledo. Ohio, in 1S7<|. and began oper- 
ting in Venango county, near Franklin. Later he was interested in Butler 
. being manageT and part owner of the '• Relief Pipe Line Company ' ' 
for some years previous to forming his present connection. Mr. Wheeler is 
the firm of Whitnej A \\ beeler, and has long been numbered 
the representative business men and financiers of this section. J. H. 
'he oil regions in 1m; 1. and ha- operated in Venango, Butler 
counties, his first principal operation- having been in the famous 

McKee Bull and S Factory was established in 1872atFrank 

hu - i "" 1 "" 1878, bj .1. \\. McKee. Thebull wheel man- 

what is know,, a.- the "patent sectional," its great feature being 
can be detached from the shaft at will. The sand-wheel is made also 
■■"- principle, and in addition the establishment turn- out -olid 
ler, and all part- of all machinery .... The Corbet, Keel and Rig 
pdon Bilton street; employs eight men and does a busi 
■ annually. 

rksof W. C. Walker & Co., produce S50.000 worth of 
anually, and give employment to Bixteen men 

BovairdS Seyfang were established in 1872, 
; '" 1"" men. The product of this establishment 

se-power,a noted Bpec ialty being a 

Sine. This great utility is manufactured in sizes of 



HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 209 

twelve, fifteen and twenty horse-power, and is especially adapted to drilling in 
deep territory, under which circumstances its great rapidity and unsurpassed 
strength are readily perceived. The firm also manufactures special machinery 
of all kinds, and are, in all probability, the heaviest producers of drilling and 
fishing tools in the world. They also deal extensively in boilers, steam pumps, 
tubing, casing, new and second-hand machinery, machinists' supplies, and the 
output is valued at $100,000 annually. 

William Robertson & Son, machinists, works located on Chestnut street. 
employ six men and do a §25,000 business annually. The business of this 
concern was originally established at Pithole, Penn. , in 1865, by the head of the 
firm, who removed to this city in 1880, and two years later admitted his son, 
D. W. Robertson. . . .Brown & Manning do a business at 33 Webster street. 
They employ four men and do a business of $12,000 annually. They run a 
machine shop .... Robert Manning, a native of Pennsylvania, came to Brad- 
ford in 1880, and established his present business in the early part of 1885 
. . . .D. Phillips, machinist, transacts an annual business of $55,000; employs 
ten men.... The Ross Machine & Repair Shops were established by G. W. 
Ross in 1875, and conducted by him until 1886 when J. H. Ross took charge. 

The Eureka Iron Works, operated by S. McCaughtry, H. Harris, \V. H. 
Pepper and R. Ireland, produce all kinds of fishing and drilling tools, sand- 
pumps, boilers, mud sockets and casing cutters. The shops are on Foreman 
street, and the annual business is over $20,000. 

The S. R. Dresser's Packer Factory is located near the Quaker Rod Shop. 
Oil and Gas well packers are specialties .... Connelly Bros, boiler works, 
located on Hilton street; employ seven men and do a $12,000 business per 
annum. .. .Shearer & Hicks, machinists, shop located on Railroad street; 
employ 10 men and do a $35,000 business per year. . . .H. J. Rose, machinist, 
shop on Corydon street; employs two men and does a $30,000 business yearly 
.... Winthrop & Delvin have a small machine shop at No. 35 Webster street; 
they are practical men and do their own work; they do in the neighborhood of 
$4,500 yearly. . . .John Ley has a large plant, a machine shop, on Corydon 
street; employs twelve men, his yearly business aggregating $25,000. . . .The 
Lock Manufacturing Company, located at 25 Webster street, employ two men and 
do a trade of $5,500 per annum. . . .Bradford, Bordell & Kendall railroad shops, 
located up the east branch; employ twenty men and do a $20,000 business 
yearly. . . .Buffalo, Rochester & Pittsburgh railroad shops, located on the east 
branch, employ 156 men and do a $250,000 business per annum. 

B. C. Quigley's Ash and Hickory Sucker Rod factory was established here 
in 1885, although he was a resident of the city for six years prior to that time. 
His factory on East Main street is thoroughly equipped. 

L. Emery, Jr., & Co's oil well, machinist and railroad supply house, and 
general hardware store was established in 1876). The store is one of the largest 
business places in the city. The premises consist of a double two-story brick 
structure, with large plate glass windows in front, and the interior is system- 
atically and conveniently arranged with all the modern facilities for the hand 
ling and displaying of goods. The mammoth stock embraces all kinds of silver- 
ware, cutlery, jewelry, optical goods, hardware, and in short everything in the 
merchandise line excepting shoes and dry goods. A specialty is made of oil- 
well, machinist and railway supplies, the stock carried being the largest 
and most complete in this section of the country. The firm's large warehouse 
for the accommodation of the surplus is located near the Union Depot. In addi- 
tion to the above interests the members of this firm are among the heaviest 
oil producers in this region, under the title of the Emery Oil Company. This 



210 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

is a separate branch of their extensive business, the office being located at No. 
11 .Main street. They employ in the several departments of their enterprise 
a great number of people, and their trade extends throughout the oil regions. 

The hardware and oil supply store of H. A. Jamieson and W. H. Pickett 
was established in 1864 by J. H. Mitchell. The present owners took charge 
in l^i 1 . . . . Bodine & Walker's business was founded in 1876 by George Bod- 
iue .... The Bradford Stone Company was established by C. R. Cosolowsky 
in May. 1S86. . . . J. B. McElwaine founded his oil-well supply house in 1879, 
and later established branches at Duke Centre and Kane, Penn., and Bolivar, 
X. Y . . .The Jarecki Manufacturing Company is represented by E. A. Wean. 
. . . .Boggs & Curtis machine and oil well supply store dates to 1884. . . .R. W. 
Carroll's agency was established in 1884. He handles the goods of the Ameri 
can Tube and Iron Company, the Gutta Percha and Rubber Manfactur 
ing Company, the Belknap Manufacturing Company, the Hoyt Metal Com 
pany, the Crosby Steam Gauge and Valve Company, the Hart Manufacturing 
Company, the Titusville Iron Works, the Watertown Steam Blower Company. 
the Standard Boiler Feeder Company and many others .... The Tifft Engine 
and Boiler Manufacturing Company has been represented by A. McLean since 
1 869. Their office here was established in 1860 .... Dennis & Booth, successors 
to Jones, Dennis & Booth, established their building business in 1877. 

The Bradford Glass Works were erected in [ss4 on the site of Brain'-. 
brick-yard, near the Erie Railroad track. A proposition to re-open this indus- 
try was pending in June, 1889. The proposition materialized, and on Sep- 
tember 25, 1889, the window-glass factory made the third run or heat. Since 
the successful opening of the works, A. P. Lewis, manager, with thirty rive 
glass-blowers, seven flatteners, eight cutters, four pot makers, three packers 
and sixteen helpers have formed the working force. The glass-blowers received 
I'roni $125 to $250 per month. No less than 1,000 persons witnessed this third 
run. 

Bradford Tooth-pick Factory employs twenty persons and does a §20,001) 
business per year. Factory on Hilton street. 

The Clark Mill, on the island, is the only saw-mill in the city. For twenty - 
five years .Mr. Clark has been connected with the lumber industry: product 
1. 000. 000 feet of hemlock annually ... .H. Tnthill. dealer in sash blinds and 
dressed lumber, employs three men and does a yearly business amounting to 
$30,000; the plant is located at 54 Chestnut street; the house was founded in 
1 88 1 by D. Wright . . . . C. F. McAmbly, lumber merchant, yard on Hilton st reel : 
employs eighty-live men; his business amounts to $500,000 per annum.... 
P. A. Kent's yard was established in 1883. . . .The G. Koebly carriage shops, 
on the island, is one of the largest industries of this class in this section of 
Pennsylvania. . . .Herman Frank, cigar manufacturer, No. 12 Congress street, 
employs twenty men, and does a $50,001) business per year. . . . M. L. Pomeroy, 
harness, etc., employs two men and does a $5,000 business annually: shop 
located at 6 Pine street. . . . W. H. Walker, manufacturer of harness, etc.. whose 
Inline was established in 1879 by L. B. Hill, also does considerable business. 

John Meyer's upper factory and leather shop was established in ^7S. . . . 
Sendker Bros.' shoe store was established in 188(1. and C. M. Bosworth's 
in 1885 .... Drew's furniture factory was founded in 1880-S1 .... The Consoli- 
dated Bottling Company was incorporated in 18S2; it is simply a consolida- 
tion of the firms of A. F. Kent. Woodbury & Campbell, Mayer Brothers and 
T. Blakely & Company; the business is well carried on .... Campbell Broth- 
ers' bottling works, on Davis street, is a large industry here. . . . Brennan & 
Davis' jewelry store was established in 1883; C. H. Norton's in 1881. 





Cff /Q fU2^nr-i^>~~ 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 213 

The Bradford office of the Singer Manufacturing Company was established 
with G. F. Anderson, manager ... .J. W. Fritts is also a dealer in sewing 
machines and organs, and Harrington Brothers in pianos and other musical 
instruments; also H. E. Morrison. 

The American Steam Laundry was established in 1878 by H. J. Skinner, 
who was followed by Godfrey & Hunt, the present owners. 

The Pennsylvania Storage Company is an adaptation of the lumber com- 
pany mentioned in the history of St. Mary's. The yards are located on a ten- 
acre tract, donated by the city in 1888, to which the company added ten acres 
subsequently. F. W. Brooks is general superintendent. The lumber is 
brought to the yard in the rough, from the different saw mills of the county, 
most of the proprietors being stockholders. A planing-mill is located on the 
ground, and the lumber is dressed and matched complete for the market. Par- 
ticular pains are taken in piling the lumber. As soon as a pile is finished it 
is roofed, and the number of boards booked. Over 11,000,000 feet of lumber 
are stored on the grounds at present. Nearly all of it is hemlock. The Star, 
in noticing this great industry, says: " Perhaps our citizens are not aware of 
the mammoth amount of lumber handled annually by the lumber dealers of 
this city. The industry has grown to such an extent that it can be classed next 
to the oil interests in this county. ' ' The reason it is called a storage concern 
is because a mill-owner ships his lumber to this plant, and he is given a certifi- 
cate of the value of his shipment taken from the inspector's book. It is 
stored on the grounds until sold, when he receives his price. In addition to 
the above the business of making wood alcohol is carried on extensively in the 
vicinity of Bradford, there being no less than four establishments of the kind 
— commonly called acid works — within a few miles of the city. They are con- 
ducted respectively by A. B. Smith & Co., Ph. Nusbaum & Co., the Alton 
Chemical Works (limited) and the Lewis Run Chemical Company. 

The Wagner Opera House was built and opened in 187B. The building is 
owned by M. W. Wagner and managed in conjunction with the oil region cir- 
cuit, comprising Erie, Warren and New Castle, in Pennsylvania, and Elmira, 
Hornellsville and Olean, in New York, by Wagner & Reis, their headquarters 
being in this city. Three to four performances a week are given in the Wag- 
ner during the season. Among the noteworthy attractions that have appeared 
at the Opera House may be mentioned Sara Bernhardt, Edwin Booth, Mrs. 
Langtry, Theodore Thomas' Orchestra, Gilmore's Band and the Emma Abbott 
Opera Company. In addition to the Wagner Opera House there is a variety 
theatre and numerous halls for concert and other uses. 

CONCLUSION. 

The humble beginnings of Bradford have been related, and the gradual 
advances of the settlement to the position of a city traced. Every feature of the 
building-up process has been painted in documentary languages, true in every 
particular. Only a few years have passed since the place was a wilderness. To- 
day it is a busy hive of industry, with many of the vices and all the virtues of a 
great business center. The pioneers of the Bradford oil field built well indeed, 
and witnessed the springing up of a great, well-regulated and prosperous 
community out of the ancient groves of the Tuna Valley. Here is the 
inventive, enterprising, fearless Yankee; there the Pennsylvanian — man of 
iron nerves; here the sons of Vermont and New Hampshire, happy among the 
great hills; there the children of that Maryland — "the only place in the wide, 
wide world where religious liberty found a home;" here the shrewd Irishman 
whose faults almost counterbalance his virtues; the ruddy, fair-haired German 



21 I HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

working steadih to win a competence and hold it; the Englishman, generally 

tic; the Italian, untrained to labor; the "cannie" Scot, zealously 

watchful of his interests; the chivalrous Pole, the polite Frenchman, the 
monei making Jew, the never tired Swede ot Norwegian, and even the China- 
man 'all find employment and a home here. In other points the city claims 
distinctive features, Mich as natural terraces, variety of landscape and wild- 
wood drives, all retained involuntarily amid the ruin of old-time forests, 
change of river n.nr-rs and^ssaults on the great hills. 



CHAPTEK XI. 



FOSTER TOWNSHIP— BOROUGH OF KENDALL— 
CORYDON TOWNSHIP. 

Foster Township Formation Census — Fires — Township Officers 

Elec mo i\ 1890 Villages. 
Boroi on of Kendall Location— Population— Business— Peg-Leg Line— 

[ncidents Fires, Etc.— Elections —schools — Churches— Cemetery— 

>"i ii riES. 
Corydon Township — Topography, Etc. — Population — Seated Tax Payers, 

1836 :i7 Early Mills— Township Officers Elected ix 1890. 

Fl >STER TOWNSHIP formed part of Bradford township until 1880, andto- 
daj ii is practically a pari of the old township in its topographical features 
and business interests. In March. 1880, the vote on setting off Foster township 
from Bradford was seventy-two for and thirty-one contra. .The name was 

given in honor of 1 tard S. Foster, the oldest continuous white resident of 

the 'Tuna Valley, who resided at Foster Brook since 1824. Bernard Pike, the 
pioneer, moving away years ago. This township in 1880 had a population of 
5,373. In November, l^ s \ there were 288 Republican, 154 Democratic. 43 
Prohibitionist and Hi Labor Unionist votes cast: and a total of 581 multiplied 
by six gives the population at the time as 3. ISO. 

The historj of this township is one story of conflagration after conflagra- 
tion. Red Rock wasburned early in 1880, shortly after the destruction of Knox 
( 'il_\ and of (lillnior. 

The RewCitj fire of May T. 1880, originated on the Shedd farm, sparks 
from Fisher a Pickett's engine setting tire to their No. 6 well, and resulting 
in the four months old town of Rew City being destroyed within two hours. 
Beginning on the north boundary on the east side of Bordell avenue, there 
ollovi Dan Kelly's feed Btable; Moscho's barn and dwell- 
ing: Curtis & Hart's building; Seth Jordan's boarding house: Robert Menziers' 
restaurant; Chandler Bros.' grocery:. I. I>. Wolf sbuUding and hardware stock; 
U. Fox's new boarding house, and Eugene ('apron's building and stock. On 
the north and south sides of Coleville road, west of Bordell avenue, Ireland's 
machine shop; the pioneer hotel, known as the Summit House, conducted by 
Ross & Man--, the Rew Citj Eouse; Hale's drug store; Giles' & Mehany's 
building; Bradford shoe store; Laydrj I >ave\ 's boarding house; Central House: 
Dailey's hardware; Arlington's restaurant; Connelly's hotel. Sniggs & Stick 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 215 

ney's grocery; Wood & Bowens' meat market and bakery; Scanlon's Daven- 
port House; Cook's portable restaurant building; Chandler Bros.' building; 
G. E. Edmund's livery; Dayton & Jackson's hotel; McGeorge's dwelling; S. 
S. Francis' dwelling; Sinclair's fruit shop; McDermott's feed store and 
blacksmith shop; Murray, Morrison & m Company's buildings; Thomas' res- 
taurant; Lewis' boarding house; Robinson's building; McNamara's Edinburg 
House, and C. Webster's tank shop, on the west side of Bordell avenue, south 
of the Coleville road, were all swept away. D. Rew's farm house and build- 
ings, then occupied by Middaugh, were destroyed, and five buildings on the 
west side of the street; Whiting's boarding house, Stoddard's hotel, Mrs. 
Agger's Central House, Dorey's boarding house, Lewis' Cuba House, and a 
number of small buildings were destroyed. On the Rew farm the McCalmont 
Company, McKay & Company, Packard & Company, S. D. Kara & Company, 
Benedict & Whitual, Dyer & Ford, lost heavily in oil and rigs. 

The fire of May 6, 1880, at Kendall Creek, a half mile north of Rew City, 
originated in the premature explosion of a torpedo in Bradley & Co. 's No. 6 
well on the Taylor tract. It appears the torpedo was lowered to a depth of 
600 feet, when a sudden flow of oil drove it upward, and, striking the walking 
beam, it exploded. The rig and a 150-barrel tank were destroyed, and the 
fire, running to Johnson & Co.'s rig on the Bingham land, destroyed it and the 
oil in tank, together with their rig on the Mantz farm below the Rew farm. 

On the hillside between Lafferty and Sawyer, the rigs at eight producing 
wells were burned. The property of Munhall & Smithman, O'Dell & Emerson 
and Van Vleck was burned over, while the Anchor Petroleum Company lost 
two rigs on the Whipple farm. 

The Foster Brook tire of May 6, 1880, originated at Porter, Gilmore & 
Co.'s No. 7 well, at the foot of the hollow leading to Bell's Camp, and extended 
southeast over the divide through the C. B. & H. tract, thence through a por- 
tion of the Willets tract to the west line of the Borden tract, destroying 101 
rigs and a quantity of oil in the Foster brook and Harrisburg run neighbor- 
hoods. Tram Hollow lost nineteen rigs, six were burned on the east branch 
and fifty-four at Kendall Creek, aggregating 132 rigs destroyed in a few hours. 
Near Tarport the fire began in the brush near the Cornen purchase, and at 
once encircled three 250-barrel oil tanks. 

The Rixford fire of May 9, 1880, originated in Squire Cline's office, and 
resulted in the destruction of seventy-five buildings, six loaded freight cars, 
twelve empty flat cars, forty rigs and 70,000 barrels of oil — the total loss being 
placed at $18-4,000. The old Rixford dwelling was swept away at this time, 
but, although the fire surrounded it, Jobn McKeown's well on Main street was 
left untouched. On the north side, western end of Main street, west of the 
point of origin, this fire destroyed Cronin's boarding house; Farley's dwelling; 
the Central House; Cline's office; Mitchell's grocery; the Waterman block; 
Mrs. Karn's jewelry store; Tuttle's fruit stand; the Seymour building; the 
Nast Bros. ' building; A. J. North's; Krohn's clothing house; Steven's bowl- 
ing alley; Otto's dwelling; Scoville's law office; Blue Front grocery; Baker's 
dwelling; Edmund's dwelling; Tait's photograph gallery; Wass' restaurant; 
Garvin's blacksmith shop; Gibney's shoe shop; Dana's billiard hall; Brun- 
dage's Bakery Hotel; Mcintosh's boarding house; Crandall & Alderman's 
grocery; Goodenough's Scranton House; Shanbacker's Yeoman House; Tait's 
grocery; Farrell's boarding house; Ive's shoe store; Holmes', Porter's and 
Mrs. Barry's dwellings; Drach's laundry, and Curtis & Drake's Titusville 
House. On Railroad street, extending north from Main, there were destroyed 
Horan's Hotel; Kane's restaurant; Mrs. Rockwell's Central Hotel; the dwell- 



216 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

ings of Orooker, August and Dean; Mrs. Robins' saloon; Gorley's Railroad 
Bouse; railroad depot; Packard & Co.'s office; Youngstown Oil Company's 
office, and Culbertson's dwelling, while Allen's coal yard, McAnclrew's boiler 
Bhop and E. S. Crooker's tank shop, west of depot, were destroyed. South of 
Railroad street U. T. No. 429 and No,. 452, 25,000-barrel tanks, and McLeod 
& Morrison's 7,000-barreI tanks burned. On the south side of Main street, 
beginning on the west, there wen- destroyed Unger's clothing store; Waguer's 
lu.at market; the Rolph House; Wagner & Faught's Opera House; the O'Brien 
building; Kammacher's building; Royer building; John Faught's dwelling; 
Crandall's dry goods house; Dickenson's post-office building; Neilen's hotel 
(Bishop House); Fleming's tank shop; Robinson's glycerine office; William 
()' llriei i's residence; Dibble's drug store: the Gleason House; Edward's livery 
stable; O'Brien's old Rixford House; John McKeown's office, and O. Flem- 
ing's dwelling. The work of rebuilding was begun on May 10 of that year. 

The Dallas City oil lire took place August 19, 1880, 50,000 barrels of oil 
hi fire. At thai time the Tidewater Tank No. 6 stood 350 feet distant 
from the pump station, while up the brook was United Lines Tank No. 410, 
and in the vicinity other oil reservoirs. At live o'clock that evening lightning 
struck two of the 25,000-barrel tanks and one 700-barrel tank, and destroyed 
the telegraph instruments. James Stephens extinguished the fire at the small 
tank, the property of W. M. Carner & Co.. but the large tanks and several 
ri_'^ were destroyed. 

The Rew City tire of October 24, 1881, originated in Bernard's barber 
shop, on the west side of Bordell street, burning Francis' meat market and 
dwelling. Googe Bros.' bowling alley, A. J. Dearmont's blacksmith shop on 
the south side. The tire was checked at Murray's feed store and dwelling. 
where there was an allej three feet wide. Murray's store was badly scorched 
and had a narrow escape. On the north side were burned the Tioga House, 
the building owned by C. C. Violl and occupied by D. E. Miece as a furniture 
store, being checked at Blakeley Bros." drug store, where there was an alley 
about eighl feet wide. On the east side of the street the Fox House, used as 
a hall, and on the north side Woedbury & Campbell's building, occupied by 
Edney Smith as a saloon and bowling alley, and Dearmont's blacksmith and 
wagon shop were destroyed. The flames were checked at Cornell's dwelling by 
an alley about eight feet wide. Wafer was hauled from the Hopking \" Packard 
lease in a 250-barrel tank. Eight teams were employed and furnished an 
ample supply. The citizens fought the lire bravely. 

The Kansas Branch file of January 4, L884, resulted in the burning of 

I lie Eour children of C. N. Garver, an employe of the Keystone Company. 

The glycerine explosion at Sawyer City in September, 1881, resulted in the 
death of \\ illiam Bunton, Charles Rust. James Thrashier ami Charles Krouse, 
and serious injury to four others. 

K in ix City, w hich came into existence in LSTU. on the Hodge farm (soon after 
the Sawyer & Boille well was drilled on the the Rew farm), was inaugurated by 
the opening of -lack Fraser's Knox City House. It was destroj ed by lire April 
21, L880. This tire originated in a barber shop, and destroyed Hussey's sa- 
loon, Pfunter's furniture shop. M. T. Holahan's buildings, the oji Exchange 

I I .i.l. the Barnes House. Stone Pros.' grocery, and Fraser's Knox City House. 

Gillmor, near Bradford, was wiped out by lire in March. 1S7U. and Hugh 
Laffertj burned to death. Rebuilt at once, it is to-day one of the busy ham- 
lets of this seetion. l'h,. Knights of Honor and other secret and benevo- 
lent organizations are to In. found here, including G. A. P. Post No. 589, and 
the Women's Relief Corps. The old villages were rebuilt after the fashion of 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 219 

oil camps, business resumed, and to-day the visitor may converse with some per- 
sons who never heard of the destructive fires of 1879-84. 

Babcock, a lumbering village, now known as Tnna Creek, is located north 
of Bradford, near the State line. 

The villages of this township are Foster Brook, Babcock' s Mills, Derrick 
City, Lafferty, Red Rock, Gillmor. Sawyer City, Hazel wood, Forest, Taylor, 
and Rew City. Throughout the valleys of the township are several agricult- 
ural settlements. At Derrick City is a Methodist church building; it is the 
circuit station and here Rev. William Magovern resides. 

Foster Brook Lodge No. 11, Knights of Pythias, was organized some time 
ago, and in October, 1889, took an important place among the societies of the 
district. 

The township officers elected in February, 1890, are as follows: Supervisors, 
Robert McMurray and J. L. Seager; town clerk. George Wannamaker; col- 
lector, T. F. Hungerville; school directors, H. T. Morian and S. A. Shannon; 
auditor, E. B. Sage; assessor, N. Snyder; judge of election, First District, H. 
B. Day; inspectors, T. W. Powers and M. M. McKay; judge of election, Second 
District, J. W. Gormley; inspectors, W. J. Boyd and S. M. Henderson. 



TAKPOKT, OR BOROUGH OF KENDALL. 

Tarport adjoins Bradford city on the north, and is connected therewith 
by railroad and street car lines. In 1880 it contained 2,689 inhabitants. In 
1888 there were 181 Republican, 139 Democratic, eleven Prohibitionist and 
three United Labor votes cast, or a total of 334. This number multiplied by 
six gives an approximate of the present population, about 2,004. 

Tarport was great when Bradford was a little hamlet. For years the trade 
of northwestern McKean centered here, and here many of the pioneers of Brad- 
ford's business entered on commercial life. Harvey D. Hicks was first postmas- 
ter at Tarport, keeping the office in the hotel. On entering the union service 
in 1862, his wife continued the office during the war. In 1872 Loyal Ward 
was appointed to the office, and served until William Beers succeeded him in 
1873. The office has been filled by Mr. Mitchell and Mr. Butler in recent 
years until J. C. Brenneman was commissioned in July, 1889. The discovery of 
oil in the Tuna Valley changed the pleasant little village of olden days into a 
bustling oil camp. In 1876 the name was changed to Kendall Creek; the post- 
office was then established under that name, with H. G. Mitchell postmaster. 
In June of that year Mitchell & Sons opened a grocery store and Z. Fisher 
commenced building his three-story hotel. Later F. N. Taylor opened a store 
there and the Oil Exchange hall was erected. 

In 1878 the village contained about 900 inhabitants. Here was the junction 
of the Peg- Leg Line and the Olean, Bradford & Warren Railroads; hundreds 
of derricks standing all around, and large tanks, telling at once that this was 
the great tank city of the period. In January, 1878, the Peg Leg Railroad 
was completed to Tarport, and the Narrow Gauge was opened February 11, 
1878, between Bradford and Olean, the train climbing grades of 135 feet per 
mile. 

In January and February, 1878, the Era was filled with accounts of atroc- 
ities at Tarport, in the low resort of Ben Hogan, since which time strange 
changes have taken place. The wicked village of 1878 was destroyed to give 
place to the new order of houses and inhabitants, and even the notorious Ben 
has become an evangelist, as elsewhere related. Contemporary with Ben's 
settlement at Tarport came the era of fires and explosions. Roberts' glycerine 



220 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

factory, a ruile from Tarport, exploded October 2, 1877, killing J. F. Smith 
and injuring Col. Roberts and bis son. Tbe lire of April 25, 1880, destroyed 
Schmrdtz's grocery, Kerns' saloon, Stine's Dew Drop Inn, Delmage's tank 
Bhop, and Mrs. Robinson's boarding house. William Houseler was arrested 
and charged with being the incendiary. The glycerine explosion of May 24, 
1880, destroyed the Ernest Koester works below Tarport. It appears the for- 
esl firea communicated with the safes (then containing only 200 pounds of the 
explosive), which were lifted bodily upward and scattered over a wide area. 
In May. 1880, Book & Rhodes' No. 15 Tank, on Rutherford run, was struck 
by lightning and 600 barrels of oil burned, and Stettheimer's engine house, on 
Basi branch, destroyed. J. M. Tait lost the rigs and tanks at his wells on 
Foster brook. The Roger Sherman 10,000-barrel oil tank, near Tarport, was 
struck by lightning June 10. 1880, and set on fire. Superintendent Seymore 
turned steam on the burning oil, and this, aided by the application of wet 
blankets, sabdued the flames — the first time an oil tank and contents were thus 
saved. The fire of June 25, 1880, destroyed thirty-two buildings in two 
hours, [t originated in the Westcott House, which it destroyed as well as the 
following buildings: Mrs. Melbuish's boarding house. J. W. Winsor's dwell- 
ing, Beath cote's hotel, Riley & Evans' hotel, Wheaton's meat market. J. S. 
Fi-her's saloon. Mackay & Benson's grocery. Phillips' Oil Exchange Hotel, the 
Dowdnej Bouse, Mulqueen's saloon, Ockerman building, L. R. Barnes' hotel, 
1'lynn Bros.* grocery. Levi's clothing house, Kern's saloon, and another 
saloon, Calhoun's shoe store, Walsh's building, Hurd's harness shop, and the 
Fuller Bouse barn. On the opposite side it destroyed the Walsh House, then 
operated by John Ingersoll; the double house owned by John Mitchell and 
Km Brothers, in which was the postoffice, with H. G. Mitchell, master: his 
dwelling in the rear; E. R. Sherman's and George Smith's dwellings; the Oil 
Exchange building; Frank Taylor's building. Judge Craig's dwelling and 
Cadwallader's office. The total loss was estimated at $50,000. Mrs. Nell's 
b >arding bouse, at head of Main street, was saved. The fire of May 5, l s "s'i. 
d istroyed Bis bouses, and burned to death George O'Neil, a fireman. 

Kendall Borough elections were held February 15, 1881, when Eugene Buck 
received 208 votes and C. E. Everson L03, for burgess. M. A. Haggerty, < >. 
I- Lathrop, Denis Lundergan, C. Benson, Philo Ackley and Joseph Nye were 
elected members of council; E. F. Converse, constable; A. J. Evans, high 
c Qstable; A. M. Kleckner, C. D. Longfellow and Robert Pilkington. school 
director Joe Ben inge] or; C. I>. Longfellow and W. B. Clark, audit- 

ors; S. B. Shaffer and E. W. Baker, inspectors, and John Todd, judge of 
'•lections. J. B. Butler was elected burgess in 1882, receiving the total vote, 
'] ilo "Lckley.in L883; L. D. Langraade, in L884, with W. W. Penhollow, 
E. J, I'n i L885 86; Philo Ackley, in L887, with \ M. 

Kleckner. justice, and T. T. Mapes, in L888 89. The officers elected in Feb- 
ruary, 1890, are as follows: Burgess, W. K. Urquhart; councilmen, J. G. 
Fisher, S. \V. Stilling, P. Mallory; school directors, A. V. Field. J. C. Smith: 
justice of the peace, Philo Ackley; collector. W. W. Peuhollow; constable. M. 
B. Dekuage; auditor. Wilson Rice; judges of election. First District, Philo 
A.ckley; Second District, C. D. Gilbert; inspectors, William Heaps, .lames 
Flynn, \\ ilson Rice, E. H. Parish. 

The early schools of Tarport are noticed in the history of Bradford town- 
ship, where many of the pioneer- of this section are also referred to. g 
with the religious organizations. 

Thefirst Presbyterian Church of Kendall was incorporated in June. 1881, 
with T. W. Williamson, F. S. Reynolds..). W. Sherman, (i. Buchanan, C. 



HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 221 

D. Longfellow, C. B. Seymour, Dr. McCarthy, J. Hockley, D. L. Skinner. 
J. Odell and G. W. Newman, members. 

The first Free Methodist Society of Tuna Creek was organized in 1883, 
with O. Dodge, A. D. Gaines, Sam. Henderson, L. Sager, Harriet E. Jones, 
Mrs. M. J. Zeliff, Phil, and Mrs. M. V. Hooker, Mrs. M. Gr. Beardsley hus- 
band and William, A. G. McCoy, H. G. Crawford, G. Brightonberger, C. 

B. Stoddard, William Cornelius, I. Walker, George Hasson, H. Hare and 
George G. Sandford. Rev. John H. Stoody is pastor of the Methodist Episco- 
pal Church here, the beginnings of which are told in the history of Bradford. 

The Kendall Creek Cemetery Association was incorporated March 3, 1871, 
with C. C. Melvin, C. H. Foster, A. W. and James Buchanan and F. A. 
Moore, trustees. 

Kendall Lodge No. 133, A. O. U. W., is one of the oldest benefit organi- 
zations of the borough. Among its officers may be named J. S. Fisher, V. K. 
Boyer, L. Reed, A. M. Kleckner and D. Huntley. This lodge built a hall 
some years ago near the railroad, which hall is still standing. The officers for 
1890 are F. O. Hane, C. Crary, A. Cole, T. J. Buchanan, James Moseley, 
G. W. Mitchell, L. S. Reed, F. H. Burr, James Hood and A. M. Kleckner. 
Present membership, 97. 

Washington Legion, S. K. of A. O. U. W., was organized April 8, 1884. 
Among its members are those named in connection with the lodge, R. B. Gil- 
lespie, A. J. Martin, O. L. Lathrop, H. H. Berringer, A. J. Cole, T. B. 
Humes and others. The officers of the legion in 1890 are H. R. Winger, 

C. S. Crarey, James Hood, D. Huntley, -D. J. Stewart, A. M. Kleckner, 
R. B. Gillespie, J. G. Fisher and G. E. Benninghoff. There are twenty-one 
members. 

Kendall Tent No. 5, K. O. T. M., was organized July 8, 18S4. Among 
its members are T. M. Olmsted, Col. D. Gardner, H. C. Jones, H. K. 
Boyer, M. P. Wooley and F. M. Bickford. The tent elected the following named 
officers in December, 1889. in order of tent rank: Moses P. Wooley, James L. 
Fleming, W. K. Urquhart, H C. Jones, H. Boyer, M. B. Delmage, D. E. 
Ash and J. M. Shaw. The membership on March 10 was 136. 

Tuna Lodge No. 1122, Knights and Ladies of Honor, was instituted Jan- 
uary 20, 1886, by D. G. P., A. N. Heard. Among its members are E. M. 
McElhaney, J. Q. Field, Mrs. Kate Walter, E. R. Sherman, Frank G. Bemis, 

E. R. Sherman, C. F. Jewell, E. J. Fitzsimmons. The officers for 1890 are 
L. R. Shaw, Mrs. M. P. Hennage, E. R. Sherman, Rachel Troup, Ella Smiley, 
Mrs. Retta Phillips, Mrs. Sarah Artley, J. W. Stephens and M. E. Smiley. 
Medical examiner, D. E. Ash. There are eighty members. 

Local Branch No. 3S9 of the Order of the Iron Hall was organized September 
17, 1886; among the official members are H. G. Vankenren, J. Manly, J. R. 
McCarthy and T. B. Humes. 

Break of Day Division No. 170, Sons of Temperance, was organized Sep- 
tember, 1886. Its members were William Dobin, Rev. J. G. Hann, Mrs. W. 
Harris, P. Whittlesey, Mrs. H. Wardell. 

Kendall Section Cadets of Temperance, organized March, 1887; Mrs. M. 
A. Thomas, Mrs. L. Hann; D. G., William Dobie; W. A., Grace Sandburn; 
V. A., Annie Greer; P. W. A., Ella Dobie; R. S., Arch Worton; T., George 
Dobie. 

In 1S89 the Kendall Loan and Savings Association was organized with the 
following officers: President, George W. Mitchell; secretary, E. R. Sherman; 
treasurer, T. T. Mapes; appraising committee, T. T. Mapes, A. V. Field and 
J. M. Nye. The board of directors consists of A. V. Field, T. T. Mapes, J. 



-1- HISTOKY OF MCKEAH COUNTY. 

M. Nye, George W. Mitchell and E. 1?. Sherman. These officers were re- 
elected for 1890. 

Kendall Circle No. 71. 1'iotectecl Home Circle, is presided over by E. R. 
Sherman, with Ellen Geary, vice president; Mrs. M. Moseley, chaplain; J. J. 
Gonter, G ; Emma •). Gonter, accountant; C. D. Longfellow, secretary: Mis. 
.Martha Sherman, treasurer; J. T. Graham, porter: Mrs. L. Whitman, watch. 
and I'i. J. R. McCartey, medical examiner. 

Equitable Aid Union No. 249 was organized December 28. 1S85, and is 
presided over by D. Keibler. with Dora Bover, vice-president, and Mrs. L. 
Hathaway, secretary. The remaining offices are tilled by H. R. Wigner, D. 
Huntly. Mrs. C. Withery, Airs. L. Dorrance, Mrs. Wilda Rice, Mrs. Alice 
Smith, Myrtle Hathaway, Cora Montrose and O. B. Coleman. There are 158 
members belonging to this union. 

CORYDON TOWXSHIP. 

Cory don township occupies the northwest corner of McKean county. Here 
Corydon run tiosvs west by north through the northern sections, while the two 
branches of Sugar run meander everywhere through the southwest and center. 
and How together near the west line, whence the main stream rushes down to join 
the Allegheny river in Warren county, south of Cornplanter's run, which also rises 
here. < )n the divide between Willow and Quaker creeks (heads of the Corydon, in 
the northeast corner), an elevation of 2,210feet above tide is recorded; while on 
the Warren county line, where Sugar run enters the Allegheny valley, the ele- 
vation is only 1,300 feet. Geologist Asburner, speaking of this section in 1878, 
states that the number of houses and shanties there could be counted on the 
fingers, and denied the assertion of local geologists in the matter of coal beds, 
asserting that never could coal be profitably mined here. He further termed 
it the •'Barren Township," but acknowledged the existence of plateaus, to 
which he ascribed the general character of those in Lafayette township. 

The population of Corydon township in 1880 was lot. I n 1888 there were 
fifty Republican and thirteen Democratic votes recorded, on which total — 
sixty three the population was placed at 315. 

The seated tax payers of Corydon township in 1836-37 were Edwin Adams, 
■lames Anderson (a trader), William Brown, John Brown, James L. Baker, 
Albert and David Cargill, William Care (tavern-keeper), Benjamin Chamber- 
lain. Chamberlain & Hall (saw-mill owners). Alfred Forbes (merchant), Andrew 
Flatt. Amos Flatt. R. M. Truman. J. W. Field (tavern-keeper). Seth W 
Green, WalterGuy, William Gibbs, Comfort Hamlin, Orrin Hook, John Hasel 
tine. Abel Morrison. Rice Morrison. Jacob McCall. Morrison, Stephens & Co. 
(saw mills), Moses Farmlee. Zelotes Parmlee, Juri Perry, 1'.. H. Pike (trades 
aan), $L.mos Patterson (merchant), Abiel Rolfe (tavern keeper). Walter and 
George Seaman, Perry Shannon (saw-mill owner), Clark Stearns. F. H. Tracy. 
Jonathan Thompson, Ben Tome, Isaac Williams. H. N. Wheeler (store -keeper 
and sa-w mill owner). John Wait (store keeper) and John E. Woodbeck (trader); 
\ I oster was the assessor... Brownell, now of Tionesta. worked in Con 
over's saw mill, at the head of Sugar run. in ls">7. This mill w as erected 
in I So | .,.■"). while the mills operated by the Templetons. south of the town 
line, were erected much earlier. 

Early in 1843 a colony of German Catholics purchased a large tract of land 
in \\ arren COUntj . near the east line of McKean. and established a commercial 
Village, and in 1843 a posl office was existing at Kinzua. 

The Corydon well, on Willow creek, one-half mile up stream from the 
Allegheny, was in existence in 1850. 




"> 



iX X^l/U^ 



^ 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 225 

The township officers elected in February, 1890, are as follows: Super- 
visors, Moses Johnson, James Hinton; school directors, C. D. Seaman, B. D. 
Tome; collector, H. Schobey: constable, H. Schobey; justice of the peace, E. 
S. Payne; town clerk, Peter Parsons; auditor, B. D. Tome; judge of election, 
Philip Tome; inspectors, J. Rogers, Fred Flynn. 



CHAPTER XII. 



ANNIN TOWNSHIP— CERES TOWNSHIP. 

Annin Township Topography and Natural History— Population — Of- 
ficers of the Township, 1890— Turtle Point— Newell Creek— Churches 
and Cemetery. 

Ceres Township Topography— Oil Wells— Population— Officers of the 

Township, 1890— First Justice of the Peace— Early Settlers— Resi- 
dent Tax-Payers, 1836-37— Re-survey of the Northern State Line. 

Ceres Village First Arrivals— Post-office— Merchants — Schools- 
Churches— Military— Railroads— Industries. 

ANNIN TOWNSHIP, south of Ceres, and north of Liberty, is the home 
of Annin creek, which rises in the heights north of Annin, and enters 
the Allegheny river at Turtle point. Two Mile creek rises southeast of Annin, 
and flowing southwest enters the Allegheny below Port Allegany. Bell run, 
mentioned in the sketch of Ceres township, rises in the northeast corner; 
Newell creek flows southwest through the northwest corner, and Rock run 
parallels Annin creek northwest of the divide. Open Brook flows north 
through the southwest corner, where it enters the main river, which marks the 
northeast line of this corner. The high land one mile northwest of Annin is 
2,345 feet above tide; two miles southwest an elevation of 2,340 exists, and two 
and one-half miles due south, near the Port road, a plateau 2,300 feet above 
tide was measured. In fact an average elevation of 2,200 feet for summits, 
marks this township, the lowest point being the mouth of Rock run, 1,485 
feet. Northwest of the Smethport anticlinal are two small areas of Olean 
conglomerate, and between Annin and Two Mile creeks two more, but be- 
yond such evidences of coal, there were no minerals discovered up to 1879. 

The population of Annin township in 1880 was 1,089. The vote in 1888 
was 109 Republican, 117 Democratic, 10 Prohibitionist and rive Labor Union- 
ist, or 241, multiplied by five, equals 1,205, the estimated population. 

The officers of this township elected in February, 1890, are as follows: 
Justice of the peace, S. R. June; school directors, L. E. Bishop and F. K. 
Winship for three years, and John J. Cawley for one year; constable, Joseph 
Mullin; judge of election, H. A. June; inspectors of election, Jerome Robin- 
son, H. M. Harder; supervisors, J. J. MeCarey, James Hooley; auditors, H. 
M. Harder for one year, Thomas McGavisk for two years, and Eugene Me- 
Carey for three years; collector, L. J. Phenix; town clerk, Lorenzo Hodges. 

Turtle Point was the name given to the present village in 1836. when 
Henry Bryant, an Olean lawyer, erected the large saw-mill there. When 
cleaning out the mill-race the workmen found a large turtle buried deep in the 



226 HI8T0KY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

mud. A Few remnants of the old village were to be seen in L885, although 

the new village was transferred to the corners nearer the railroad. Bryant 

i $11^000 in this milling concern, bul the panic coming on swept it 

I Enoch Fob as partner and James H. Wright as miller. 

I,, 'lMi S. A Backus purchased Bryant's interests, leaving the original 

■ to begin life anew in California. 

Newell Creek and neighborhood weresettled aboul fiftj years ago. Among 

the names of old families are John and William Crawley, Ed. McMahon, Tim. 

I Patrick Driscoll, George Oliver, Patrick Masterson, Con. 

i .. O'C I .. Riley, Michael McAuliffe, Philip Cooney, 

Dunn, D rhomas Bizell, W. M. Londrigan, 

1 1 'i kin. 

St. Mary's Church was established bere in 1847, and Rev. J. -I. Burns 

I priesl in L850, when the old church was erected and dedicated by 

mnor. Fathers Dean and Galligan were missionary priests in 

18, and Father Smith was resident pastor from October, 1848, to June 

IQ 1 1850. In I s "':! Rev. Coadj succeeded Father Burns, who was followed by 

Father Madigan in September, l s "'ti. and be by Father Murrill in December, 

Father P. J. Patterson, Y. F., came in September, 1868. In 1869 he 

commenced the present church building, which was dedicated in February, 

l^T'J. I>y Bishop Mullen. The congregation comprises I"'' 1 families. The 

church at Newell Creek may be said to bave absorbed old St. Mary's above 

Smethport, leaving the southern men i to the new parish of Smeth 

l»>rt. The pastor died December 21, 1889. Father Cosgrove is successor of 

the venerable Father Patterson as pastor of St. Mary's parish, including Fort 

Allegany, Austin, Costello, Duke Centre and other pla 

The Annin ('reek Humane Society was the name given to a cemetery asso- 
ciation in June, 1851, of which 1). Buckley, 1. II. Holcomb, S. Foote, S. D. 
Cooper, Theron ('.'.per. J. P. Evans, Jr., Joshua 1>. Knapp, J. C. Evans, 
\ I '• Foote, Joseph Hodges, C. Graham, J. II. Knapp and J. P.Evans were 
meml 

The Methodist Church was incorporated in September, l s 'i7. on petition 
of Joseph Merrick. Niles Kinney, C. II Bessee, <•. F. Tubbs, H. M. Harder. 
M S I Ladle} . s II Kinney and \ II Bessee. 

rch was incorporated March 21, 1 v s 7 . ,,n petition of 

S l. Bolcomb, Eli B. Buckley, I. II .Mud F. K. Winship and G. O. Buckley. 

1 I Regulai Baptist Church of Turtle Point was incorporated June 

3, l ss 7. The subscribers were Theron Cooper, I». ('. Winship. S. L. Hol- 

comb, Ubet i son. 

S'SHIP. 
- township occupies the northeast corner of the county. King's run 

Oswayo rm era! northern course through the center: Hell's 

run parallels it in the center of the east half; <>-u in the 

northeast corner, flows northwestwardly to Ceres for two and a quarter miles, 
then crosses the state line, and eventually loses itself in the Allegheny 
river. The head water- of Newell creek are found in the southwest, and of 
creek in the west center. Taylor's run and several smaller streams 
feed the creeks named. The highest measured elevation is 2,24 

outhwest of Glenn, at the head of Rock run. and the lowest point, 1. 1 13, 

near State Line depot The divide between King's i hows a 

i 2,200 feet, declining to 1,450 south of Ce I Bell's 

run it ranges from 2,200 feet in north and south extreme-, to 1,500 in the 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 227 

Oswayo valley, while the divide at the head of Bardeu aud Newell creeks pre- 
sented summits of 2,219 and 2,200. The township is minus coal measures 
and conglomerate; but the summit caps of Pocono are from 250 to 300 feet 
thick. Near Russell's house on the Ceres road, at an elevation of 2,075 feet, 
there was discovered, in 1878, a red limy shale band. In King's run gulch, at 
Lynch's house, red soil was found at an elevation of 1.075 feet; along Barden 
run at an elevation of 1,645 feet, as at the old Biggens' place; and toward 
Ceres, of 1,720 feet, or only thirty feet below the top of the Chemung in that 
neighborhood. At Bly's house, on Ceres and Turtle Point road, a slightly red 
soil was seen at an elevation of 1,980 feet, and toward Turtle Point this soil 
was seen at different elevations; but from Bly's to Ceres, with the exception 
of one place (Chevalier's farm), the soil as well as sandstone was of the gray 
variety. About twelve years ago the first oil well was drilled up Bell's brook, 
N. Y. , by Howard & Magee, which was made dry. About four years ago a 
well was drilled up Carr's brook by Henry Carter, which is a half -barrel well. 
This is now owned by V. Perry Carter. Two wells have since been drilled 
for gas by V. P. Carter, representing the Ceres Gas Company, which wells sup- 
ply the village and neighborhood. The King's run well was bored five or six 
years ago by a local company. 

The population of Ceres in 1880, including the 108 inhabitants of Ceres 
village, was 975. In 1883 there were 123 Republican, 58 Democratic, 27 Pro- 
hibition and 47 Labor Unionist votes cast, or a total of 255, which, multiplied 
by five, gives a population of 1,275. 

The officers chosen in February, 1890, are as follows: Supervisors, Win- 
field Lanphere, James E. Welch; school directors, G. N. Hackett, O. P. Coon; 
constable, G. W. Hackett; collector, G. W. Hackett; auditor, James Big- 
gins; justice of the peace, W. W. Holley; judge of election, E. W. Kitchsire; 
inspectors of election, F. H. Raymond, Barton Holley; town clerk, J. J. 
Robarts. 

Francis King, the agent of John Keating, brought a number of workmen to 
Ceres in 1798, where King's settlement was founded. Mr. King came from 
England about that time, and, being a Quaker, his co-religionists in Philadel- 
phia recommended him to John Keating for the position of agent and surveyor. 
He was a surveyor, and. like the old-time men of that profession, eccentric, and 
it is alleged, when clearing the hillside at Ceres, he compelled the imported 
laborers to roll the logs up hill, and satisfied the ignorant fellows that this 
course was correct, because the Yankees rolled them down hill. In 1801 he 
began the survey of the Keating lands, and in 1812 surveyed for the settlers 
in Farmers valley. Five years later, in 1817, he died, when John Keating 
continued his son in the agency. His original field book is in possession of 
Byron D. Hamlin, forming a monument to his precision. 

The commission of justice of the peace of Ceres was issued by Gov. Thomas 
McKean October 4, 1806, to John Claudius Brevost. What the feelings of the 
old governor must have been when he authorized this pioneer justice "to have 
and execute all and singular the powers, jurisdictions and authorities and to 
receive and enjoy all and singular the lawful emoluments of a justice of the 
peace," may be imagined. Except John Keating' s agent and his employes 
there were no settlers in the township to lead the new justice to hope for emol- 
ument. In November following Squire Brevost did actually qualify before the 
Coram, J. G. Lowrey, of Centre county. 

Uncle Harry, who came with his father, Thomas Smith, to Ceres in 1803 
or 1804, died August 27, 1877. Lester Hargrave was also one of the early 
employes here. Asahel Wright, a soldier of 1812, resided at Glenn up to 



IIISToKY "I MCKE \N I OUK VY. 

1880, bnl for twenty seven years prior to l s 7_ was never as far as Olean. and 
saw a railroad train, although then eightj three wars old. His daugh- 
: i I. Ellen Wright, was for years corresponding secretary of Grand Lodge 
I 0. G. 1 in Pennsylvania Reuben S. Taylor, who settled at Bell's run 
ih 1836, served in the war of 1812. He died in September, L877, at Roulette. 
III.- resident tax payers of Ceres township in 183G 37 were David A\lel! 
G. < hi. II. Bowen, A. Brown, William Bards- 

ley, John C. Brevost, John O. Bradsby, Daniel Bliven, John Bee and Tom Bee 4 
(who operated a saw- mill), Potter Benson (who owned a second saw -mill). Dan 
Benson, S \ Barber*, William Bell*, Valentine Bowen, Cyrus and Ira Cooper* 
(-aw mill owners, on site of Van Wormer's present mill), A. C. Conklin*, 
William and .). < >. Cutter (moved away years ago), Hosea Cappell, William 
Cobbett i^rist mill owner), 11. Chevalier (Frenchman), Peter and Orrin Cook, 
i" and Timothy Carpenter*, Harvey Carr*, Cynthia Camp- 
bell, Philip Corwin, John Chase*, Levi Davis (tradesman), Jonathan, John 
and I n ': I" I. Nathan Dennis*, Rev. J. P. Evans (Annin 

Creek I : .- 1 j ■ t i — 1 1, Warren Edson. John Fobes* (saw mill owner), T. J. Fowler. Mary 
Gilbert* Lester Hargraves* W. Hawley* ('. -I. Hurlburt, A.. Phil, and Will- 
iam Hooker*, Absalom Hutchison, Sol. Jordan, Friend S. Kinney*, Niles Kin- 
Ibhn King*, Robert King*, Lbijah, Luke and Jacob Knapp*, William 
Lester*, George and William Lanphere*, Reverious and Rod. Loop*, Eb- 
enezer Larrabee*, John Lee, Orsamus Meeray, John and Delos Morris. 
Michael McEvilly, I. V oa Nicholes, 1. Phelps*, Harrison Ruby. 

I tard, Almond (justice), Anson and William Rice*. W. 

Linas P. Stoddart George \ Smith, William, Henrj and John Smith*, 
W. I' si 1 1 1 1 1 1 .■ 1 r , (tan-yard owner; left before the wan. Perry and Spencer 
Sweet, ('lark StJllman* Dan. Spencer, Joseph, Abram and John Stnll* 
William Tapper* Willard and S ylor (said to reside at Port Allegany), 

John Thompkins, Ben.* and Uriah Vandamark, John Wolcott, Asel* W. P. 
and Alf. Wright, Samuel and John Whipple, N. and 1. \. vVinans, Marvel 
Wheelock, !;•■>. William Weber (Methodist), R.* and Micajah Wright* and 
Jncob Young 11 (owner of saw mill). William Hooker was assessor. 

In L877 the re survey of the northern State line was made, varying but 
little from the line of 1786. Ceres village was transferred to Pennsylvania, 

I s i^ the 1 . Qes Were placed. 

Myrtle, formerly Mapleton Postoffice, was established in 1^77. with Silas 
as postmaster, who held the office until F. E. Tull was appointed. In 
1 sv ' Mr- Tull sold his -tore to J. C. Bart, who carried on the office of deputy 
until regularlj appointed in August, 1887. 

Myrtle CI se Factorj was established, thirteen or fourteen years ago, 

by George Chamberlain, his heirs being the present owners. The Hickox Mill' 
manj years, is Mill in use, cum of the village; and at the head of 
Bell's inn i- Miller's saw mill, operated bj the Dibble Brothers. Lester liar 
graveissaidl 6>s1 resident of this settlement. Like others of 

the pioneei i <«ted with B | , ,-,■ 

' l ' l '"°"" u: M I the \'.lle\ being about 

fher than the flood of 1865. Large sav logs were carried m 

" 1! "" b1 S, ami boats were nsed for travel: several trestles on the 

Bradford, Eldred >\ Cuba Railroad were carried away, and the track tern up 

T1 "' " hl . v ' l stream winch escaped destruction were V M Van 

1 Piatl a I', cby' Among the , ,- by this di 



HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 229 

were G. C. Hickox. F. M. Van Wormer and the Oswayo Tannery Company; 
many others along the flood-swept valley met with smaller losses. 

CERES VILLAGE. 

Late in 1837 Samuel Estes came to Ceres village, where he found a one- 
half log and one-half plank house standing opposite the present Central Ho- 
tel. Within a few years (in 1841) he moved south of the creek and erected 
part of the present Oswayo House, which he conducted until the Western New 
York & Erie Railroad was built, when he moved to Olean and built a hotel near 
the depot. In later years he moved to Minnesota, where he died. 

In 1838 Nelson Peabody carne to the village. He found John Smith's gen- 
eral store and the Estes tavern. John King kept the post-office where AYill- 
iam K. King now resides; Cooper's old saw-mill, where Franklin Van Worm- 
er' s large mills are now situated, and the Youngs' mill, where is now the Minor 
mill, were in operation; the Methodists had a class here, which has been con- 
tinued to the present time. Mr. Peabody was clerk in John Smith's store un- 
til February, 1840, when V. Perry Carter bought the concern and Mr. Pea- 
body joined Russell Cooper in business and continued four or five years. 
V. Perry Carter opened his store after the death of John Smith, whose daugh- 
ter he married in 1842. 

In 1841 the residents of the village grew tired of having to walk one and 
one- half miles to John King's house for their letters, and had V. Perry Car- 
ter petition the department for an office in the village. This petition was 
granted, but Mr. King interested John Keating and others in his cause and had 
the office returned to him. A little later Mr. Carter had a chart of the locality 
made and a new petition signed. The demand was manifestly so just that the 
department ordered the removal of the office to the village, where it has been 
continued to this day. Mr. King kept the post-office on the table in the family 
sitting room, and into this each one who expected a letter had to go to seek it. 

Josiah Priest, who, in 1850, wrote sketches of the Oswayo valley, was jus- 
tice of the peace at Ceres. His papers were never published is the statement 
of Mrs. Keyser, while Mr. Carter is positive that parts or all of the papers ap- 
peared in print. 

Robert Hinds was the only merchant here in 1852. John Robarts was a 
trader here for a number of years; also Simpson & Barber, C. H. Smith, John 
B. Gleason, F. H Raymond and G. Perry. Joseph Morse was postmaster 
here before the war, succeeding John King, and had the office in his house, 
which occupied the site of the Central Hotel, afterward the residence of V. 
Perry Carter until destroyed by the first fire, in 1869. In 1855 or 1856 Mr. 
Carter returned from Richburg, bought the Hinds store and was appointed 
postmaster, holding the office until his removal to Duke Centre, in 1879, when 
he was succeeded by Robarts, who in turn was succeeded by Call. Louis Car- 
rier was appointed in 1885, but Miss Augusta Call conducted the office for 
eight years, or until the appointment of John B. Gleason in June, 1889. 

When Nelson Peabody arrived there were two school buildings — one south, 
where is the present school building on the Pennsylvania side, while the 
building on the New York side occupied the site of Wellington White's pres- 
ent home. These buildings continued in use until the present house was 
erected. In Ceres township in 1846 general stores were kept by P. B. Ded 
rick and Ralph Adams, and the tavern by Samuel Estes. In 1847 Dedrick & 
Pardy, Samuel Estes and C. Peabody were merchants; J. H.Wright and D. 
Dunham the new tavern-keepers. 

In 1847 the First Methodist Episcopal Church of Ceres was incorporated. 



230 BISTOBY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

The ildesi record in possession of the pastor -hows the names of W. T. Lane, 
Eoneoye; Joe] Whitney, Lane school -house; Stephen ( 'Impel. South Bolivar; 
i; D. G keville (members joined the Nazarites), and B. C. Call of 

. cholas and Calvin Bl 1 of Shinglehouse were the class 

Later 11. B. Robarts is named as leader of the Bell's run class, 
with Elisha B. Wesl local preacher; A. Mallory was recording steward in 
ls'iT. while Mr-. F. G. Fuller is now recorder. Tin- pastoral record goes 
. I when A I'.. Kelly was appointed. In 1SS2 Rev. W. Post 
and Rev A I. Blanchard came, and in 1886 Rev. W. H. Farnham. There 
seventj nine met 
In L840 Nelson Peabody was commissioned justice of the peace and held 
the office until elected associate judge in 1861. He was again commis- 
sioned and served until six or seven years ago. During the war he was dep- 
ut\ provost marshal for Ceres township. Among the soldiers of the district, 
many of whom belong to Portville Post, No. 85, G. A. K., are the following 
named: Frank A Chapman. Twenty-ninth Ohio Infantry; F. P. Chapman, 
Eighty-fifth New Fork; Nat. Bendrix, Company A, Eighty-fifth New York; 
Benrj 1!. Robarts, Eighty-fifth New York: .John Frugan, New York Infant- 
n; William Hyde, William Worden, Eighty-fifth New York; Frank Ful- 
ler, Eight) fifth New York: John 1'.. Gleason, Clark Wells and Edgar Wells. 
Cnii sec I Regiment, Pennsylvania Bucktails; Byron Lanphere and Rob- 
ert Lanphere, Bucktails; Jacob Brock Eighty-fifth New York; Adam Bur- 
dirk. Eighty-fifth New York; Daniel and Matthew Burdick, Eighty-fifth 
New York: Lafayette Maxson, Eighty tifth New York; .lames Gobies, Eighty- 
tifth New York: Martin Stephens, Pennsylvania Infantry; F. Maxson, Eightj 
tilth New fork; Roberl (lark. Fiftj eighth Pennsylvania; Frank Van Wormer, 
Pennsylvania; A. De North. Fiftj e tsylvania; Moses Ford, Hiram 

Grow, Daniel Peabody, James Biggins and Amos Safford, Eighty-fifth New 

York (drowned in the Oswayo some years ago): Bill North. Bucktails; 

c -ge North. Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania; George Lanphere, Eighty-fifth 

New York; James Bobbs, New York Infantry; Carpenter (wounded at 

Gettysburg), Peru Infantry; William North, Fifty-eighth Pennsyl- 

vania; Volnej Mix, Pennsylvania Infantry: Albert Lanphere, Bucktails; 
Freeman Fuller, Bucktails; Philip Eaines and Bennie Haines, Pennsylvania 
Infant ry ; F. Bawley, Eight) tifth New STork; Lewis Haw ley. Eighty-fifth 
Now York; John Eawley, Eighty fifth New ?ork; Floyd Bawley, Forti sec 
ond Pennsylvania; 0. Melven, Fortj second [nfantry; C. Bridge and Weal 
Bridge, Fort] second Pennsylvania Regiment; also Nate Foote, Thomas, John, 
and Alonzo Cushman, and Nathan Hand. 

Charles B. Bailey, who resided in Ceres township before the war. now of 
Young Bickory, N, Y.. was. in June, 1889, granted a back pension of 15,000, 
monthly. This large pension was granted on account of his total 
blindness. 

A. B Luce was the first agent at Core- of the Bradford. Eldred & Cuba 

oad in October, L881. W. 1). Chase took charge in February, l^ s '_': E. 

1>. CnmmingS in May, L882; L, J. White in February. 1883, and in No 

r, 1883, C. II Gleason, the present agent, took charge. (Between 

6,000 and 8,000 cord- of bark will be shipped from Ceres this summer.') 

In 1ST7 tin White & Van Wormer Mill at Ceres was erected. This is one 
of the immense lumber industries of the county. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 231 



CHAPTER XIII. 

ELDRED TOWNSHIP—BOROUGH OF ELDRED. 

Eldked Township Topography— Oil Wells — Population — Officei;- of 

the Township, 1890— First Settlements— Resident Tax-Payers, 1843^14— 
First Shingle-Mipl— Villages, Etc. 

Borough of Eldred — -Origin of Name— Early History— Growth of the 
Town— Incorporation— First Council— Officers Chosen in 1890— Hur- 
ricanes, Fires, Etc.— Fire Company— Schools and Churches— Societies 
—Banks— Water- Works— Gas Company-— Industries— Miscellaneous. 

ELDRED TOWNSHIP is divided into two ridges by the valley of the 
Allegheny. The river enters the township near the southeast corner, 
flows in a tortuous course, generally north, to the bend at the confluence of 
Indian creek, where it runs east, and thence north, entering New York State 
near the northeast corner of the township, and seven and one- third miles from 
the northeast corner of the county, at State Line village. Newell creek enters 
from the northeast in the southeast corner; Potatoe creek joins the river a mile 
below Frisbee; Barden creek enters at Eldred, and Knapp's creek a mile below. 
Several small feeders run down from the high lands: Rice's creek (along which 
runs the pipe line) courses southeast through the southwest corner, and Indian 
creek holds a similar position in the northwest corner. The rich valley lands 
comprise the greater part of the area; but the summits are bold, many attain- 
ing a height of about 2,200 feet above tide level. At State Line the elevation 
is only 1,440. The outcrop of Kinzua creek sandstone extends for 800 feet 
to the Chemung conformation, and up to 1870 the oil field was mainly confined 
to the Indian creek region. The old Littlefield well, drilled in 1878, was the 
only producer at Eldred for some time prior to 1879, when the Cummings & 
Dean well was drilled, only to be found dry. In August the old Erie Com- 
pany's well was shot, and became (it is alleged) a ten-barrel producer. The 
well on the Benham farm, at the head of Windfall, was abandoned, but lie 
came a gasser. The Gas Company's new well is bored on this farm. 

In August, 1878, the well on the Welch farm, the Hostetter on the Wolcott 
farm, the Knott Bros.' well on Mix creek, and the Lee & Halleck well, as well 
as Parsons & Co. 's, were in existence. Palmer well No. 1, on Carpenter brook, 
was drilled in the spring of 1880, but proved dry. In March, 1881, the Morse 
well, on Windfall, gave a new industry to Eldred. The Sartwell well, five 
miles south of Eldred, was shot in February, 188'J, and threw out the oil and 
salt water in the hole. The Eldred wells in existence in March, 1884, were the 
Simcox on the Littlefield farm, completed in May, 1877, but, owing to heavier 
wells being found at Duke Centre and Indian Creek, it was abandoned until 
the winter of 1883-84, and it is now a producer. The Cummings & Dean well, 
on the G. T. Dennis farm, was finished August '2, 1879; Barber's well, in 
January, 1881; Morse & William's, in March, 1881; White & Lloyd's, in 
April, 1883; Morse & Allen's, on the Winchell farm, in December, 1883; Al- 
len, Morse & Jones', on the Hartson farm, in February, 1884; Morse & Co. 's, 
on the Jerome Curtiss farm, in February, 1884; Douglass & Co.'s, on the Rix- 
ford, March 1, 1884; Riley Allen's, on Will Curtiss', March 3, 1884; Bradley 



232 HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

.v Curtiss', on the Dean farm. March 5, L884, while Douglass & Co. were en- 
gaged in drilling. The Bennett well wasshoi in March, 1 SSI '>. also the Chris- 
man, Brown & Baldwin wells, while the Keyes well, on the 1". R. Lamphier 
farm, was drilled to the Kane -and. 1,605 feet, when it was shot and oil taken, 
and a new well begun at Turtle Point AJford & L ops'— on the Rixford farm. 
In .Inne, iss'.i. Tarln'11. Lice \ Shafer finished their well No. I on the Perham 
mill lot, eastward of the older wells. They have their rig for No. 1 on the 
Bennett farm, near Mitchell Bros.' No. 1. and one for their well on the Rice 
purchase. Throughout the summer of l sx '-' Steele & Duncan, the Mitchell 
Jjii is., and oth agaged in drilling. Tarbell, Shafer & Rice's well was 

shot at the close of July, 1889, I twelve barrels. This was the first 

well drilled east of the river at Eldred. Jt shows a difference in the oil-bear- 
ing reek. Jn November the same firm sh.it No. 2, east of the river, obtaining 
thirty barrels. 

The population of I Idred township in 1SS0 was :i.'2l3. including Llfi"> in 
Eldred village, 228 in Indian Creek village, 200 in Larrabee village, 200 in 
State Line and 220 in Haymaker. In 1888 the township recorded L76 Repub 
lican, 111 Democratic, 20 Prohibition and L5 Labor Unionist votes, or a total 
of 322; the respective vote of the borough was L12, 85, 22 and 5, or a total of 
224. The total vote of the township multiplied by five equals 1,610 as the 
population, and that of the borough multiplied bv six gives L,344, or a total of 
2,954. 

The officers of the township chosen in February, 1890, are as follows: 
Supervisors. John Ellis, O. Bell; school directors, Joseph Stall had '213 votes, 
and R. A. Rice and Mike McAulift* each had 212 votes; collector, Pat McDon- 
ald; constable, < '. J. Carey; auditor, D. Burnham; judge of election, C. M. 
Slack; inspectors, (S. Kelley, Mike McAuliff; town clerk, J. ('. Campbell. 

The first settlement- were made in 181 ls by the Loops and III iokers ; in 1810 by 
Joseph and Jacob st u 11. in 1812 by Rensselaer Wright and a man named Hitt, 
on the farm which Stephen EL Smith occupies, opposite the Coleman & Wright 

mill. Wright filled the offii f Bheriff one term, and that of justice for many 

years. In lsis Justice Rice and three bro d and settled near what 

was known as the Benton mill. Jacob Knnpp also came that year and located 
at the mouth of Knapp's creek. Ebenezer Larrabee, father of Ransom, came 
in 1818; the Dennis family arrived in l s '2'_!. and shortly after. Timothy Car- 
penter. In 1835 came William Lamphier. and in 1838 Dr. E. Barden. Lor 
some years after settlement bear hunting was a common -port for the pioneer-. 
i ml stories are related of Nathan Dennis and his brother in law, Larrabee, of 
adventures in the dense alder brush below and west of the present village. In 
1838 the country was so wild a party of raftsmen were lost in the woods near 
Knapp's creek. 

The resident ta\ payers in 1843 II were Ebenezer* and A. A. Barden*, 
.lames Bakerf, Val. Bowen*, Nelson, Josiah and I. ('. Burnham*, Selden 
Blackman, S. I >. Brownf, A. 1>. Brainard* i k v . James and Cynthia* 

Campbell, David Cooper, John Chase'. Cornelius Culp*, Oscar Carpenter*, 
Timothj Carpenter*, T. T. Carpenter*. Nathan Dennis \ ad Caleb Can- 

field, Dave Cornelius*, James Drake, John Fob 11, owner and pro- 

prietor of a silver watch), Perrj and George Frost, Mar-j Fowler* Eldredge 
c Imanf John D. Green , Jesse L. Garey*, Phil. Booker . Horace Hooker* 

(saw-mill owner), Martin (!. Samuel". A-bijahf, Jacob 11 and William Knapp. 

John* and Norry Loop, Ben. Lumpkin, William*, William, Jr.*, and Benjamin 
Lamphier. Ransom, Ebenezer* and Eben, Ji ". Larrabee, John Morris*, C. 

•Deceased, f Moved. 




■ f ^f 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 235 

C. Morris, James McCrayf. Michael Mixf. John Mill*. Sam.* and Erastus 
Nichols, Almon* and Justin* Rice, Thomas Robbins*, W. S. Rounds*, Sher- 
man Strong* (on whose land was the Catholic Church ground), Joseph Stull*, 
Caleb*, Jerome and Abram* B. Stull, S. and John M.* Wright, John Wol- 
cott* and William Wright, Jr. John Morris, the assessor, estimated the total 
value of seated lands and personal property at $7,484, and of unseated lands 
at S23.620. 

The first shingle-mill was built at Prentiss Vale in 1847, by Strong, who 
was the only settler there. There was plenty of pine at that time, and he 
agreed to give Reuben Dennis one-half the shingles, on condition that he 
would supply the timber. This agreement took effect, and young Dennis, 
with A. T. Barden and L. L. Dennis, to whom he paid $18 per month, entered 
the wilderness and began the work of stocking the mill — a work which con- 
tinued throughout the summer. The following winter R. Dennis hauled the 
shingles to Portville, where he received 14 shillings per thousand. Close by 
the mill was Hermann Strong's blacksmith shop, with the earth for a floor, the 
sky for a roof and the forest for its walls. The proprietor, his partner and the 
latter' s employes worked hard, but withal were always ready for a joke. On 
one occasion L. L. Dennis was crossing the creek, on the single log which then 
tilled the place of a bridge, carrying dinner for his two friends. Next to him 
was Barden, carrying the axes, and last was the heavy joker of the camp, 
Reuben Dennis. When one-half way across, he called out to Barden, "look 
out for the log," and the latter, alarmed, caught hold of L. L. Dennis, when 
both fell into the creek. The men took the affair as a joke, but did not for- 
get the joker. The same year A. T. Barden bought some meadow land oppo- 
site Wolcott's mill, and among the men called to aid in hay-making was 
the joker, Reuben. A party of six crossed the river in a canoe, but on dis- 
embarking, Barden, who was second last, leaped forward to the Allegheny's 
bank, tipping the canoe as he jumped ashore, leaving Reuben Dennis strug- 
gling in the water. He had his revenge when he cried out in turn, ' ' Look out, 
or you'll fall off that log!" 

Eldred in 1846 claimed one store, kept by John Fobes, but no tavern. J. 
N. Dennis opened in 1847, and in February, 1848, mention is made of bridges 
being in bad repair. Oscar Jordan and John Fobes were the merchants of 
Eldred in 1852 

Larrabee post-office (usually spelled Larabee) was established in August, 
1S52, and Ransom Larrabee appointed master. The settlement became a 
place of importance in the fall of 1874, when the railroad builders gathered 
round the junction of the McKean & Buffalo, with the Buffalo, New York & 
Philadelphia and the R. N. & P. Railroads. The hotel was carried on by 
Ransom Larrabee, a restaurant by E. & T. Mullin, two general stores were 
opened, a blacksmith shop and Williams' barber shop. 

Wainman & Foster's mill, near Larrabee, was destroyed by fire in June, 
1S76, together with about 700,000 feet of sawed lumber. . . .The fire of March, 
1885, destroyed the Benton House, the Larrabee Hotel and other property. A 
telegram to the Chicago Tribune, dated Larrabee, October 21, 1889, gives 
information relating to the burning of J. J. Newman's saw-mill and 3,000,000 
feet of lumber, loss $24,000; J. C. French's store, $6,500; Mrs. Smith's 
boarding house, $800, and two barns and hay, the property of D. C. Young, 
$2,000. 

In 1878 P. A. Templeton purchased the Annis farm on Mix creek, and had 
it surveyed into town lots, calling the village Templeton. 

* Deceased, t Moved. 



HIKTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Baymaker, a new town, was almost destroyed in August, 1879, when the 
s the Gilmore and Baymaker Hotels were burned. The post- 
office and store of John E. Coleman barely escaped. A mile north of this 
village are the producing wells of the Bardens; and round the village are some 
valuable farms. The E. A. 0. of Baymaker was organized in March, 1886. 

with forty seven members. Tl fficers selected were W. A. Nott, M, A. 

Sypher, G T. Weible, Dr. Cass and A. Sinclair. 

' in December, L881, tin' old Chamberlain mill at State Line was purchased 
i i M Smith, who introduced new machinery and opened it as a modern mill 
in July, l ss '-' 'I'!"' Bullis Brothers, who. in L875, purchased 552 acres on 
Two Mile run and established large mill- near Port Allegany, bought 941 
acres aear State Line, and in l^v». 1,200 acres near Turtle Point. Their old 
mills, with the new mills near State Line, and their large concern at Car- 
rollton. X. \\. gave employment to a large force of men and played an im- 
portant pint in the progress of McKean county during the last fifteen years. 

In earlj days a steam tug boat was used on the Allegheny, sometimes as 
far up as Larrabee. In May. L889, B. Alford's steamboat was completed, and 
during the flood of Maj 31 and June 1. was used on the streets of Eldred. 

BOROUGH ol FLUKED. 

Eldred is the new name of an old settlement. It is the principal town of 
the northeast part of the county, and the center of a large trade as well as of 
a rich agricultural and mineral district. 

In November, L879, a petition was presented to the postmaster-general to 
abolish the name of Allegheny Bridge and substitute that of Eldred. In Feb- 
ruary 1 SS(>. the petition was granted, and the name which t he pioneers selected 
fifty years before was cast aside, lu L830 Nathan Dennis was appointed post- 
master, and opened his office in the old log cabin near the Lattice bridge. The 
Nathan Dennis post-office and hotel was above the mouth of Knapp's creek on 
the east side of the river, but later was moved to the site of E. W. Doane's 
brick building, where it was carried on for twenty five years, when it was 
moved to the Eldred Bouse, where is qovi the St. Elmo. After a period of ten 
years in that building or a thirty years' term for .Mr. Dennis, W. 1'. W right 
was appointed, and established the office in the house aow occupied by S. H. 

Smith. A. T. Barden sua led in ls7"J. and had the offi pposite where 

the St. Elmo stands. A. B. Mayo was appointed in 1882, and held the office 
until A. B. Rowley was aed in 1885. On his resignation, C. Y. 

White was appointed 

ae tall of isTs the old Eldred House was rebuilt by Ed. Dolan; the Oil 
Well SuppU Company's house was completed; the store buildings for A. More, 
A. Davidson, Dornby". V. P. Carter. Hamlin A Co.. W. B. Archibald, Speller 
and others were projected or being built; the I-'.. W. Doane block, Steele's barn 
ami Methodist church building completed and Ward ,v Shaner's machine shop 
erected. A two- s ton school building marked the days of the oil stampede. 
Mr. Harden was | , I the Eagle and Express were just established. 

Drs. Guthrie. Wykoff and Winans had located here; the Wright House. K 
Dennis of the Central, Anthony's Hotel. L. L. Dennis. White, Moore of the 
Benton House, the Bennett House and J. S. Hicks of the Prohibition House. 
represented the hotel interests; the plank road to Duke Centre was completed ; 
\tlornr\ Dun lap'- office was opened; Spiller's cottage and other private houses 
were finished. The planing mill and factor} and the Green & Hooker tank 
-hop were in operal ii in. 

I i October, 1881, the first brick building was begun for Joseph & Dorn- 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 237 

berg. The Crandall, L. M. Dennis. W. G. Robarts and E. W. Doane build 
ings were all in progress, and by December a number of houses were opened. 
The Eldred Banking Company opened an office in the Davidson block that 
month. 

Eldred town was incorporated December 22, 1880, on petition of the fol- 
lowing named inhabitants: J. S. Hicks, A. Crandall, W. G. Robarts, Pat- 
rick Walsh, W. B. Archibald, A. B. Rowley, R. Dennis, A. N. McFall, C. D. 
Doane, A. Herman, M. E. Royce, H. Maj>es, L. A. Halbert, E. Spiller, Wales 
& Varnum, M. S. Davidson, J. P. Cherry. H. J. Corell, E. L. & W. H. Do.ld, 
George W. Colegrove, A. T. Barden, J. M. Addle, C. Y. White, W. L. Hardi- 
son, J. S. Rowley, E. W. Doane, E. E. Moses, V. E. Shaw, P. D. Alquire, 
Jerome Sabins, Ezra Marsh, A. Ortnian, William Lorbeer, A. R. Bower. N. 
Edson, M. Finnegan, R. Lightfoot, E. Emerson, G. W. Allen, T. C. Wain- 
man, B. F. Cory, A. Cohoon, J. S. Cotton, L. G. Wright, J. T. Sinnette, E. 
Rumsey, Mrs. Wolcott, J. R. Fessenden, A. Hotchkiss, E. McCarty, R. D. 
Billington, J. A. Casey, C. M. Coleman, F. H. De Costin, E. S. Dennis. C. 
H. Havens, W. A. Howell, S. M. Turner and G. W. Bradley. The proposi- 
tion was opposed by Seth Rockwell and others. The first burgess was C. Y. 
White, who served two years; his successors have been W. H. Dodd, one year; 
James D. Downing, one year; Dr. J. P. Morgan, two years; L. L. Owens, two 
years, and L. L. Hill, elected in February, 1889. The first council comprised 
Dr. W. L. Chrisman, W. H. Dodd, Michael Finnegan, J. S. Hicks, I. G. 
Lesuer and T. C. Wainman. E. R. Mayo served as secretary up to March, 
1888, when A. H. Mayo was chosen. C. C. Moses and C. H. Kaufman were 
the first borough justices, succeeded by F. F. Brown and A. T. Robbins. In 
1883 Messrs. Archibald, R. Dennis, Greenman, Rowley and Sartwell were 
chosen councilmen. In 1884 Messrs. Joseph Cotton and Douglass were elected. 
Messrs. Booth and Walsh were chosen in 1885, the latter serving down to the 
present time. 

The officers chosen in February, 1890, were as follows: Burgess, C. C. 
Moses; council, A. C. Douglass, M. V. Hotchkiss (three years), W. G. Robarts 
(two years); school directors, T. L. Sartwell, A. N. Squires; constable, H. G. 
Heath;' collector, H. G. Heath; judge of election, A. Ortman; inspectors, G. 
C. Weidman, F. M. Rockwell; auditor, A. D. Gotdd. 

The hurricane of May, 1800, did some damage throughout Eldred town- 
ship, carrying away bodily the Lattice bridge below the Half- Way House, and 
overturning a small house; large trees were twisted or uprooted. . . .The burn- 
ing of Bunker's steam saw and grist mill, at the mouth of Knapp's creek, took 

place November 25, 1870, entailing a loss of about $8,000 The Eldred 

fire of June 7, 1876, destroyed the saw-mill of Waininan & Foster, and 
600,000 feet of lumber. There was no insurance. . . .The Eldred fire of Oc- 
tober 7, 1878, originated in the new Hamlin block, which it destroyed, together 
with Barden and Robarts' block. The latter lost property valued at $15,000, 
the former $12,000; the Eagle job-room was wrecked; Dr. Balfour lost his 
books and instruments, and several buildings in the neighborhood were 
scorched. In April, 1879, fire destroyed Seth Rockwell's house. . . .The J. N. 
Williams planing-mill was burned in May, 1879. . . . In June, 1879, a locomo- 
tive and thirteen cars were wrecked on the Buffalo, New York & Philadelphia 
Railroad, two and one-half miles north of Eldred. Engineer Ed. Squibb 
was killed. Four oil cars burst and a tank close by caught fire. Amy May 
was killed by lightning a few days before. . . .The wreck of March. 1880, two 
and one-half miles north of Eldred, at the scene of the former catastrophe 
resulted in the burning of the locomotive and two oil cars. 



2'8H HI8T0RV OF MCKEAN COTNTV. 

The destruction of the old Central Hotel by tire occurred August 14. 1880. 
Che building was completed in July. 1878, and was one of the finest hotels 
in this section of the State. Mr. Dennis began the work of rebuilding in 
September. Barton's steam flouring mill was burned in November, 1880. . . . 
The fire of September 30, 1881, destroyed five acres of the business center of 
Eldred, and entailed a loss of $100,000. The fire originated in the old Opera 
House, in which was Etobarts' store, and destroyed the following buildings 
and business places: Welsh's blacksmith shop, the Bennett House, Dodd 
Bros.' new building, the Opera House, J. S. Hicks' building. Sartwell's build 
ing, the U. B. Church building. Walsh & McGavis' building, McDonald & 
Co.'s bottling works, Parks' meat store, I. G. Leseur's building, W. A 
Young's, H. J. Corell's, Miss Langdon's, E. Spiller's, L. M. Dennis', A. B. 
Rowley's, Dr. Chrisman's, Bennett Block and Soule's Hotel, Joseph & Dotn- 
berg's, E. W. Doane's (2), Miss Vamum's, W. B. Archibald's (2), and E. O. 
Titus'. Tn each building was stock or household goods, all of which were 
swept away in one hour and five minutes .... The St. Elmo was burned Sep- 
tember 17, 1884 — Mr. Rice, the owner, losing about 111,000. In the summer 
of lSSo the present St. Elmo was erected .... Ben Perham'e steam grist and 
saw-mill was destroyed by fire April 1, 1886.' There were 40,000 feet of lum 
ber also consumed. . . .The tire of April, 1889, destroyed Coleman's hotel on 
Railroad street. 

Tie- Eldred Hook, Ladder and Bucket Company was organized in April. 
1879, with C. C. Moses, president; C. B. Jackson, vice-president; \V (1 
Robarts, secretary; John Reedy, engineer; William Geist and F. Parsons, 
foremen; A. T. Barden, C. B. Jackson, E. W. Doane, A. D. Could and E. 
R. Mayo, managing committee. In June another company, of which C. M. 
Wagner was engineer, was organized, and in May, 1883, the Hook and Ladder 
Company was re-organized in modern form. 

When the Lamphiers came in 1S35. there was no church building and but 
one school-house in the township. The first teacher remembered by Mr. 
Lamphier, was Martha, daughter of Rens: Wright. Mr. Pratt succeeded her 
in 183'), presiding in a frame building twenty feet square, opposite the pres- 
ent school-house at Eldred. Often seventy-five pupils were gathered there. 
The contract for the new school-building was sold to J. S. Cotton. June 3, 
ISM), for ST. 150. Work was begun in September. 1889. by Contractor Cot- 
ton. It was dedicated November 30, 1889. P. R. Cotter delivered the ad- 
dress. This building is 00x73 feet. Prof. Oeorge is principal; Anna Siebert, 
Jessie Canfield, Minnie Cotton, Angie Dunhaver and Maud Baldwin are the 
teachers in the new school-house. 

The first church building in the village was the Union, of 1869, by Baptists 
and Methodists, Samuel Dexter Morris being a leader in the enterprise. 
Prior to this, meetings were held in the school-house. The old Union church 
was refitted in 1889, and delicate,] to the uses of Baptist worship in October. 
that year. During the week of dedication, $3,000 were subscribed by Eldred 
citizens to aid the two churches. The re-dedication of the Methodist Episcopal 
church of Eldred took place October 26, 1889, Rev. E. M. Snodgrass. pre- 
siding. The First Evangelical Church of Eldred township was dedicated 
April 3. L872. 

The question of building a Methodist church on First street was approved 
in August, 1S7S. R. Dennis donated the ground and Dr. Chrisman $2,000; 
work was begun by J. D. Chrisman, the contractor, and December 22 the 
house was opened. Prior to this, services were held for years in the old 
Union church The First .Methodist Church of Eldred was incorporated in 





9. 




-7-7^^ 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY.' 241 

April, 1S79, with the following named subscribers: J. C. and D. A. White- 
side, J. T. Shute and wife, Reuben, L. L. and Tirzah Dennis, C. P. and J. 
W. Levde, Ira G. Leseur, E. S. Riddell, A. H. and E. R. Mayo, M. B. Archi 
bald. E. E. Brown. R. A. Pinney, T. M. Bunker, J. S. Cotton, Dr. and Mary 
E. Chrisman, M. E. Royce, Henry Mapes, A. R. Fowler and J. J. Thompson. 

The United Brethren Church was begun in August, 1878, under the super- 
vision of Elder Bennett, who donated the building to the society. It was 
completed and dedicated February 9, 1879, but destroyed in the great fire 
of 1880, and never rebuilt, the little society worshiping in the Methodist and 
Baptist houses. Elder Bennett received $1,000 insurance and sold the lot iu 
the Opera House company. 

In August, 1878, the purchase of grounds on First street for the Catholic 
church building was made. In May, 1884. definite steps to build the church 
were taken, when Father Patterson was chosen president; James Biggins, 
treasurer; J. C. Walsh, secretary; J. J. Ivers, P. McDonald and P. I vers, 
building committee. On September 1, the contractor began work. The build- 
ing was dedicated October 18, 1885, by Bishop Mullin, of Erie, assisted by 
Fathers Patterson, Galligan, Madigan and Smith. The late pastor, Father 
Patterson, died December 21, 18S9, and was succeeded bv Father Cosgrove. 

Eldred Lodge. No. 560, A. F. & A. M. , was chartered June 8, 1882, and 
constituted September 6. The past masters of this lodge are W. Dunbar, Will 
iam A. Young, C. H. Kaufman, P. O. Heaslev, A. B. Rowley, A. H. Mayo 
The officers elected for 1890 are: W. A. Young, W. M. ; It. A. Mackie, S.W. . 
C. W. Dorrion, J. W. ; C. C. Moses, Treas. ; F. D. Wheeler, Sec. Eldred 
Masonic Hall, in the third story of the Alford or Davidson building, is said to 
be one of the most complete in this section of the State. 

In June, 1886, S. N. Johnson, Frank Parker, S. Brumberg, D. C. Holcomb, 
B. F. Hopewell, W. A. Hopewell. W. H. Bradley and Henry Templeton in- 
augurated a movement for the establishment of an Odd Fellows' lodge. In 
August Brumberg was elected N. G. ; R. W. Snyder, F. S. ; H. G. Heath, Sec, 
and William Duringer, Treas. 

Rebecca Lodge of Eldred was instituted in January, 1890, with H. G. 
Heath, N. G. ; Mrs. George Gridley, V. G. ; Mrs. Heath, Sec. ; Frank Havens, 
Asst. Sec; Mrs. J. W. King, Treas., with Luella Havens, Mrs. Arnot, Mrs. 
Doerr, Mrs. J. H. Douglass, Dena Dornberg, Susie Gridley, Mrs. J. Dennis, 
Robert Templeton and W. N. Llewelyn filling the other offices. 

A tent of the K. O. T. M. was organized at Eldred in August, 18S4, with G. 
B. Booth, F. H. Carter, T. C. Cole, M. V. Hotchkiss, R. A. Mackie, J. M. Addle, 
W. H. Perdoma, A. A. Fisher, S. R. Hays, William Duringer, M. L. App. S. R. 
A. Havs and E. O. Hotchkiss, officers, in the order of rank. The officers elected 
for 1890: Edmund Smith, Com. ; G. C.Wiedman, R. K; M.V. Hotchkiss, F. K., 
and George E. Smith, Lt. -Com. 

The Knights of Labor established their lodge at Eldred in 18S5. with thirty- 
three members and the following named officers: J. MeFrazier. A. A. Fisher, 
J. E. Lawrence, L. Wilson, J. B. Leo, A. Donnelly, N. Browner. S. A. Smith, 
S. A. Irwin, J. S. Dalton, H. S. Patton, F. Woodmansee, P. Nitrower. H. M 
Dale and Jacob Martin. 

The Equitable Aid Union was organized at Eldred, September 23, 1880, with 
A. W. Nelson, president; Mrs. E. A. Spiller, vice-president; J. P. Morgan, 
secretary, and Dr. Morris, medical examiner. 

The Mutual Protective Association was organized in June, 1879, with C. B. 
Jackson, E. R. Howden, F. C. Stillman and O. E. Rowley, principal officers. 

Northern Council, American Legion of Honor, was organized June 6, 1879, 



242 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

a itl, W. H. Hoffman, W. H. Kline. W. P. Russell, E. J. McCurdy, J. E. K. 
Morris, I. McCurdy, J. \Y. Yard, B. G. Spiller, J. A. Uncopber, J. W. Church- 
ill and Dr. Guthrie, officials. 

J. K. Jones Post, G. A. R.. No. 156, was mustered in February 3, 1880, with 

C. C. Moses. 15. G. Spiller. F. M. Adams, W. H. Richmond. W. A. Howell, L. 

D. Dennis, James Marshall, J. S. Hicks. W. H. Hoffman. James Biggins of 
Second United States Sharp Shooters. Lewis Ralph, George Newland. A. J. 
Duryea, George W. Golegrove. G. T. Dennis, E. H. Nichols and Ellis Coder. 
J. S. Hicks, of Eleventh United States Regiment, was first commander, 
and <i. T. Dennis, of the Eighty-fifth New York Volunteers, adjutant, suc- 
ceeded in ISS'J by A. J. Duryea, Two Hundred and Seventh Pennsylvania In- 
fantry, who served until succeeded, January 8, 1886. by Adjt. William S. 
Hazen, of Sturgess' Rifle Regiment. F. M. Adams, of Fifty-eighth Pennsyl- 
vania Infantry, served as commander in 1888; J. S. Hicks in 1884; A. H. Mayo, 
of the United States Engineer Corps, in 1885; C. C. Moses, in 1886; A. C. 
Douglass, 1887; A. H. Mayo, 1888, with L. D. Hill, of the One Hundred and 
Eighty-seventh New York Infantry, adjutant, who was re-elected for 1889, 
when Patrick McDonald, of the Twenty-seventh New York Infantry, was elected 
commander. There were 153 members enrolled, of whom about 100 remain 
in t be post, although at date of last report there were only seventy-two members 
reported. The officers for 1890, in order of rank, are: P. McDonald, Com.: 
M. M. Dalton, S. V. C. ; Ezra Marsh, J. V. C. ; A. H. Mayo, S. M. ; G. T. Den- 
nis. Chap. ; Norman Wright, Serg. : Frank Adams, O. of D. ; W. Wilmarth. O. 
of G. ; -V. C. Douglass. I. G. ; Frank Hibbard, O. G. 

Eldred Woman's Relief Corps was instituted November 19, 1880. with 
Madams B. B. Marsh, L. A. Douglass, F. M. Squires, C. J. Hazen, C. M. Wol 
cott, A. Keyes, J. Sterling and S. Howell, officers in the order of rank. Mrs. 
( 'hase is president for 1890; Mrs. Mary Cotton. S. V. P. ; Libbie Moses, J. Y. P. : 
Mrs. A. J. Clark. Sec: Mrs. Havens, Treas.: Mrs. T. A. Douglass. Chap., with 
Mrs Howell, Mrs. King, Mrs. Pepper and Mrs. Ellis, filling the other offices. 

Nichols Camp, Sons of Veterans, was organized in January, 1887, with C. 
M Slack, captain; \. Zeak, lieutenant, and John Learn, second lieutenant. 

Eldred Lodge, No. 278, K. of P.. was organized October 13, 1889, with the 
following named members: I. N. Stickle. P. C. ; H. A. Johnston. A. M. Palmer, 
A. N' Squires, W. G. Robarts, E. S. Rogers, K. of R. and S. ; W. B. Rogers. C. 
W Franklin. C. Y. White, F. M. Rockwell. H. E. Rockwell, W. W. Grove. C. 
( '• Richardson, W. A. Young, C. H. Kaufman, W. D. Russell, Fred Julien. C. C. ; 
A II Mayo, C. W. Dorrion, F. P. Beamer. E. W. Doane, J. Lemmler, A. D. 
Gould, Lewis Balfour, F. Simon, R. Doerr. W. F. Burr and F. A. Carter. The 
offici rs for I890are: Robert Templeton, C. C. ; W. B. Rogers. V, C. ; A. M. 
Palmer,M.A.; L. Balfour, Prelate; R. Doerr. M. ofE.; H. A. Johnston. K. R. S. ; 
1 1 I Rockwell, Trustee. 

Tin' Chess Club, organized in February, 1890, elected H. G. Heath, Pres. : 
F. F. Brown. V. I'.; ('. W. Franklin. Sec; Allen Morse, Treas.: A H. Mayo 
and L. 1). Hill, Trust. .,.s. 

The Young Men's Catholic Association was organized in 1889... .The 
officers of the Library Association, chosen in March. 1890, are: Mrs. W. B. 
Archibald, Pres.; Mrs. T. L, Sartwell, V. P.: Mrs. A. T. Barden, Treas.; 
Mis- Jennie \\ 1 1© itl . Sec: 

The Eldred Foard of Trade was organized in July, 1887, with A. B. Row 
ley, president: E. C. Woleott. vice president ; E. K. Mayo, secretary; E. S. 
Rogers, treasurer; P. O. Heasley, W. A. Young. W. B. Archibald. F. Simon 
'-oid R. 11. Owens, directors. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 243 

The Bank of Eldred was opened in February, 1879, in the Dolan House, 
with P. McGough, president, and S. M. McGough, cashier. In April the office 
was removed, owing to the owners being engaged in wider fields. The Eldred 
Bank, chartered in the fall of 1881, completed the present building in 1882. 
The officers at the time were W. L. Hardison, president; D. D. Moriarty, vice- 
president; P. O. Heasley, cashier; J. D. Downing, Dr. W. L. Chrisman, M. Fin- 
necan. W. A. Young, J. V. Ritts, and the president and vice-president, directors. 
The Eldred Bank robbery was perpetrated September 11, 1884. It appears 
that Cashier Heasley and Clerk Sloan were placing the cash in the safe, prepar- 
atory to closing; a bearded burglar appeared, and covering the officials named 
with a revolver, gathered up $2,500 aud disappeared. 

The Eldred Savings and Loan Association was organized in Ma}', 1889, with 
D. L. Bobbins, president; B. F. Greenman, vice- president; A. D. Gould, 
secretary; W. B. Archibald, treasurer; F. F. Brown, attorney; J. C. Welch, 
B. T. Hopewell and the officials named, directors. 

In May, 1879, W. L. Chrisman and Reuben Dennis constructed a system of 
water-works, the latter agreeing to connect the dwelling houses with the main 
pipe and supply water for $1 per month .... The Eldred Water-Works, the 
enterprise of E. A. Barden, date back only to November, 1889. The water is 
obtained from the springs southeast of the town, where a reservoir of 3,000 
barrels capacity was constructed. Up to March, 1890, pipes were laid on 
Mechanic street. 

The Eldred Gas Company was organized iu January, 1884, with Sam. M. 
Jones, Joseph R. Morse, Daniel E. Jones, James D. Downing and W. L. Har- 
dison, members. 

The Eldred Oil Company was organized in November, 1879, with A. B. 
Rowley, president; M. Finnegan, vice-president; A. D. Gould, secretary, and 
T. C. Wainman, treasurer. The executive committee comprised A. T. Barden, 
W. B. Archibald, A. Lemex, W. L. Chrisman, J. Uncopher, J. I. McCarthy, 
W G. Robarts, T. H. Ford, B. Alford, H. H. Mullin, E. R. Mayo and B. E. 
Cutler. In January, 1880, drilling was commenced on the Stull farm .... In 
October, 1883, White & Leaven's lamp-black factory on Indian creek was estab- 
lished .... The Windfall glycerine factory, owned by George H. Dana, of Duke 
Centre, was blown to atoms in January, 1885; James Simmons and a boy 
named Charles Thompson were killed. A large hemlock tree forty feet to the 
east, and the magazine equidistant on the south, were lifted up bodily. 

G. T. Dennis, manufacturer of the Dennis Botanic Remedies, came to 
what is now Eldred in 1822 with his parents; in later years traveled exten- 
sively as far west as Illinois, and in 1873 established the "Great American 
Panacea," a medicine which was received with much fa-vor. In later years he 
has introduced a number of medicines and extracts, all of which are accorded 
an excellent reputation by his neighbors of McKean county. 

Dr. Bates' Medicine Company was formed in 1886, with Dr. Morgan and 
A. D. Gould members. The medicines are prepared at Eldred and are adver- 
tised by a regular traveling company. 

The Carriage Leather Manufactory of James N. Duffy was established in 
July, 1887. The location of the works is on the old Stull farm, near the 
junction of the Western New York & Pennsylvania Railroad and the Nar- 
row Gauge, on the right bank of the Allegheny river, below the town of 
IJldred. Mr. Duffy has been connected with this business since 1846, begin 
ning at Newark, N. J., and gives his great industry at this point personal super 
vision. In 1889 additions to the original works were made, and the facilities 
for tanning and finishing: all kinds of leather used in the construction of car- 



244 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

riages, and all kinds of patent and enameled leather used by saddlers and 
harness- makers, are ample. 

The Wolcott Opera House was completed in August, 1884, for E. C. Wol- 
cott, A. T. Barden, Miles Loop, W. B. Archibald and A. B. Rowley. 

In 1865 there was high water, which came up in the road where Main 
street is now made, but that memorable flood was placed in the back-ground by 
that of May 31, 1889, which passed the water-mark of 1865, on the old Barden 
house at Eldred, by twelve inches. From Archibald's to the St. Elmo, on the 
west 6ide, not a place escaped a thorough wetting, and from Welch's to Bar- 
den's, on the east side, the bank, Sartwell's. Owens Brothers' and Hill's were 
the only places high enough to escape. Carter's furniture store, above the 
St. Elmo, received its share of wetting. Sidewalks were either afloat <ir 
turned up on edge, boats flitted about the streets, through yards and in 
stores, while a horse and wagon became an object of curiosity. It was a pict- 
ure (if Venice with the rough side out, and was especially brilliant when at night 
the large open gas lights shown upon the water, and pleasure parties enjoyed 
a boat ride through the streets. 



CIIAI'TKK XIV. 



HAMILTON TOWNSHIP— HAMLIN TOWNSHIP. 

Hamilton Township Topography — Geology — Population — Resident 

Tax-Payers, 1836-37— Officers Elected in 1889— Villages. 

Hamlin Township Boundary— Topography — Oil Wells— Discovery of 

Limestone — Forests — Population— Resident Tax-Payers, 1847-48. 

Mount Jewett— Its Rise and Growth— Natural Gas— Industries— Post- 
office— Churches and Cemetery— Society— Kinzua Bridge— Oil Com- 
panies. 

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP is bounded on the north by Condon township, 
on the east by Lafayette township, on the south by Wetmore township 
and on the west by Warren county. In 1S79 the following described terri- 
tory, taken from Wetmore township, was added to its southwestern corner 
Warrants 2514, 2597, 2400. 2394, 2399, 2352, 2338, 2465, 2563, 2395, 2318 
and 2391. Kinzua creek, which rises in Keating township, flows in a gen 
eral westerly course to the confluence with the South branch, five miles due 
north of Wetmore. thence northwesterly, and passes out of the township near 
its northwest corner. Chappel fork and its numerous feeders divide the 
north one-half, and Two Mile run. a branch of the Tionesta. divides the 
southwest annex, as it runs northwest from Wetmore ma Ludlow, leaving the 
county a point west of Windfall run. Wild Cat run flows southwest into 
Two Mile, while numerous small streams coarse down the plateau openings 
into the streams named. Paine' s summit, in the north, is the highest meas- 
ured elevation, being about 2,100 feet above tide level: the lowest, 1.240 
feet, where the Kinzua enters Warren county. At Ludlow depot the sub-Olearj 
conglomerate is exposed, its top being 1 1 * *> feet above the track. At the Hidings 
& Davis well, drilled in the fall of 1878, one and one-half miles northeast of 
this exposure, 4S feet of Olean, 343 feet of Mauch Chunk and Pocono, 60 of 




u 






cn^v 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 247 

Red rock, 160 of shale and slate, and 40 of Red rock were penetrated before 
the Chemung formation was reached, at a depth of 651 feet. Through 
the Chemung the drill penetrated 379 feet of white slate; at a depth of 
1,950 feet struck fossiliferous shale, and at 1,957 feet the hard slate and shale, 
or the Bradford oil sand, down to '2,011 feet. The well was cased dry at 360 
feet. In the hill north of Ludlow detatched sandstone and conglomerate 
exists and in some places red soil. 

Hamilton township claimed a population of 539 in 1880, including the 215 
residents of Ludlow. In November, 1888, there were 111 Republican, 84 
Democratic and 14 Prohibition votes cast, or a total of 209, which number 
multiplied by five gives a fair estimate of the present population, 1,045. 

The officers elected in 1889 were: Supervisors, Frank Morrison. Otto Law- 
son; school directors, H. Morlin, A. Logan; town clerk, J. B. Richardson: 
justice of the peace, J. K. Bates; constable, H. J. Parker; collector, J. K. 
Bates; auditor, E. B. Fisk; judge of election, First District, A. Logan; in- 
spectors, First District, C. O. Nelson, H. Goff; judge of election. Second 
District, M. Strong; inspectors. Mat. Morrison, J. H. Crozier. 

The resident tax-payers of Hamilton township in 1836-37. as certified by 
George Morrison, assessor, were George Morrison (saw-mill owner), David 
Sears (saw-mill owner), Caleb Chappel (farmer), William English (who owned 
two horses), Jonathan and David E. Dunbar, Jonathan Marsh and Thomas 
Pound (who had not yet improved their little farms), Morrison & Harrison 
(saw-mill), Samuel Morrison, Isaiah Morrison and Root & Beeman. 

Ludlow is a thriving village in the extreme western part of the township, 
situated on the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad. Its industries are chiefly the 
manufacture of lumber, leather and carbon black. J. G. Curtis, who came to 
the village in 1889, erected the Ludlow Tannery and began the manufacture 
of leather, and in 1886 established the firm of Curtis, Maxwell & Co. Mr. 
Curtis is also largely interested in the manufacture of lumber, as well as in 
the mercantile business. A post-office and several general stores are also 
located at this point. The A. R. Blood Carbon Works are very extensive, and 
are under the supervision of P. F. Riordan. 

Deputy Supreme President G. W. Brown, of Youngsville. Penn., organized 
Ludlow Union, E. A. U. , June 28, 1889, at Ludlow, with tifty-one applicants 
for charter, and with the following officers : Chancellor, J. K. Bates; advocate, 
A. W. Vantassel; president, John Gibbs; vice-president, Mrs. Jennie Rich- 
ardson; auxiliary, Miss Hanna Nolin; secretary, Mrs. Millie Bates; treasurer. 
Mrs. J. G. Curtis; accountant, H. H. Curtis; chaplain, Mrs. C. H. Loucks; 
warden, D. G. Curtis; sentinel, Mrs. A. Cameron; watchman, P. F. Riordan; 
conductor, H. M. Swick; assistant conductor, Mrs. H. M. Swick; trustee, J. 
G. Curtis: examining physician, G. T. Pryor, M. D. ; representative to Grand 
Union, J. K. Bates; alternate, P. F. Riordan. 

Wetmore is a busy little lumber town on the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad. 
Here Thomas Keelor has his extensive lumber mills and mercantile estab 
lishment. L. D. Wetmore' a lumber industries are also located here, as well 
as a post-office. 

HAMLIN TOWNSHIP. 

Hamlin township, bounded by Wetmore, Sergeant, Lafayette and Keating 
townships, is divided into three sections, Kinzua creek valley in the north 
center, and part of the northwest, separated by Big Level, of which Howard 
Hill is a peak, from Marvin and West Clarion valleys on the east, center and 
south. The Smethport anticlinal runs southwest between Howard Hill and 



248 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Marvin creek: the Kinzua — Emporium cross anticlinal — through the southwest 
corner; the southeast corner is near the Clermont (4) bituminous basin: the 
western and central sections in the sixth bituminous basin, which also crosses 
the northwest corner. The greatest elevation (Howard Hill) is 2, 268 feet 
above tide, and the lowest (near the old Hulings well No. 1) 1,625 feet. The 
high lands average 2,200 feet above tide. 

The head-waters of West Clarion form the southwest of Howard Hill, while 
Kinzua creek, which forms in Lafayette and Keating, receives many feeders 
along the great bend north of the hill. Windfall run rises in the northwest 
corner, and the south branch of Kinzua in the southwest corner. Marvin 
creek may be said to rise in the south center, although a small branch comes 
down from Seven Mile summit in Sergeant township. Head Brook. Wildcat 
and Stanton runs, with a hundred rivulets, flow southeast from Big Level to 
swell the stream, and at Kasson post-office Long run flows northwest from 
Chappel Hill into it. Warner Brook flows from Clermont Hill through the 
southeast corner into the Marvin, and Glad run flows northwest in the south- 
west corner to join the south branch of the Kinzua. 

Early in the "fifties " the McKean & Elk Land Company opened a num- 
ber of coal mines here. Dalson's principal heel was at the head of Wildcat 
run. east of Howard Hill, a four-feet deposit of pure, bright bituminous coal, 
eleven feet of dark and six feet of cannel. Within this township three mem- 
bers of the coal family are grouped, the Dagus, Clermont and Alton middle. 
The first occupies but small space, the second inhabits the heights of the 
Howard Hill divide, and the third is found in almost every place throughout 
the county. 

The old Owl Well ("Hulings No. 1) was drilled in 1878 (opposite the mouth 
of Town Line run on the south bank of the Kinzua, 1,625 feet above ocean 
level) to a depth of 1,613 feet, and yielded thirty barrels per day for the year 
ending in July. 187 l J. Hulings No. 3 well was completed in March. 1879, to 1.73(1 
feet, near the southwest corner of Warrant 3076, and the wells of Wilcox & 
Schultz, Knox Bros. , and the Westmoreland Oil Company on Warrant 3073, 
found some oil in the top of the sand, but deeper drilling produced salt water 
in such quantity that they were abandoned and the southeast limit of the field 
supposed to have been reached. A subsequent well drilled by Wilson in 1881 
north of the middle of Warrant 2690, and promptly abandoned, confirmed this 
supposition, but wells drilled by the Union Oil Company, southeast of the 
Hulings No. 5, have recently demonstrated an extension in that direction. On 
the western edge of the field a number of wells drilled by the P. C. L. & P. Coni- 
pany were similarly drowned out by salt water and operations in that quarter 
were abandoned also. These wells all stopped at the Bradford sand, the 
deeper Kane sand not having been discovered until 1885, at Kane. The 
Kinzua well, at the confluence of Glad run and the Kinzua. was opened early 
in L877 by L. C. Blakeslee for the Producers' Consolidated Land & Petroleum 
Company of Bradford. Salt water was found in the sand at 1,745 to 1,768 
Eeet, or fifty feet below ocean level. 

In 1856 Dalson discovered limestone, but the location is not given nor lias 
the modern explorer found an outcrop, but as the valley of Marvin creek is 
celebrated for its deposits of this slaty -bluish rock, a dip may bring it under the 
sub ( 'lean conglomerate. 

The valley of North Kinzua in this town-hip. as well as those of Windfall. 
Mead, South Kinzua and (Had run, with the intervening territory (nearly one 
half of the township) are still clothed with an unbroken forest in which hem 
lock predominates. This is the property of the Union Oil Company and the 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 249 

Gen. Kane estate. The Kane estate still owns in Wetinore and Hamlin town- 
ships, extending into Elk county, about 25,000 acres. 

The resident tax-payers of Hamlin towuship in 1847-48 were Adin and 
Aranah Aldrich, William Fields, Freeman Garlick, J. P. King, C. McFall, H. 
Burlingame (now a resident), Sam. Stanton, Abel Stanton, Jerry Warner, 
Hiram White, David Woodruff, William Woodruff and Joseph Wilks & Co. 
The total value of occupied lands and personal property was $2,940, as certi- 
fied by Assessor McFall. 

Hamlin township, in 1S80, had 330 inhabitants. In 1888 there were 165 
Republican, 57 Democratic and 15 Prohibitionist votes cast, or 237. The 
total multiplied by five gives the population at the time 1,185. The officers 
chosen in February, 1890, are: Supervisors, D. F. Pattison, Bent Lunberg; 
school directors, W. H. Neil, M. J. Gallup; auditor, L. J. Swanson; con- 
stable, G. H. Sparks; collector, G. H. Sparks; judge of election, J. E. B. 
White; inspectors, S. W. Pattison, Charles Paulson; town clerk, Charles 
Paulson. 

The post-office at Kasson is in charge of G. O. Garlick. 

MOUNT JEWETT. 

N. D. Battison's basket factory was established in August, 1883, when he 
•leased free from Elislia Kane a three-acre lot for such factory. Mr. Kane 
gave him $175 and also a large lot for his dwelling — the only consideration 
being the establishment of this industry. Earlier that year the town plat was 
surveyed, and with this industry, employing twenty-rive persons, the nucleus 
of the present village was formed. That year the R. & P. R. R. was com- 
pleted, but some of the people opposed the location of the factory earnestly. 
A fire destroyed the buildings soon after, but the owner rebuilt and continued 
in business some time. The building passed into various hands, and is now 
occupied by Hitchcock & Davis. 

In 1887 F. W. Andrews began a series of seven test wells on the Kane 
lands, which led to the development of the field by the Anchor Oil Company. 
The first of the wells, one and one-half miles northeast, showed gas in small 
quantity at a depth of 900 feet. This with others reverted to Mr. Kane, and 
he conceived the idea of supplying Mount Jewett with gas. With some difficulty 
thirteen consumers were secured, but the gas proving itself worthy of its 
claims, the list was increased to over 100. At the beginning Mr. Kane could 
not obtain one subscriber to a proposed stock company. The system now ex- 
tends from McAmbley's mill to the village. 

O. B. Mosser & Co. ' s tannery at Mount Jewett was established in 1887, 
when most of the present buildings were erected. The capacity is 600 hides 
per week, and the number of men employed in July and August, 1889, fifty. 
This tannery uses from 4,000 to 5,000 cords of bark annually, the price paid 
being $4.50 per cord. The hemlock bark is found in the woods adjoining, oak 
bark being imported. 

The McAmbley saw-mill, three miles northeast of Mount Jewett, is an im- 
portant industry. . . .Hitchcock & Davis' saw-mill is devoted to the manufact- 
ure of hardwood. .. .Mellander's mill is northeast of the village .... Camp- 
bell's saw-mill, a mile south of the village, was a large concern, but in July, 
1889, the machinery was moved to Kane to make way for Huff's hardwood 
factory. Southeast of the village are the Roos saw-mills. . . .Kinzua mill, six 
miles from Kane, was burned in July, 1887. . . .The McClelland & Kane model 
mill was erected at Mount Jewett in the fall of 1889. M. H. Manning was 
superintendent of building and machinery. 



250 BISTOBY OP .VlcKEAN COUNTY. 

Mount Jewett post office was established in February, L882, with Augustus 
Mellander postmaster. 

The Presbyterian Society was organized July 18, 1888, and incorporated 
.Inly 25, with O. B. Mosser, G. V. Thompson, e! W. Hevner, W. W. Brewer, 
L. A. Groat and Hubert Schultz, trustees, all of whom were members except 
Brewer, Hevner and Thompson. The list of original members also embraced 
Calvin Gray and wife, Mrs. \Y. W. Brewer, E. A. Conn, Mrs. Thompson. Mrs. 
Groat, Mrs. Schultz and Mrs. Mosser. Work was begun in July on a new 
church house and completed in October. Rev. W. J. Arney of Kane organ- 
ized this society, and is its first pastor. 

The Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Nebo Church of Mount Jewett was in 
corporated in September, 188S, with B. C. and A. Lundberg, Oscar Wiborg 
and J. Mellander, subscribers. . . .The Church of the Mission Friends was or- 
ganized in 1887 and a small house for worship erected. 

The Aldrich Cemetery was incorporated in May, 1 S77, with H. W. Bur- 
lingame, G. O. Garlick, O. Perry, H. L. Burlingame, J. E. B. White and 
Hiram W. Burlingame. trustees. 

Fisher Tent of the K. O. T. M. was organized at Mount Jewett in May, 
1887, with James Doyle, Owen Coyle, L. A. Groat, De T. Parrish. ('. \V. 
Obing, W, H. Reese, A. A. Van Slyke, W. J. Jackson, Dan. Shea. M. Syl- 
vester, N. Marsh, R. Jackson and O. McLoud rilling the several positions. 

The Kinzua bridge was completed April 1. 1882. To the observer, as he 
stands upon the north abutment pier, and, facing southward, gazes down a 
depth of over 300 feet to the creek's bed, then up the slope of the opposite 
side to the south end, at a distance of more than 2,000 feet from him, and con- 
siders that these extreme points are connected by a continuous line of track of 
uniform grade, over which roll the heavily freighted trains, he can not fail to 
be impressed with the fact that this is a progressive age. The bridge is con- 
structed of stone and iron entirely. It consists of twenty lower spans of 
thirty-eight and one-half feet each, and twenty-one intermediate spans of sixty- 
one feet, and contains about four and one-half million pounds of wrought iron. 
The height is 301 feet, and length 2,051 feet, giving it a title to being the high- 
est bridge in the world and one of the longest. The stone piers which are to 
support the towering iron columns are built of massive sandstone blocks, quar- 
ried on the ground, which nature has provided in abundance, and of an excel- 
lent quality. These are skillfully jointed, bedded and bonded. 

Stafford, the watchman, climbs over and inspects three of the towers even 
day. As there are twenty towers altogether he gets over the entire system ol 
piers and braces in a week. Once, in the winter of 1883- 84, while making his 
usual inspection, he fell a distance of sixty-five feet. The cold winter air 
numbed his hands so that he could cling no longer to the iron braces. Fortu- 
nately he fell into about ten feet of snow, which broke his fall, else the com- 
pany might have been compelled to look for a new man. He said he only- 
missed striking a stump by a few inches. He relates another narrow escape. 
He said he was climbing over the top girts one day when some one hailed him 
from above. It startled him, and he sort of forgot where he was. He let go 
his hold and was going. By a great effort he caught hold of one of the iron 
braces just in time to save himself. The accident of July. 1889, tested the 
strength of the structure. Conductor Keily's train, bound south, separated on 
the viaduct, the locomotive and attached cars reaching Mount Jewett before 
fourteen cars were missed. The engineer at once backed down and when 
near the bridge lirakeinan Ryan discovered the conductor's signals. The en- 
gineer reversed his lever, and at once a coupling snapped and three cars went 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 251 

thundering down grade. At the bridge there was a terrible crash and three 
cars were converted into kindling wood. 301 feet above the creek. Had the 
cars gone over the sides of the viaduct there is little doubt regarding the dam- 
age which would have been caused to the structure. 

The Anchor Oil Company's lease on the Kane oil reservation or the Swe- 
dish farms was developed in July, 1889. Up to the 21st the well was guarded, 
but it is now declared to be a gusher as well as gasser. The location is one 
and a half miles south of the tannery on Frank Nelson's farm. The Anchor 
and Forest Oil Company and Taylor & Torrey secured a piece of the Kane 
estate, consisting of 2,500 acres. P. W. Roth came to Mount Jewett in July, 
1889, and located his first well July 29 on the John Mellander farm. Mr. 
Roth drilled the first producer in the Washington field, and has been con- 
nected with oil interests in the Bradford field since 1875. The Timbuctoo 
well at Lafayette was completed July 25, 1889. 

Oil memories cluster round the big bridge. An old weather-beaten der- 
rick is still visible from the viaduct a short distance up the stream, where Mar- 
cus Hidings anchored some cash in the autumn of 1879 in searching for a con- 
tinuation of the Cole creek streak. In the winter of 1883-84 Mumford, a 
former bookkeeper for Butts, together with Cheeney & Phillips, of Alton, 
obtained a 200-acre lease from Bowen, of Boston, on Warrant 2,^24 1 . The 
company drilled a well on the piece. The Barnsdall venture of August, 1884, 
is located in the southeast corner of Warrant 2,24S — 2,500 feet north and a 
trifle east of the Mumford & Cheeney well. In 1879 the Parker Brothers, 
and, in 1884, Higgins also, drilled on Ormsby lands. 



CHAPTER XV. 



KEATING TOWNSHIP— BOROUGH OF SMETHPORT. 

Keating Township Topography— Geology— Oil Wells — Population- 
Township Officers in 1890— Port of Entry— Early Settlers— The For- 
ester—Solomon Saetwell and Others— Resident Tax-Pay-ers, 183H-37 
—Early Merchants in the Township— Villages. 

Borough of Smethport Population, Etc. — Officers Elected in 1890— 

First Cabin and House— Reminiscences of Asa Sartwell— Early' Set- 
tlers—Some First Things— Post-office— Resident Property - Owners, 
1856-57— Municipal Affairs— Academies— Churches— Societies— Hotels 
— Banks— Water and Gas Systems— Floods and Fires— Miscellaneous. 

KEATING TOWNSHIP holds a semi central position in the county. 
Nunundah creek enters the township near the southeast corner, flows 
north by west via Smethport to Farmers Valley, where it turns northeast to 
join the Allegheny beyond the north town line. Cole creek's south branch 
flows northeast from the plateau, receives the north branch in the center of the 
north half of the township, and enters Nunundah creek opposite Farmers 
Valley. Marvin creek enters the township a point west of the south center, 
and flowing northeast to Smethport forms a confluence with the main creek. 
In the southwestern corner the head-waters of the West Clarion unite with 
Three Mile run to flow southwest; and within a short distance of this conflu 
ence one of the heads of Kinzua creek is found. South of the road from 



252 HISTOBl OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Smethport to Ormsby'a summit a feeder of Marvin creek rises, which enters- 
that creek south oi the borough limits. A little over two miles east of Smeth- 
port occurs the greatest elevation in the State west of the fifth bituminous 
basin — Prospect hill, 2, 195 feet above tide level. The lowest point, of course. 
is where Nunundah creek exits at Frisbee, which is 1,400 feet above tide. At 
Smethport depot the elevation is 1,488 feet, so that the grade from the track 
for two and a quarter miles east to Prospect peak is 1,007 feet. The altitude 
of the plateaus may be placed at 'J. 1 ( >• > feet. In the southeast corner the 
Smethport anticlinal separates the Clermont coal basins. At Smethport tin 
anticlinal is broken by the elevation of strata, so that the dome center lies one 
and a half miles east. Small tracts of Clermont exist along the western line, 
and on Ormsby's summit, 2,140 feet above tide. The Pocono formation at 
Smethport is 200 feet thick, and at Barnett's, southwest of Haskell's well, 285 
— sixty feet covered, forty feet coarse-grained ferruginous sandstone, partly- 
covered, ten feet fossiliferous Hags, fifty feet covered rock, forty feet gray shale 
with bands of fossiliferous, ferruginous lime-rock; twenty feet of* green and 
brown flags and shale, five feet of hard, fossiliferous, gray lime- rock, and sixtj 
feet of olive and gray shales and shaly sandstone. 

The well drilled by Lytle & Vezie in 1ST") for the Smethport Oil Company 
reached a depth of 2,004 feet, its opening being 102 feet higher than the rail- 
road track. Forty-three records of strata were obtained and the crust on the 
Taylor farm, where the drilling was done, thoroughly explored. From 330 
to 378 feet slate and shale, and very hard shells, were taken; from 570 feet 
sand shells, and so on until oil was struck at 1,127 feet, the Bradford oil sand 
at 1,300 feet, and the Smethport oil sand at 1,720 feet. This well proved a dry- 
one; the '237 feet of casing were taken rap. the hole plugged with five feet of 
pine below the water courses, and rock filled in above, but within six hours the 
gas removed such obstructions. The Haskell well, drilled in December, 1876, 
and April, 1877, for William Haskell, to a depth of 1.801 feet, is located on the 
east side of Marvin creek, one and one half miles southwest of Smethpoit. 
Gas was struck at 719 feet and also at 1.020 feet, where oil made a fair show 
for a short period. Brant & Co.'s well yielded one barrel per day; Lucius 
Rogers' well on Warrant, 2,058. near the borough; Sherman, Hatch & Co.'s 
well, and other ventures, mark the oil fever period of this township. The! 
Miner said so much about the Haskell well that a skeptical contemporary, 
named Brandon, of the .87. Marys Gazette, perpetrated a pun, which was war 
ranted by the circumstances: "If the Miner continues much longer to sound 
the praises of the Haskell well in its peculiar way we will not be surprised to 
learn that it has-killed somebody." 

Keating township claimed a population of 2.U74 in 1880. This include.! 
364 residents of Bordell settlement and 9S6 of Coleville village, but not the 
borough of Smethport, which then had only 872 inhabitants. The vote of 
Keating in 1888, outside Smethport. shows 200 Republicans, 239 Democrats, 
10 Prohibitionists and 21 Labor Unionists, or a total of 542, which, multiplied by 
five, gives 2. i in as the present number of inhabitant-. 

The officers chosen in February, 1890, are: Supervisors. .1. 11. Sowers. 
Richard (liithn; collector, Thomas Hussey; school directors, \\ illiam H. Huff. 
I>. B. Zillafro; constable. J. E. Stull; auditor. Allen Oviatt; town clerk. C. 
M. Capehart; judge of election. First District, C. D. Calkins; inspectors of 
election. First District, W. A. .Mcintosh. M. N. Allen; judge of election. See 

ond District. R. S. Porterfield; inspectors of election. Second District, C. P. 
Smith, P. S. Kepler; judge of election, Third District, W. II Barr; inspect 
ors of election, Third District, M. J. Lynch. R. L. Stephens. 



HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 253 

In 1809-10 Benjamin B. Cooper petitioned Congress to establish a port of 
entry at Sniethport. He purchased twenty-one acres of land on the west side 
of Nunundak creek, near the bridge at East Sniethport on which to build a 
town, and made propositions to men to get out timber for the proposed wharves. 
This was to be the harbor wherein the ships of the citizens of Instanter might 
be moored while receiving and discharging cargoes. His plans for hauling 
freight from the port to his town on the hill are not given. 

Shortly after the disestablishment of Instanter, or in 1811, Arnold Hunter 
moved to the site of Sniethport, and other settlers flocked into Farmers val- 
ley, as related in the chapter on pioneers. Among the pioneers was Jonathan 
Colegrove, who died April 11, 1872. He settled in Keating township in 1815, 
traveling from Portville to Smethport by canoe, with his wife and two children. 
From 1817 to 1852 he was one of the Ridgway land agents, P. E. Scull be- 
ing also agent for another portion of the lands. Uncle Daunty, or Jonathan 
Dunbar, another pioneer, was certainly a stage Dutchman in general make-up 
and manners. His wife made what she was pleased to call "clothes" for her 
spouse. He built the first saw -mill in the county at Farmers Valley, but had 
so much trouble with it he finally exclaimed: " If the Lord had given Job a 
saw-mill instead of boils the devil would then have got him sure." Dunbar 
became leader of the first singing school, and, though a strange character in 
many ways, was a most useful citizen. 

The Forester and Sniethport Register, Volume I, No. 12, was issued by 
Hiram Payne June 30, 1832. The motto was: "The uncultivated forest 
shall become a fruitful field." W. E. Woleott, of Sergeant, advertised cattle 
for sale; Tobias L. Warner his shoe factory at Smethport, and Isaac Burlin- 
game advertised for stone masons; Isaac Harvey placed his books in the hands 
of John E. Niles for collection; Orvil Ketchum, of Farmers Valley, asked his 
debtors to pay up; the Erie Canal Company advertised their lines, giving as 
reference J. M. Hughes, of New York, an uncle of the present editor of the 
Reporter; P. E. Scull wished his neighbors to have their goods imported to 
Bushnell's basin: Sartwell & Rice offered ten barrels of pork for sale; the 
death of Harriet Young, aged twelve years, at Farmers Valley, was noticed, 
and the marriage of Harman Sprague and Adaline Vredenburgh, of the west 
branch of Tunuanguant creek was announced. B. B. Cooper advertised 
60,000 acres of land for sale, and E. A. Smith his stock of goods. 

Solomon Sartwell, one of the leading pioneers, who died August 4, 1876, 
was born at Littleton, N. H. , January 16, 1796; settled in McKean county in 
1816 (whither the lady to whom he was married in 1822 came in 1818). He 
served as postmaster twenty years and as associate judge five years, having 
previously filled the office of high sheriff for two terms and treasurer for one 
term. The Stulls and Ottos, to whom references are made in other chapters, 
must also be counted among the pioneers, while the Williarnses, Youngs, 
Crows (of Sinnemahoning), the Hamlius, and fifty other families of whom 
mention is made in this volume, are connected with the beginnings of the pro- 
gressive period. Of the Crow family several humorous stories are related. 
One is entitled "Called to Preach." It appears that along in the "thirties" 
Moses Crow and his father were engaged in the bottom lands back of the pres- 
ent Wright House in chopping trees. Work went on fairly well until a dry 
elm tree was encountered, and to it both men directed their strength. The day 
was sultry and the workers perspired freely. The younger one, looking round 
on the sea of trees, grew tired suddenly, and, addressing his father, said: " I 
think I am called to preach." Soon after he became an exhorter, passed a lit- 
tle while at the Meadville College, and received a regular appointment. David, 



254 HISTOHY OF MCKEAN" COUNTY. 

Jr. , followed bis brother into the Methodist ministry in 1842. and a few years 
later the old squire was asked for a donation for church purposes, but as a re- 
sponse made the suggestion that he had given two sons to the Methodist church, 
contribution enough for one man. 

The resident tax-payers of Keating township in 1836-37 were Daniel Acre. 
Samuel Armstrong. William J. Anderson, Aaron Arnold. Dudley Birge (a sad 
dler at Smethport), J. L. Birge (moved west), N. G. Barrus, Joseph Brush 
(moved I" Lafayette corners), Levi Bennett (who sold the site for the poor- 
faun tn Col. Wilcox), T. Barrett, Willis Barrett, Gardner Barrett (died in 
ISSS), Nalli. Barrett, Daniel Burbank, Enoch Briggs (who still resides in the 
township), Aurilas Beman. Dr. Joshua Bascom, Elisha and Uri Bush, Daniel 
Brown (who cleared the Vincent farm), Harvey Brewer (a shoemaker), D. K. 
and O. R. Bennett. William Bell (of Ceres), John Brockham. Nicholas Baker, 
Curtis Bump, Amos Briggs (a mason), H. N. Burgett. P. W. Beach, B. C. 
Corwin, C. D. Calkins (now at Smethport), Ghordis Corwin (who owned the 
grist- and saw-mill), Daniel and David Cornelius, Amasa Cowles, Erastus 
Cowles (saw-mill owner), Henry Chapin, Thomas Curtis, Richard Chad- 
wick (who died in 1866), E. J. Cook, David Crow, Elihu Chadwick, J. F. 
Clark (merchant), C. S. Comes (living in Eldred), Daniel Crossmire. Silas 
Crandall, John and J. D. Dunbar, D. Othneal, Eliza De Golier, L. H. De 
Anbigny (non-resident), R. R. Fowler, Dr. George Darling, James O'Daily. 
Levi Davis, Jr.. Brewster Freeman. Daniel Foster, Nathan Folsom, D. C. 
and J. A. O. Gunning, G. W. Griswold, Truman Garlick, Jesse, Hiram 
and Almon Garey, Wheeler Gallup, James Green. J. W. Howe (a lawyer). 
Simon Hammon, James Hoop (now of Lafayette), Barnabas Hill, George 
Hetchelder, Minard Hall, John Holmes & Co. (tan yard owners, near F. 
Andrews' house), Holmes & Richmond (merchants), L. R. Hawkins (of Cha- 
copee, Minn.), O. J. Hamlin (lawyer), Dwight Holcomb (moved to Florida), 
A. Housler, L. Havens, Gideon Irons, John King, Horace B. and Isaac King, 
Jared and Jonathan Ketchum, Rev. Abner Lull, Warren Lucore (mer- 
chant), John and T. Moore, J. McDowell, Dr. William Y. McCoy, T. Mattison, 
Chester Med ben* (now in Dakota), John Nolan (lawyer), John E. Niles, John 
Needham (merchant), Alvin Owen, Dr. William Otto, James. John, Jemima 
and Charity Otto, W. D. Owen (merchant), Joseph Otto (saw mill owner), W 
S. Oviatt. Silas D. and Lewis Otto, Eben Parker (who owned a part of the A. 
H. Cory farm), Hiram Payne (editor), Elisha Randall (dealer). Dr. Salmon M. 
Rose (who owned the Freeman property). S. R. Bobbins, William Rice. .Ulan 
Rice, Nelson Richmond, Jonas Riddle, William Ripley (died in 1888), P. E. 
Scull (died in 1867), Jonas, Sam. and Arnold Southwick, Cephas Scott, Asa 
Sartwell (fulling and saw-mill owner), Joel Sartwell (now of Cedar Rapids, 
Iowa), John Smith, Jesse Spencer, Sol. Stoddard. Charles Smith, and Samuel 
Smith (tailor, now in Iowa), Sol. Sartwell, Jr.. Sartwell & Arnold (traders), 
Sol. Sartwell, R. H. Stillson, John Taylor (merchant). Nathan Tinney. James 
Taylor. Enoch Tyler. D. Voorhes, D. S., William C. George W. and Nailian 
White. William Williams (trader), L. C. Willard (col.). Clinton and Stephen 
Young. Hiram Spencer and Henry Bunyan (trader). Aimer Lull, the assessor. 
recommended Jared Ketchum and Ghordis Corwin for collectors. In 1837 
A. H. Cory and Lawyer L. F. Maynard settled here. 

In Keating township in 1846 were the general stores of C. Steele & Co., 
Ford & Holmes, O. J. & B. D. Hamlin. W. Y. McCoy and O. R. Bennett; the 
taverns of O. R. Bennett ami Richmond & Bennett, and the grocery of James 
Miller. Elijah Bennett had a store in December. The merchants of Keating 
township in 1852 were B, D. & H. Hamlin, James Taylor & Son, C. K. Sart- 



HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 257 

well & Co., S. & E. G. Eaton, C. Steele and O. R. Bennett. The latter and 
Sartwell & Co. were also liquor dealers. 

No. 1, Volume VI, of the Citizen, was issued September 3, 1S59, with L. 
Rogers editor. At this time E. B. Eldred, W. A. Williams, William A. Nichols, 
Warren Cowles and John C. Backus were resident attorneys; W. Y. McCoy, 
J. Darling and S. D. Freeman, physicians; W. K. King, surveyor, and J. K. 
Haffey; geologist. The hotels advertised were the Bennett House, by D. R. 
Bennett, and the Eldred Half-way House, on the Olean road. 

Villages. — Farmers Valley, Coryville and Frisbee may be called synony- 
mous terms. They all form a part of the old settlement of Farmers Valley, 
of which so much is written in the general history as well as in this chapter. 
In 1812 Francis King surveyed the fifty-acre tracts donated by John Keating 
for the following named settlers in Farmers Valley: George, Joseph and 
Matthias Otto, Robert Gilbert, Jonathan Moore, Zachariah, Thomas and Will- 
iam Ashley. 

The old post-office of Farmers Valley dates back to early in the '"thirties," 
when Timothy R. Robbins was master. Thomas Goodwin, Jackson Otto and 
F. C. Olds have filled the office. The post-office of Coryville was established 
in 1872 with Asa H. Cory, master, who has been continued in office since. 

The Union Church of Farmers Valley was built early in the ' ' fifties ' ' 
through the exertions of A. J. Otto and Arnold Southwick. Dan Lennox was 
the carpenter and builder. It has been open to all denominations, but the 
United Brethren may be said to be the principal worshipers. 

The United Brethren Church at Coryville, or Frisbee, was built in 1878-79 
on land donated by A. H. Cory. The building cost over $2,000. 

The United Brethren Society of Farmers Valley was founded October 19, 
1867, with W r illiam S. Moore, T. R. Robbins, the Southwicks and John 
Holmes the elder, as organizers. 

The E. A. U. lodge of Farmers Valley was organized in February, 1880, 
with A. R. Tubbs, Mrs. Otto, J. H. McQuade, Mrs. Tubbs, Mrs. Ellen Otto. 
J. L. Bean, A. Tyler, F. C. Olds and Dr. R. J. Sharp, officials. 

The tide water pump station was established near A. H. Cory's house, but 
owing to the absence of gas the pumping works were moved to Rixford. On 
June 19, 1887, a 25,000-barrel tank was burned, 1,000 teams bringing people 
to witness the fire. The remaining tanks were moved to Ohio in 1888. 

Lucius Rogers built the first steam saw, shingle and planing mill in Nun- 
undah Creek valley in 1885. Prior to that time saw-mills run by steam and 
water-power were common along the banks of this stream, and a few are found 
to-day using up the remnant of pine and hemlock of the valley and hills. 

In 1855-57 a coal oil factory was established up the creek from Smethport. 

Bordell (Coleville post-office), known in 1879 as the "Banner Frontier 
Town," was partially burned February 9, 1880, when McCormack's hall and 
three other buildings were destroyed. In November, thirty-five buildings were 
reduced to ashes, the Bennett House, the leading hotel, conducted by T. P. 
Hill, being among the number .... The fire of February 16, 1881, resulted in 
the destruction of the Golden Rule block, and two adjoining buildings. . . .In 
February, 1880, the sum of $30,000 was subscribed to build a plank road from 
Bradford to Coleville. The stockholders elected J. J. Carter, president; P. T. 
Kennedy, vice-president; James Amm, secretary, and F. A. Wheeler, treas- 
urer.- When the town was in its glory the Bordell Bazoo was published here, 
and altogether the place was considered of much importance. 

Ormsby Junction is the name given to the junction of the narrow gauge 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

roads connecting Smethport with Bradford, Mount Jewett and Kane. Sub- 
sequent to 1S42 Mr. W. F. Ormsby settled in this then comparative wilderness, 
ami he continues to reside here on his fine farm. 

Aiken, Davis, Van Vleck and Simpson are small settlements on the Brad- 
Inn 1. Bordell & Kinzua Railroad. Cyclone post-office is located in the west- 
ern part of the township. 

In December, 1888, a well was drilled on the Ormsby farm to a depth of 
2,408 feet, to the fifth sand. This well answered 120 quarts of glycerine with 
seventy-five barrels of oil within four weeks; but the production fell to one 
and one half barrels, when it was abandoned in February, 1889. One and one- 
half miles west of the Ormsby farm is a well which gives gas and oil, but is 
undeveloped. 

BOROUGH OF SMETHPORT. 

Smethport is located in one of the most beautiful valleys in the mountain 
country. Its site was selected by John Keating, and this selection confirmed 
I iv tlic commissioners. The latitude and longitude ascertained by Surveyor 
Chadwick in 1839 are 41° 55' and 78° 33', respectively. 

In 1880 the borough claimed 872 inhabitants. In 1888 there were 148 
Republican, 11(3 Democratic, nine Prohibitionist and one Union Labor votes 
cast, or a total of 274, which number multiplied by six gives an idea of the 
present population as 1,644. 

In 1811 Capt. Arnold Hunter built the first cabin at Smethport, where 
the \\ idow Rifle resided in 1871, now occupied by a Swede. A second house 
was built in 1812, but both were abandoned in 1814. Capt. Hunter died in 
Harrison township. Potter county, March 16, 1857, aged seventy-eight years 
and 364 days. In 1850 he was deputy census marshal for Potter county. 

Asa Sart well, of Iowa, who revisited his old hunting grounds in 1NSO, 
made the visit memorable by relating to the editor of the Miner his reminis- 
cences of Smethport and vicinity in early times. Over sixty years before, 
his father, Solomon Sartwell, located within a few miles of the county scat in 
Farmers Valley, while his brother, Solomon, Jr.. settled soon after at Smeth- 
port, and built the second large log-house, Eastman having built before. 
Asa, the younger brother, came in 1820, when Smethport contained a few log- 
huts and a carding-mill. He bought this mill, but at the close of the season 
saw it destroyed by fire. Going to Utica, N. Y., he purchased machinery for 
carding wool and dressing cloth, brought it hither, and in conjunction with 
these industries entered the lumber trade, and became a real estate dealer. 
John A 1 1| ilehee's saw- and grist-mill and Conant's cloth-dressing house were 
among the first industries. 

Joseph Otto came from Mifflin county, Penn., early in 1SR), and settled 
two and one-half miles below Smethport with his young wife. The trip hither 
from Angelica was through sixty miles of wilderness without one inhabitant, 
and from the effects of such a journey he fell sick soon after settlement, and 
he and his wife were almost on the point of starving when he became strong 
enough to hunt. Stephen Young located in Farmers Valley with others 
named in the chapter on first settlement. James Taylor moved to McKean 
county in L824, and a few years later engaged in mercantile business at 
Smethport with Hawkins & Ford. A. N. Taylor, who died May 15, 1876, 
from injuries inflicted by a fall September 25, 1875, came with his father, and 
in 1843 became a partner in the business, ultimately purchased his fathers 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 259 

interest in the store and built a house, adjoining the Astor House, which was 
burned in the tire of March '28, 1868. He filled the office of associate judge 
for one term. In his journey to Smethport in November, 1826, Lawyer Orlo 
J. Hamlin met the Smethport and Jersey Shore mail carrier, Moses Hann:-;. 
at Canoe Place. Both traveled to the county seat over the mountains and 
across the terrible corduroy or pole bridges. Crossing Nunundah creek, they 
were soon at the Red Tavern, kept by Mrs. Willard. His stay he describes 
in his reminiscences, thus: "It being long after dark when we arrived, the 
bar-room was well filled with men. After supper we joined the men in this 
room. One of them, the leading man, after inquiring whence I came and 
what I came for, asked me ' What spelling books are in use now? ' Replying. 
I said it was long since I was in the elementary schools, but I believed Dills 
worth's were going out and Webster's coming in. Retiring for the night, I 
was shown to a room adjoining the bar-room. It so happened that a married 
couple occupied a room near by, and about ten o'clock that night the woman 
was in her accouchement, and I was kept awake by neighboring women rjassing 
to and fro every few minutes, while the men in the bar-room kept up a contin- 
ual cross-fire of conversation and laughter. About midnight I heard the 
sound of men falling on the bar-room floor, and this intolerable nuisance was 
kept up until nearly morning, when I arose, irritable and feverish, determined 
to return to Towanda. " In his reminiscences of the bar, given in connection 
with the courts, he refers to the manner in which he was received next morn- 
ing and the establishment of his law office at Smethport. 

Moses Hanna was mail carrier between Jersey Shore and Smethport as 
early as 1826, making the round trip every two weeks. Byron D. Hamlin 
carried the mail later on the Eldred route, while Davis Young carried over the 
Smethport and Olean route in the ''thirties." The latter died in Michigan in 
January, 1871. Orlo J. Hamlin was postmaster for three years — 1S29-31. 
L. R. Hawkins held the position in 1837; Arthur Burlingame, in 1843; Phi- 
letus Ford, in 1844; E. Bard, in 1847; W. K. King, in 1851; Sol. Sartwell, Jr., 
in 1855, followed by C. K. Sartwell, Ira H. Gleason, M. L. Armstrong, and M. 
A. Spragne, who was appointed in 1884. Mr. Wilson, editor of the Democrat, 
was appointed in 1888. Mr. E. M. Kerns was appointed in July, 1S89, but 
did not take possession of the office until April. 1890. The office is now located 
in the Odd Fellows' hall building. 

Smethport borough, in 1856-57, was assessed by William K. King. The 
resident property owners were: N. W. Abbey (joiner), H. W. Annis, F. A. 
Allen (printer and school superintendent), Alrnon Allen, William Bell,. J. C. 
Backus (attorney), S. A. Backus (representative), G. B. Backus, G. Bar- 
rett, D. R. Bennett, O. R. Bennett (hotel keeper). E. W. Bingham (owner of 
fifty-two lots), J. L. Beckwith (blacksmith), John Baker, J. Chadwick, R. 
Chadwick, Warren Cowles (attorney), G. Corwin, Widow Milligan, Amor 
Chandler (joiner), J. C. Chandler (printer), David Crow (owner of twenty 
acres and thirty three lots), G. C. Chapin (joiner), L. H. De Aubigny, 
G. C. DeGolier (joiner). Dr. George Darling, Jedediah Darling (physician 
and judge), John Doyle, J. G. Eaton, E. B. Eldred (attorney), B. Freeman 
(owner of forty lots and thirteen and a half acres), B. H. FreemaD, S. D. Free- 
man (physician), Philetus Ford (merchant), Job Gifford, Jr., O. W. Gallup, 
S. S. Hackett (shoemaker). B. Harris (cooper), Mary Holmes. Henry Hamlin, 
O. J. Hamlin, A. D. Hamlin, B. D. Hamlin (attorney), Ed. Hupey (mason), J. 
C. Hamlin, G. Irons, B. F. Jackson, W. K. King (owner of twenty one lots and 
six and three-quarter acres), Robert King (draftsman), Patrick King, John K. 
Lamphier, John Long, Dr. W.Y. McCoy (owner of twelve lots and seven acres). 



260 HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

\ Me lb r. . Joe M )rse, J. M. Miller | Lstor II >use), I ' J. Madbery, E. B. Mason 
(tinner), W. F. Orm-bv (blacksmith), W. S Oviatt, Eiram Payne, T. P. \V. 
Palmer (watchmaker), W. H, and E. P. Richmond, Chris. Ritzan (cabinet- 
G. W. Sartwell, C. K. Sartwell, W. H. Sartwell, Sal. Sartwell, S. B. & 
R. Sartwell, Stanton & Beckwith (owners of sixty-four lutsi. J. L. Smith, P. 
E Scull, G. M. Smith (joiner), J. B. Taylor I blacksmith). A. N. Taylor. Aug. 
Wolters, Ernest Wolters (blacksmith), \V. A. Williams (attorney and treasurer), 
Dr. L. 1! Wisner, J. G. Young. There were seven watches discovered and 
assessed. There were thirty nine horses and fifty-two cows, and all propertj 
was valued ai $25,51 > 1. 

Municipal Affairs. — The first election held at Smethport, for borough offi- 
cers, was that of February 11. 1853. William A. Williams received forty three 
votes for burgess; W. Y. McCoy. S. Sartwell and Henry Hamlin, received 
forty three; William K King, forty two. and Ghordis Corwin. fort \ one 
rotes, for council; O. R. Bennett. Jeremiah Chadwick, X. Medbery and X. W. 
Goodrich, received forty votes; C. B. Curtis, twenty-eight, and P. E. Scull, four 
votes, for school directors; Byron D. Hamlin, eighteen votes, and Jeremiah 
Cha Iwick, seventeen votes, were chosen poormasters; X. JV. Goodrich. James 
Miller and C. B. Curtis, were elected auditors; 0. R. Bennett, assessor; George 
I! Backus, constable, and Hiram Payne, justice. At this time 0. K Sari 
well and A. X. Taylor were chosen inspectors, and Philetus Ford, judge of 

i ion. 

The names of citizens who have filled the office of burgess down to the 
present time are as follows: W, A. Williams. 1 S53; Philetus Ford. 1854; 
John C. Backus, 1855; C. K. Sartwell, 1856; S. M. Smith. 1857; G. C. De 
Golier, L858; S. A. Backus. 1859; Byron D. Hamlin. I860; W. Y. McCoy. 
L861 62, (i. H. Mason was chosen assistant burgess in 1862; L. R. Wisner, 
1863, with It. Sartwell. assistant; Warren Cowles, 1S64. with J. R.Townsend; 
(1. Corwin, 1865-66, with X. W. Abbey; B. D. Hamlin. L867, with H. Ham- 
lin; Henry Hamlin, 1868, with M. A. Sprague. The last named was elected 
burgess in 1869, with R. Sartwell assistant, and re elected in 1870; John C. 
Backus, 1871, with M. L. Armstrong, assistant; W. Y. McCoy, 1872, with 
W. I). Gallup, assistant; P. Ford, 1873, with X. W. Abbey, assistant; G. M. 
Smith, 1ST I 75, with T. J. Gilford, assistant; Thomas King. IS16. with Hugh 
Glenn, assistant; M. A. Sprague, 1877, with E. F. Richmond; M. L. Arm- 
strong, 187S. with H. L. McCoy; S. J. Gifford, 1879, with H. S. Sartwell; 
B. L. Knapp, 1880, with J. C." Hamlin; J. C. Backus. 1881-85, with S. J. 
Gifford; M. L. Armstrong. 1882-83; Frank Muses, assistant, in 1884; A. T. 
Palmer, burgess, in 1886; B. F. Wright, 18S7; F. W. Brownell, L888, and 
Warley Gifford, ISM'. 

The names of the justices are as follows: W. A. Williams, 1854; Jeremiah 
Chadwick. 1855; G. B. Backus, 1856; Philetus Ford. I860 65; R. Sartwell. 
1861; A. B. Armstrong. 1862-67; M. X. Powell. 1869; J. G. Eaton. 1870; P. 
Ford, L871 (but being collector of internal revenue he did not qualify) ; S. Sari 
well, L872; C. K. Sartwell. 1872; G. M. Smith. 1S76-81-86; P. Ford. 1877- 
82-87. 

The officers elected in February. L890, are as follows: Burgess, F. W. 
Brownell; council. X. D. Ramer, William Easkell; school directors. Hon. T. A 
Morrison, E R. Mayo; constable, H. L. Burlingame; collector. J. A. Holder: 
judge of election, E F. Waller; inspectors of election, J. C. Backus. Wash. 
st arks; auditor, W. D. Gallup. 

The secretaries of the borough have been Heurv Hamlin, l^">:'>: ('. K. Sari 
well. 1854; (i. ('. Chapin, 1855; S. B. Sartwell, 1856; W. K Kin- ls;.s; 



HISTOBY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 203 

A. N. Taylor. 1859-04: B. F. Wright. 1800; W. S. Brownell, 1801; J. C. 
Hamlin, 1*802-73-78; P. Ford. 1805; C. K. Sartwell, 1869; Robert King, 1870; 
Henry King. 1871; D. R. Hamlin, 1872-74; H. F. Barbour. 1875; R. H. Rose. 
1877; W. D. Gallup. 1879-81; E. Quackenbush, 1880; A. B. Armstrong, 1882; 
Lucius Rogers, 1880. and Jobn Forrest, 1889. 

The expenditures for the year ending March 1, 1889, amounted to $2,900.05. 
The vouchers for this expenditure, in possession of treasurer, M. L. Armstrong, 
were examined by Auditors J. O. McCarty, F. R. Foster and John Forrest, 
borough auditors. 

Hose Company. — The Srnethport Hose Company was organized in Decem- 
ber. 1881, with Sheridan Gorton, Pres. ; W. F. Speeht. V. P. ; G. R. Brownell, 
Sec; M. L. Armstrong, Treas. ; W. P. Walshe, foreman; H. L. Wilson and 
John Russ, Assts. ; Hugh P. Brawley, A. B. Armstrong and John Forrest, 
trustees. In July of this year 107 votes were recorded for, and eighteen 
against, the proposed water tax. The question being carried, the work of con- 
struction commenced, and when the hose company was organized a full supply 
of water for all purposes existed. 

The election of the following efficient officers for the ensuing year occurred 
in December. 1889: President. E. M. Kerns: vice-president, Henry Beiver; 
foreman, F. W. Brownell; first assistant, foreman, F. W. Ruinsey; second assist- 
ant foreman, W. H. De Garmo; secretary. Clifford Burlingame; treasurer. M. L 
Armstrong; trustees. Frank Kerns, John Rooney, Sam. Fry. 

Academies. — The April exhibition of 1839, at the Smethport Academy, was 
participated in by David Crow, Levi Ketcham, Henry Hamlin, Wallace Saw- 
yer. William King, Ransom Devereaux. Ithual Humphrey, Elizabeth Chapin, 
Violetta Sartwell, George Sartwell, Montague Rose, George Birge, Niles Tay- 
lor, I. N. Sawyer, Ormand A. Holmes, John K. Williams and Byron D. Ham 
lin. At this time Luther Humphrey was principal from 1837 to 1S4(>, when 
Atkins came; George W. Scotield came in 1842, and is now judge of court of 
claims, at. Washington; L. D. Wetmore in 1842-43, later president judge of 
the Warren District; Franklin Freeman was succeeded by B. D. Hamlin in 
1844; Henry M. Lane came in 1845, and from 1847 to the temporary closing 
of the school, ladies presided. In November, 1849, the old academy was re 
opened, with Ephriam Mariner (now a leading citizen of Milwaukee), principal. 
W. Y. McCoy presided at this time over the board with J. Darling, secretary. 
In the fall of 1850 Miss Miner was principal. On June 30, 1851, the academy 
trustees organized, with S. Sartwell, president; William Y. McCoy, treasurer; 
Hiram Payne, secretary; G. Irons, J. Taylor and William Williams, directors. 
This board resolved to collect all debts due the old academy, put the build 
ings and grounds in repair and rent the concern to a qualified teacher. In 
November the academy was re-opened by F. A. and C. H. Allen. In 1854 the 
Allans left, but were followed by others until Mr. Train ended the academy 
days. In March, 1870, the trustees of the academy were authorized by special 
act to convey the buildings and grounds to the school district, which was 
done, the old buildings moved and the present large buildings erected on the 
site. 

The call for the organization of the Smethport Lyceum was made in Octo- 
ber. 1870, by Dr. W. Y. McCoy, who was chosen president; E. H. Bard, secre- 
tary: L. Rogers, J. C. Backus, A. B. Armstrong, Henry King. M. A. Sprague, 
G. Corwin, G. M. Smith, W. J. Milliken and A. N. Taylor. In November. L. 
Rogers was chosen president, and D. R. Hamlin, secretary. 

Churches. — The history of religious bodies in McKean county dates back 
to 1809, when a Catholic missionary founded a congregation at Instanter, and 



264 HISTOHY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

held services there regularly until his disappearance in the forest Inward the 
close of 1810. A reference to the history of Cameron county points out Smeth- 
pori a-- a pari of the Sinnemahoning Methodist circuit in the "twenties;" the 
collapse of the circuit work: the introduction of the Advent] sts; the return of 
Methodism and the introduction of Universalism. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church of Smethport is said to have had its begin- 
ning about 1S:','J. Under date October 9, 1837, a subscription book was opened 
l)\ the trustees. The subscription contracts were drawn for $500 down, hut 
under the $500 heading a few men write their names for $5.00: Andrew Rifle, 
David Crow, Jr., Harvey Brewer, Richard Wooley and Daniel Rifle; Asa 
Sartwell contributed SHOD; Brewster Freeman, $200; Richard Chadwick. A. 
M. Stanton, Nathan White and Nathan Burlingame, $100; Samuel Smith, 
David Ciow. Thornton Barrett, Soil; John Needham, James O. Gunning, David 

C. and Warren Lucore, $25; Horace B. King. S'iH in nails; David Comes and 
Lew. R. Hawkins. $25; Hiram Payne. John E. Niles, Salmon ML Rose, A. 
Burlingame, Harvey Brewer. Cephas Scott, Dudley Birge, J. L. Birge, VY. Y. 
McCoy, Charles Smith. Leonard Rice. Isaac Thompson (who subscribed Mi 
worth of axes), William C. White. Joel Sartwell, L. F. Maynard, E. C. Chand- 
ler, Horace and Milo Scott. Anson Rice and Barnabas Craves were also among 
the subscribers. The society was incorporated with Samuel Smith. Cephas 
Scott. Willis Barrett, Daniel Rifle and Gardner Barrett, trustees. The 
petitioners were Sandusky Miller. H. B. King, John Mills, R. Chadwick. 

D. S. White. Daniel Brown. W. J. Colegrove and C. Steele. In 1SM7 a 
lot was purchased from the commissioners of the county, and the present house 
was built by Sol Sartwell and P. Ford. It was completed, in 1839, at a cosi 
of $3,000, 'repaired in 1865 at an expense of $1,000, and in 1880 al $2,000 
The past recording stewards were Richard Chadwick. S. M. Rose. David S. 
While. 1. S. Gleason, H. L. Burlingame and W. J. Colegrove. The present 
recorder is W. P. Eckels. The roll of preachers from 1832 to 1889 is as fol 
lows: is:i'_'. William Butts and Samuel Gregg; 1833, Thomas J. Jennings. 
Benjamin Preston and Joseph A. Halback; 1834, Ignatius H. Hacket. Lmei 
G. Smith and Bryan S. Hill; 1835, John Demming, Matthew Hanna and 1... 
renzo Whipple; 1836, Augustin Anderson and J. W. Stryker; 1837, A. Ander 
son. E. W. Conable and J. E. Mason: 1838, Alpha Wright and F. W . Conable; 
1839, Horatio M. Seaver and J. W. Stryker; IMC 11. M. Seaver and Hindi 
Ely; 1841, A Baywood and J. Hagar; 1842, J. 1'. Rent. J. Hagar and Join, 
(,1a-: 1843, J. F. Mason and John Glass; 1844, J. F. Mason; 1845, J. 
Poarsall; 1847, F. W. Conable and J. McCleary, Jr. ; IMS. James Mc< lelland; 
1850. I-:. I!. Pratt; 1851, R E. Thomas; 1852, Hiram Hood; 1854, Withan 
H. Kellogg; 1855, H. W. Annis; IS.">7. J. J. Roberts; 1859, S. D. Lewis; 
1860. Uonzo Newton; 1862, L. A. Stevens; 1864, Lowell L. Rogers; 1866, 
William Blake: L867, Koswell I,'. Puree; 1868, E. B. Williams: 1870, W. 
Gordon and I' I >. Sargent; 1871, 11. Peek: 1873, J. L. Rushidge; L875, 
•I. C. Whiteside: 1878, W. B. Waggoner; 1881, E. 1'. Hubbell; 1884, William 
Bradley, and 1887-89, T. W. Chandler The presiding elders are named as 
follows: 1832, J. S, Harris: 1833, H. Kinsley: 1836, A. Abell; 1837, J. Hen, 
minway; 1841, J. Durham: 1844, Thomas Carlton; 1845, William Hosmer; 
1846, J. G. Gulick; 1848, Elija Thomas: 1850, A. D. Wilbor; 1852, J. C. 
Kigsley, 1854, C. D. Burlingham; 1858, J-:. E Chambers; 1862, A. P. Ripley; 
L866, W. S. Tuttie; lsTO. E. A. Rice; 1873, L. D. Watson; 1878, L. A. Stevens; 
1882, 0. S. Chamberlayne, and 1 s s « » . T, .1. Bissell. Carlton, above named, was 

one of the Methodist Hook Concern for twenty years; Hosmer died in June. 
L889. He was an abolitionist. Thomas was killed in the Modoc war. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 265 

The membership of this church is placed at fiftv and the value of property 
at $5,000. 

The Baptist Church of Smethport had its origin in the society formed in 
Norwich township in 1820. The Baptist revival of May, 1836, was conducted 
by a Mr. Ketchum. He came to Farmers Valley to convert the people who 
scoffed at the preachers of the period. During the meetings a baby died at 
Smethport, and Mrs. Asa Sartwell went up to offer consolation to the parents. 
At the burial there was no one to say a prayer. Next morning she, with 
other women, went down to the camp, and arrived there just as Ketchum was 
reading the text — "Woe unto ye lawyers." After the rough address the 
women told him the state of affairs at Smethport, and he agreed to move on the 
village next day, provided the women would support him. He came and 
opened his batteries in the court-house. There was a Methodist class here 
composed of Richard Chadwick, Horace King, Mrs. Sol. Sartwell, Mrs. Ghor- 
dis Corwin and others, but they had no church house. All turned to Ketchum. 
who conducted the meetings for some days, when he was called away, leaving 
Mr. Denning, a Methodist preacher, to baptize sixty persons. In 1840 a soci- 
ety was organized here with the following members: William Williams and 
wife. James Taylor and wife. Ann Taylor, William L. Oviatt and wife, Abner 
Lull, Benjamin Oviatt and wife, George Griswold and wife, Job Gifford, Sr. , 
and wife, Elizabeth Holcomb, Amy Holcornb, Nelson Medbery and wife, Ghordis 
Corwin and Benjamin Corwin. The pastors have been Rev. S. Messinger, William 
Sawyer. Abner Lull, J. L. Smith. J. P. Evans, S. D. Morris, Columbus Cornforth. 

F. H. Gates, W. H. Willahan, C. H. Michelmore. and the secretaries have 
been George Griswold, William S. Oviatt, C. L. Douglas, Mrs. C. L. Doug 
las. P. D. Hopkins, J. H. Duntley and L. T. Medbery. In 1847 the church 
house was erected. This, with lot and other property, is valued at $ 5.000. 
The membership is fifty-six. The society was incorporated in June, 1850, on 
petition of Ghordis Corwin, J. L. Smith. Bester Corwin, William Williams, \\ 

G. Oviatt and E. J. Cook. At the time of organization, in March, 1850, G. Cor- 
win. William Williams, Wheeler Gallup, James Taylor, Benjamin Corwin and 
J. L. Smith were the trustees. 

The Catholic Church of Smethport may be said to be a continuation of the 
old mission of Iustanter, established in 1809, and of St. Marys, founded in 1842. 
when the Reilly family came into the Daly settlement on Nunandah creek. A 
year later the Tracys came. In the fall of 1842 Father Berthy rode hither from 
Pittsburgh and held the first servicesof the church at James Daly's house. The 
settlement was subsequently visited by Father Alexander, by the present Bishop 
Mullin and other priests until Father Smith came, in 1845, to stay a few years. 
On March 1, 1848, John Keating donated to Bishop O'Connor, of Pittsburgh, 
in trust for the Catholic congregations in McKean county, a part of Warrant 
2,050, near the lands of James Daly, Sr. , while at Turtle Point, near William 
and John Crowley's lands, a tract of fifty acres was donated. A church build- 
ing was erected in 1848-49 and dedicated by Bishop O'Connor. It was in use 
up to the time the church at Smethport was completed. At St. Marys Revs. 
John Burns and J. D. Cody were stationed, and a few missionary priests came 
hither until Father Madigan came; P. J. Patterson took charge and remained 
some years. Father Flood was here in 1869, after Father Patterson moved to 
Newell creek. Rev. John Smith came in 1881, and remained until Rev. J. J. 
Galligan was appointed, in 1884. 

St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church was founded at Smethport February 19, 
1868, and in 1869 part of square 61 was donated for church purposes by Dr. 
William Keating. The proposition to build was received with favor, and a 



266 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

subscription book opened, Andrew Reilly subscribing §200: Eugene Daly. 
$125; Bernard McKean, $50; James Daly, $124; James W. Griffin, $95; Mar- 
tin Burns, $70; Charles Hvland. 670: Hugh Glenn. $70; C. McElwee, $87; 
Timothy McCarthy. $60; Hugh McCabe, $60; Ed. McGill. $55; John Ward. 
$50; Mrs. McCulluugh. $50, and Timothy Lane. $35. Later B. D. Hamlin 
contributed $120; Henry Hamlin. $100, and Dr. Keating. $500. Other sums 
were subscribed by the Lynches, McCarthys and other members and citizen--. 
subsequently, so that the building fund in August. 1874. was $4,624.48. The 
present church was dedicated April 25, 1S74. by Bishop Mullin. assisted by 
Fathers Flood, Patterson and Kinsella. 

St Luke's Protestant Episcopal Church of Smethport. The first services 
of the Episcopal church were held in the county seat in 1S42. There wire 
then only three members of the church living in the place. Irregular services 
were had at long intervals up to 1872, when a mission was organized by Bishop 
Kerfoot, with an executive committee consisting of Messrs. J. C. Hamlin. P. 
Ford, J. C. Backus and D. C. Young. At that time there were twenty-four 
communicants. The progress was rapid, and in 1879 a parish, called "St. 
Luke's," was organized and incorporated, and in the same year a handsome 
church building was erected. Rev. H. Q. Miller, the first rector, retired in 
18S0, and was followed by Rev. J. H. McCandless, the present rector. The 
church continued to grow rapidly year by year, and now, in 1890, it numbers 
sixty families, 100 communicants, and has a membership of about 300 by bap- 
tism. Many improvements have been made in the church property, a fine 
rectory has been built, and other additions are about to be made. The value 
of the church property, including the chapel at East Smethport, which was 
opened in 1887, is $8,700. The present vestry is composed of Dr. H. L. Me 
Coy, Messrs. J. C. Hamlin, John Forrest, Henry Hamlin, D. C. Young, E. L. 
Keeuan and W. D. Gallup. 

The Congregational Church of Smethport was chartered in January, L851, 
with Dr. W. Y. McCoy, Ezra Bard and Zera R. Tubbs, trustees. The peti- 
tion was signed by O. J. Hamlin, John E. Niles, A. A. Aldrich, Calvin How 
aid. Timothy R. Tubbs, George W. Pelton, Abner Rockwell, Jonah S. Al 
drich and S. G. Curtis. 

Societies. — McKean Lodge No. 388, A. F. iV A. M. . Smethport. was 
instituted June 5, 1867. with S. C. Hyde. W. M. : J. C. Backus. S. W. : 
Miles Irons, J. W. : Warren Stark, S. D. : William Gifford, J. D. ; M. A. 
Sprague, S.. and S. D. Freeman, treasurer. Lucius Rogers, William Haskell, 
T. W. Hogarth. J. W. Stark. T. Seems and A. B. Armstrong, unofficial members. 
The names of past masters are S. C. Hyde. J. C. Backus, T. Seems. (1 M, 
Smith. S. D. Freeman. J. W. Stark. A. B. Armstrong. J. G. Bover. William 
Specht. O. D. Gallup, G. N Barrett. W. T. Callar. H. T. Sawyer. D. Martin. 
G. M. Smith. M. A. Sprague, I. A. Holder. W. D. Gallup. H. P. Brawley. F. 
W. Brownell. T. R. Foster is the present master. The past secretaries are 
M. A. Sprague, L. Rogers. F. King. E. H. Bard and W. D. Gallup. G. M. 
Smith is the present secretary. 

The Masonic Hall Association of Smethport was incorporated in March, 
L879, with S. D. Freeman. W. T. Callar. William Specht. M. A. Sprague. O. 
D. Gallup and H. T. Sawyer, stockholders. The capital stuck was divided 
into 200 shares of $5 each. The hall was erected in 1^7^ 79, and. with other 
property, is valued at 82.000. At present there are seventy-five member-. 

Smethport Lodge No. 3S9. I. O. 0. F.. was organized and the by-laws ap 
proved by the grand lodge October L0, l ss 2. The charter members were 





^CaMmf 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 269 

H. W. Rubin, J. B. Brawley. Frank Rowlee,* W. B. Wagoner* H. W. Geor- 
gia. T. A. Morrison. W. H. YYetenhall. John McConaghy* and A. Reynolds.* 
Among the present members, who are not charter members, are M. N. Allen. 
W. G. Holder, W. Z. Georgia, T. F. Richmond. G. W. King, C. H. Moore, 

A. R. Cory. M. A. Lillibridge, H. S. Sartwell. E. J. Hall, C. H. Calkins. B. 
F. and E.G. Pelton. B. Badger, A. Deshetler, William Bennett. C. A. Krue- 
ger, W. A. Young, W. B. Joiner, H. H. Wilson, C. J. McClure, R. McCord. 

F. C.Olds, D. B. Freeman, D. Ramsdell, M. Rosenfield. F. Westerland, John 
Malin. A. G. Farley. G. A. Hyde. H. Saunders, H. L. McCov. E. B. McCov, 
W. A. King, A. B. Hyde. H. B. Vincent. S. B. Sherwood, M" A. Hall, R. W. 
Bloodsworth, W. A. Mcintosh. A. D. Bush and F. N. Taylor. A. T. Strana- 
han is present secretary of the lodge and H. M. Choate. noble grand. Among 
his predecessors in the chair were H. W. Rubin, J. B. Brawley. H. L. Wilson. 
Charles Beckwith and A. R. Corv. The officers elected in October, 1889. are: 
N. G.. W. A. Mcintosh; V. G..O. D. Bush; P. S.. A. T. Stranahan; A S . 
W. G. Holder; Treasurer, H. W. Rubin; Con.. A. R. Cory; trustee. J. E. Stall. 

Smethport Encampment No. 273, I. O. O. F., was instituted January 18, 

1888. with the following named charter members: M. N. Allen. Jacob Amend, 
R, W. Bloodsworth, W. E. Butts, Samuel Bedford, H. M. Choate, A. R. Cory, 
W. T. Callar, Julius Dupjon, M. Dunn, William Dunbar, J. Eberspacker, D. 

B. Freeman, A. G. Farley, Frank R. Foster, W. Z. Georgia, A. W. Hanim, 
W. G. Holder. G. W. King, W. A. King, G. W. Kunsman, George W. 
Weaver, D. M. Wright, R. E. Looker, W. A. Mcintosh, Peter Martin, John 

C. Martin, C. H. Moore, H. L. McCoy, T. A. Morrison, Robert McCord, C. 
J. McClure, S. J. McKendrick, F. C.'Olds, E. G. Pelton, B. F. Pelton, W. 
V. Provin, D. Ramsdell, H. W. Rubin, W. A. Russell, M. Rosenfield, J. O. 
Sonbergh, F. N. Taylor, H. B. Vincent, W. A. Young, J. H. Tate and I. J. 
McCandless. 

The officers of the encampment in order of rank in October, 1889, were: 
H. W. Rubin, C. P.; John O. Sonbergh, S. W.; F. C. Olds, J. W. ; A. R. 
Cory, H. P. ; T. A. Morrison, trustee; G. W. King, treasurer. 

The officers in March, 1890, are: A. R. Cory, C. P.; F. C. Olds, S. W. : 

G. W. King, J. W.; J. O. Sonbergh, H. P.;" J. Amend, trustee; H. M. 
Choate, scribe. 

The Smethport Odd Fellows' Hall Association was incorporated in July. 

1889, on petition of M. N. Allen, H. M. Choate and W. H. Wetenhall, trust- 
ees of Lodge 389, and M. Dunn, E. G. Pelton and J. O. Sonbergh, trustees 
of Encampment No. 273. The lodges named, with J. H. Tate,* W. V. Pro- 
vin, D. P. Ansall, G. W. King,* E. G. Pelton, A. R. Cory,* H. M. Choate,* 
S. J. McKendrick. J. O. Sonbergh,* M. Dunn, H. W. Rubin,* Frank M. 
Taylor and Peter Martin, are also named as subscribers to stock. The names 
marked * and F. C. Olds were chosen directors. J. H. Tate was elected pres- 
ident; H. M. Choate, secretary, and H. W. Rubin, treasurer, in December. 
1SS9. This building was completed in April, 1890. This is a three-story 
brick, with stone facings, just north of M. A. Sprague's store. 

Keystone Encampment No. 77, Knights of St. John and Malta, was 
founded in January, 1890, and on February 1 the following named officers 
were installed: Eminent commander, F. A. Thomas; lieutenant-commander, 
J. W. Baker; captain of guards. A. H. Kidder; prelate, H. S. Rogers: chan- 
cellor, W. A. Curtiss; assistant chancellor, L. W. Dunn; almoner, William 
Masser; herald at arms, Fred M. Baker; sword bearer. Frank Green; mar- 
shal. George Thomas; first guard. William Bennett; second guard, B. A. East- 

*Not now members. 



270 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

man; medical examiner. Dr. Burg Chadwick; warder. John Cramsie; sentinel. 
Edward Norrnan; trustees. Dr. Burg Chadwick, O. S. Greeley and James 
Dunn. The officers named, and the following named, were charter members: 
J. B. Laraway, 0. R. Sprague and Peter Conley. 

McKean Post No. 347, (J. A. R., was mustered in June 21, 1883. At the 
beginning of 1889 the following named were active members, names marked * 
being charter members: 

I!. F. Wright*, First Pennsylvania Hides. Smethport. William II. Grumbine 
iP nsylvania Volunteers, Smethport. S D. Freeman*, Bucktails, Smeth 
port. * I) A Easterbrook*, Second United States Signal Service, Kendall (reek. A. II. 
i Sixth Ohio Cavalry, Smethport. X. I). Foote* Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Vol 

unteers, Farmers Valley. J. D. Barnes*. Forty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers, Kas- 
i: Sartwell*, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Smethport. W. II. Rifle*, 
Forty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers, Norwich, s G. Bush*, Fifty-eighth Pennsylva- 
Smetbport. W. Brockham*, One Hundred and Fiftieth Pennsylvania 
Volunteers, Farmers Valley. W. Ogilvie*, First New York Dragoons, Coleville. M R. 
Sheldon*, Two Hundred and Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteers Smethport. A 
One Hundred and Eighty-ninth New fork volunteers, Fanners Valley. E. P. Pratt 
due Hundred and Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, Smethport. J. Howard One 
Hundred and Forty-first New York Volunteers, Farmers Valley. II. S. Sawyer*. First 
Volunteer Cavalry, Farmers Valley. Charles S. Sanford*, Fourth Pennsylvania I 
Smethport. George Ogilvie*, First New York Dragoons, Farmers Valley. M. Rowan*, 
Thirty seventh New York Volunteers, Smethnort. J. L. Stanton* Fifty-sixth Pennsyl- 
vania Volunteers, Farmers Valley. N. F. Ferris*, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, 
Farmers Valley. W. W. Brewer'", Forty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers, Mount Jew- 
etl Emil Thamm* Forty-first Missouri, Smethport; J. H. McQuaid*, Tenth Pennsyl- 
vania Volunteers, Farmers Valley. M. O'Reilly*, Fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Smeth 
port. I! E. Hooker*, First New York Dragoons, Farmers Valley. M. I!. Met 
One Hundred and Forty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Farmers Valley William 
Smith , One Hundred and Fifth New York Volunteers, Mount Jewett. J. M. Robinson, 
One Hundred and Fiftieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Kasson. A. L. Hughes, Indiana 
Cavalry. Smethport. I'. Rowan, Sixty-fourth New York Volunteers, Smethport. J. E. 
Henderson. Eighty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers Colegrove. S. W. Evans. Fifty 
eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Norwich. John A. Marsh, sixth Vermont. Norwich 
I' Cox One Hundred and Thirteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers. Kane. A. Ostrander, 
Two Hundred and Fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Fori Allegany. W. Ostrander. Two 
Hundred and Fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Port Allegany. -1 H. Sowers - 
Pennsylvania Volunteers, East Smethport. Thomas Walker. Twenty-first Pennsylvania 
Cavalry, East Smethport. H. K. Moore, Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteer-. Cole 
ville. A. A. Wolters, Forty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers, Smethport. IV Smith, One 
Hundred and Seventy ninth New York. ( loleville. I>. Sterrett, < >ne Hundred and Thirty 
first Pennsylvania Volunteers, Washington. E. Grover, Two Hundred and Eleventh 
Pennsylvania Volunteers, Colegrove S Martin. Two Hundred and Eleventh Pennsylva 
nia Volunteers, Smethport. O. Brink. Thirty third New York Battery. Smethport II 
I. Burlingame, One Hundred and Fiftieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Smethport. Jacob 
Hafner, One Hundred and Seventy -reond Pennsylvania Volunteers, Clermont. William 
Wilkins, Fort\ eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Kanesholm F. J. Vickery, One Hun- 
dred and Ninety fourth New York, Smethport. J. II. Ellsworth, One Hundred and Sei 
enth New York, Smethport. J. Colegrove, Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, Cole 
grove. W. II. Curtis, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers. Smethport I. B 
I'itu eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Smethport. W. C. Dickenson, Second United 
Mates Signal Service, Norwich. W. Grigsby, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers. 
Smethport. II M Choate, Twenty-first New York Volunteers, Smethport. R. Kassel 
bach i »ne Hundred and Tenth New York Volunteers, Olean. J. M. McElroy, One Hun 
died and Second Pennsylvania Volunteers, Smethport. J. II Stull, Fifty-eighth Penn- 
sylvania Volun Smethport II I! Vincent, Fifty-first New York Volunteers. 
Smethport. A. Fields, One Hundred and Fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Kane. G. w 
Talbot, United States Navy, England. I. W. Searfass, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cavalry. 
Kane. T. A. Morrison. One Hundred and Twenty Bret Pennsylvania \ olunteers, Smeth 
port, c W. King, one Hundred and Fourteenth Pennsylvania \ olunteers, Eas 
porl Herman Young, One Hundred and Fiftieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Farmers 
Valley. .1 \ Briggs One Hundred and Ninety-fourth New York Volunteers, Smeth 
- i: Quick, One Hundred and Forty-fourth New York Volunteers, Keating. C 
F Holmes, Tenth New York Heavy Artillery, Keating T W Chandler, One Hundred 
md Fiftieth Pennsylvania Volunteers. Smethport. 1>. Y.Lee, sixth New York Anil 
methport. Asa Champlin, Thirteenth Artillery. Farmers Valley. William Cas 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 271 

key, One Hundred and Forty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers, Smetliport. G. H. France, 
One Hundred and Seventy-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, Smetliport. D. E. Robbins. 
si.xth New Hampshire Artillery, Smetliport. P. O'Brien, Third New York Volunteer 
Excelsior Brigade, Smetliport, 8. Lewis. One Hundred and Eighty-ninth New York 
Volunteers, Colegrove. E. R. Mayo, Third Maine Light Battery, Smetliport. T. Kay. 
One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Pennsylvania Infantry. H. C. Hanimou. Eleventh Illinois 
Cavalry. J. C. Backus*, J. K. Graham*, E. V. Chadwick*. Joseph Hoover*. Patrick 
McCabe*, George Badger*, R. E. Looker*, J, Loudragon*, Henry Herring*, B. II. 
Fannan*. 

B. F. Wright, was chosen commander, and J. K. Graham was acting adju- 
tant until appointed adjutant in July. In 1884 A. L. Hughes succeeded Gra- 
ham, but H. L. Burlingame rilled the office until he was appointed, vice 
Hughes, in July. J. C. Backus was commander in 1885 and Burlingame adju- 
tant. William H. Grumbine was chosen commander in 1S86; Lucius Rogers 
in 1887, with the adjutant of .1885-86 still in office. In December, 1887, J. 
II. McElroy was elected commander, and H. M. Choate adjutant, who served 
until January, 1889, when Adjt. Choate was elected commander, and Lucius 
Rogers was appointed adjutant. The officers for 1890 are: S. G. Bush. C. ; 
C. S. Sanford, S. V. C. ; H. L. Burlingame, J. V. C. ; Emil Thamm, Q. M. : 
T. W. Chandler, Chap. ; J. D. Barnes. Surg. ; J. H. Sowers. O. of D. : J. H. 
Ellsworth, O. of G. ; M. O'Reilly. O. S. ' 

Women's Relief Corps No. 23, Smethport, was organized September 1 /. 
1885, with Madams Kate L. Wright. Helen S. Morrison, Rebecca Kerns. Al- 
minia Backus, Sarah Grumbine, Hattie P. Colegrove, Julia L. Easterbrook. 
Rose E. Peirce. Elminia Thamm, and Amelia Bush, members. Mrs. Wright 
was elected first president and Mrs. Morrison secretary. In 1887 Mrs. Cham- 
bers was elected secretary, and Mrs. Thamm president, succeeded in 1888 bj r 
Mrs. Helen Morrison as president, and Miss Ella J. Wright secretary. In July. 
ISSN. Miss Lena Wright took the former secretary's place and was appointed 
in December, 1889. when Mrs. Morrison was re-elected president. On the 
latter' s election as president of the department of Pennsylvania, W. R. C, 
Mrs. Kate Wright was elected president, and Mrs. Bertie Choate vice presi- 
dent. The officers for 1890 are: President. Miss Lena Wright; senior vice- 
president, Mrs. Nina Rumsey: junior vice-president. Mrs. Amelia Bush; treas- 
urer. Mrs. Sarah Vickery: chaplain, Mrs. Julia Pratt: conductor, Mrs. Rose 
Peirce; guard. Miss Maud Stephens. 

The K. O. T. M. is a recent organization at Smethport. I. S. Reynolds 
presides over the lodge, with M. B. Greer, recorder. 

The Central Home Relief Society was organized at Smethport August 20. 
L863, with Mrs. P. 'Ford, president; Mrs. H. Hamlin, vice-president; Mrs. 
C. Cornforth. treasurer; Mrs. W. Cowles, secretary: Madams A. N. Taylor. 
W. H. Richmond, L. A. Stevens, A. S. Swift, M. A." Holmes and J. R. Chad- 
wick, collecting committee. The object was to furnish aid to the families of 
volunteers. 

The County Prohibitory Constitutional Association was organized at 
Smethport in February, 1889, with W. W. Brown, president; Byron D. Ham- 
lin, vice-president; E. E. McElwaine, secretary, and B. F. Hazelton, treas- 
urer. W. A. Young, Mrs. Young, W. H. Dodd and Reuben Dennis were 
•chosen delegates. In May of this year the association established The Amend- 
ment Herald, and by other means essayed to educate the people in temperance 
affairs, carrying the question so far as to win 3,054 votes for the amendment, 
against 2,058 recorded for maintaining the evil to which they were opposed. 

The Women's Christian Temperance Association was organized March 13, 
1883, and reorganized May 2. 1S85. The names of original members are 
Madams L. T. Medburv, F. L. Chadwick, A. Corwin. F. M. Blodgett, R. 



272 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Kerns, B. F. Wright, C. L. Douglas, E. J. Bush. J. G. Strong. S .J. Gifford, 
T. A. Morrison, K. E. Kidder. Charles Leemler, C. A. Bnrdiek. M. L. Georgia, 
Emma Gifford. E. P. Hubbell, E. Sterrett and M. D. Bush. Mrs. L. T. 
Medbury was president of the old society. After reorganization Mrs. H. 
Hamlin presided, and next Miss S. A. Scull. The present president is Mrs. 
T. VY. Chandler. The first corresponding secretary was Mrs. T. A. Morrison, 
with Mrs. F. L. Chadwick, recorder. Since reorganization Mrs. Morrison. 
Mrs. Bogiseh. Mrs. E. Richardson and Mrs. Chadwick have held the secre- 
tary's position. The officers elected in July, 1889, are Mrs. D. L. Forsyth. 
president; Mrs. E. «F. Chandler, vice-president; Mrs. M. E. Richmond, 
recording secretary; Mrs. Esther Keefe. corresponding secretary: Mrs. M. A. 
Backer, treasurer. Vice-presidents in churches: Mrs. A. T. Palmer, 
Methodist: Mrs. B. F. Wright. Baptist : .Mrs. A. F. Brown. Episcopal. Su 
perintendeuts: Mrs. Martha Chadwick. literature: Mrs. M. A. Backer, heredity; 
Mrs. B. F. Wright, soldiers and sailors: Mrs. Esther Keefe. jail and alius 
house: Mrs. D. L. Forsyth. Mrs. M. E. Richmond, assistants jail and alms- 
house. Delegates to county convention : Mrs. Martha Chadwick. Mrs. Esther 
Keefe. Alternates: Mrs. A. T. Palmer. Mrs. E. F. Chandler. 

The I. O. G. T. was organized in January. 1871, with S. B. Sartwell, 
Anna Potter, H. S. Sartwell, M. L. Armstrong. J. C. Bard. L. O. Chadwick. 
R. D. Hays, E. V. Chadwick. L. S. Bard. D. C. Young, Mrs. A. E. Taylor. 
B. Downey and G. Corwin filling the offices of the lodge. 

The Young Women's Christian Temperance Union is one of the new addi- 
tions to the ranks of temperance workers. Mrs. W. P. Burdick is president, 
with Miss Lydia Burlingame, secretary. 

TheC. M. B. A. elected the followingnamed officers for 1890: Chancellor. J. 

F. Rooney; president. Morris Mulvehill; first vice president, James Lynch; sec- 
ond vice-president, Peter Conely; recording secretary. Ed. Obertrifter; assistant 
recording secretary, James A. McKean; financial secretary. Daniel Bacon; 
treasurer, Dennis Quinlisk; marshal, Thomas O'Brien: guard, William Cov- 
ley; representative to Grand Council, John F. Rooney; alternate, T. H. 
Purtle; trustees (two years), J. F. Rooney, P. Conely. 

On July 18, 1875. the St. Elizabeth's Total Abstinence Association was 
organized. 

The Knights of St. Martin and the Iron Cross are presided over by Dwight 
Waller, with Fred Gallup, scribe, and Rev. J. H. McCandless. warden. 

The McKean Countv Musical Convention held its first session in February. 
1875, with C. S. Diffen. president; J. W. Hilton, Dr. E. A. Van Scoy and T. 
J. Campbell, vice presidents; Albert DeGolier, secretary; and Loyal Ward, 
i reasurer. 

The Equitable Aid Union is presided over by Lucius Rogers, with VY. H 
Knight, secretary. 

Smethporl Lodge 1S2. A. O. U. W.. was instituted August 19, 1880, with 

G. Lyman. S. V. Godden. H. L. Burlingame, W. O. Congdon. George B 
Brownell, W, F. Specht, Frank Kerns. S. W. Pattison and S. G. Bush, hold 
ing the respective offices. At the annual election in December H. L. Burlin- 
game was chosen master. 

The Wild-Cat Base Ball Club was organized at Smethport in May, 1873, 
with A. W. Colegrove. president; Henry Biever, vice-president; M. L. Ann 
strong, treasurer; B. T. Downey, secretary. The directors were Robert Wol 
nis. ('. A. Burdick and Patrick MeLea. 

Hotels. — About 1822 the first regular hotel was complete. 1 bj Willard. 
whose wife carried on the house in 1826. Some short time after came Squire 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 273 

Crow from the Siunemahoning country to compete with the Willard Hotel. 
The house which he erected occupied the site of the Bennett House. This last 
named hotel was erected in 1851 by O. E. Bennett. This house, and the 
Haskell store, built in 1857 by B. D. and Henrv Hamlin, were destroyed by 
lire in May. 1882. 

In January. 1847, O. R. Bennett petitioned the court to open an inn at 
his house in Smethport. This petition was signed by Edward Hartnett, O. A. 
Holmes, B. D. Hamlin, Ferd. Hamilton, VV. F. Ormsby, O. R. Bennett, Nathan 
Barrett, J. B. Taylor. Gideon Irons, Adam Brockham, W. F. Young and N. 
W. Goodrich. 

Mr. Williams, at whose house the judges and officers of the court made 
their home for years after 1826, came about 1822. when John Keating Williams 
was born as the first white child of the settlement. Squire Williams had many 
of the pioneer's experiences. On one occasion he was making lard from a hog 
killed for the purpose, and left this lard in an iron kettle to render during the 
night. Later there was heard a terrible racket in the cellar, and the Squire, 
descending, discovered a huge bear with his head trapped in the kettle. The 
Squire had little difficulty in killing " bruin. ' ' The late Mrs. Asa H. Cory remem- 
bered this event. 

Rockwell House was built in 1880-81, by S. J. Rockwell, who conducted it 
for a few months; C. W. Dickinson followed, then H. S. Sartwell. John Hussey 
carried on business here for two or three years, when the property was bought 
by H. B.Vincent, who changed the title to Chautauqua House, and conducted it 
for three years, when J. L. Thomas became proprietor. 

The Wright House, built in 1875. is modern in arrangement and manage 
ment, and is generally credited with being one of the first-class hotels of this 
section of the State. 

The Grand Central Hotel building, begun early in 1880 by Andrew Reilly, 
was completed in June, 1881. The intention of Mr. Reilly was to make it one 
of the finest hotel buildings in the northern part of the State, and in carrying 
this intention forward he gave to Smethport a house 67x82 feet, containing 
sixty-two rooms fitted with all modern improvements and elegantly furnished. 
The plans were drawn by S. A. Bishop, assisted by Mr. Reilly. The latter 
superintended the mason work. The building cost $40,000 and was opened 
by Mr. Reilly June 22, 1881. Gen. Hammer, of the Bennett House, leased 
the building soon after, and after two years H. S. Sartwell conducted the house. 
In the year 1883 the property passed into the hands of Mrs. A. N. Taylor, 
from whom the popular Frank N. Taylor leases the house. The lessee and his 
chief clerk, Ham Hill, conduct this hotel on modern principles. 

Banks. — In the history of Bradford City the story of the old McKeau 
County Bank is told. It was established in 1857, and in opposition to the de- 
sire of many of the local stockholders Bradford was fixed upon as its head- 
quarters, which action led to legal proceedings to change headquarters to 
Smethport. 

The Hamlin Bank may be said to date back to 1862. Since that year Henry 
Hamlin has been the recognized leader of the banking business at the county 
seat, if not in the county. His store office was the bank office, and drafts of . 
exchange, as well as loans, were negotiated in much the same form as at pres- 
ent. In 1874 he retired from mercantile life, and established a banking office 
over the old Hamlin store, later known as the Haskell store. In 1880 S. C. 
Townsend was employed as cashier. After the fire of May, 1882, the office 
was in B. D. Hamlin's office, and in 1885-86 in the room now occupied by 
Wells' drug store until the present building was completed in January, 1887. 



274 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



It is one of the best finished buildings of its size in the State, and fully 
equipped for banking purposes. The cost, of this ornamental pile was $15,000. 
In February, lNSy, Moss M. Coleman took the position of assistant cashier and 
book-keeper. The financial condition of this house July 8, 1889, is shown as 

follows: 



Dr. 

Due to Banks $ 585.63 

Deposits 496,741.60 

Exchange 782.69 

Profit and Loss 108,891 L6 

Interest and Discount 19,380 21 



si;-.t,::si ;;:, 



Cr. 

Due from Banks and Bankers. .$ 43,64'i 16 

Discounts 553,214.44 

Stocks and Bonds 11,750.00 

County (inter 4,5! 

Cash 12,339 18 

Expense B40 2' 



$626,381.35 

The McKean County Savings Bank was chartered in February, 1872. A. 
N Taylor, V. P. Carter. J. C. Backus, J. E. Butts. Jr.. J. K. Chadwick. J. F. 
Gallup and D. C. Young being incorporators. This banking company was 
never organized. 

Water and Gas Systems. — The beginning of Smethport's water Bystem 
dates back to 1874. when the commissioners purchased a spring lot and con 
nected the spring with the jail by means of a small pipe. E. V. Chadwick 
seemed the use of thesurplns water for $10 per annum and had a pipe e\ 
tended from the main pipe to his dwelling, but the supply being limited the 
contract was rescinded. The Smethport Water Company was incorporated in 
April, 1881, with thirty-seven stockholders. Henry Hamlin held twenty-four, 
Byron D. Hamlin ten, W. J. Colegrove and D. R. Hamlin five shares each. 
The works were completed within the year. 

The Smethport Gas Company was incorporated September 20, 1881, with 
('. A. Backer. E. L. Keenan. Robert H. Rose. David Sterrett, Leroy Tabor 
and L. J. Backer, directors. In January. IS',10. the following named officers 
were chosen: C. P. Byron, president; H. McSweeney, secretary; A. B. Ann 
strong, treasurer: and they, with 1\. H. Rose and W. D. Gallup, directors. 
The gas well on the Eben Gallup farm was opened in January, 1890. 

Floods and Fires.- — The rains of May 81 and June 1, 1S89. swelled the 
tributaries of Marvin and Nunundah creeks and raised these streams far above 
all high-water marks of previous floods. The citizens of Smethport emerged 
from their homes Friday morning to find the low lands everywhere covered 
with several feet of water, while the rain still fell in torrents. Some residents 
of Fast Smethport were forced to take refuge in the second stories of their 
buildings, and anchor their houses to neighboring trees. The only way to 
reach the depot was by means of a boat. The railroads were undermined and 
damaged in many places, and traffic was suspended for several days. The 
bridge on the poor-farm, which was built at the expense of the county, was 
swept away, and Gilford's upper dam was damaged, necessitating the suspen- 
sion of work. 

In the destruction of G. W. White's house (two miles southwest of Smeth 
port I in March. I^.Y_'. a three-year-old son was burned to death, and the father 
severely burned while trying to rescue the boy . . . . The Smethport fire of 
March 24, 1868, destroyed the Astor House block, property of William Haskell. 
A. N. Taylor's store. Miss Holmes' building, and the barns, all valued at $40, 

000 and insured for $19,000 The Smethport tire of May. 1882, originated 

iii the Bennett House, destroying Haskell's large store building on the other 
side of the street, the banking office of Henry Hamlin in that building, the 
Bennett House and sterrett & Rose law office. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 2 1 1> 

Miscellaneous. — The Srnetbport Cemetery Society was chartered in 1863 on 
petition of S. C. Hyde, C. K. Sartwell, L. R. Wiener, Miles Innis and W. A. 
Williams. 

The question of building a plank road from Clermont to Olean was pre 
sented to the people of McKean county in November. 1849, by O. J. Hamlin. 
He estimated the number of acres of coal land in the county at 10,000, and 
stated that the selling price ranged from 11.50 to S3 per acre. In less than 
two years after this proposition was made the Smethport & Olean Plank Road 
Company organized (June 21, 1851), with S. Sartwell, president: Henry Ham 
lin, secretary; William K. King, treasurer: R. Phelps Wright, G. Irons. Han 
som Larrabee, Dr. McCoy and J. W. Prentiss, directors. Railroads now follow 
this route, the McKean & Buffalo Road being practically completed to Smeth- 
port in 1875, and pushed thence to the mines. In 1889 the road was contin- 
ued from Clermont to Johnsonburg in Elk county. 

Smethport has celebrated the anniversary of national independence for 
fifty years. As if to emphasize this fiftieth celebration, the Fourth of 1889 
was a day especially prepared for festivity. From a late hour on the evening 
of July 3 to the dawn of next day rain poured down in torrents to moisten the 
parched earth. Early on the 4th the streets were rolled smooth, and before 
noon were in excellent shape for the parade, the sunbeams giving token that 
old Sol himself was pleased with the intentions of the people. The procession, 
which was the feature of the day, was composed of the following well-equipped 
bands, hose companies, etc.: Marshal, J. M. McElroy, and aids; Smethport 
Band; McKean Post 347, G. A. R., and guests; Dr. Freeman, commanding 
second division, and aids; Gorton's Gold Band; J. Gorton Hose No. 1. Friend- 
ship, N. Y. ; Eldred Band; Mountaineer Hose No. 1. Emporium; Forest Band; 
Citizen Hose No. 2, Emporium; Bolivar Cornet Band; Citizen Hose No. 2, 
Bolivar, N. Y. ; Srnethport Hose No. 1; president of the day and speakers in 
carriages. 

The exercises in the court-house opened with music by the Smethport Band. 
E. L. Keenan. president of the day, delivered the address of welcome, and at 
the suggestion of the sheriff, extended a general invitation to visitors to share 
the hospitalities offered by the citizens. Rev. T. W. Chandler delivered an 
excellent prayer; Capt. Rogers read the "Declaration."' and W. J. Milliken, 
of Bradford, delivered the oration — which was eloquent as well as historical. 
At night the festivities were continued, one of the features being a merry 
march from East Smethport to the court-house square, lead by the Eldred 
Band. The hose companies, without an exception, presented a handsome 
appearance, and the music rendered by the different bands mentioned was of a 
high standard. 

The history of the Keating, the Bingham and the Ridgway lands in this 
county is related on other pages. Smethport has been for years the Mecca 
of land hunters, as there the agents of the great estates ultimately congregated 
and established their offices. Robert C. Simpson, the general agent of the 
Bingham estate, resides at Wellsboro, Penn. Robert H. Rose was the first agent; 
W. B. Clymer had charge of the estate until Mr. Simpson was appointed, dur- 
ing the war. Robert H. Rose is attorney for the estate and local agent at 
Smethport. Much of the land is leased, and this, with the unseated lauds, 
aggregates over 40,000 acres in McKean. and an equal area in Potter county. 
Smaller areas of lands belonging to the other proprietors are still unsold. 

East Smethport may be said to date back to the establishment of the Ex- 
tract Works at that point. Shortly after the large buildings were erected the 
place began to assume the features of a village, and with its railroad commun- 



276 HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

ication would be a strong contestant for the business center, had it any one of 
the physical advantages possessed by the old town. The ground is low and 
marshy, and in seasons of heavy rain subject to the overflow of Nunundah 
creek. Opposite the Western New York t V Pennsylvania depot is the planing- 

mill of Bush & Mcintosh, near by the Bottling Works, and in the vicinity the 
Extract Works. On the corner of Main and Iiailroad streets is the store and 
post-office building of James M. Tracy: below is the large store building oi 
Stickney, Bell & Co. The Exchange Hotel is conducted by John H. Sower-, 
a lew rot- westward of this hotel is the Sherwood grocery store, and opposite 
it the meat market of J. H. Stull. The English Protestant Episcopal Chapel 
i- near the bridge, and across the creek, near the mouth of Marvin creek, the 
Brai of a series of saw-mills on the latter stream is found. A number of small 
dwelling houses, occupied 1>\ Swedish workmen and their families, are scat 
tered here and there, all forming the nucleus of what enterprise may convert 
into a large business town. 

There is no history of failure attached to Smethport. The men who came 
here to build up a prosperous community knew no such word as fail, and con 
sequently the story is one of success following perseverance, tolerance and 
intelligence. To the wisdom and policy of John Keating, who selected this 
location, much is due, but without the pioneers the place might be still in the 
wilderness, as it would undoubtedly be still comparatively primitive withoui 
the modern pioneers of commercial and professional progress. To the latter 
I he achievement of placing Smethport above all other towns in the district, in 
beauty and cleanliness, and equal to ain in modern conveniences, is due, and 
to their enterprise and virtues must be credited her substantial business and 
social life. 



CHAPTEK XVI. 

LAFAYETTE TOWNSHIP. 



loi kaphy— Minerals— Oil Wells— Coal Mines and Companies— Popu- 
lation— Election in Febkuaky, 1890— Resident Tax-Payers, 1843-44— 
St \te Road— Stores— Disasters and Fires— Miscellaneous. 

LAFAYETTE TOWNSHIP occupies almost the west half of the center of 
the county. It is distinguished by three great plateaus or table lands: 
the Lafayette, in the center, extending from the southwest to northeast five 
miles, and attaining a width of two and a half miles north- of Lafayette 
corners; the Alton, east and southwest of the East branch, extending into 
Bradford, Keating and Hamilton townships, being eleven miles long in its 
southwest course, and live miles wide in a line north of Alton, or from Craw- 
ford's to the east fork of Three Mile run: the Marshburg. west of the east 
branch of the Tuna, and east of the west branch, extending southwest to the 
valley of the Kinzua. one branch running into the center of Hamilton township. 
which forms the divide between Chapp^l fork on the north. Turnip run on 
the east, and the Kinzua on the south. The greatest length is twelve miles, 
from a point west of Custer, through Marshburg to Union run. At Lafayette 
corners the elevation is 2.143 feet above the ocean; at Marshburg. '1 Ids feet: 
the divide between Winter Green and Turnip runs is 2,165 feet; at Buttsville, 



>' " > 







\ 






^%^^£^^ 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 279 

1,998 feet; at Alton, 2,072 feet; on creek at Big Shanty, 1,066 feet; at head 
of Two Mile run, 2.058 feet, and at Bingham's dry well, 1,673 feet. The dip 
of the rock in the sixth bituminous basin averages only twenty feet per mile 
to the southwest. Alton being in the central portion, the greatest dip occurs 
there, being fifty-eight feet between Bond Vein and that point, a distance 
of little over a half-mile. The lowest dip averages five feet per mile, between 
Marshburg and Lafayette. 

King & Co. 's well, the first at Big Shanty, showed oil sand at a depth of 
1,5 15 feet, or 127 feet above tide water; while in the Prentiss well, Lewis run, 
oil sand was struck at 227 feet above tide, or at a depth of 1,378 feet. 

The Clermont coal deposit underlies the slate, shale and sandstone capped 
peaks northeast and southwest of Alton, throughout the Lafayette plateau, 
and in the summit, southwest of Marshburg. where the cap rocks are deep, 
the coal is valuable, as in the old Davis mine, and in the old openings on the 
Newell. Bullock, Boot and Whitman lands, the bottoms of all of which rest 
from 2.130 to 2.145 feet above tide level. This deposit is generally separated 
from the Alton upper coal layers by Johnson run sandstone, the thickness of 
which ranges from fifty to sixty feet; but near Bond Vein a black and blue 
slate occupied this position; on the Bullock lands a hard sandstone, and on the 
Matthews' lands a sandstone, separated by a six feet deposit of red rock, 
rests on a twelve-inch bed of coal. The Alton deposit ranges from four to 
seven feet. It has been worked at Buttsville. Alton and Bond Vein. The 
latter mine was worked in 1877-78, by James E. Butts, for the Longwood Coal 
Company, giving three shallow beds above the bottom, third bed 2,034 feet 
above tide. The Malonv mine showed six to eight feet of bony coal near the 
roof, and Alton coal, in two distinct beds, before reaching the hard, sandy, 
fire-clay deposit. 

In July, 1863. the Lafayette Coal Company was incorporated, with William 
Cockroft of New York City, president. The Owen mine, near Buttsville. was 
opened years ago by Mr. Owen. In April. 1868, the Longwood Company — 
James E. Butts, E. Sears, I. P. T. Edwards, E. D. Winslow, G. P. Hayward, 
Lem. Shaw and W. F. Grubb, directors — began operations, 2,065 feet above 
tide level, on a solid two and one-half feet bench; but owing to its irregularity, 
work was abandoned. At James E. Butts' house the lower coal was found 
twenty-eight feet below the surface. In 1865 the Lafayette Coal Company 
began operations near Mr. Alton's log house, constructing a 280-feet slope to 
a point in the cannel and bituminous deposit, seventy feet below the level of 
of the opening. This and several other shafts were abandoned. On the Haga 
dorn and Armstrong lands and at the old Davis mine explorations were made 
years ago. 

The Seven Foot Knoll, on the Keating township line, was opened 2,053 
feet above tide level, and won its name on account of the four heavy coal 
benches discovered in a seventy-two-feet hole, the coal being overlaid by thin 
beds of carbonate of iron; while in Shaft No. 1, opened 2,083 above tide, 
270 feet southwest of the mouth of the drift, nodular iron ore takes the place 
of iron carbonate. In the vicinity several shafts were constructed, and the 
enterprise was carried so far by Allen Putnam, of Boston, as to explore near the 
old Butts saw mill, on Three Mile creek, at an elevation of 2,037 feet. The drill 
went through 113 feet, meeting only two small seams. 

Lafayette township had a population of 1,266 in 1880. Of this number 
seventy-three were residents of Buttsville. In 1888 there were 128 Repub- 
lican, 127 Democrat, 5 Prohibition and 12 United Labor votes recorded, a 
total of 272, which multiplied by five represents a population of 1,360. Fol 



•J.SO HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

lowing are the returns of the vote cast in Lafayette township in February, 
L890: For road supervisors, Peter Wagner (D.), 124; James Barnes. Jr. (D.), 
103; Walt. •)• Cassi.lv (R.), 131; Charles Harding (R. ), 95. For school directors. 
D. Kennedy (D.), 134; J. C. Cannon (D. i. 77: 1'. H. Freel (R.), 140; John 
Green (R. I, L25. For collector, J. H. Fleming (D.), 143; J. C. Haven (R. i. 
101. For town clerk, M. Ryan. Jr. (D. . 124; H. L. Sherwood (R.), 109. 
For constable, First District. W. W.Lenox (D. ), 102; Second District. Frank 
Sprague, 93. For auditors. James Donovan (D. ). 141; 11. McCarteu (D. ), 
150; J. C. Jours (H.i. 116; C. L. Milton (It.), 100. 

The resident tax-payers of Lafayette township in 1843-44, as certified by 
Jasper .Marsh, assessor, were Jane Armstrong, Abram and Mary Anderson. Al- 
bert and Rufus Beeman. Joe Brush, George W. Brown. Abram Brothwell, 
Andrew Cush, L. Davis. Allen, David and William Foster, William Grannis. 
Aaron Hagadorn, James Hoop. William Howard. Washington Higby. J. Ivei 
son. C. Leach. Jacob Lewis. Henry Luce. Jonathan, J. C. and Jasper Marsh. 
John Mulligan. Oliver Matthews. David Monteith. John Newton, William G. 
Presley. Job Poots, Lewis Ransom. John Shepley. Nathan and George Tenney. 
Zira Tobbs and William C. Webber. The total value of their property as 
assessed was $4,580, while the unseated lands w r ere assessed at §27,688. 

The east and west State road was laid out by Joel Sartwell. Hiram Payne 
and Jonathan Marsh through the center of McKean county in 1838, at a time 
when only four families. Joseph Brush. Nathan Tenney, Hoop and Anderson. 
resided in Lafayette, and two years before Taintor, Davis and Hagadorn settled 
there. 

Albert Beeman, who died near Mount Alton, in February, 1880, was cred- 
ited with being the discoverer of the coal beds about Altou ami Lafayette. 
For years he was king of the hunters of this county, and was also farmer and 
lumberman. 

Mary Anderson, who died at Anderson Station, on the Kinzua. in Decern 
ber, L889, was in her one hundred and third year. She settled there in 1836. 
and live years later her husband was frozen to death near Marshburg. Her 
son James is now seventy-seven years old. 

Mount Alton, the leading village of the township, contains a number of 
industrial establishments and the usual number of stores found in villages of 
its size. Chief among its industries are the Mount Alton Chemical Work-. 
McClain & Co.'s and Weaver & Droney's lumber factories, and J. B. Phillips 
saw mill, which give employment to many of the inhabitants. 

The Alton Chemical Works were established in October, 1887, at Bond Vein, 
with twelve retorts, and had contracts for all the acetate of lime and wood alcohol 
that could be produced up to 1888. The acid works were destroyed by lire in 
March, L889. The llames spread through the spacious building — the dimensions 
of which were 200x175 feet . — aud in a short time it was reduced to smoulder- 
ing ruins. The loss on the building and contents is estimated at $15,000; in- 
surance, $6,000. The Alton Chemical Company is composed of J. C. Greene- 
wald, A. L. Wyman, Sterns & Milligan of Bradford, ami J. W. Beacom and 
D. Hilton of Alton. No time was lost in re-establishing this important manu- 
facturing concern. In July, 1889, George Beaumont was appointed post 
master at Alton. 

In tho fall of 1866 Newcomb£ Hagadorn established their store at Alton, 
and in March, 1867. L. S. Hard and A. N. McFall opened their hotel (which 
was burned afterward), and a daily mail service to Smethport established. 

Kinzua Lodge No. 142, 1. O. O. F.. the leading secret association of Mount 
Alton an 1 neighborhood, elected the following named officers in December, 



HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 281 

1889: N. G., George H. Graff; V. G., C. D. Tenny; Sec. J. S. C. Gra- 
ham; Asst. Sec, Simon Crites; Treas., J. M. Park; W., F. Aldrieh; Con., 
H. L. Sherwin; O. G., P. A. Evarts; I. G., C. Harding; E. S. to N. G., M. 
Quinu; L. S. to N. G., T. Elmore. 

Alton Encampment, Knights of St. John and Malta, at Alton, was organ 
ized in 1S88. 

The cyclone of September 28, 1884, swept away six houses, as well as the 
new Methodist church building at Alton. In April, 1886, thirty Italian laborers 
found themselves imprisoned in the Erie Railroad Company's burning con- 
struction shanty at Alton. Twenty-four men escaped only to witness the roast- 
ing of six companions, whose lives went out with the blaze. 

The Mount Alton tragedy of September 26, 1889, resulted in the death of 
Mrs. Isabel Quinn. Her husband, J. H. Quinn, a Scotch-Irishman, was the 
murderer, and his insane jealousy the cause. A coroner's jury found in accord- 
ance with the facts. The murderer was taken to jail at once, but during the 
eveninc he wove a rope out of his large silk handkerchief and some time after 
3 o'clock on the morning of the 27th hanged himself in the cell. 

The post-office of Lafayette was discontinued in November, 1872, owing to 
the resignation of the postmaster, but was soon after restored. 



CHAPTER XVII. 

LIBERTY TOWNSHIP— BOROUGH OF PORT ALLEGANY. 

Liberty Township Topography— Geology— Coal Measup.es and Mines- 
Oil Well— Eakly Settlers, Etc. — Resident Tax-Payers, 1836-37 — 
Early- Stores— Population— Officers Elected in February, 1890— 
Churches— Cemetery— Fires. 

Borough of Port Allegany Introductory— Canoe Place— Pioneers. 

Etc.— Population— Fires and Floods— Municipal Matters— Industries 
—Banks— Cemetery Association— Hotels— Churches— Pi iblic s, iiools— 
Societies, Associations. Etc. 

LIBERTY TOWNSHIP stretches along about half of the eastern line of the 
county. It is the gateway to the Sinnemahoning, as well as to the upper 
waters of the Allegheny, northwest of Coudersport. This river enters the 
township at Burtville, five miles above Port Allegany, and flowing northwest 
exits in the center of the west half of the north town line (the lowest elevation), 
about three and one-half miles below the town, a mile and one-half below the 
mouth of Two Mile creek, and three and one-half miles below the confluence 
of Lillibridge creek, which flows from the northeast corner, as well as Coleman 
creek, above Port Allegany. Allegheny Portage creek (which rises across the 
line, near the head of the Sinnemahoning portage) joins the parent river just 
above the Port, and this receives several streams from the summits of Norwich, 
such as Comes creek, as well as a few short streams from the borders of Pot- 
ter county. For altitudes the township may claim a part of Prospect hill, the 
peak of which (2,495 feet high) is in Keating township; a mile east of that 
hill the height is 2,415 feet, gradually falling to 1,800 feet as Skinner creek 
is approached; near Keating depot the altitude is 2,400, although at the depot 



282 H1ST0KY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

■mh L.876 feet; at Liberty 1,641, at Port Allegany 1,477, and at Sartwell 
1. 1*17 feet. The rock exposures show 890 feet, of which 190 form coal meas- 
ures and c inglomerate, 250 to 300 Mauch Chunk and Pocono, 300 red Cat- 
kill, and 100 Chemung. In the center of the Skinner creek coal region the 
highest stratum is found, Kinzua creek sandstone, at an altitude of 2, 140 feet. 
In the year L855 Seth A. Backus opened two coal beds here, finding eighti en 
or twenty inch benches forty feet below the surface and below a nine to twelve 
inch deposit of iron ore, which showed fifty-six per cent of metal S. II 
Barretl also opened a mine here, finding a twenty. eight-inch seam of good 
coal six feel below the surface. In the vicinity of the Backus bed Thomas 
Petturick found a four and one-half feet vein of cannel coal in 1856. From 
Porl Allegany to Comes creek summit the soil is red: also to the head of the 
Lillibridge and up Two Mile run. 

The oil well at Sartwell was drilled 723 feet in ls77. but abandoned. In 

July, l ss 7. the work of drilling the gas well at Port Allegany was commet I 

on the Dolley hinds. This well was bored 2, t 11 " feet, but without the desired 
result, although sufficient to supply light and heat to a section of the borough 
was obtained. 

In 1788 a party of immigrants came up the Susquehanna and Sinnemahon 
ino to Emporium in canoes, left their barks there and crossed the portage on 
foot, making a road hither and camping hen' beyond the river, on what in later 
days was known as the W. J. Davis farm. E. Fitch, who contributed much 
valuable history to the pages of the Reporter, is inclined to believe that this 
same party made the first settlement at Franklin, Venango county. The first 
road from Canoe Place to Smethport crossed the river at Red House, thence 
by the mouths of Skinner and Portage creeks across the flats: thence up the 
hill and along the ridge to Nunundah creek, where it crossed another road at 
Horace King's corners. Samuel Curtis is credited with cutting this road. In 
1MI Gideon Irons was employed to cut a wagon-road from the Port to Larra- 
bee fears before this a road was cut through and regular culverts built, but 
at the period of building the Turtle Point mill it was hid under fallen trees or 
underbrush, and the culverts disappeared in decay. 

In 1822 the first bridge in this township was erected across the Allegheny 
by Judge Nathan White, who resided on Marvin creek, four miles from Smeth 
port. This structure was near Davis' Red House, and up to 1839 some por 
tions of it were visible. Daniel Stanton's still-house was near this bridge. 

The mill erected in 1815, where the Daniel Clark mills stood in 1876, was 
the joint property of Obediah Sartwell. W. W. Whitney. Benjamin Burt and 
David Burt. In 1820 Maj. Lyman purchased the concern, and sold it to 
Daniel Brooks in 1823. This Brooks erected the first grist-mill in 1824, but 
in 1827 ne Bold the old saw-mill as well as the new mill to William .Moore, 
who in turn sold it to Sartwell A; Arnold in 1835. Three years later they sold 
to Coats & McKee, but, through foreclosure, resumed ownership in 1841, and 
then sold to Barnaby Brothers, who, after establishing a pail and sap bucket 
Eactorj there, had to give up the property. N. L. Dike then purchased from 
Sartwell & \inold m 1844, who sold to A. M. Benton in 1845. He continued 
the industries until 1869, when Daniel Clark became owner. 

The first farmer was David Burt, who cultivated lands where George Mc 
Dowell settled in 1833. Obediah Sartwell owned the farm where Seth Haekett 
settled in 1835, and where he resided until his removal to Emporium, about 

1869, while Benjamin Burt, one of the pi ers, resided here until his death. 

February 28, 1876, in his ninety seventh year. The old bain belonging til \\ 
1 Davis in 1876, near the cheese fact >ry, was built in 1816 by Benjamin Burt 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 283 

and Daniel Stanton, and tbe oldest dwelling house, coming down to centennial 
year, was that in which Owen Coyle resided. William Moore, one of the old 
owners, being accidentally killed at Cincinnati in 1844. 

The first mill on the Portage was that built in 1838 by Luke. John and Har 
ve\ Gibson. At that time the family of Horace Barnaby was the only one on the 
Portage. D. Cornelius and Stephen Rowley operated for some time, until S. 
A. Backus purchased it. The old mill was burned, but rebuilt for Jacob Coss 
in 1852 by Nathan Boylan. In 1853 steam machinery and a circular saw v\ere 
intioduced the first time in this township, but in 1856 Mr. Coss removed t.. a 
point below Olean. intending to use the water-power there. The building 
was burned soon after, but a new mill was erected by Fordyce Lawton, who 
sold to J. Campbell, who sold to A. L. Wright, the owner in 1876. In L849 
David Cornelius and S. S. Lillibridge built the second mill on the Portage, 
which, in 1873. became the property of L. H. Dolley. J. M. Grimes built 
the third mill near Liberty depot, which, in 1869, became the property of Ira 
Weir. 

Horace Barnaby. A. P. Barnaby and one Upton were the first settlers on 
this creek, having opened their farms in 1S30. In 1833 Philander Read and 
Elisha H. Bent were road supervisors. In 1866 John Tallamadge built his 
mill, later the property of the Goodyears. A. S. Arnold & Co. built the first 
lath-mill in 1852; A. M. Benton the first shingle-mill in 1855, and John G. 
Hall the first sash and blind factory in 1N66-67. The records of survey around 
Canoe Place in 1811-12 mention Conrad's mill and Hitt's place, and Robert 
Gilbert's and John Bell's lots on the Oswayo. In 1817 John King and E. B. 
Foster surveyed lots on the Portage branch, above Kingsville. near the Straw- 
bridge lands, and at other places. In ISIS surveys in the Rensselaer Wright 
neighborhood were begun; mention is also made of Jonathan Moore's lot and 
of Isaiah Tyler's lots. 

The resident tax-payers of Liberty township in 1836-37 were Ralph P. 
Andrews. D. Allard, Henry Bryan, Elisha H. Bent, Dan. Bellows, H. and A. 
P. Barnaby, J. C. Coleman (now living, saw mill owner), Horace Coleman. 
Pete Corsaw, Levi Coats. Hiram Coon, Edward Cummings. John Chase, A. 
and S. B. Eastwood, John and Horatio Fobes, John R. and Sam Grimes, Eph 
raim Green. Seth Hackett. Lod. Lillibridge, Isaac and Harry Lyman, Moses 
Lucore (saw mill owner) Andrew Moore. William McKee, George McDowell. 
Solomon Sartwell, Sartwell & Arnold (saw-mill owners), Jacob Simcox, Hub- 
bard and Elisha Starkweather, Daniel Wright (a wheelwright) and B. H. Wil 
marth (blacksmith): William Moore was the assessor. 

A. M. Benton came into this township in 1846. where he purchased about 
3.0(1(1 acres of pine lands, and also the N. L. Dike mills above Port Allegany 
at Burtville. where Hubbard's steam mill now stands. In 1852 Mr. Benton 
found an old hunter on the Summit, living in a shingled house, who gave his 
leisure hours to making the spring rivulets flow north, south, east or west. For 
twenty-six years Mr. Benton continued the fine industry, sometimes employing 
100 men on the rafts and in the mills. After the pine era vanished he built a 
mill below Eldred (the same which is now operated by the Wolcotts) nineteen 
years ago, which, after thirteen years' use was destroyed, and a new mill w T as 
erected. In that mill he continued the hemlock industry for seventeen years, 
when he sold to the Wolcotts. 

A. S. Arnold died at Port Allegany April 1, 1874, aged sixty seven years. 
He came to the county in 1S33, opened a store at Smethport, moved to Canoe 
Place in 1836, and joined Solomon Sartwell in his lumber business. 

In Februarv. 1847. S. A. Backus had a store, and later H. Coleman was 



28J HI8T0BV OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

granted a tavern license. In February. 1848, A. M. Benton. L. Wells and 
Marvin were merchants, and later S. M. Russell. The merchants in 1852 
were Arnold, Davis & Medbery, Martin W. Barker (small grocery). A. M. Ben- 
ton and Johnson Slerozier (small store). 

In February, L885, Peter Brion, of Liberty township, killed a cranberry 
hear. This annual had long, thin legs, with a long sharp nose and red fur. 
In Ma\ H. Berfield and W. Burlingame captured four black bears in Wharton 
township, Potter County. 

Liberty township in 1880 had a population of 2,029, of which number 78 1 
were credited to Port, AllegaDy village. In 1888 the vote of the township, out- 
side Porl Allegany, was 146 Republican, ISO Democratic. 1 Prohibitionist, and 82 
United Labor, or a total of 365, which multiplied by five represents a popula 
tion of 1,825. The officers elected in February, 1890, are as follows: Super 
Mart Simar. Henry Lynch: justice of the peace. R. M. Dunbar; con 
stable. W. D. Thomas; collector. .John Acre; town clerk. W. II. Franklin: 
school directors, George Backus. H. It. Meeker; auditor. F. A. Fitch; judge 
of election. Samuel Grimes; inspectors, John O'Brien, George \V. Baxter. 

The Methodist Church of Liberty township was incorporated in February. 
L854, on petition of Samuel M. Hopkins. James R. Proctor. Nathaniel West. 
C. B. West. B. M. Pride. S. H. Barrett and J. F. Cone. 

The Grimes District Cemetery was incorporated in February. 1881, with 
Samuel Grimes, '/.. J. Sherwood. A. Ostrander and Lester Grimes, directors. 
Among the oilier stockholders were S. L. Strang, Buna Keeler, G. W. Wet- 
more, II. J. and Abel Eastwood, G. Amidon. D. VV. and J. 1{. Sherwood. C. 
Ostrander, A. Lewis. L. Burrows and A. I). Freer. 

F. H. Goodyear it Co.'s upper mill at Liberty, seven miles southeast of 
Porl Allegany, was destroyed in 1877. The loss was about $9,000 .... The 
George 1). Briggsisteam saw-mill at Liberty depot was burned in April. 1886— 
the second destroyed on that site. 

The Birch Grove Mills of H. Falmer are located two miles below Port 
Allegany. There, on August 5, 1889, was organized a branch of the W. C. T. 
V.. with Mrs. H. Palmer, president; .Mrs. X. Palmer, vice-president; Mrs. M. 
Robinson, corresponding secretary ; -Mrs. S. Proctor, recording secretary, and 
Mrs. L. Burleson, treasurer. 

The Allegheny River, Sartwell Creek and Fishing Creek Improvement 
Company elected the following named officers in November. 1889: C. E. Hub- 
bard, president; F. E. Rowley, secretary and treasurer; V. H. Arnold, E P. 
Dalrymple and C. E. Hubbard, directors, with F. L. Peck and ,). H. Steele 
directors of the Allegheny River Improvement Company. 

BOROUGH OF PORT ALLEGANY. 

The phenomenal growth within the past few years of this bustling and thriv- 
ing place has far surpassed even the most sanguine expectations. And this 
development is due not alone to the vast lumber districts and magnificent farm- 
ing country surrounding the place, or to its unlimited water-power privileges, 
but in a very large measure to the well-known enterprise of its solid business 
men. 

I 'mil about the year 1840 the point, which is now the site of Port Allegany, 
was called "Canoe Place." so named for two different reasons, as handed down 
by tradition. One is that it was the custom of the aborigines on the Atlantic 
-lope to move up the Susquehanna periodically to what is now Emporium, 
shelt it their canoes there, and march over the divide to the Uleghen) river al 
this point. Tl iher reason advanced is that a number of immigrants came 



HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 285 

up the Susquehanna river and across the country to this same point, where 
they erected rude huts and commenced the work of hewing out canoes. In 
the following spring there came a flood, and the party had to take to their 
canoes and hurriedly paddle or float away from the scene of danger. 

About the close of the first decade of this century pioneer Stanton came 
into this wilderness and settled on the river bank, where the Red House stood 
on the W. J. Davis farm. The pioneer was soon joined by another, Foster, 
and the beginnings of Port. Allegany were made. 

The first saw-mill was established by Daniel Stanton and Dan. Webber 
(six rods east of Arnold & Dolley's dam) in 1824. Five years later, Stanton, 
being sole owner, sold the concern to Gideon Irons, who, in 1832, sold to Solo 
mon Sartwell. In 1835 A. S. Arnold purchased an interest, and with Sartwell 
continued in business until 1849, when W. J. Davis and C. I. Medbery pur- 
chased Sartwell' s interests and became Arnold's partners. In 1869 this com- 
pany sold to F. H. Arnold, E. B. Dolley and C. L. Bellows, the latter going 
out in 1873. 

The first postmaster was Dr. Horace Coleman, who served from 1828 to 
1838. During the first few years it bore the name of Keating, then changed 
to Liberty, but on A. S. Arnold being appointed master in 1838 the present 
name was conferred. In 1841 William Moore was appointed. He was sue 
ceeded in 1843 by J. S. Barrett; he by E. Fitch, in 1847, and in 1849 Dr. 
Coleman, the pioneer postmaster, was appointed, keeping the office at his 
house. A short time after S. H. Barrett was appointed, but held the office 
only tbree months, when Elihu Starkweather became postmaster. William 
Wilkin succeeded him in 1853, and served until 1861, when Dr. B. S. Gould 
was commissioned. Within six months O. D. Coleman was appointed; and 
shortly afterward Orrin Vosburg, who held the office until succeeded by N. 
V. Jackson in 1865. In 1869 A. N. Lillibridge was appointed, and in 1873 
C. A. Larrabee, who served until succeeded in 1885 by W. J. Davis, the pres- 
ent postmaster. In April, 18N8, tun office became a presidential appoint- 
ment. 

The first school teacher at Port Allegany was Miss Eliza Manning, who 
taught in the Red House. In 1836 the first school-house was built near the site 
of the old Starkweather store of 1850. 

The old store building which stood near the old tannery was torn down by John 
Ford in 1875. It was erected about 1850 by Elihu Starkweather, and used 
by him for store and hotel purposes. Afterward it was successively occupied 
by Martin Barker, I. W. Bellows & Co., F. W. Tucker & Co., A. M. Benton, 
for whom T. McDowell was clerk. T. McDowell & Co., McDowell & Dollev, 
Arnold & McDowell, A. H. Medbery & Co., J. O. White & Co., A. F. Bard 
& Co., and lastly by the office of the Northern Tier Reporter. On the site is 
the residence of James Ford. 

The editor of the Reporter, reviewing the business of the town in Decem- 
ber, 1874, refers to L. H. Dolley's general store building as the oldest mer- 
cantile house, being established in 1850. The old building was erected by 
Johnson & Crozier, but in 1855 A. M. Benton purchased the house, completed 
the building and opened it that year. In 1860 or 1861 he sold the building 
to Dolley & Co. In 1850 A. S. Arnold, W. J. Davis and C. I. Medbery, 
opened the house, which was sold to T. McDowell & Co. in 1868. In 1869 
B. C. Gallup established his hardware house, followed in 1870 by A. F. Bard 
& Co., in the same line, and C. L. Medbery & Son, general merchants. 
Davis & Simar opened their dry goods house in December, 1871; Dr. G. H. 
Goltry, his drug store in 1873; R. B. Rhodes & Son, their furniture house the 



286 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

same year, while Dr. Hogarth and Charles Dolley's drug store. J. Demarest's 
tailor shop, J. W. Neefe's clothing store, Dalrymple & Humphries' coal and 
lumber yard, \Y. Hooker's grocery, ('. W. Bishop's bakery, P. A. McDonald's 
harness shop. A. C. White's book store. C. A. Larrabee's jewelry store. M. A. 
Lillibridge's clothing and shoe store, and Mrs. Sue Kenny's millinery store 
were all in existence in 1874. The Mulliu House on Main street, the Sart- 
well House near the railroad, L. B. Bishop and E. D. Slingerland's restau- 
rants, and Lillibridge's and Blackmail's meat markets were also here. 

The Chapin Tannery, built years ago. maybe considered the first manu- 
facturing industry of this district. A. M. Benton purchased the work in 
1857. He sold to J. O. White & Co. in 1800-61, who operated it until pur- 
chased by John Ford in 1869, and he conducted it until l^M. when work was 
discontinued. Barrett, Dolley & Co.'s sash, door and blind factory was estab 
lished in 1873. south of the depot; H. J. Barrett, was sleigh manufacturer: 
J. H. Sherrill operated the carding mill, and A. Crandell. the iron foundry. 
The Jewett & Keating Tannery was completed in the fall of 1874, after plans 
by Henry Jewett, and the dwelling houses were built for the company by 
Barrett & Dolley. The Hub factory was established in the "seventies." 

The population of Port Allegany in 1880 was 731. In 1888 there were 
115 Republican, 133 Democratic, 19 Prohibitionist, and 11 United Labor 
votes cast, or a total of 278 representing a population of 1,668. 

Recent tires have destroyed some of the houses named. The fire of June, 
1888, destroyed Bard. Dalrymple & Co.'s store: Attorney Colcord's office and 
Brandon & Dodd's insurance office. The tire of July. L889, swept away the 
Durfee photograph gallery owned by L. L. Lillibridge, and the latter' s bill 
iard hall and barber shop; Weiper Bros.' store, then unoccupied, Dolley & 
Roy's billiard hall, and Hallett's household goods and stock. 

The flood of May 31 and June 1, 18SU, introduced itself at Port Allegany 
by rushing down Mill street, tearing up side-walks, destroying gardens, and 
impeding travel- people living above the Mill street bridge being compelled to 
go over the hill to reach their homes. About 4 o'clock on the morning of June 
1. the boom of Arnold & Dolley, near the mouth of the Portage creek, burst 
asunder, and the logs were hurled with irresistible force through the mill yard 
of C. E. Grover. and thence among the houses, along the street, and across 
the Arnold flats to the river below. Several families were driven from their 
homes by the angry waters, and valuable property was torn up or carried 
away. 

Municipal Mutters. — The charter election for Port Allegany borough was 
held April 4, 1882. C. N. Barrett was elected burgess without opposition, 
receiving 129 votes; F. D. Leiner. L. H. Dolley, S. G. Peters, received almost 
unanimous votes for councilmen; C. E. \V right was elected justice: S. S. 
Lillibridge, high constable: W. M Royce, constable; C. R. Bard, auditor; K. 
Hanlon, poormaster; B. C. Gallup, assessor, with V. R. Vauderhule and A. 
H. Medbery. assistants; A. J. Hughes. C. A. Larrabee, F. P. Camp. A. B. 
Barnaby. M. C. Field and O. L. Snyder were elected school directors; ll.'E. 
Bellows, judge, and 0. Vosburg and E. B. Starkweather, inspectors of elec- 
tions. X. li. Bard was elected burgess in 1883, over P. R. Cotter: O. L. 
Snyder, in L884, with H. D. Helmer. justice: H. J. Burritt, in 1885; B. C. 
Gallup, in L886 87-88, with C. A. Larrabee. justice; W. L. Lillibridge. in 
L889, received 12s votes, and 0. E. Goldliagen 96 votes for burgess, and J. 
E. Kounseville 110. and 0. Vosburgh 108 votes for justice. In 1885 there 
were 104 votes for and 90 againsl the proposed water tax. 

The officers chosen in February. L890, are as follows: Burgess, George 



sg5?"^-> 




HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 289 

Weber; council. J. Dick. S. C. Sartwell; school directors. J. W. Kershner, W. 
H. Keeney; justice of the peace. William Roy; constable. M. T. Shurtz; col- 
lector, M. T. Shurtz; auditor. E. O. Durfee; judge of election. M. J. Dwyre; 
inspectors, R. E. Roy, Johu Carlson. 

Hose Company. — Star Hose Company No. ] was organized November 16, 
1885, and. unlike former lire companies, entered at once on a successful career. 
Since organization a State charter has been secured and Star Hose Company 
No. 1 now owns the building and equipment, and boasts of thirty-five active 
members. The president is J. V. Otto, with M. A. Lillibridge. vice-president; 
W. M. Holmes, secretary; N. R. Bard, treasurer; F. E: Rowley, foreman; C. 
W. Wagner and M. E. Hall, assistants, and B. C. Gallup, chief engineer; 
directors: F. E. Rowley, J. V. Otto, E. P. Dalrymple. W. W. Rinn and N. R. 
Bard. Star Hose Company No. 1 attended the State convention of firemen at. 
Carlisle in September, 1889. 

Gas and Water. — The Citizens' Gas Company was incorporated in May, 

1888, with F. H. Arnold. B. C. Gallup and H. E. Sturcke. directors. The 
company developed the gas reservoirs of the vicinity and gave to the borough 
the advantages which gas light and heat can alone give .... Gas Well No. 6, 
at Port Allegany, did not prove profitable, and was abandoned in November, 

1889. No. 7 was drilled in the spring of 1890. 

In 1885 a complete system of water- works was provided for the village 
by a stock company with a capital of $20,000, of which Thomas McDowell 
is president, F. P. Camp, secretary, and J. H. Williams, treasurer. The res- 
ervoir is one mile from the town, on Skinner creek. 200 feet above the 
borough, and is furnished by a pure mountain stream. The water is con- 
veyed to the city through a six-inch pipe. In case any damage should occur 
to this reservoir the company has another on the other side of town, called 
Smith's addition, which woidd supply the people's wants. 

Industries. — The Port Allegany Tannery had at the beginning a capacity 
of 90,000 hides. The grinding house, sixty feet square, had a capacity of fifteen 
cords of bark per day. Here was the Keystone mill. The leach room was 180x32 
feet; the three steam pumps were supplied by Blake & Co., of Boston. The 
boiler house is sixty feet square, supplied with four large Riter boilers and Hoyt's 
tan burning ovens. A brick chimney, twelve feet square at the base, is 116 feet 
high. The beam house and yard building are 92x180 feet, with an '' L '' sixty 
feet square. There are six sweat pits, each with a capacity of 200 hides. The 
dry house is 60x180 feet, five stories in height, with ten feet basement. During 
the summer of 1886 a building 54x72 feet was erected for a cooling house. It 
contains twelve large tanks, holding about 250 barrels each, in which the liquor 
is allowed to cool before being drawn on to the leather in the lay-away vats, to 
which it is conveyed through wooden pipes by gravity. Another building was 
erected during the year 1887, 60x126 feet, northwest of the boiler house, for 
the storage of hides. Here can be stored from 25,000 to 30,000 dry flint hides, of 
which large stocks are kept on hand. There are employed usually from ninety 
to 100 men in the various departments of tanning, and in the piling of the 
bark during the season. The men employed about the tannery live within a 
short distance, occupying some thirty houses belonging to the plant, as well 
as nearly as many more owned by the occupants. Not far from 1,000 acres of 
hemlock timber are annually denuded of bark to supply the needed product 
for thoroughly tanning the thousands of sides which are turned out each 
month during the year. No " bark extract " (so called) is used. Of course, 
so large an establishment must of necessity be a large patron of the railroads, 
and it is not unusual for the weekly freight bill to amount to $500, and some- 



290 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUKTT. 

times to more than double that amount. At the beginning of the year 1878 
the firm name was changed from Jewett & Keating to that of Root & Keating, 
which name still remains. Myron H. Paxson was superintendent and John 
Goodsell foreman till February. 1877, when they resigned and M. C. Field -was 
appointed superintendent and B. Kershner tannery foreman, who still hold 
the same positions. In the year 1881 Peter Sharp was appointed bark fore- 
man, and in 1SS5 George H. Kershner was appointed assistant tannery fore- 
man. Mr. Root, a resident of Buffalo, visits the town every two weeks, but 
beyond a general observation does not interfere with the management. To this 
company is credited much of the progress of Port Allegany. The members 
and managers are very liberal in their dealings; their cheerful methods of 
business, together with their active, earnest interest in local affairs, give them 
a high place in public estimation. 

The American Extract Company purchased lands, made many repairs and 
additions, and increased the working capacity of their manufactory twenty 
per cent during the fall of 1889. The works are owned by a Chicago com- 
pany, for whom B. C. Tabor, a stockholder, is manager. 

Arnold & Dolley, F. H. Rowley and A. X. Lillibridge are heavily engaged 
in the lumber business, as well as Y. It. Vanderhule, the latter also having in- 
terests in stone quarrying, etc. N. R. Bard of the firm of N. R. Bard & Co., 
successors to A. M. Benton & Co.. is extensively engaged in the lumber busi- 
ness at Roulette, Potter County. 

The Hall it Pelton planing and turning mill was erected in the fall of 18S9, 
the building being 28x76 feet and two stories in height. . . .Within the borough 
and a radius of a few miles are several important lumber manufacturing con- 
cerns. Portage creek, Keating and Shippen to the south, and Turtle Point, 
Sartwell and Larrabee to the north, are all tributary to Port Allegany. 

Banks. — The First National Bank was founded in April. 1888, with F. H. 
Arnold, Henry Hamlin, B. D. Hamlin. A. G. Olmsted, F. H. Root, B. C. 
Gallup. J. S. Rowley and A. J. Hughes, stockholders. The capital stock was 
$50,000. The office of this banking company is an elegant modern structure. 
The officers of the First National Bank for 1890 are F. H. Arnold, president; 
Henry Hamlin, vice president; J. S. Rowley, cashier: A. J. Hughes. F. H. 
Arnold, B. C. Gallup, C. A. Dolley. Henry Hamlin. B. D. Hamlin and F. H. 
Root, directors. 

A local board of the National Savings and Loan Association of Rochester, 
N. Y., was organized May '_'7. 1889, with the following named officers: Pres- 
ident, N. It. Bard; vice-president, J. H. Williams: secretary, A. .1. Hughes; 
treasurer, F. B. Watt-; attorney. Et. C. Bard. In 1890 C. C. Ward was elected 
secretary, and M. J. Colcord, attorney, with A. J. Hughes, N. R. Bard and 
R. ('. Bard, directors. 

Cemetery Association. — The Cemetery Association was organized in March, 
1852. Among the members were Aaron S. Arnold, John J. Abbey. S. H. 
Barrett, William Wilkins, T. W. Richmond. L. Lillibridge, Merrit Smith. 
Isaac Viner, R. E. and William Bellows. \\ illiam Simar, Aaron Smith. Harvey 
Manning, William Sherwood and P. Fean. On June 1<>. 1889, the following 
officers were elected: E. B. Dolley. president; C. A. Dolley. treasurer; C. H. 
('oh', secretary; And} Black, sexton; F. H. Arnold, truster. 

Hotels. — The Sartwell House, the leading hotel, with the Port Allegany 
House and the new hotel of A. .1. Connelly on Pearl street, form the principal 
hostelries of the town. The latter was built in October. 1889. 

Churches. -Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1S8C) a hunter named Foster 
came to Canoe Place and preached at the house of Lodowick Lillibridge. In 



HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 291 

April, 1S38, a class was organized with Levi and Sophronia Coats, Phebe 
Eastwood, S. S. , Nabby and Annie Grimes, Anna and L. Lillibridge. Jacob 
and Maria Simcox, Bets}' Bellows, A. P., Horace and Oretta P. Barnaby, Joel 
H. Rice. Saloma Cummings, members. Meetings were held in the " Old Red 
House" of Levi Coats, subsequently in the school-house, and later in the 
Union church house. In 1853 the members belonged to the Eldred mission of 
the Olean district, and in 1871 Port Allegany circuit was established. 

In a letter by I. Steele, dated August 13, 1874, it is stated that at the time 
a small scattered Methodist class existed here, attended irregularly by Elder 
Morris, of State Line, but the editor of the Reporter corrected this statement 
by showing that a church building which cost $3,500 stood here at the time, 
and was used by all Protestant denominations. 

The First Methodist Episcopal Church of Port Allegany, which is the same 
as that organized in 1836 with Rev. J. D. Wood, pastor, was incorporated in 
January, 1880, with Balthasar Kershner, William Grigsby, H. F. Dunbar, M. 
C. Field, James K. Moore and Fred and L. Meservey, trustees. The church 
house was erected in 1880 by Cotton & Sons of Olean. A. M. Benton donated 
three lots and $650 cash, while Mr. Root donated $1,600. Mr. Benton, with 
Messrs. Kershner, Field and Freeland, formed the building committee. Not- 
withstanding the liberal donations, the society owed large sums to Mr. Root 
and Mr. Benton for some time after the completion of the building. 

The Union Church, Port Allegany, was incorporated December 26, 1 367, 
on petition of A. S. Arnold, J. J. Abbey, E. B. Dolley, C. Dolley, W. J. 
Davis, J. C. Coleman, A. Fortner, William Sherwood, T. Mullin, William 
Simar, L. J. Gallup, J. K. Moore, E. Fitch. Peter Frederick, R. E. Bellows. 

F. H. Arnold, A. H. Medbery, V. H. Beoton, B. B. Burt, T. N. Peet, Charles 
Peet, J. G. Hall, Dennison Woodcock. J. Campbell, J. Tallmadge, Paul Hall. 

G. W. Nichols, J. Ames. A. Acre, J. S. Wert, F. M. Coleman, William Cole- 
man. L. M. Eastwood. W. A. Wright, X. N. Metcalf, Samuel Cole, H. Met- 
calf. A. Eastwood, O. D. and O. Vosburg. A. N. and S. S. Lillibridge, G. W. 
Manning, J. R. Proctor, W. Grigsby, W. P. and A. I. Wilcox, Horace Cole- 
man, and L. H. Dolley. The church was dedicated February 15, 1872. The 
total cost was $3,600, the hell being presented by A. S. Arnold. 

Universalists. — In December, 1874, Rev. B. Brunning came here to organ- 
ize a Universalist society, but the results did not warrant the building of a 
church house. 

Catholic Church. — The first regular services of St. Gabriel's Catholic 
Church were performed by Father Patterson in 1S75, and the congregation 
was formed April 30, 1876. Among the early members were Keron Hanlon, 
P. Moran, P. Brider, P. Kilday, Maggie Kilday, Sol. Leighton, J. Cook, M. 
Galligar, Joseph Galligar, A. Laumer, A. Sampur, M. Ward, C. Bishop. 
J. Conelly, Pat Kilday. John Kilday, Patrick Welch, P. Glenon, M. Mitchel, 
S. Ebelheir, Julia Ward and Thomas Mack. The secretaries of the church 
have been Dr. Rinu, James Galligar, R. Mulholland and A. Connelly; Matthew 
Snyder is secretary. The work of building was commenced in 1879 by Barrett 
Brothers, and the church was completed in 1880 at a cost of $3,000. The 
congregation numbers 300. The present pastor is Rev. Father Cosgrove. 

The First Regular Baptist Church of Port Allegany was incorporated in 
August, 1881, the signers of the articles being Dr. J. S. Stearns and wife, O. 
J. Rose and wife, James Steele and wife, Mary Steele and Francis M. Robin- 
son. AVhen the society was organized, on June 2, 1877, the above named, ex- 
cept the Rose family, were members, with Mrs. Teft and Charles H. Dodd. 
Rev. S. D. Morris was the first pastor, succeeded by Rev. Rose, Rev. Dodd. 



292 HISTORY' OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

and the present pastor, Rev. R. ('. H. Catterall. J. S. Stearns, F. M. Robin 
son and A A. Matthews have tilled the clerk's office successively, the tirst 
Darned being now clerk. The society of twenty-four members worship in 
the old Union Church building, which lias now been transferred to the Pres- 
byterians. Tin' Baptist Society proposes tn erect a house of worship on land 
I bj A M. Benton, marly opposite the Methodist Episcopal Church. 
The co-t is estimated at 13,500. 

The Congregational Society was organized May 7. 1877, by Rev. H. M. 
Higley, with .Mrs. G. C. Barrett. Lettie and Nellie Barrett, Mrs. M. A. Lilli 
bridge, Mrs. Eddy. Mrs. W. Hooker and C. \V. Wasson, members. 

The Free- Will Baptist Society of Port Allegany was incorporated in June. 
1883, with A. X. Lillibridge, William Pelton, John H. Eastwood. J. H. Burr 
and ('. C. Richardson, trustees. The names of J. Richardson. A. L. East 
wood and (). C. Griffin also appear as contributing members. 

The Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Society of Port Allegany was incorpor 
ated July 13, 1886 — O. Lindberg, X. J. Anderson. Benjamin Anderson and 
B. M. Johnson being the petitioners. 

St. Joseph's Protestant Episcopal Church was opened Jul\ 22, 1888, and 
DOW claims twenty-nine members. This church has been attended by Revs. J. 
II. McCandless, H. Q. Miller. Josephus Tragett. F. W. White and 0. L. Bates, 
present pastor. The property of the society is valued, at $2,000. The new 
church house was dedicated November L6, 1889. Work was begun during the 
pastorate of Rev. F. W. White. The property was transferred free of debt 
to a committee comprising Rector Bates. Dr. F. E. Watts. F. E. Rowley and 
S. C. Sartwell. 

The Presbyterian Society was organized at the house of C. E. Hubbard, 
December 10, 1889, with G. C. Farnsworth. president: George Weber, secre- 
tary; E. P. Dairy mple, treasurer; C. E. Hubbard, F. Gerwick. Mrs. Dalrym- 
ple, Mrs. Farnsworth. Mrs. Hubbard and Mrs. Weber, executive committee. 
Their first services were held in the Union building January 12, 1890. 

Jn January. 1890, the new Presbyterian society elected C. C. Ward. C. E. 
Hubbard and B. Both, elders; S. W. Smith (president I. E. P. Dalrymple 
(treasurer), !•'. Gerwick, Jr., G. C. Farnsworth and George Weber (clerk), 
trustees Later in January services were held in the Swedish church, and 
toward the close of that month a proposition to purchase the Union church 
bouse was entertained and the building purchased. 

Public Schools. — The public schools of Port Allegany are under the profes 
sorship of A. E. Barnes, who has been at the head of the schools several years. 
He is assisted by Miss Kdith Van Duzen (a graduate of the Genesee Normal 
School), who teaches the grammar school; Miss Ida Manay, the second inter- 
mediate: .Miss ( i race Sweeting, the first intermediate, and Miss Addie Neefe, 
the primary department. The schools have recently been graded, and a pre 
paratory course is now taught. About '275 pupils are enrolled. 

The Tort Allegany school board, elected in June, 1889, comprises C. It. 
Bard, president ; Thomas McDowell, treasurer; T. B. Day, secretary; with 10. 
B. Starkweather, C. E. Hubbard and C. H. Bergman. In July A. E. Barnes 
was employed as principal; Ida V. Manay, Grace M. Sweeting and Addie ('. 
Neefe. assistant teachers. 

Societies, Associations, Etc. — Liberty Lodge, No 505, A. I-', a A. M.. was 
constituted December 26, 1871, with the following members: George Goltrey, 
Miles Irons. II. .lav Barrett. F. H. Arnold, Thomas McDowell, C. H. Cole. E. 
B. Dolley. William Dunbar. A. L. Medbery, C. L. Bellows. The name- of 
the past master- are (i. H. (ioltrey. H. Jay Barrett. P. A. McDonald, C. H. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 293 

Cole, R. J. Mott, John Dick and James H. Williams, now acting master. The 
names of secretaries are Thomas McDowell, H. Jay Barrett, O. L. Snyder and 
C. W. Hooker, now acting secretary. The present number of members is 
fifty-four, and the value of the property $500. This lodge elected the follow- 
ing named officers for 1890: O. E. Goldhagen, W. M. ; Frank Eckert, S. W. ; 
C. H. Cole, J. W. ; T. McDowell, Treasurer; C. W. Hooker. Secretary; E. B. 
Dolley. C. H. Cole and B. Kershner, Trustees, and J. A. Williams. Represent 
ative. 

R. A. Chapter, No. 254 was instituted May IT. 1877. with the following 
named members: P. A. McDonald, F. H. Arnold. E. B. Dolley, A. H. Med- 
bery, E. P. Dalrymple, George M. Smith, Frank D. Simar and Nathan R. 
Bard. The names of past high priests are P. A. McDonald, G. M. Smith. 
Charles N. Barrett. C. R. Bard and O. L. Snyder, while the present high 
priest is E. P. Dalrymple. The secretaries have been E. P. Dalrymple, H. 
J. Barrett. O. L. Snyder, C. R. Bard, and the present secretary, J. H. Will- 
iams. There are thirty-two members, and the property is valued at $800. 

The Knights of Honor Lodge was organized October 25, 1879. under the 
name of Mountain Lodge. The names of original members are P. A. Mc- 
Donald. H. J. Barrett, C. A. Larrabee, P. R. Cotter. R. J. Mott, C. W. 
Hooker, William Hooker. A. Crandal. J. V. Otto, M. D.. M. A. Lillibridge, 
O. R. Coyle. William Dunbar, H. D. Helmer, James Doyle, S. L. Youngs. M 
M. Griffin. J. E. Chandler. P. A. McDonald was first dictator, and the pres 
ent dictator is W. C. Downs. C. A. Larrabee was first reporter, the present 
reporter being C. H. Bergman. There are nineteen members. The officers of 
the Knights of Honor for 1890, in the order of lodge rank, are C. C. Ward. D. 
M. Teater, M. A. Lillibridge, C. H. Bergman, Thomas McDowell. William 
Hooker. J. V. Otto, J. L. Ward, M. L. Shurtz and S. C. Sartwell. 

Laurel Encampment, No. 61, Knights of St. John and Malta, was organized 
April 7, 1887. The names of original members are F. E. Watts, M. E. 
Manning. F. Sehoonover. J. D. Ford, F. Allen, E. M. Fulmer, C. M. Good 
win, B.» M. Johnson. O. C. Wagner, Reene Wilson, P. J. Fleming, C. Fulrner. 
C. H. Bergman, O. E. Goldhagen, O. M. Johnson, H. Coleman, G. Reese, F. 
W. Weidman, F. H. Hall, E. A. Cole, T. H. Trous, W. L. Lillibridge, C. A. 
Lambert and W. D. Russell. The names of eminent commanders were W. D. 
Russell, C. H. Bergman and I. B. Baker. The names of the secretaries are 
O. M. Johnson, I. B. Baker, W. D. Russell and O. E. Goldhagen. The offi- 
cers installed April 11, 1890, in encampment order, are as follows: F.. H. 
Hall, C. M. Goodwin, T. H. Burleson, I. B. Baker, W. M. Holmes, C. H. 
Bergman, A. A. Abbev, S. L. Young, B. M. Johnson, Frank Sehoonover. 
J. G. Hall, M. A. Lillibridge. O. C. Wagner, J. B. Colcord, M. D., M. I. 
Sawyer, A. G. Irons, Frederick Gerwick. The present number of members 
is forty. 

In May, 1887, a tent of the K. O. T. M. was organized at Liberty, with 
Nathan Tronst, president, and Frank Hoover, secretary. The officers of the 
K. O. T. M., for 1890, in the order of tent rank, are F. Gerwick, J. W. Kersh- 
ner, M. Venus. I. E. Johnson, E. D. Sherrill, H. J. Wolcott, J. V. Otto, J. J. 
Gallagher, W. E. Pelton. S. A. Eastwood, A. Fairbanks, L. L. Hilliker and 
John Brown. 

Henry H. Metcalfe Post, 431, G. A. R., was organized May 15. 1884. with 
E. Horton, C. ; C. A. Larrabee, S. V. ; John Dean, J. V. ; C. N. Barrett, Q. M. : 
Dr. Hogarth, Surg. ; S. S. Steele, Chap. ; C. W. Wagner, O. D. , and Melvin 
Hall, O. G. Commander Wright, of McKean Post, presided. Young Metcalfe 
came with his parents to Port Allegany in 1857, enlisted in the Fifty-eighth 



29J HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Pennsylvania Infantry in August, 1862; was made prisoner at Fair Oaks; 
confined in the Confederate prisons at Richmond and Salisbury, and while 
returning with his mother died two miles north of Emporium. April 25, 
1865. The charter members were: C. N. Barrett. Forty sixth Pennsylvania; 
M. E. Hall, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania; C. A. Larrabee, Eighty fifth \ n 
York; "William Van Loon, First New York Dragoons; Chester Baker, Fifty- 
eighth Pennsylvania; A. S. Ames, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Pennsylvania; 
B. G. Bartle, Twenty-third New York; A. A. Goodwin, Fifty-eighth Pennsyl- 
vania; I. Studley. Two Hundred and Eleventh Pennsylvania: H. D. Hel- 
mer, Eighty-fifth New York; F. N. Hogarth. First K. R. ; S. Steele, One 
Hundred and Eighty-seventh Pennsylvania; I. B. Harrup. One Hundred and 
Ninety eighth Pennsylvania; Yates Anson. Fifty-third Pennsylvania: .loin. 
Dehn, First Minnesota; L. Burrows, One Hundred and Ninety ninth Penn 
sylvania; E. Horton, First New York Dragoons; R. S. Dexter, Seventy-sixth 
Pennsylvania; William Rauber, One Hundred and Eighty-eighth New York 
Volunteers; S. R. Semens, Two Hundred and Eleventh Pennsylvania; C. W. 
Wagner. First Light Artillery; Bufus Coombs, Seventeenth New York. The 
position of commander has been tilled, since Horton's time, by C. N. Barrett, 
B. G. Bartle and R. H. Camp. The two last named have served as adjutants, 
a position now well filled by E. F. Cornell. There are thirty r -five membi rs 
The officers of Metcalfe Post for 1890 are A. S. Ames, J. M. Matthew-. I 
Burrows, I. S. Fogle, A. A. Peling and J. F. Sharp, with C. C. "Ward and I. S. 
Fogle, delegates, and C. C. Ward, adjutant. 

Women's Relief Corps was organized February 15, 1887, with the following 
named members: Madams Flora Hogarth, Nancy Van Loon, Julia Helmer, 
Elizabeth Richardson, Jane Hall. Susan Baker. Ada Horton, Mary Steele and 
Misses Ina Richardson, Nora Fogle. Belle Fogle, Clara Steele. Nellie Clare, 
Belle Bartle and Lou Bartle. Mrs. Hogarth and Mrs. Van Loon have presided 
over this society, of which Mrs. Sarah Hooker is now president. Mrs. Rich 
ardson was first secretary, and Mrs. Lou Bartle is present recorder. There 
are nineteen members. 

The Port Allegany I O. G. T. was organized September 20, 1867, with J. 
K. Moore, W. C. T. Mrs. J. F. Shurtz, O. D. Vosburg, Misses Thompson, 
Wilkin, Dolley and Vosburg, Mrs. Lillibridge, W. D. Bellows, Mason Lilli- 
bridge, Izates Dolley and G. B. Fitch, were the officers. 

The Port Allegany Library Association was organized in February. 1875, 
with A. J. Hughes, president: E. P. Dalrvmple. secretary: A. B. Humphrey, 
Mrs. F. H. Arnold and Mrs. Thomas McDowell, executive committee. 

The High School Literarj Society, in March, 1890, elected the following 
named officers: President, William H. Catterall: vice-president, Grace M 
Sweeting; secretary, Alice Rowley; treasurer, Gretta Kinney; librarian, Edith 
Van Deusen. 

The International Fraternal Alliance was instituted at Port Allegany in 
No\einher. 1889, by J. B. Hargrave. It sets forth to pay its members the 
sum of §700 every seven years. M. J. Headley is speaker, S. J. Carlson, 
clerk, and W. H. Keeney. treasurer. 

The W. ('. T. U. elected the following named officers in December. 1889: 
Mrs. C. A. Larrabee. president; Mrs. G. C. Farnsworth. secretary, and Mrs. 
R. C. Bard, treasurer. 

The Young Women's Christian Temperance Union elected the following 
named officers June Id. L889: Mrs. J. S. Shaner, president; Delia Dolley, 
vice-president.; Alice Rowley, secretary, and Dora Dolley. treasurer ... .On 
July 18, 1889, the Loyal Temperance I n ion was organized by Miss Schoch, 
with I'.. Ma\ Bellows, leader. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 295 

The Port Allegany Musical Association was organized by S. W. Adams in 
August. 1876, with C. A. Larrabee, Mrs. Kate Cowdrey, S. W. Smith, Mrs. T. 
McDowell and H . J. Barrett, officials. 

The Business Men's Club was organized in November, 1889, with F. E. 
Rowley, president; B. C. Gallup, vice-president; G. C. Farnsworth, secretary; 
R. J. Mott, treasurer; J. H. Williams. J. V. Otto and W. W. Rinn, trustees. 

The McKean County Agricultural Society. — For some years before the war 
an agricnltirral society existed in the county and held fairs annually, Smeth- 
port being the headquarters. After the war, and up to 187.5, the old society 
showed signs of life, but the oil excitement of 1875 diverted men's attention 
from farms and farming, and the organization may be said to have ceased. A 
few years later, when oil prospectors did not succeed so well east of the divide, 
the prosperous farmers of Liberty, Keating and adjoining townships suggested 
their willingness to revive their association, and as a result the McKean 
County Agricultural Society was organized in February, 1880, with A. J. 
Hughes, N. N. Metcalf and E. B. Dolley. directors. Among the stockholders 
were the officers named and F. H. Arnold. A. M. Benton, G. L. Blackman, S. 
R, June, Goltry and Camp and S. W. Smith. In 1881-82 V. R. Vanderhule 
was president and A. J. Hughes, secretary. The McKean County Agricultural 
Society petitioned for incorporation September 24, 1883. F. H. Arnold, W. 
J. Davis and N. N. Metcalf were elected directors, and the total membership 
was twenty-rive. The following officers were elected for 1890: President, N. 
R. Bard; vice-president, E. B. Dolley; secretary, A. J. Hughes; treasurer. F. 
H. Arnold; directors: Henry Smith, B. C. Gallup, L. J. Gallup; auditors: 
Thomas McDowell, E. P. Dalrymple, W. J. Davis. The shares are $100 each. 

Port Allegany is beautifully located in one of the most picturesque parts of 
the Allegheny Valley. Nestling upon the banks of the river, it forms the gate 
to the upper Allegheny country, and from it leads the first railroad built in 
that country. A range of hills bounds the horizon, from the summits of which 
is spread out, before the observer, a landscape rivaling in beauty and exquisite 
perfection many of the scenes chosen by master artists for their pencil or 
brush. The whistle of the locomotive is constantly heard, as hurrying trains 
come and go; the river gives life and animation to the scene, and all in all the 
city site was well chosen and her streets surveyed on proper lines. Round the 
business section and interspersed with the houses of trade are seen the modern 
homes and well-kept grounds of the people; school and church buildings, and 
even the park, the whole completing a picture at once harmonious and attract- 
ive. This pretty town is a monument to the intelligence of the people and to 
their enterprise, which will survive when superficial tokens of remembrance 
shall have crumbled into dust. 



296 HISTOIIY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



(HATTER XVIII. 

NORWICH TOWNSHIP. 

Toi k why, Etc.— Geology— Coal Mines— Oil Wells— Population— Offi- 
cers for 1890— Assessment, 1837— Early Settlers— Thk Old Norwich 
Church— The Norwich Cemetery Association— stores in 1847— Mineral 
Wells— Timber Lands and Saw-mills— Newrrf. 

"VTORWICH TOWNSHIP forms the southeast corner of the county incon- 
i-M junction with a strip of territory belonging to Liberty township. The 
divide occupies a central position, reaching an elevation of 2,348 feet above 
the ocean. From this height the east branch of Potatoe creek flows south and 
west, to join the main creek running north by the divide; North creek and 
Portage creek, southeast to the Sinnemahoning portage, and the head-waters 
of Allegany portage north into the Allegheny river above Port Allegany. The 
Salt Works branch of the Sinnemahoning also rises in the southeast corner. 
The Emporium and Norwich anticlinal valleys traverse this section, while 
the Norwich and Clermont synclinals or bituminous coal basins parallel the 
anticlinals. The highest elevation of the bottom of the Oleau conglomerate 
is found three fourths of a mile northwest of Keating depot, 2,275 feel 
above ocean, and the lowest at the Hamlin coal opening, 1,890 feet. The low 
est measured point in the township is just below Crosby post-office, where the 
creek bottom is 1,508 feet above ocean level. The average dip from the Keat- 
ing summit near the depot to the Lyman Camp mine in the Potatoe creek coal 
basin is 140 feet per mile, but in sections it ranges from 250 feet per mile to 
100 feet. From the Lyman Camp to the Hamlin mine the dip is only eleven 
feet, and thence to Burnt Hill eighteen feet. From Norwich Hill to Splint 
mine on the eastern side the dip is 110 feet per mile; the southeastern dip. in 
the southwest corner, 132 feet per mile, and the dip between Wolcott-Comes 
creek summit and well No. 1, twenty-two feet per mile. There are many local 
dips in the coal beds of this township, while the rock outcrop extends verti- 
cally downward to the upper Chemung shale and sandstone, a distance of 
L, 240 feet (as at Coal Pit mines, which open 2,183 feet above tide), from the 
shale overlying the Dagus coal bed. This stratum shows 290 feet of coal meas- 
ures, including Olean conglomerate. 450 feet of Mauch Chunk and Pocono. 3<K) 
feet of red Catskill and from 150 to 250 feet of Chemung. The 290 feet of 
coal measures show fifteen feet of shale, three of gray slate, live of Dagus coal. 
one and one-half of lire-clay, forty of shale and sandstone, three and one-half 
of coal, one and one half of fire-clay, thirty-three of shale and slate, one and 
one half of Clermont coal, one and one-half of tire-clay, fifty of Johnson run 
sandstone, five of black slate, two and one-half of Alton upper coal, eight of 
tire-clay and shale, three-fourths of Alton middle coal, four and one fourth of 
shale and sandstone, four of Alton lower coal, two of tire-clay, forty-eight of 
Kinzua creek sandstone, two and one-third of Marshburg upper coal, two and 
i wo thirds of fire clay ami fifty-five of Olean conglomerate and sandstone. The 
-.■(•linn was made from the survey by F. E. Gleason in L876. The conforma- 
tion at the Flock coalmine, 2,138 feet above tide, varies a little, '-.howing a 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 299 

fifteen-feet exposure of flaggy sandstone at the opening, while the Hamlin and 
Splint coal beds rest on Kinzua creek sandstone. The Blue coal opening is 
2,028 feet above tide; the Spring, 2,035 feet, and Rochester cannel mines, 
2,074 feet. In the test of these coals it was found that Coal Pit coal yielded about 
56.2 of fixed carbon and 63.6 of coke; Spring, 59.3 and 67.3, respectively; 
Hamlin, 61.6 and 69. 2; Blue, 62.1 and 69; Rock, 58 and 70; Lyman Camp, 
57.5 and 68.8; Charley, 49.2 and 64.2; Block coal, 38.8 and 61.5; Burnt Hill 
(cannel), 48.1 and 66.3, and Rochester (cannel), 37. 7 and 75.9 per cent of fixed 
carbon and coke. In the gas test, one pound from the Hamlin seam yielded 
5.10 cubical feet; from the Spring and Blue seams, over four; from the Block, 
over three and one-half, and from the Burnt Hill cannel almost three cubical 
feet. In 1875-76 explorations on the Backus and Chadwick lands (known as 
the Butterfield purchase), in the southeast and southwest corners of Sergeant 
and Norwich townships, were reported by Seth Backus, of Smethport. Well 
No. 1 opened 2,232 feet above ocean level in five and one-fourth feet of soil, 
resting on a bed of shale from fourteen to twenty feet in depth. This well 
reached a depth of about 1,400 feet, striking white, fine, micaceous sand rock 
at the bottom, passing through thin beds of coal (thirty feet below the mouth) 
and iron ore. In well No. 2 a heavier coal deposit was found sixty-four feet be- 
low the surface, and in well No. 4 about forty-seven feet below the top. In the 
vicinity of No. 4 the Buffalo Coal company opened a well 2,173 feet above 
ocean level, and at a depth of almost 127 feet bored through the Marshburg 
coal. Up Indian run several four-inch beds have been opened. 

Near Hamlin, an oil well was drilled iD 1875-76 to a depth of 2,002 feet, 
and in June, 1877, the great flagstone quarry was opened by Orlando Gallup, 
and worked by John Digel. 

The population of Norwich township in 1880 was 431. In 1888 there were 
96 Republican, 63 Democratic and 3 Prohibitionist votes cast, or a total of 162, 
representing a population of 810. 

The officers for 1890 are as follows: Supervisors, B. D. Colegrove, E. E. 
Burdick; school directors, J. B. Oviatt, N. C. Gallup; justice of the peace, M. 
Blodgett; constable, Ellis Griffith; town clerk, J. B. Oviatt; auditors, W. E. 
Wilson, C. A. Anderson and C. D. Comes for one year; collector, O. D. Gal- 
lup; judge of election, R. N. Wilson; inspectors, W. O. Gallup, W. B. Richey. 
The assessment of residents of Norwich township in 1837 shows the names 
of John Abbey, Tim Abbey, John Avery, Dave Allard, Joe Apple, I. Burlingame, 
William Brewer, Wheeler and Henry Brown, George and Daniel A. Easter- 
brooks, Rowland Burdick, Nathan Brewer, Asa Cotton, Dave Comes, Elias J. 
Cook, Benjamin and Jonathan Colegrove, Francis J. Chadwick, Edward Cor- 
win and son, Amos Coats, Henrv Chapin, Edward Dickenson, Levi Davis, Jr. , 
R. Eastwood, John Ellis, Job" Gifford, John S. Gunning, O. W. Wheeler, 
Jabez, N. C. and A. E. Gallup, Luke B. Gibson, J. W. Howe, John 
Housler, Ben Haxton, L. and Hiram Havens, Horatio and William Hall,* 
Thomas Hookey, George and H. Jacox, Henry Lasher, Asenath Lawrence, 
Levi Lathrop, Samuel Messenger, Abner Miller, — Marsh, I. Murphy, Eben 
Pattison, Daniel Rifle, Nathan Robbins, Esseck Smith, William Smith, Henry 
Scott, Levi Thomas, Asa Townes, Rhoda White, Samuel Wiswall (trader), 
William White, Tim and L. F. Wolcott. Henry Scott was assessor, and he 
recommended Daniel Rifle and Esseck Smith for collectors. 

The first permanent settlement was made in 1815 by Jonathan Colegrove, the 
Abbeys and Wolcotts from Norwich, Chenango Co. , N. Y.,with others from various 
towns, giving the township the name of their old home. William Smith and 
the Whites and Corwins also settled in Norwich .... William Gifford, who 

* William Hall was the owner of the grist-mill. 



300 HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

was born in Norwich township in 1821, died June 26, 1889, at Smethport. . . . 
Edward Corwin, who served in the Revolution for sis years and a quarter, 
came with his family to Norwich in 1822, ami in 1828 settled at Smethport. 
Ghordis Corwin, the son, died in 1876, leaving $800 to the Baptist church, 
which he joined here in 1836. 

The old Delmar Church, the first organized in the western part of Tioga 
county, lost seventeen members in 1820-21, when the old Norwich church of 
McKean county was founded. In 1876 James Steele, of Port Allegany, was 
said to be the last survivor of the first members. 

The Norwich Cemetery Association was incorporated in November, 1874, 
with W. J. Colegrove, A. P. Brewer, O. D. Gallup, D. D. Comes and Orlando 
Gallup, trustees. 

Colegrove is a thriving village, located on the Western New York & 
Pennsylvania Railroad. The post-office there was presided over, up to 1880, 
1>\ W. J. Colegrove, to whose efforts the establishment of an office at this 
point was due. Jonathan Colegrove is the present postmaster. In 1883 the 
general mercantile business of W. J. Colegrove & Son was purchased by C. A. 
Anderson. The Heinemann lumber industry and other lumber interests in 
the vicinity contribute principally to the trade of the village. A pumping 
station of the National Transit Company is located here. 

In May, 1847, the stores of C. R. & B. O. Burdick and J. F. Gallup were 
opened in Norwich. 

Gardeau is the new postal name given to the old Elk-lick. 

The Parker Magnetic Mineral well, near the corner of McKean, Potter and 
Cameron counties, nine miles from Emporium, was analyzed in July, 1888, 
and found to contain 627.59 grains of mineral matter — Silica, 1.33; Mag. Chi., 
L09.84; Cal. Carb., 11.95; Cal. Chi., 221.92; Sod. Chi., 282.55; Pot. Chi. 
traces. In 1887 a mineral spring was discovered at Four Mile on N. P. Min- 
ard's lands. The present site of the flowing well has always been known, since 
the earliest history of the country, as the great Elk-lick. Although it is not 
certain that the water flowed from the ground in its present strength, it un- 
doubtedly possessed saline qualities which attracted deer and elk in great num- 
bers. In ise,;, N. H. Parker drilled a well 640 feet deep in the bed of the old 
spring, and struck the present vein of mineral water that flows from the top 
of the well. Mr. Parker drilled the well in the hope of finding oil. The 
water was allowed to flow uncared for and unthought of, until about four years 
ago, when one George Broucham, who was working for Mr. Parker in the saw- 
mill, was laid up with an attack of calculus, which had been troubling him for 
several years. Having a fondness for this water, he commenced drinking it 
from the well, and began to recover immediately. The flow of the spring, 
which never varies perceptibly, is about sixty-live gallons per hour. The 
spring was purchased by the Parker Mineral Spring Company in 1888. They 
have built a good hotel and commodious bath-house, which are under efficient 
management. 

In February, 1S90, H. C. Crawford bought 1,400 acres of timber land, on 
the line of the Western New York & Pennsylvania Railroad, about fifteen miles 
south of Port Allegany, and engaged in cutting the timber on it. He has built 
two saw-mills, one at Gardeau, and the other at Sizerville. 

Digel is the name of a post-office in this township. 

Newerf, formerly known as Spearsburg and later as Crosby, is six miles 
south by east of Smethport. Here at the old Spearsburg mill, lately owned 
by (i. C. Carpenter & Son, people in this vicinity and Smethport. no later than 
1873, came to have lumber planed. This mill was burned about 1884. Here 
also were the oil extract works written of in the chapter on the oil fields. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 301 

The town is pleasantly located on the line of the Western New York & Penn- 
sylvania Railroad, and contains several frame houses, a billard room, a tonsorial 
parlor, a building recently erected for a foundry, not yet in operation, a board- 
ing house which is under the management of Ed. Eldridge, two blacksmith 
shops, and two saw mills, one owned by the Crosby lumber company and the 
other by James White. There is also a school-house which was built in the 
fall of 1882. The school is managed by a Mrs. Cary of Bradford. Besides 
all these many improvements there are two stores, one owned by the Crosby 
Lumber Company, and the other by M. Erhart. The last store contains the 
post-office and M. Erhart is the postmaster. 

At the rate of the present output of hemlock lumber, it will lie but 
a few years when people around here will be compelled to resort to other in- 
dustries, in order to gain a livelihood. The forests are being stripped of the 
hemlock very rapidly and no doubt the present generation will live to see hem 
lock as scarce as pine is. After the little hills are stripped of the hemlock 
the land will be of little use save for grazing, and then the sheep will have to 
be shod, for the hills are so steep and stony that they can not hold their footing. 



CHAPTER XIX. 

OTTO TOWNSHIP. 

Otto Township — Topography— Population— Officers Elected in 1890— 
Resident Tax-Payers, 1854-55— Arthur Prentiss' Account— Some Early 
Settlers — Storms and Fires — Church— Society' at Rixford — Miscel- 
laneous. 

Duke Centre Some First Things— The Place in 1879— Postmasters- 
Population— Charter Election. 1881— Gas Company— Bank— Chur« m ss 
—societies. 

OTTO TOWNSHIP is situated in the north part of the county. Indian 
creek rises in the northeast corner near the New York State line; Tram. 
North and Kansas branches of Knapp's creek, which flow together above Duke 
Centre, occupy the three canons of the north, while the heads of the north 
branch of Cole creek flow south by east from the southern divide, leaving the 
center of the township to be drained by Knapp's creek, in the valley of which 
the Kendall & Eldred Railroad runs. The greatest measured height is the 
summit of the Tide Water Pipe Line southeast of Rixford, 2,148 feet, but it is 
ascertained that the summit between Indian creek and North branch is 2,350 
feet above tide. Up to 1879 there were no discoveries of coal or other min 
eral made here, save that of petroleum, and the little territory was second to 
none of equal extent in the production of this oil. 

Otto township in 1880 claimed 4,277 inhabitants. Of this number 249 
resided in Kansas Branch village, 145 in Eullerton, 737 in Oil Valley, 1.127 in 
Rixford, 136 in Prentiss Vale, 231 in Tram Hollow and 16 in Windfall village. 
In 1S88 there were 173 Republican votes cast, 99 Democratic, 50 Prohibition 
and 50 United Labor, or a total of 372, indicating the population at the time 
to be 1,860. 

The officers elected for 1890 are as follows: Supervisors, F. W. Sprague, 
H. T. Breese; school directors, James Fraiser, J. M. Sloan; auditor, J. T. 



302 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Irvine; collector. Z. Wilson; town clerk, E. B. Cronk; constable, C. C. Ama 
long; justice of the peace, E. R. Nash; judge of election, First District. E. B 
Cronk; inspectors. J. W. McCown, Frank Walsh; judge of election, Second 
District, J. J. Donley; inspectors, J. R. Martin, F. R. Burton. 

The resident tax-payers of Otto township, in L854— 55, were 'J. M. Baldwin 
(who died in Maine), Nahuni, Samuel, Sr. , James Cyrus, Asa and Sam. 
Baldwin, Jason W. Blanchard (now in Wisconsin, former owner of Rixford). 
T J. Bryant, Cook, Borden & Co. (saw-mill owners), John and Josiah Davis, 
Gideon Ellis (living near Eldred), L. Ellis, James Fogle, Jesse Garey (Keat- 
ing), Orisson Grey (moved to Wisconsin), Milton Koons, Col. James Labree, 

0. Lovell, William Lovejoy, James McCord, William McCullough (moved 
to Jamestown). Hiram Moore, Robert Moore, Arthur Prentiss (still a resident) 
and H. K. Prentiss G. M. Prentiss, Ed. S. Reed. Brad. Or., Joe and William 
H. Spiller, George and William Plummer, John Swink (living in Kansas), 
Rev. .M. W. Strickland, J. S. Thompson (now in Eldred), Henry Twambley 
(living in Minnesota), Coon Wagoner (moved away) and Miami York (moved 
wesl i. The value of their property was placed at 16,305 by Nahum Baldwin. 
Deacon Sprague came in January, 1856, and settled that year on his present 
farm. 

The following from the pen of Mr. Arthur Prentiss, giving some of his 
reminiscences of Otto township, will be read with much interest: " The valley 
of Iinapp's creek," says Mr. Prentiss, " now forming the greater part of Otto 
township, was formerly included in the township of Eldred. It was an un- 
broken wilderness until 1842, iu which year Herinon Strong, who had come 
from Springfield, Penobscot Co., Me., located a farm at what is now called 
Prentiss Vale, although for three years before settling here he had been a res 
ident of Farmers Valley, same county. Soon after getting fairly to work on 
his farm he put in operation a Yankee shingle machine, the first in the county. 
Through the influence of Mr. Strong, who was an old acquaintance of mine. 
I first came to what is now Otto township iu December. 1845. having in view- 
tin- purchase of the pine timber land (at the head- waters of the creek branches I. 
and also the location of a colony of eastern farmers and lumbermen. I spent 
several days with Mr. Strong in exploring the pine lands, and then returned 
homo. In the spring of 1846 I again visited the spot and made further ex 
amination of the valley, as well as several other locations, but being unable to 
make any definite agreement for the timber land, owing t< i the existence i 'I' si >me 
old speculation contracts, I again returned home. The fall of the same year, 
however, once more found me out in this land of promise, and I succeeded in 
arranging with W. B. Clymer (general agent for the Bingham estate) and John 
King (agent for the Keating estate) for all the land we wanted. In April, 
IS 17. I moved my family to Farmers Valley, and occupied the old Sartwell 
(now Goodwin) farm two years, while locating land preparatory to building 
a mill, etc. In the spring of ist'.t I moved into a log house in the valley and 
began the erection of a saw-mill, which was put in operation in the fall. The 
heav\ frame of this mill was raised without the use of whisky, probably the 
lir.-.t bo raised in the county. (No intoxicating drink was ever sold in the \;il 

1. s before oil was found.) In 1851 the timber land and mill were sold to W. 
1 lope and Cyrus Strong, of Binghamtou, X. V.. who cleared the -! 

built dams to reserve the water, ami drove the pine log-. Yankee fashion, to 
Olean, where thej built mills and manufactured for the eastern market In 
1854 they sold out tin- remaining timber and the mills to Borden & Co.. of Fall 
River, Mass.. since known as the Olean Lumber Company. Almost all this 
timber land has proven to be the best oil territory in the county. 



HISTOBY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 303 

' ' A o-oodly number of settlers from the vicinity of my former residence in 
Penobscot county, Mo., came and located on farms in my vicinity. We soon 
built a small school-house, in which, for years, were held school, Sabbath- 
school, religious services, etc. We had only a winter sled road from the 
river, a distance of about three miles, but it was not long before we made a 
wagon road, spending about $1,000, 1500 of which were appropriated by the 
county. Soon after starting business we procured the establishment of a 
special post-office, which continued as such for about fifteen years, when a 
regular mail route from Eldred to Bradford was put in operation. I. \V. 
Prentiss was appointed postmaster in 1850, and held the office about two 
years, since which time I have held the office. Since the discovery of oil, two 
other offices have been established. In 1852 (I think, as all records were 
destroyed by fire) a Congregational church was organized, with Rev. M. W. 
Strickland, from Maine, as first pastor. This church at one time had more 
than thirty members, but through deaths, removals and other causes is now 
almost extinct. Most of the early settlers were Old Line Democrats, but they 
were soon converted to anti-slavery Whigs or Republicans, and at one election. 
near the commencement of the war of the Rebellion, the eighty or so voters 
gave a unanimous Republican vote. At the outbreak of that war almost all of 
our men, liable to military duty, volunteered, and I think only two were 
drafted. We sent nearly fifty soldiers in all, of whom about twenty lost their 
lives. Probably no other township with the same number of voters furnished 
and lost an equal number of men during that struggle." 

Benjamin Bunker came in 1852, and was engaged in lumbering and milling 
until 1884, when he moved to Minnesota, where he died in 1889. John Duke 
came here about the time of the Civil war, and built the present mills after 
that struggle. 

This township, like the adjoining one of Foster, has suffered considerably 
from fire, and on one occasion was storm-stricken. The storm of November, 
lsT'.t. destroyed the new church building at Rixford, and a number of derricks 
there, at Dallas, and at other points. 

The Rixford tire of May 9, 1880, occasioned by a gas explosion, destroyed 
seventy-five buildings, forming the business center of the town, in less than 
two hours, and burned up 70, 000 barrels of oil and forty rigs .... The United 
Lines Tank 714, completed in July, 1880. on the McKean farm, one mile south 
of State Line, burst August 4, 1880, and 20,747 barrels of oil cut a channel down 
to the creek .... United Lines Tank 738, opened on the McKean farm, 200 
rods northeast of Babcock depot, August 1 1 , was struck by lightning August 
28. 1880, and 26,597 barrels of oil burned up. . . .The bush fires around Rix- 
ford began on August 31, 1881, near Baker's trestle, and spread rapidly, de- 
stroying twenty-four rigs and consuming large quantities of oil . . . .The fires 
around Bordell in September, 1881, destroyed forty-six rigs and 3.900 barrels 
of oil. This fire spread over 250 acres. . . .The fire on the Loop farm on the 
north branch of Indian creek, resulted in the destruction of oil at Hardison & 
Kribb's wells. 

In 1826 Joshua Barnes and Barnabas Pike built a fluter saw-mill at State 
Line. 

The State Line Chapel Association was incorporated March 8, 1887, in 
order to build a house for Methodist worship. The names of the petitioners 
an- C. Beaton, N. J. Warren, E. H. Crook, D. Bleakslee, A. R. Wagner and S. 
E. Humphrey. 

The E. A. U. of Rixford was established in March, 1876, with seventy 
members. The officers chosen were J. Fraser, Mrs. D. Pearsall, John Jack, 
Mrs. E. E. Brown, Miss L. Love, J. B. Nutting and J. W. Martin. 



304 HIKTOliY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

The accidental shooting of Fred Sprague, a boy aged seventeen years, 
took place at McAdoo's engine house, near Duke Centre, in October, 1888. 
It appears he and Dallas Thomson stepped into the engine house to see the 
well starting up. Young Sprague grounded his gun, but, slipping through a 
crack in the floor, it was discharged, the shot entering his liver and causing his 
death. 

DUKE CENTRE. 

The first house built on the site was Cook, Borden & Co. 's frame boarding 
house, erected in May, 185(5. Peter Haines, another pioneer, died before the 
oil era. and Chauncey Root resided on the site of Duke Centre before the war. 
The --ettlement of the Bunkers is noticed above, and also the coming of John 
Duke. In February, 1878. the business houses of Duke Centre were those of 
Charles Duke. Huffman & Dalrymple, Swan & Bacon, O. D. Bloss & Co., and 
Bai'ber Bros. 

When V. P. Carter, who, as president of the Duke Centre Gas Company, 
built the second gas line known in this county in 1879 (from Rixford to Duke 
Centre), found at Duke Centre that year John. Thomas and Charles Duke, 
with Randall, afterward postmaster, the Spragues and Baldwins and others. 
There were ten store buildings and several hotels, among which was Brown" s 
Empire House and the McDonald House; G F. Barton conducted his Opera 
House, while three church buildings existed. Mr. Sprague building the Con- 
gregational and John Duke the Church of Christ. The lot for the Congre- 
gational society was secured, and a room over Barton's Opera House was being 
fitted up for the Good Templars. William H. Randall was appointed first 
postmaster, having previously carried a penny-post between Eldred and Duke 
Centre. He served until 1885, when the late postmaster. P. L. Golden, was 
appointed. W. H. Randall was re-appointed in July, 1889. Prior to ls7~> 
the office of this section was at Prentiss Vale. 

The population of Duke Centre, in 1880. was 2,068. In 1888 there were 
eighty-five Republican, forty-four Democratic, nine Prohibitionist and fifteen 
Labor-Union votes cast, or a total of 153. Multiplying by six, as in the case 
of Bradford, the population is found to be 918. 

The charter election for the borough of Duke (_ entre was held February 1 •">. 
1881. M. M. McElwain received 214 votes, and William Williams 116, for 
burgess; A. H. Low received 287 votes, and John M. Lyman 38, for justice. 
Henry Fitzsimmons, Charles Duke, E. M. Reardon, B. M. Moulton and J. W. 
l'lynn, were elected members of council; John Duke received 302, and A. M. 
Boyd 198 votes, for auditor, three years' term; and George Fisher was elected 
for short term; J. C. B. Stivers. Joseph Norris, W. I. Lewis' and Monroe 
Henderson, were elected school directors; A. X. Heard, assessor; A. A. Coon, 
overseerof the poor; J. L. Thomas, constable; George Tinto, high constable; 
John Mills, judge of elections, and C. S. Colt, inspector of elections. R. T. 
Salvage was elected burgess in 1882, the total vote cast being eighty- two: John 
Xeedham. in 1883; W. 13. Graves, in 1884-85, when G. F. Barton was elected 
justice; Robert Shaffer, in 18SH, with W. H. Randall, justice; W. D. Singleton, 
1887-88, with A. Wheeler, justice, and J. S. Moody, justice in 1888. The 
charter is not now observed. 

The Duke Centre Gas Company was incorporated in November, 1879, with 
T. Kemper, V. 1'. Carter and John J. Robarts, trustees, and Daniel Dodge 
and J. X. Brown, unofficial subscribers. Mr. Carter is present president. The 
company operates fortj live wells, of which twenty seven are their own. 

The first bank at Duke Centre was carried on by H. O. Roberts in 1879. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 305 

The banking business of the section has been conducted by Charles Duke 
from 1883 to the present time. 

The First Congregational Society of Duke Centre and Prentiss Vale was 
incorporated in June, 1879, with the following named stockholders: M. W. 
Strickland, M. A. Strickland, L. B. Prentiss, C. L. Allen, L. S. Allen, B. &H. 
Bunker, F. W. Sprague, Mary Sprague, Joseph Gridley and J. K. Leugemors. 
A church building was erected in 1879, which was sold in 1884-85, and con- 
verted into a skating rink. 

The First Church of Christ, Duke Centre, was incorporated in November, 
1879, with John Duke, Samuel H. Brown, A. A. Trend. A. J. Applebee, 
Thomas S. Woodard and Israel Couroth. members. That year the work of 
building a house of worship commenced. It was completed in 1880, although 
services were held within it in 1879, 

The First Methodist Church of Duke Centre was incorporated in December. 
1879, with A. R. Baker, C. G. Thomas, I. C. Schonerman, Enos Thomas. A. 
A. Coons, W. A. Simons and James L. Yan Kirk, stockholders. Among the 
trustees Charles Duke and J. E. Baldwin are named. The church building is 
still used. 

The Odd Fellows organized March 25. 1881, with the following named 
members: S. Frankenstein, "W. N. George, John Sharpe, A. A. Averill, Henry 
L. Raymond, A. N. Heard, J. R. McKinzie, John McGee, A. J. Watkin, 
Morris Shear, Thomas Buchanan, David Greenberg, Benjamin Kempner, P. 
Mills, F. J. Fox. The names of past grands are A. J. Watkin, A.- N. Heard, 
J. Sharpe, George Hancock, N. Fair, J. R. McKinzie, R. D. Henderson, John 
Needham, John McEwen, James Rickerson, A H. Stuart, J. I. Dunn. E. 
Koouse, George Williams and J. I. Painter. The names of secretaries are A. 
J. Watkin, R. D. Henderson, A. W. Terrill, J. V. Brown. N. Fair. J. 
McEwen and J. I. Painter. The present number of members is 53; value of 
property, $450, and date of building is 1884. 

J. H. Mullin Post, No. 356, G. A. R., was organized at Rixford by W. W. 
Brown July 30, 1883, and participated in the decoration of Lamphier's grave, 
he being the only soldier of the Revolution buried in McKean county. The 
charter members were H. G. Allen, Eighty-fifth New York: C. D. Andrus. 
One Hundred and Twenty-sixth New York; S. C. Andrus, First Ohio Artil- 
lery, D. Adams. Seventy-eighth Pennsylvania; H. T. Breese, Fourteenth Mis 
souri; E. J. Baldwin, Second New York Cavalry; J. E. Baldwin. One Hun- 
dred and Ninety-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers; W. P. Baldwin, Fifty-eighth 
Pennsylvania; John V. Brown, One Hundred and Forty-ninth Pennsylvania; 
Clark Brown. Eighth New York; H. P Black, Eleventh Pennsylvania Cav- 
alry; T. R. Burton, Navy ; H. K. Burton, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Infantry; 
C. M. Brace, Twenty -first New York Cavalry; W. P. Bair, One Hundred and 
Third Pennsylvania; Fred Curtis, Seventy-first New York Infantry: M. (i. 

Dennis. Two Hundred and Eleventh Pennsylvania; James Fraser, ; S. M. 

Fletcher, One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania; H. Trummon, First 
New York Dragoons; A. Glines, Thirteenth New York Artillery: L. J. Lilly, 
Second Pennsylvania Artillery; A. N. Loop, Two Hundred and Eleventh - 
Pennsylvania; G. Lancomer, One Hundred and Ninety-fifth Pennsylvania; A. 
H. Low, Fifty-sixth Pennsylvania; E. W. Mullin. One Hundred and Thirty- 
seventh New York; J. S. Pittinger, of the Sixty-fourth New York (joined in 
1880), N. Moore, Fourth New York Artillery; *N. L. Moore, Eleventh Penn- 
sylvania Cavalry: J. Moore, Fifty-first Pennsylvania; F. T. McEvoy, Thir- 
teenth New Jersey Cavalry; U. Moore, Sixty-seventh Pennsylvania; H. A. 
McGraw, Twenty-third New York; J. D. McGee, Eleventh I. Battery, Penn- 



306 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

sylvania; J. W. Martin, Tenth Pennsylvania Cavalry: G. YV. Potter, Eighth 
Pennsylvania Cavalry: S. Peterman, Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania; H. Peter 
son, Fifth New York Artillery; A. T. Rence. Sixty-third Pennsylvania; 
Henry Riley, Eleventh New York Cavalry: R. 1'. Shields, One Hundred and 
Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania; Samuel Stives, Twenty seventh New York Artillery; 
F. Shrout, Fourteenth Virginia Infantry; G. W. Salmon. One Hundred and 
Fort] fifth Pennsylvania; \V. M. Smith. Eighty-second Pennsylvania; Owen 
Slayman. One Hundred and Forty second Pennsylvania. On June 15, 1885, 
headquarters were moved to Duke Centre. Nelson Moore was lirst com- 
mander, with N. L. Moore, adjutant. In 1885 W. P. Black was adjutant and 
.1 E. Baldwin commander, succeeded in 1886 by F. T. McEvoy and M. G. 
Dennis, respectively; James Fraser was commander in 1887. and H. M. Black 
in L888. In the latter year E. B. C'ronk was appointed adjutant and served 
in 1889 with C. R. Hatch, commander. Mr. Cronk served in the Fourth New 
York Heavy Artillery. The present membership is fifty-nine. 

Northern Star Lodge, F. & A. M . was organized about nine years ago with 
the following named members: Charles Bunce, David J. Wilson, John Y. Brown. 
Lucius J. Lilly. Jesse R. Leonard. James Green, Pyrrhus Mills. Samuel M. 
• lone-. Oeorge Tinto, Charles C. Anderson. O. P. Irvine, Joseph Norris, Will- 
iam N. George. The past masters are Charles Bunce, William N. George, 
John V. Brown, Joseph Norris. Lucius J. Lilly. William H. Randall, John S. 
Greer, F. W. Sprague and John B. Baldwin. 

The R. T. and A. O. TJ. W. of Duke Centre completed their building in 
June, 1883. 

In July. 1889, there were no less than thirty one Equitable Aid Onions in 
this county, and at that time the county union of McKean was the only 
county organization of the order in the world. These count) meetings are not 
required by the supreme law, but McKean County Union originated in the 
fertile brain of John T. Irvine, of Duke Centre, grand secretary and account- 
ant of the grand union of Pennsylvania. 



CHAPTEB XX. 

SERGEANT TOWNSHIP. 

Topography, Etc. Coal Measures — Oil Wells— Population — The Coopj r 

Lands- Town of Instanter— The Placb in 1810-13-17— Assessment of Ser- 
geant Township for 1836-37 — Villages. 

Clermont Some First Things— Fire— Gas Wells— Cemetery Association 

so ieties. 

SERGEANT TOWNSHIP occupies the south center of the county. The 
west fork of the west branch of Portage creek. Lick run. Brewer's run, 
Red Mill brook. Robin's brook and Smith's brook rise inside the east line in 
the gulches between the lulls, winch here have an altitude of 2,100 feel above 
ocean level. In the south center are pour Mde. Buck and Smith runs, flow 
ing into the east branch of the Clarion: also Five Mile, Seven Mile and Rocky 
runs, forming near Williamsvjlle, while Sicily. Large. Beckwith and Little 
Buck runs flow into the wesl branch. The Katrine swamp is west of Ginals- 



-1'" "■'•■.. 



v,. *' 








Wr y^^^C^ 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 309 

burg, iu a basin 2,200 feet above the ocean, while west of this pond one of the 
feeders of Marvin creek steals north from Seven Mile summit. Howard's 
farm, '2,100 feet above ocean level, is on the divide between Smith brook and 
Five Mile run. The highest measured point in the township is at Chappel 
Hill, in the extreme northeast section. 2,310 feet above ocean level, but it is 
Baid the hill, 7,000 feet north, has a greater elevation. The lowest point is 
where the West Clarion enters Elk county, the elevation being 1,600 feet. The 
conglomerate bottom follows the summits, being 2,300 feet at Chappel Hill 
and 1,050 at Williarnsville. while a little northeast, on Instanter creek, it is 
2,050. From Chappel Hill to Bunker hill, a distance of two and seven-eighth 
miles, the dip is about 300 feet, or 104 feet per mile, and from Wilcox well 
No. 1 to Williarnsville there is no dip. The thickness of the greatest exposure 
is 710 feet, which shows 285 feet of coal measures, 325 feet of Mauch ('hunk 
and Poeono, and 100 feet of red Catskill; but from well records geologists 
have ascertained that the carboniferous and devonian structures exist for at 
least 2.500 feet in this township. The Dagus coal bed exists on the hill be- 
tween Bed Mill brook, Beaver run and Instanter creek, at a depth of about 
sixty feet, and twelve feet above the limestone formation. This slaty lime- 
stone outcrops on the old Wilcox farm, between Clermont and Warner's brook. 
The rock is about six feet thick, and quarrying and burning it were for years 
the industries of the neighborhood. As has been stated the coal bed rest- over 
this immense deposit of lime rock, while under the coal is the white fire-clay 
bed. from two to three feet in depth. The Johnson run sandstone (a Lard 
white and yellow rock) reaches a thickness of fifty feet, and is prized by build- 
ers much mure than the Kinzua creek sandstone, which falls to pieces under 
the influence of the weather. 

Wilcox well No. 1. on Warrant 2.076, a mile north of Elk county, was drilled 
in 186-4 to a depth of 1,600 feet by Adams & Babcock, and subsequently drilled 
to 1,785 feet, when the tools were lost and work abandoned. The well, 
however, showed signs of life and sent up great columns of gas and water as 
high as 115 feet, which feat it repeated every seven minutes, until new efforts 
to develop it were made, when the procedure changed, the intervals of explo- 
sion being longer and the discharge of water greater in volume. With diffi- 
culty the well was tubed and oil obtained, but again was abandoned and the 
gas allowed to escape, a match applied, the derrick burned, and in 1871 was 
controlled by a wooden plug. In August. 1876. when well No. 2 was drilled, gas 
was carried 855 feet to be used as fuel in boring No. 2, while the surplus gas 
was conducted through a two- inch pipe, and discharged over a water tank, 
splashing the pipe and. the pressure being thus released, formed a circle of 
ice around the opening. In January, 1877, an effort to remove the wooden 
plug resulted in taking up 175 feet of casing, when an eight-minute geyser 
was brought into existence. In May gas ceased to flow, but on July 14 the old 
seven-minute explosion was renewed in wells Nos. 1 and 2, and the gas from 
No. 2 was used as fuel in drilling No. 3 from October. 1876. to June. 1877. In 
March, 1879, Hamar & Ernhout's well, at the mouth of Head brook, was down 
2,230 feet, and Hamar's well on Wild-Cat run 2,000 feet 

Sergeant township, in 1880, claimed 922 inhabitants. In 1888 there were 
sixty-four Republican and fifty Democratic votes cast, or a total of 114. repre- 
senting about 570 inhabitants. 

The first reference to the Cooper lands in McKean county is contained in 
an old day-book, dated August 22, 1809. This book is in possession of W. J. 
Colegrove. Cooper's farm is mentioned (Clermont) and the names of Van 
Wickle, Freeman and Outgalt appear. There was a saw- mill at Cooper's 



310 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Grove, but Mr. Colegrove states that there was only a grist-mil] on Red Mil] 
creek, near Clermont, in 1815. In 1809 some iron was purchased from Joseph 
()l<ls for use in the old saw mill. 

Alexander Van Peter Mills was the surveyor for Busti & Cooper in L809 
P». and in August, 1810, he received $154.25 for his services from Mr. Law- 
rence. In August, 1810, A. Van Peter Mills surveyed the town of Instanter, 
ami Gooding Packard received $23.32 for carrying the chain: Isaac Vantayle 
and I reorge Vantayle were also chain carriers. David Combs is introduced in 
August as the purchaser of three cpiarts of whisky. As he was the first man 
married in the county it is thought that the occasion suggested this extrava- 
gance. In October the following entry is made: "Busti & Cooper, by a man 
Mr. Cooper left almost dead;" and in November a road was opened from the 
mill to Instanter, and William Neilson was allowed a dollar a day for work in 
tie- saw-mill, and was allowed 816 for going down Tobey creek with Wallace. 
John Harrison was blacksmith as well as Seth Marvin. The names of John 
Hunter, Thomas Cole and William Gygar (the first blacksmith), appear on the 
books at this time. Arnold Hunter, the first settler of Smethport, was at 
instanter in 1811, and at this time Joel Bishop's name appears. The land 
office building was completed in 1811. James D. Bemis was added to the 
settlement, and John Stevens' printing office was established. In 1812 the 
office was abandaned. and the settlement practically broken up. The legends 
of the settlement tell of the old Catholic church of 1809, and the sudden dis- 
appearance of the priest in 1812. He was seen to enter the sugar bush at the 
end i.f the main street, but not a vestige of his garments or himself could 
be found by the searchers. Seth Marvin, John Mullander. Squire Renwick. 
Surveyor E. Ayers, William Armstrong, Thomas Lazenby. William Higgins, 
Sylvanus Russell. George Graham, Stephen Waterman, John Burrows are the 
names mentioned in the records of the period. In February, IS 10. E. Van 
Wickle completed a six months' term of service for Busti & Cooper. In April, 
1810, a cowbell was purchased from Ellis Pierce for the use of Instanter. 
and in May, Dan. Cornell purchased eleven gallons of metheglin at four shill- 
ings per gallon. The only persons remaining at Instanter in 1813 were Joel 

Bishop, Sweeten, David Combs. Sr. , Job Gifford, Sr. and Seth Marvin, 

while Arnold Hunter moved to Smethport, and perhaps John Hunter. Those 
pioneers, with others in the county from Ceres to Instanter, heard the boom of 
Perry's victorious cannon on Lake Erie. September 10. 1813, and the weaken- 
ing reply of the British guns. Their patriotism told them the story of victory 
long before positive news arrived. 

John Wallace was a surveyor in the Instanter neighborhood in L810. He 
it was who surveyed the lots for I. Rookens, south of the town; for John 
Hunter, on Marvin creek; for Seth Marvin, on the Nunundah; also tor Will- 
iam Neilson, Nathaniel B. Bowens, James Travis. George Vantayle. Lorin 
Phillips. Thomas Lazenby, Daniel Cornell, David Combs. Paul Busti. Henry 
I Mikintash, Reuben Priest, Joseph Phillips, John Robson, Joshua Loree. 
Solomon Tracy, Robert Armstrong and Louis Bronkart. He surveyed Petei 
Eankinson's mill lot in October, 1810, on the east side of the creek. 

In May. 1 s 1 7. Benjamin B. Cooper acknowledged a plat of the lands 
claimed by him in the fourth east Allegheny district as surveyed that year by 
Brewster freeman, over the surveys of 1792. The lands were conveyed in 
1812 by Paul Busti. attorney for the Holland Land Company, to B. B. Cooper 
and 0. W. Ogden. In L814 other tracts were conveyed to Joseph McElvaine. 
On this tract, within Sergeant township. Cooper had the town of Instanter 
surveyed in 1817, and acknowledged this plat May 30, that year. There are 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 311 

four public squares showD, together with church lots and cemetery, all donated 
to the people who would settle here. W. J. Colegrove is positive that this is 
a resurvey and new entry. 

The assessment of Sergeant township for 1836-37. made by William Mc- 
Allister, gives the following names of resident tax-payers: D. A. Easterbrooks. 
G. and' William Easterbrooks, Joseph Rhodes, William Palmer, Ransom, 
Simeon and Samuel Beckwith, Jacob Slyoff, Joel Bishop, Joseph Lucas (now 
living), William P. Wilcox (saw-mill owner), Asa Messinger (the Baptist 
preacher), J. Barnett. E. G. Wilson. George W. Dix. D. J. M. Howard, Will- 
iam A. Clough, R. S. B. Johnston, Simon J. Robins, Perry Preston, C. P. 
Johnson, A. J., William M. and Ann Swift, J. B. Wagor, J. M. Clark, Thomas 
Stafford, Lewis H. Beadle, Eliphalet Covill, Joseph P. King. John Montgom- 
ery (Jacob Ridgway's Clermont farm of 376 acres was assessed $1,180.50). 
J. Garlick, Lot Coats, Richard Wildey, Thomas Hockey. J. W. How, — Marsh. 
J. F. Gallup and William McAllister. 

Teutonia dates back to March, 1843, when the Society of Industry (Henry 
Ginal. agent) established the town four miles west of Ginalsburg. The prin- 
ciples of this society varied a little from the older Fourier system. The capi- 
tal was $40,000, the acreage 40.000, including the coal hills. In the year 
named there were 450 inhabitants, a school-building and seventy or eighty log 
dwellings. This community divided their purchase into several districts, in 
each of which a town was projected. Clothing and food were distributed 
from the commercial store, married women were not compelled to work for the 
community, and all religious forms were tolerated. At Ginalsburg there were 
then 100 inhabitants. A stone school-house, a steam saw mill, a pottery and 
a furnace were projected. The dwellings were frame buildings. In 1875, 
when Mr. John Forest went to Clermont as paymaster for the Buffalo Coal 
Company, there were remains of the houses. It was a communial affair, 
which, like most of that class, fell to pieces. Ginalsburg is also a town of the 
past. The old Wernwag farm house was at Clermont. 

This township may be considered as still in a primitive condition. A few 
prosperous settlements exist; but its greater area is still clothed in its native 
trees. The construction of the Clermont and Johnsonburg branch of the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad system now passes through the township and already the 
effects of its presence are visible. 

CLERMONT. 

P. E. Scull, who died at Smethport, in 1867, came here early in the "twen- 
ties," as an agent of Jacob Ridgway, and in 1821 cleared the old Bunker Hill 

farm In 1827 the Red Mill was built near Clermont by I. Burlingame,who did 

the mason work. On the mill dam J. Green, J. Garlick and J. King worked. 
Ben Colegrove split rails for fencing the nursery and Orlo J. Hamlin and 
Kenny were attorneys in the Crooker litigation. The mill was built immedi- 
ately after Paul E. Scull took the agency. Scul 1 told Ridgway that it had a 
capacity of eight bushels, and the proprietor was amazed at such an extensive 
concern being erected in the wilderness. 

In the year 1827 the Clermont farm and store of Scull & Lee were in ex- 
istence. Jonathan Colegrove was succeeded in July, 1852, as agent by W. J. 
Colegrove, the present agent, the former being general agent from 1817 to 

1852 In May, 1847, the taverns of I. D. Dunbar and M. Goodwin were 

opened in Sergeant G. R. Moore & Son' s mill at Clermont was burned July 

17. 1887, with 100,000 feet of hemlock lumber, one car of bark and four 



312 HISTOltY OF SfCKEAN COUNTY. 

empty cars. Their new mill, three miles below, was being built at this time 
. . . .the Clermont saw-mill of C. H. Moore was burned in September. 1889. 

Supt. W. C. Henry, of the fuel department of the National Transit (' im- 
pany, furnished some data, in 1885, concerning the gas wells about six miles 
east of Kane, from which the gds supply is drawn for the city of Bradford, 
and iu<»t of the National Transit Company's pump-stations in the northern 
field. They have secured through purchase and by drilling ten wells north 
of the McKean and Elk county line on warrants 2,675, 2,729, 2,676, 2,723, 
2,68 I. 2,695 and 2.685. Seven of the ten wells produce gas. and the other three 
are either salt water wells or failures for gas or oil. At some of these wells a 
showing of oil is found in a brown sand having a thickness of from twenty to 
twenty four feet, which Mr. Henry has termed the oil sand to distinguish it 
from tlic gas sand which is found about ninety feet below. Where this gas 
sand has been drilled through it has been demonstrated to have a thickness of 
from rive to seven feet. The No. 5 well, on the southeastern corner of 
Warrant 2,684, reached 1,943 feet where the gas sand was a depth of five feet. 
Well No. 6 is in the eastern part of 2,676, where a six-feet vein of sand 
begins at 1,776 feet. At the suggestion of Mr. Schultz, of Wilcox, this well 
was torpedoed, showing 250 feet of oil and 250 feet of water after standing 
thirty daj s. 

The National Transit Company No. 7. known as the Frank Andrews well. 
is located in the northeastern corner of Warrant 2,675, and is a large gas well. 
The oil sand was struck at a depth of 1,762 feet and the gas sand at 1,862. 

Clermont Cemetery Association was incorporated July 19, 1879, on peti- 
tion of L. Steinham, L. Boyer, Jacob Hafner. Caspar Hafner and John 
Martin. 

Clermont Lodge, 949, I. O. O. F., was organized June 7, 1877. with the 
following named members: W. E. Butts. Robert Dick. Walter Dick. Robert 
Jaap, L. J. Lewis, John Lee. James Morgan. George Morgan, J. H. Tate. 
Andrew Reynolds. The names of past grands are John C. Martin. Robert 
Dick, J. H. Tate, W. E. Butts. John Lee. James Morgan. Andrew Reynolds, 
A. M. Schmelz, George G. Windman. Edward Tracy. John Wilson, Alexan- 
der Muir. George T. Brown. \V. A. Russell, James Davidson. A. W. Taylor, 
John O. Sonbergh, James Hamilton. James Robertson, John T. Cunningham. 
John W. Steinhauer, I. J. McCandless. Samuel Bedford. Addison Fluent. 
Jacob Amend. Adam Hafner, George W. Weaver. The names of secretaries 
are James Morgan (one year). W. E. Butts (one year), and J. H. Tate (nine 
years). The present number of members is eighty seven and value of property 
$2,500. Dr. A. K. Corben. N. G. : Frank Hafner. V. G. : Jacob Amend. Asst. 
Sec. : Addison Fluent, trustee, and J. O. Sonbergh, representative, were 
elected in October, 1S89. 

The Clermont Union Church Society elected the following named officers in 
October, 1889: John O. Sonbergh, president: J. H. Tait, secretary, and Sam- 
uel Bedford, treasurer. 

A Sunday school was organized at Clermont in December. 1 SS'.t. with S. 
Bedford, superintendent: Mrs. Harrington, assistant; Sophia Hafner, organ- 
ist: Maggie Bedford, assistant: Albert Anderson, treasurer, and Jennie Mc 
Kendrick. secretary. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 313 



CHAPTER XXI. 

WETMORE TOWNSHIP— BOROUGH OF KANE. 

Wetmohe Township General Topography— Oil Wells and Lands— Lum- 
ber Company— Oil Fields and Enterprises— Population— Officers 
Elected in 1890— Gen. Kane— The Seneca Hunters— Forest Fires- 
Town of Jo-Jo — Large Sale of Oil Interests. 

Borough of Kane Origin of Name— Col. Kane and David Cornelius- 
Population— The Place in 1869-74 — El ection— Schools— The Board of 
Trade— Natural Gas Companies— Water Company— Bank and Indus- 
tries— Hotels— Churches— Societies — Miscellaneous. 

WETMORE TOWNSHIP lies wholly within the sixth bituminous coal 
basin. It is the birthplace of the East branch of the Tionesta, the head- 
waters of which — West run and Wind run — rise in the Kane neighborhood, 
enter the East branch southwest of Kane, whence the river flows northwest 
into Hamilton township. A feeder of the south branch of the Kinzua (Hubert 
run) rises within Kane borough, flows by the Sulphur spring, joins the south 
branch two miles north, whence this branch flows into Hamilton township. 
Crane creek rises in the extreme southwest. Wilson run, just south of Kane, 
receives Dalson's run three miles southeast and flows by Sergeant village into 
Elk county. A few tributaries of West Clarion flow southeast across the east 
township line, while Fife run flows northwest across the northeast corner of the 
township. The highest point measured is near the Sergeant township line or 
divide between Beckwith and Glad runs, being 2,150 feet above tide level, 
and the lowest point on the north line, where the south branch enters Hamilton 
township, 1.400 feet. The depot at Kane is 2,020 feet, at Sergeant 1,716 and 
at Wetmore 1,808 feet above ocean level. The average thickness of exposures 
in the township above water level is 575 feet, of which coal measures and con- 
glomerate show 175, Mauch Chunk and Pocono 325, and red Catskill 75 feet, 
while the highest stratum is the shale cap near Kane, and the lowest on the* 
south branch, where seventy-rive feet of the upper Catskill appears. The 
shale cap of the Clermont coal forms the summits, and from the drift cover- 
ing of this cap the rock used in the cellar of the late Gen. Kane's house was 
excavated. Fifteen years after the building of this house a shaft was put down 
seventy-five feet near by to explore the Clermont deposit; owing to the escape 
of gas the cautious laborers retired, but in two or three days they were able 
to resume work, as the flow was exhausted. 

On the old Kittanning trail, north of this house, the Indians of long ago 
used to camp, and to-day there is the fire-clay which formed the rest for beds 
of Clermont in ages past. Around Kane, however, what remains of this coal 
deposit was explored and found wanting, in a commercial sense. The Alton 
coal was opened on the Howard Hill road and in the Swede settlement south- 
west of the borough at an elevation of 1,980 feet above the ocean, or forty feet 
below the level of Kane depot. 

The Johnson run sandstone at this point is highly fossiliferous. The cut- 
tings on Clarion summit at Kane show its pink-yellow hue and regular blocks 
of forty feet depth. The color is derived from the equal distribution of iron 



:;U HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

through its parts, as shown in the prismoidal blocks used in the Leiper memo- 
rial churcb at Kane. The kindred Kinzua creek sandstone also abounds here. 
The Olean conglomerate here averages about sixty feet in thickness, but one 
mile from Wetmore, on the road to Blesses, it is found in detached blocks 
1,890 feet above ocean level. 

The Ernhout & Taylor well No. 2, in the southeast corner of Warrant 
3,215, was drilled to a depth of 1,990 feet between March 12 and May 9, 1878, 
and subsequently lowered ten feet through a tine, dark, oil-impregnated sand. 
The record kept by M. M. Schultz shows the opening 1,730 feet above tide. 
through fcirty feet of loam and sand, followed by gray slate, red shale, sand, 
shells and soft, gray slate, down 1,980 feet, when ten feet of dark, oil-impreg- 
nated sand was brought up, and from 1,990 to 2,0* H> feet, the oil containing 
coffee grounds. The well was cased down 364 feet, but when it was evident 
that oil would not yield in commercial quantities this casing was withdrawn, 
and the phenomena witnessed in the old Wilcox well repeated here by an eleven 
minute water-spout, winning for this the title. " Kane Geyser well." This spout 
reached various heights, from 75 feet to 138. and in winter, when the ice king 
would grasp the stream, ice would form so as to show a high, transparent 
stand pipe. The Coburn Dry Hole, one and one-half miles north of Sergeant 
depot, reached a depth of 2,263 feet in August, 1879, and casing inserted for 
357 feet. At a depth of 148 feet, and again at 212 feet, oil appeared; at 610 
feet gas; at 1.953 feet oil; at 2.238 feet Bradford sand: at 2.093 gas. and at 
2,263 slate and sand. The Kane Geyser well was stopped by Dr. Crossmire 
and others, who day after day made trial to control its wild flow. 

The Kane Blade of February, 1880. notices the purchase of 250 acres of 
oil land on Warrants 3.760 and 3.786 by H. O. Ellithorpe; the drilling of the 
Clemenger & Hunt well, on the James Brothers' land, and the Winsor pur- 
chase of 150 acres on 3,760. 

Wilcox well No. 1. on Warrant 2.723. six miles east of Kane, and one mile 
north of the line of Elk county, was drilled to a depth of 1,943 feet in June. 
1881. and filled to a depth of fifty feet with oil in one night. The Adams well, 
on Warrant 2,676, was put down in this neighborhood in 1865. The Wilcox 
Company comprised A. I. Wilcox, D. A. Wray, H. W. Williams and others. 

In November, 1883, the Ridgway Lumber Company purchased 2,500 acres 
of land near Kane for $58,000. The tract was estimated to contain from six 
to eight millions feet of cherry, with other varieties of hardwood and hemlock. 

In January, 188<>. the Kane Oil field, or New Black Sand field, appeared 
so worn out that the oil map, hanging in the Thompson House, was turned by 
the scouts wallwards, and many operators deserted the field. On January 2s. 
however, the foresight of the scouts was rendered unreliable, for on that day 
the Kane Company's well touched sand at a depth of 2,207 feet, and. penetrat 
ing it for six feet, found a 125-barrel well. This well was drilled on Lot 426. 
a little less than three months after the Craig A: Cappeau well was drilled (No 
vember 1 1, 1885), 400 rods south by east. The wells reported finished on Feb 
ruary 11. 1886, numbered fifteen. Mr. Murphy's, the Associated Producers', 
and Chapman & Fickin's wells were dry. Kane Oil Company's well No. 1, on 
Lot 11, of Griffith's, produced gas, and their well No. 2 seventy five barrels of 
oil; P. T. Kennedy's well, on Lot 12, yielded forty-five barrels per day; Simp- 
son & McMullen's, on Lot 19, did not produce; Bayne, Fuller ^v Co.'s, well, 
on Lot 20, gave 15 barrels; the Associated Producers' wells No. 1 and 2. 77 
barrels; Craig & Cappeau' s Nos. 1 and 2, 114 barrels; Roy, Archer & Clemen- 
ger' s wells yielded gas, also Tennent & Co.'s, while the new well referred to 
above gave 125 barrels per day, and gave new life to the district, leading to 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 315 

au increase of teD, by February 11, from the twenty-six wells in existence Jan- 
uary 28. By April 10, the Kane Oil Company bad six wells in the field, No. 
6 producing 2*25 barrels, and No. 1, 145 barrels. The Union Oil Company 
had seven wells of from 70 to 197 barrels per day; Coast & Thyng's No. 1 
yielded 242 barrels, while Shirley and Hochstetler. Andrews & Co., and Reed 
& Brown wells, were all producers. 

In January, 1889, the firms of West & Co. and Davis & Co. drilled for oil 
on Warrant 3,131, in Wetmore. two and one-half miles north of Kane. At 1.773 
feet they tapped the oil sand, but not satisfied with the promise of a ten-barrel 
well, they continued the boring to 1,956 feet, when they struck the heaviest 
flow of gas known in the Kane region. 

The first gas well in the Kane field was struck in the fall of 1884. To-day 
the pressure varies from 200 to 1,200 pounds to the square inch. On Novem- 
ber 11. 1885, this field yielded its first oil. 

Wetmore township, in 1881*, had a population of 1,438. In 1888 there 
were 184 Republican votes, sixty one Democratic, eighteen Prohibitionist 
and three Labor-Unionist, or a total of 266, on which figures the population is 
estimated to be 1,330. A number of unnaturalized residents, however (Swedes, 
Italians. Germans), place the true population far above this. 

The township officers elected in February, 1890, are as follows: Super 
visors, Charles Hedman, Peter Nelson; school directors, P. A. Carlquist. E. 
W. Campbell; constable, G. N. Jackson; auditor, John Selin; town clerk, C. 
L. O'Kerlind: justice of the peace, Eric Erickson; collector, William Wilkins; 
judge of election, J. O. Liddell; inspectors, John McNall, Neil C. McEwen. 

In 1855 Gen. Kane came to the upper Clarion with a number of friends, 
where his father and the widow of Mr. Leiper owned lands. The party took 
up their quarters in Williamsville, on the Elk county side of the Wilcox farm. 
In 1856 Mrs. Kane accompanied her husband into the wilderness, and that 
year the General instructed Erastus Burlingame in geology, and had him join 
the explorations of that year. In 1859 he selected the countr}- around Kane 
for his home, and in 1860 began the building of the present Kane home. On 
the opening of hostilities the place was deserted, and the cut stone, which was 
intended for the building, was stolen and used in filling the railroad embank 
ment. In 1864, however, the work of building was resumed, but the pioneer 
saw-mill, built in 1864, burned in 1867, and delayed progress. 

Evidences of prehistoric occupation are not wanting. "There are three 
earthworks or forts, each from two to four feet high, and about one mile apart. 
They resemble each other, being all of a true circle and about fifty paces across 
the center, and are evidently of great age, as large trees have grown up their 
embankments. One contains from eight to ten small mounds with a deep 
hole in the center, and all are situated on high land far from water. Two 
cannon balls or shells were found at Kane when excavating for a round-house. 
They are supposed to be reminders of the soldiers of the Revolution. 

In May, 1880, the Seneca hunters, with their women and children, camped 
below Kane in the great pigeon roosts. Their object was to feed on young 
pigeons, which they intended to capture and kill chicken fashion, but owing 
to some miscalculation, they arrived at the wrong time, and so had to evacuate 
the location in the face of starvation, as they had no arms to bring down the 
hitherto despised old birds. 

The forest fires around Kane in May. 1888, originated near Wetmore. de- 
stroying three houses at Swamp Lodge, the Clinton Oil Company's stock and 
property; the Boston Oil Company's rigs and tanks; Treat & Mallory's rigs 
and tanks, while much of the country between Kane and Mount Jewett was 



316 HISTOBY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

burned over. Tin- clothes pin factory of Howells. Moffitt & Co.. of West Kane, 
was destroyed that month. 

The town of Jo Jo, which sprang into existence in the winter of 1885-86. 
was practical!} deserted in April of the latter year. In October. 1889, the 
name of the place was chaDged to Joville. and a post-office established there, 
with Thomas J. McCann, master. The Kane Oil Field Railroad, bnilt in 
1886, had the tracks removed, and the James Brothers' milling interest, oi- 
l's mill, was moved to Alton. 

About the heaviest deal that has been made here for some time was made 
between J. T. and W. Griffith and parties who owned a large oil interest near 
the western limit of Kane. This interest consists of twenty-two producing 
wells, and was purchased by the Griffiths for $80,000. 

BOROUGH OF KANE. 

The town was named in honor of Thomas L. Kane. He and David Cor- 
nelius were the hist of the white men to settle here, and Mr. Kane was also 
the first in Pennsylvania to volunteer his services to the government at the 
commencement of the civil war. he having been colonel of the famous Buck- 
tail Regiment, dying on Christmas Day, 1883. His sons are Elisha, Evan O. 
and Thomas L... and with creditable zeal they are carrying out the pul lie 
spirited policy adopted by their father, the honorable and distinguished founder 
of the place, doing their utmost to advance the community in all that is possi 
ble fur man to accomplish. 

Kane borough, which was included in Wetmore township in ISM), gave. 
in 1888. 163 Republican, 117 Democratic, 37 Prohibition and three Laboi 
Unionist votes, or a total of 320. The figures multiplied by six give an ap- 
proximate of the present number of residents a- 1,920, bat local authorities 
place it much higher. In January. 1890, Robert Campbell, city assessor, 
reported a population of 1,925. . 

In December, 1869, a large hotel (164x122 feet, four stories) was com- 
pleted; the railroad restaurant was carried on by the Nicholses: the McKeau and 
Elk Land and Improvement Company's park of 600 acres was laid out: the 
Catholic church building, 10x60 feet, was completed prior to this time by 
Father Voisard. Rev. Goodrich preached to the Methodists in a log bouse: 
the school-building was completed, while the Swedes held religious meetings 
on Fraley street. In 1871 O. D. Coleman. Leonard & Meese, and Robert 
Lafferty, were the leading merchants. The laige saw mill (Kane's) was 
burned in July. 1867, entailing a loss of $75,000. The commercial interests 
of Kane in 1871 were represented by F. \\ . Meese, J. Davis, O. D. Coleman 
and M. W. Burk, merchants: R. E. Looker and I'. Burns, grocers; D. T. 
Hall, of the Kane House; J. D. Leonard, postmaster: J. I). Barnes, foreman 
of -team sawmill; William Bartholomew, butcher; M. Crotty, shoemaker; 
James Hyde, machinist, and William Gannon, locomotive engineer. The 
railroad buildings at Kane were destroyed 1>\ fire Msj 10, 1*74. 

Election. The charter election of Kane borough was held February 15, 
1**7. when W. 1!. Smith received 235 votes tor burgess (being the total vote 
cast). George Griffith, J. McDade, O. D. Coleman, -I C. Myers, H. H. Cor- 
son and 1;. \\ . Smith were elected members of council; J. H. Grady, O. B. 
Lay, P. -I. Daly, M. W. Moffitt, J. Davis and R. M. Campbell received each a 
full vote for school directors; C. V. Gillis was chosen just ice: Robert Camp 
bell, assessor; Benrj McConnell, collector; I'. A. Vanorsdall, auditor: Dan 
Matthews, constable; John Wegley, high constable; William Turby, judge, 
and A. Peterson, inspector of elections. \V. ]'.. Smith was elected burgess in 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 319 

1888. In February, 1889, Joshua Davis and E. H. Long received each 126 
votes. The matter was decided by the court declaring the office vacant and 
appointing M. \Y. Moffitt, burgess. A. Y. Jones was chosen justice, receiving 
130 votes, while D. T. Hall received only 117. 

The following is the vote cast in the borough in February, 1890: 

Water Tax— For, 190; against, 44. 

Burgess— M. W. Moffitt, R., 107; 'George Kinnear. D., 81; N. M. Orr, 
I.. 85. 

Council— W. B. Smith, R.. 172; C. E. Brown. R. &P., 128; T. H. Ryan. 
R.. 99: P. McHale. D., 98; William O'Connor. D.. 81; James Cochran, D.. 
81; Dr. W. J. Armstrong. I.. 39; Webb Evans. I.. 34; G. W. Neuls. I., 37: 
O. B. Lay, P.. 38; D. Staples. P.. 22. 

School Directors— T. S. James. R. & P., 150; Albert Peterson, R. & P., 
139; Dr. J. L. Wright, D.. 102; Edward Brooder. D., 88; William Hubard. 
I.. 35. 

Constable— R. E. Looker, R.. 160; James F. Wood. D.. 59; Davis Smiley, 
P. &L, 49. 

High Constable— H. N. Cummings. R.. 121;. John McDonough, D., 80; 

D. M, Longshore, P. & I., 64. 

Auditor— Dennie Davis. R.. 134; E. H. Long, D., 88; W. O. Marvin. P., 
20; Willis Jackson, I.. 32. 

Tax Collector— R. E. Looker, R., 96; James F. Wood, D.. 38; Davis 
Smiley, P. & I., 34; C. V. Gillis. I.. 103. 

Judge of Election -F. W. Meese. Sr., R., 133; D. T. Hall, D., 86; Will 
iam Blew, P. & I., 55. 

Inspector of Election — W. H. Davis. R.. 137; Richard Kerwin, D., 85; 
Milton Craven. P. . 24. 

Schools. — The Kane school-building was erected in 1883 at a cost of about 
$12,000. In 1885 W. P. Eckles was principal, with Misses Jones and Hodges. 
assistants. R. Campbell is president of the school board, O. B. Lay, secre- 
tary, W. J. Armstrong, treasurer, and Charles Roos, Grady and McKnight 
unofficial members. The schools are presided over by C. D. Higby. The 
teachers are Kate Ryan, Irene Davis, Florence Olmsted and May Norris. 
The Convent school-building was erected in 1882, and has been attended by 
three sisters of the Benedictine Convent. The enrollment is over 150. 

The Board of Trade. — Of this organization Joshua Davis is president; J. 
T. Griffith and Eugene J. Miller, vice-presidents; U. M. Orr, secretary, and 

E. Davis, treasurer. This organization gave authority to the treasurer to 
offer the following inducements: Free building sites. Sites in desirable loca 
tions will be sold outright for manufacturing purposes at one-half the current 
prices of adjacent lots, or, will be furnished on lease, rent free in any year 
when twenty men (daily average) are employed about the works. Free gas. 
In cases of manufactures where the number of hands employed is large in 
proportion to the quantity of fuel consumed, the gas companies will fur- 
nish gas free for one or more years, according to the number of hands 
employed. Free lumber. Rough lumber for factory buildings will be donated 
in special cases. 

Natural Gas Companies. — In October, 1883, Elisha K. Kane commenced 
the construction of a system of natural gas supply for Kane, and in December, 
1883, Kane Gas Company (limited), consisting of J. H. Snow, Henry Mc- 
Sweeney and Charles P. Byron, all of Bradford, and E. K. Kane, of Kane, 
tiled articles of association at the county seat. In August, 1884, the limited 
partnership was succeeded by the Kane Gas Light and Heating Company, a 



320 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

chartered corporation of the State (capita!. $10,000 — 100 shares). In Sep- 
tember. ISM. .Messrs. Byron, McSweeney and Snow successively sold their 
interests, and J. D. Brooder, Elizabeth D. Kane and Joshua Davis sue- 
ceeded them. September'-!'!. 1SS5, the company reorganized under the nat- 
ural gas act. At first the company purchased its gas from the National 
Transit Company, but in May, 1884, they drilled a well at the north end of 
Fraley street, and obtained an abundant supply of gas at the depth of 2, 188 
feet. Before means could be devised for confining the gas, the roar of its 
escape could be plainly heard at a distance of eight miles, and the company 
were threatened with suits for damage on account of loss of sleep by the 
neighbors. To avoid interruption of supply during repairs of well, a second 
gas well half a mile south of Kane was drilled in 1SS5. The excellent sand 
and evidences of oil found in these two wells encouraged Mr. Clemenger 
to try another '•wild-cat," and the discovery of the Kane oil field. The 
company's mains have been extended with the growth of the town, and now 
(in August. 18SU) they are laid in every street of Kane, and branches extend 
to the three villages of West Kane. North Kane and East Kane, while the 
value of the entire plant is estimated at $40,000. 

In 1887 the Citizens' Gas Company (capital $5,000) was chartered as a 
competing line. James McDade, president; J. T. Griffith, vice-president, and 
\Y. A. Holgate, originated the project and pushed it to success. Mains were 
laid on the four principal streets of Kane, and a branch to East Kane was 
constructed. A well was drilled on Fraley street and another on sub. ?>-{'■',. 
but the latter has since been disposed of. The plant is worth about $12,000. 
the principal stockholders having procured loans to the company for the excess 
over the capital. The immediate result of the competition was a reduction in 
price of gas from 82 per Btove, monthly, to 00 cents and $1 per stove. 

Water Company. — Spring Water Company of Kane (capital $40,000) was 
incorporated in 1887, the principal stockholders being Elizabeth D. Kane. 
Elisha K. bane. Joshua Davis, H. J. James and M. YV. Moffitt, all of Kane 
Water is obtained from Hubert run, one mile north of the town, the entire 
valley being preserved in timber for its protection. It is propelled by natural 
gas introduced in lieu of steam into the cylinders of a Worthington duplex 
pump, through a six-inch cast iron main to two t >( 10 barrel wooden tanks, 
elevated twenty feet above the highest point of ground in the borough. From 
this reservoir distributing mains are laid on all the principal streets east ol 
the Philadelphia «v Erie Railroad. The value of the plant is (August. 1889) 
about, 820. 000, paid in by stockholders, the remaining $20,000 of the capital 
remaining in the treasury for future extensions. 

Haul,- and Industries. — In the Kane Bank, conducted by McDade. Davis 
& Co., the town has a monetary interest of which it is justly proud. It 
was founded April 27. L886. James McDade. Joshua Davis. W. P. Weston 
and Dr. G. H. Preston are the individual proprietors, and they are all men of 
influence and enterprise. The office is in the modern McDade building, com 
pleted in 1886. 

A branch of the Security Building & Loan Association was organized Jan- 
uary 30, 1890, with the following named officers: President. Andrew Larson, 
ten shares; treasurer, D. B. Keelor, ten shares; secretary, Carl Egelin, five 
shares; board of advisors, Andrew Skoog, ten shares: Albert Peterson, ten 
shares; Andrew Skoglund, five shares. 

In the lames Brothers, of whom there are seven, although not all of them 
are residents of Kane, the town has substantial pillars. Their principal busi- 
ness is the manufacture of lumber, their mills being situated about nine miles 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 321 

south of Kane, in Elk county. There they cut 12,000,000 feet of hemlock, 
cherry and poplar annually, "and have sufficient timber standing to keep 
them busy for ten years. They out mostly yard sizes, and are now just com- 
pleting a' lath mill. At HintJn. VY. Va., where J. C. James, assisted by his 
brother, D. W., is located, they have a mill and other interests, the style of 
the firm being William James & Sons, the father, now deceased, having 
founded the business in 180-"). taking his son into partnership two years later. 
They cut yearly 2,000,000 feet of pine, poplar and oak, and from both there 
and Elk county they make shipments to all parts of Eastern Pennsylvania. 
N.u lersey and Delaware. The business in Kane is in charge of H. J. and 
T. S. James. 

The Griffith Mills were established in 1866, by Thomas Griffith, who con- 
ducted them until 1884, when J. T. Griffith leased two of them. A year later 
hr and his brother, Webb, purchased the three mills, which produced 7,000,000 
feet of lumber last year. In 1883 the Griffith Brothers established their large 
store at Kane, and in 1889 invested $80,000 in local oil lands. They carry 
almost a half interest in the Citizens' Gas Company, and employ from forty 
to a hundred men. 

Probably the largest industry in Kane is the brush-block factory, founded 
here some four years ago by the Holgate Brothers, the oldest and most widely- 
known firm in this line iu the whole country, the business having been handed 
down to the present generation from a hundred years back. In February. 
1888, Joshua Davis, his son, W. H., and G. W. Neuls, became the sole pro- 
prietors, retaining the old title, but adding to it the word company. Mr. 
Neuls, who gives every detail of the business his personal attention, was with 
the Holgates fifteen years ago. becoming thoroughly versed in the manufact 
ure of every article made in the factory, including brush heads, brush handles, 
and white-wash, paste, dust, stove and scrub blocks. They make the finest 
goods, and their productive capacity is 500,000 to 800,000 gross per annum, 
the variety of handles made being over 50,000. 

The Kane clothes-pin factories are operated by David Howells, M. W. 
Moffitt and Joshua Davis. The works at West Kane were first opened in the 
fall of 1889. The process of making these is an interesting one. It is done 
in just six motions. The first one cuts a four- foot chunk off the log, the sec- 
ond saws a board from the chunk, the third saws the board into square strips, 
the fourth cuts the strips into clothes-pin lengths, the fifth turns the pin, and 
the sixth cuts the slot in it. This is done very rapidly, and they are then dried 
and polished in revolving cylinders, after which they are at once boxed and 
shipped. The capacity is 300 boxes of 720 pins each per day, or twenty-nine 
miles in length. In February. 1890. the West & Britton clothes-pin factory 
was purchased by Howells, Moffitt & Co. 

The Carbon Manufacturing Company's Gas-black factory was established ii. 
February, 1889, by A. K. Blood and James McDade. The works give em- 
ployment to three hands and produce $25,000 worth of gas-black annually. 
W. S. Haskins is foreman. 

The Sergeant Chemical Works dates back to 1886, when the Chemical 
Company was incorporated with L. M. Otto, president; N. B. Bubb, secretary 
and treasurer; J. B. Coryell, H. C. Bubb, J. F. Tyler, and C. H. Heiin 
(superintendent), members. The works were erected that year and now em- 
ploy thirty-five hands. The annual product is valued at $75,000. Natural 
gas is used in this factory as in neai-ly all others; part of the product goes to 
Europe. 

The La Mont Chemical Works Company, of which J. C. James is president. 



322 lllsTOUY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

H. J. James, treasurer; Joshua Davis, secretary, and J. B. Finch, superin- 
tendent, manufacture acetate of lime, charcoal and naphtha, operating what 
is known as a twelve retort plaut and consuming 3,000 cords of beech, maple 
and birch woods annually, using natural gas fuel. The works are located 
three miles south of Kane, have been running seven years, and their products 
are shipped to the Philadelphia and Boston markets. 

The Brooder Wall-Catching Packer was patented by Mr. Brooder August 
6, 1886, and May 17. L887. In the use of the Brooder packer no anchor is 
required, as a screw purchase, instead of the weight of the tubing, is employed 
in compressing the rubber, causing it to expand, shutting oft the flow of gas 
or oil outside the packer, forcing the same up through the packer, and tubing 
instead. With this invention Mr. Brooder guarantees the shutting-iu of any 
Well, no matter how strong the pressure or at what depth it is to be shut off. 
The Brooder packers are also used with success in packing off salt water where 
it is necessary to pull the casing, the packer sustaining the weight of water 
and the tubing while the casing is being drawn. In January, 1890, John P. 
Farrell, of the Butler Co-Operative Glass Works, which were burned to the 
ground the previous spring, recently made Kane a visit to consult with hercit- 
izens in regard to bringing the works here. Flattering offers were made to him 
which were in substance as follows: Ground rent, free; gas from the Kane Gas 
Light and Heating Company, at exceedingly low rates; and water from the 
Spring Water Company free. For the site of the works he preferred the laud 
in the "y" formed by the P. & W. and P. & E. Railroads. The gentleman 
bas visited the gas fields in the West and he found no place which pleased 
him better than Kane. 

Hotels. — The Thompson House was leased by K. M. N. Taylor in 1876, 
when the house was first regularly opened for hotel purposes. In 1877 he was 

3UC( iled by C. H. Kemp, formerly of the Washington Hotel, Philadelphia, 

who gave place in 1880 to George W. Jackson. On the removal of the latter 
Mr. Kemp leased the house and conducted it from 1884 until 1887. when 
Martin O'Brien leased it. In the spring of 1888 Mr. Kemp resumed the con- 
duct of the house, being the only successful lessee. The house is part of the 
Kane estate. There are eighty bed-rooms, together with large parlors, etc. 
There are thirty hands generally employed. A. Y. Jones is the genial clerk. 

The Hotel La Mont is conducted by Rick Donovan, who is one of the most 
popular hosts in the field. The Fleming House is a favorite hostelry, and 
claims an extensive patronage, while the Kane House is admirably conducted 
an I consequently very popular. There are smaller hotels and boarding houses 
in the city, which are all doing a fair trade. The St. Elmo was purchased in 
November, 1889, by John O'Shea. 

Churches. — The Kane Methodist Episcopal Church was formerly connected 
with the Sheffield work: while a circuit its first pastor was Rev. George V 
I! leser. Then followed A. S. Goodrich, S. Holland and Wilder (Rev. Wilder 
being the one who preached to Gen. Grant when he visited Kane). M. Col- 
grove, L. F. Merritt, M. V. Stone, H. P. Hicks. S. S. Burton, C. Clark. \ 
H. Bowers, M. Fording, L. A. Chapin. L. F. Merritt. D. M. Carpenter, L. O. 
Mead, F. A. Mills, W. A. Merriam, J. A. Parsons, C. W. Foulk and J. Bell 
Neff. Under J. A. Parsons it was made a station. At present the pastor, J. 
Bell Neff, is putting up a new brick church, which will cost $12,000.* The 
society was organized in 1864 with the following members: Neil McEwen, 
Lydia McEwen, Maggie McEwen, Katie McEwen. Mary A. Repine, Joseph 

rn- church building w.is dedicated March IG, 1890, Rev. Dr. Williams, of Allegheny Colli 
dating. 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



323 



Wefflev Eve Wegley William Hubbard, Charles Everson, Elizabeth Everson, 
John A Mell, Hettie Mell, Theodosia Mell, Kobert Campbell, Sarah Camp- 
bell. Elizabeth S. James, Mary A. Blew, Laura Campbell, Lucette Lafferty, 
■Hanna Davis, Ebenezer Edwards, Helen Fisher. Orpha Campbell, Almysa Jane 
Cuminings The first Methodist Episcopal building was dedicated in Decem- 
ber, 1872, and the second February 28, 1875. Rev. John Hicks was pastor 

The' Catholic Church dates back to 1866. Eev. G. A. Yoisard signed the 
records of the Catholic church in 1866, when the work of church lading; was 
begun The house was completed in 1867, at a cost of $686. In 1869 Rev. 
Mr! Mullowney presided here; in 1871, Rev. De la Rocque; in 18,8 Rev. B. 
Klocker, followed by Rev. Hugh Mullen in 1887. Rev. George Winkler the 
present pastor, came in 1888. In 1885 the old church was burned and the 
people worshiped in Temperance Hall until October 13, when the new church 
was dedicated by Bishop Mullen, of Erie. Rev. George W inkier, immediately 
upon taking charge of his mission, began the building of the new church: it is 
of gothic style, 50x100 feet, with a large and handsome foundation to bold 
the brick work, which is also solid. The spire from foundation wall to peak 
of the cross has a height of 131 feet. It will, without the fwmtnre, cost 
$11 000. The number of families attending this church is eighty. 1 he build- 
in<*.' if erected under ordinary contract forms, would cost about *d2,U0U 
Under the close supervision of Father Winkler the large church, with great 
hicrh altar, stained-glass windows, modern pews, etc., has been provided tor 
the people at less than half the. cost of the highest bid tendered for the work. 
The Presbyterian Church of Kane was organized November 15, 16,4, by 
Uev J L. Landis. Robert Field and William Hubbard were installed elders. 
Pending the erection of a building, services were held in the Thomson House, 
with Rev. J. M. Gillette, pastor. Mrs. Thomas, aunt of Gen. Kane, may 
be said to be the donor of the church at Kane to the Presbyterian society. It 
appears that she was anxious that Gen. Kane's children should be educated 
in Presbvterian religious ideas, and this, in connection with her desire to build 
a memorial to her father. Mr. Leiper, suggested this building The stone 
was taken from A. A. Clay's quarry, with his permission, and with this excep- 
tion must be considered her grant to the society here. In building, Henry L,_ 
Taylor was architect; the layer of the stone, Gen. Kane; all Masons, and 
Mrs. Thomas were the leaders in the ceremony of corner-stone laying; and the 
latter being the principal and an anti-Mason in sentiment, varied from the 
Masonic ritual in one instance and used the words of the church ritual. 

The Congregational Church was organized December 29. 188,, with Joshua 
Davis, David Howells, A. Y. Jones, John T. Griffith, R. T. Starsmeare, O. D. 
Coleman, W. A. Holgate and their families members. Rev. George Belsey 
is pastor, and A. Y. Jones, clerk. The church building, which was completed 
and dedicated December 9, 1888, cost $13,000. Lemuel Davis and B. B. 
James are named among the trustees in act of incorporation of April 1888. 

The Baptist Church was organized November 25, 1887, with the following 
named members: Charles Roos, Mrs. Ella Roos, Emery Davis, Mrs. Margaret, 
Mentice, Mrs. Sarah Ware. Mrs. C. R. Dickey, Mrs. Parkhurst, Mrs. Dora 
Norline, Mrs. Martha Young, P. C. West, Mrs. M. E. West. It was incor- 
porated in May, 1888, the subscribers being C. Roos,- P. C. West E. R. lint- 
ton, Emery Davis, Norman Thomas, and their wives, A. D. Clark, A. J. 
Donachi, O. A. Thomas, Madams Lida Mitchell, Margaret Mentnce, Martha 
Young, Sarah Ware, Parkhurst, Gillis, Dickie, and Agnes Hanna. Rev. O. 
R. Thomas is pastor, and Emery Davis clerk. There are twenty-nine mem- 
bers, with property valued at $6,000. 



324 HI8T0BY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Che Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Society of Kane was incorporated Sep 
I. 1888, on a petition signed by August Torstenson, J. A. Carlson, Ole 
Hanson. J. P. Larson and A. Peterson. 

The Free Lutheran Evangelical Church of Wetmore township was incor- 
porated October 27, 1885, on petition of H. Norlin, A. Norman, G. Oberg and 
(' I'. Karlson. 

The Kanasholm Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Augustoria 
was organized in June, 1876, with John Alfred Berling and others 
trustees. 

The Kanasholm Cemetery of Wetmore township was incorporated a> the 
Lasl resting place of deceased Swedes in September, 1876. 

Si. John's Protestant Episcopal Mission Church dates its beginning De 
cember 1, 1888, when Mr. and Mrs. Flynn and daughter. Mrs. Eugene Miller, 
Mrs. Thomas McClellan, Miss Ella Herrick, Mrs. O'Brien, A. Louisa Long 
and Mrs. Wilkinson, signed the roll of membership. N. M. Long was the 
tirsl secretary and J. Elmer Fluke is the present secretary. The membership 
numbers ten persons, with Rev. A. W. Ryan, pastor. 

Societies. — Kane Lodge", No. 566, F. & A. M., was organized October 28, 
L886, with the following named charter members: Claudius V. Gillis, Thomas 
H. Ryan, Alexander Y. Jones, Joshua Davis, Richard W. Smith, John T. 
Griffith, David Howells, Edward W. Long. William Turbey. Randolph M. 
Campbell, Walter B. Smith, .lames Campbell, Francis A. Lyte, William A. 
Holgate, Ogden B. Lay, Charles W. Stone, William Hearst, Joseph Manzella, 
Frank W. Brayton, John J. Stenstrom, Richard T. Starsmeare, Arthur H. 
Holgate, William E. Blew, J. Frank Tyler, Jacob M. Mock. The three first 
named have served as masters and F. A. Lyte in 1889; I!. W. Smith as sec- 
retary, and Joshua Davis as treasure]', with W. 15. Smith, master. There 
I'ty-tive members with property valued at $1,500. 

Lodge 201*, K. of P.. was instituted July 27, 1888, with the following 
named officers: C. C, M. A Bingham; V. C, William B. Beamer: P. A., J. 
Kingsley; M. at A., R. E. Looker: K. of R. & S.. A. F. Myers: M. of F.. 
A. B. Thomas; .M. of E., John Fleming; I. G.. George X. Jackson; O. G. 
John Shaner. The names of past and present C. Cs. are M. A. Bingham, 
A. A. Truxel and William B. Beamer: W. O Delph was C. C. in February. 
L890; John Shaner, A. E. Myers and A. B. Thomas are past chancellors. The 
name-, of secretaries are A. D. Swick and A. F. Myers. The present number 
tubers is sixty-four ami the value of property is $600, 

Kane Lodge. No. 412, I. O. O. F., is preside, 1 over by L. l>avis. X. G., and 
Willis Jackson, Sec. This lodge has a well-equipped hall, anil is one of the 
most prosperous of the Kane societies. 

Charles R. Riddle Post. 238, C. A. R., was mustered in March 27. 1SS8. 
with R. E. Looker. Com.: George Griffith, S. V. C. : Michael Galviu. 
I. V. ('.; B. F. Burgess. Q. M. ; Joshua Davis, Surg.: David Howells. 
Chap ; I>. R. Matthews. (>. of D. ; R. M. Campbell, O. of G. ; A. Y. Jones 
Adjt.: Michael McEvoy, S. M : H. McConnell, Q. M. S. ; F. .1. Collins 
and T. H. Ryan, trustees. The membership at date of muster included the 
above named with S. P. Bray, William Brennan, Adam Brodt, Omit Brestle, 
-M. A. Bingham, S. W. Brewer, MurtyDowd,C. H. Franklin. G. X. Jackson. 
J. K London, James Landragaii. L. X. Mosier. W. H. H Parker. Philip 
Quigley, F. W. Patch, William Rose, Sebastian Searles, Peter C. Tripp ami 
Thomas 1 1 R3 an. 

Col. Charles J, Biddle, Women's Relief Corps, No L00, was organized March 
27, l s ^^. with Mrs. Jennie Griffith, president: Mrs. Joshua Davis, vice piesi 



HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 325 

dent: Mrs. O. Brestle, junior vice-president; Mrs. George Griffiths, treasurer ; 
Mrs. W. J. Arney, chaplain; Mrs. Ed. H. Long, secretary; Mrs. D. R. 
Matthews, conductor; Mrs. C. E. Brown, assistant conductor; Mrs. R. E. 
Looker, guard, and Mrs. James Landragan, assistant guard. The charter 
members included the above named with Madams Rose Brennan, Martha 
Blood, T. Crosson, M. Dowd, Hannah Davis, Elizabeth Frazier, Mary Galvin. 
F. E. Griffith, Mattie Griffith. Jennie Griffith, Ann Howells, E. Landragan. 
Mary Looker, Margaret Long, J. Matthews, H. McConnell, Mary E. Mock, 
Abbie Maher, Ellen Quigley, Harriet Ryan, Maggie Sherry, Rosa Smith, S. 
E. Stewart, L. Thomas, Misses L. Brestle and Mary Long. The Women's 
Relief Corps is presided over by Mrs. Harriet M. Ryan, with Mrs. Ella Kelts, 
secretary. 

Gen. Thomas L. Kane Camp, S. of Y. , No. 237, claims J. L. Mitchell as 
captain, and Claude B. Gillis, first sergeant. 

Patriotic Order Sons of America, was organized November 12, 1888, with 
the following named officials: "Willis Jackson, George W. Neuls, John T. 
Campbell, J. H. Gillis, John E. Fluke, W. H. Morgester, Charles Davis, 
George Smith, Dennie Davis, F. O. Peterson, G. H. Preston, Webb Evans, 
Webb Griffith, John W. Griffith. The presidents have been J. T. Campbell 
and Willis Jackson, while George W. Neuls was serving in 1889. W. H. 
Morgester, the first secretary, was succeeded in August, 1S89, by John W. 
Griffith. The lodge claims thirty-five members. W. H. Davis was president, 
and Dennie Davis, secretary, in February, 1890. 

In August, 1872, a military company was organized at Kane, with Joseph 
D. Barnes, captain; Thomas Crosson, lieutenant, and Charles Everson, second 
lieutenant. The membership was about fifty. 

The Columbian League was organized at Kane in April, 1888, with A. A. 
Trnsel. P. C. ; T. Diffenderfer. C. ; Arthur Morris, V. C. ; W. W. Morrison, 
A. C. : George Wyviel, Sec. ; Dr. J. L. Wright, Treas. ; R. R. Hughes, Col. ; 
J. McChessney, Chap. ; A. N. Russell, Mar. ; A. Clemenger and J. G. King. 
Trustees. This society was organized for mutual benefit, and offered a cheap 
method of life insurance. 

The Loyal Legion claims the following officers: President, Bessie Staples; 
vice-president, Bessie McDade; recording secretary, Anna Campbell; corre 
spending secretary, Minnie Parsons; treasurer, Flora Lay; organist, Myrtie 
Yantassel. 

The Kane Catholic Total Abstinence Society was organized in 1873, with 

John H. Butler, president; McKean. treasurer, and James Landragan, 

marshal. 

Kane E. A. TJ. was organized August 4, 1885, with W. M. Bartlett, chan- 
cellor; R. L. Earl, advocate; M. W. Moffitt, president; Mrs. S. B. Thomas, 
vice-president; Mrs. L. M. Meese, auxiliary; Thomas J. Malone, secretary, and 
W. H. Davis, treasurer. 

Encampment of Knights of Malta at Kane was named in honor or J. T. 
Griffith. F. B. Booth is E. C. , and G. A. Robinson, C. 

Branch No. 13, C. M. B. A., was organized in November, 1889, with thir- 
ty-eight members. The officers installed were: President, Peter J. Daly; 
first vice-president, James T. Kelly; second vice-president, Thomas Dwyer; 
recording secretary, Thomas J. Dolphin ; assistant recording secretary, P. J. 
Sullivan; financial secretary. M. J. Daly; marshal, Patrick Curran; guard, 
Peter J. Crosson; trustees, John H. Garry, M. O'Shea, James P. Remond, P 
Curran, B. Crowley. 

Miscellaneous. — J. D. Leonard was postmaster at Kane until the appoint- 
ment of O. G. Kelts in 1886. 



32t> HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

In the fall of 1889 a number of citizens met in O. B. Lay's office and or 
ganized what is known as the Kane Cemetery Association. At the meeting a 
committer consisting of Messrs. Joshua Davis, C. H. Kemp and M. W. Moffitt 
was appointed and instructed to procure the ground. This committee at once 
commenced work and purchased six acres of Erick Erickson at $100 per acre. 
Mrs. E. D. Kane donated four acres, making in all ten acres. This land has 
been fenced in. The services of Alson Rogers, of Warren, were secured, who 
did the work reasonable, and did it well. A part of the ground has been laid 
out in lots, and the committee are now ready to dispose of them. The cem- 
etery is situated about half a mile south of the borough, and a graded road 
leads to and through the grounds. 

The location of the town in the wilderness, near where the pioneer-, of 
Williams ville settled long ago. is excellent. When Gen. Kane came in later 
years and looked up from the valley of the Clarion he pictured the tree-covered 
hills, partially cleared of the forest, and in the openings .a thousand happy 
farm homes. In after years, when the railroad sought a way out of the val- 
ley and its builders determined to cross the high divide, he selected the Bum 
mit for a town site and dreamed great things of its future, seeing in fancy the 
porticoed houses of a happy people extending over the plateau and stretching 
away to the valleys. The pioneer dream has been practically fulfilled. Omit- 
ting its poetic features the location is all that he pictured, and more than that. 
for conveniences of life which were not known a decade ago are found here, 
and great industries, which provide work for the industrious, take the place of 
fancy's castles. The town is an example of what enterprise may accomplish 
in a short space of time. It is very young, but very precocious, and the 
marker of its progress has work daily, for every day adds either a small or 
large contingent to the mercantile or manufacturing circle and many persons 
to the community. What history may say of this progressive town at the close 
of this century depends much on its residents of the present time. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 327 



CHAPTER XXII. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES— BRADFORD TOWNSHIP AND 
CITY OF BRADFORD. 

JAMES L. ADAMS, manager of the Bradford Beef Company, Bradford, 
was born in Ossian, Livingston Co., N. Y., October 31, 1847, a son of Leonard 
and Amy (Crocker) Adams. He left school and served as private in the Union 
army, Second Army Corps, Third Brigade, Third Division, One Hundred and 
Twentieth New York State Regiment, Company I, from September 2, 1864, 
until the end of the war; was discharged June 15, 1865, at Kingston, N. Y., 
when he returned to school and graduated from the Rushford Academy, Alle- 
gany county, N. Y. , in 1865; then attended Eastman's commercial school of 
Poughkeepsie, N. Y. , and graduated in March, 1866, and then was employed 
for a time as bookkeeper, when he began the manufacture of cheese, which he 
continued until 1871. He then sold out his business and moved to McKean 
county, Penn. , where he was employed as superintendent and manager of the 
cheese factory at Kendall. In L874 he accepted a position as bookkeeper at 
Bradford, which he held until 1886, when he became manager of the Bradford 
Beef Company, which was established by Swift & Co., of Chicago, 111., in 1883. 
The business of the company has doubled since Mr. Adams became its man 
ager, and they now sell three car loads of beef per week at Bradford. Mr. 
Adams was married July 4, 1870, to Miss Emma M. Tyler, of Farmersville, N. 
Y., and they have two children: Myrtie M. and Carrie L. In politics Mr. 
Adams is independent. He is a member of the Knights of St. John and Malta 
and the Knights of Pythias. The parents of Mr. Adams are native-born 
Americans of English descent; those of Mrs. Adams, James and Malona 
(Clark) Tyler, are also native-born Americans, and reside at Farmersville, N. 
Y. , where the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Adams was solemnized. Although 
regular attendants at church, they are not members of any congregation. 

H. H. ADSIT, superintendent of the Bradford Oil Company, Bradford, 
was born in Chautauqua county, N. Y., January 22, 1841, a son of Albert G. 
and Genette (Montgomery) Adsit, who were natives of Saratoga county, N. Y. 
The subject of these lines, who is the youngest son in a family of four sons and 
four daughters, was reared in his native county, and in his boyhood attended 
the common schools, later becoming a student at Fredonia Academy. In 1858 
he- began to learn the trade of machinist, and served an apprenticeship of three 
years. At the breaking out of the Rebellion he enlisted in the Forty-fourth 
New York Volunteer Infantry, known as the "Ellsworth Zouaves," being se- 
lected to represent Chautauqua county. The regiment was made up from the 
entire State, each county and each ward in the cities furnishing one man, who 
was to be at least five feet ten inches in height, well-built and between the 
ages of twenty-one and thirty. Mr. Adsit was appointed orderly sergeant of 
his company. He served faithfully until the expiration of his term of service, 
and was discharged in 1864; he was wounded twice — neither time seriously. 
After his discharge he returned to Chautauqua county, and worked at his trade 
a year. In 1865 he entered into the oil business, and in 1872 was employed 



328 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

1 iv an English company to go to the Wesi India Islands, taking with him men 
and tools. Returning to Pennsylvania in 1874, in L876 he came to Bradford, 
where li«' lias since been superintendent of the Bradford Oil Company. Mr. 
Adsit was married in 1878 to Miss Frances Nevens. daughter of William 
Sevens, of Titusville. This union has been blessed with three children, viz. : 
Grace, Bessie and Howard. In politics he is a Republican. He is a member 
of the Veteran League, of which he is lieutenant colonel. ■ He and his wife 
in members of the Episcopal Church. 

C. P. ALLING, M. D. , Bradford, was born in Norwalk, Huron Co.. 
Ohio, February 19, 1838, a sou of P. and Eliza L. (Gibbs) Ailing, former a 
native of New York and latter of Connecticut. His father was clerk of Huron 
county ten years. C. P. is the second in a family of eight children, was given 
good educational advantages, and after leaving the common schools attended 
the Western Reserve College, from which he graduated in 1856. He then took 
a three years' course at Ken von (Ohio) College, and afterward taught school 
one year at Milan, Ohio. He began the study of medicine at. Norwalk with 
Dr. John Tifft. completing same with Dr. Charles Merrill, of Cleveland, in the 
meantime attending lectures at the Western Homoeopathic College, of Cleve- 
land: received his degree in 1S62, and entered upou the practice of his pin 
fession at Lima. The following summer the Doctor enlisted in one of the regi 
ments formed for the defense of the southern border of the State, serving as 
assistant surgeon, and was discharged in December following. He practiced 
at Milan three years, and then, in January. L867, moved to Dunkirk, N. Y.. 
where he remained ten years. While there he served for a time as city phj si 
cian, was chairman of the board of health, and an active member of the V w 
York Homoeopathic Medical Society. In 1^77 he moved to Bradford, where 
he remained four years, and in 1^1 went to Buffalo, but two years later re 
turned to Bradford, where he has since lived. While in Buffalo he served as 
city physician and was also surgeon for a railroad company. For five years be 
has been chairman of the Bureau of Microscopy and Histology in the National 
Medical Association. While in Buffalo he perfected the " Triumph Inhaler." 
which seems destined to revolutionize the treatment of all diseases of the head, 
throat and lungs. The Doctor now has a large practice, which is mostrj con 
tined to his office, and has been very successful in his treatment of disease. 
Dr. Ailing was married in March, 1803, to Miss Rahamah Wakeman, daugh- 
ter of W. H. Wakeman, and they have two children: Mary E. (wife of Capt. 
A. A. Fengar) and H. W. (now a medical student in the office of his father. ) 
The Doctor and his wife are members of the Episcopal Church. In politics he 
is a Republican. 

ABRAHAM ANDERSON is a prominent flour and fee.l dealer in Bradford. 
formerly of Lafayette, same county, where he was postmaster for thirteen 
years. He also owns a farm of 200 acres, and is largely interested in the pro 
Auction of oil, working ten wells and receiving a royalty on a numl>er of others. 
Mr. Anderson was born in England, and came with his parents to America in 
1828. They settled in McKean county, being among its first settlers, at a 
time when it was mostly inhabited by Indians and wild animals. His father 
died in 1832; his mother died at the age of one hundred and three, retaining 
her mental faculties till the time of her death. December 3. ISS'J. Of their 
seven sons. Joseph, -fames. Thomas, John. Isaac. William and Abraham, three 
are living: Isaac, in Erie county. Penn.. and James and Abraham, in McKean 
county. The mother was a cousin of John C. Calhoun, the eminent states 
man. Mr. Anderson has served as justice of the peace and deputy sheriff of 
his county. By special act of the legislature he was appointed Stale road 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



329 



commissioner, in which capacity he served six years. He is a member of the 
MaTnic fraternity and of the Equitable Aid Union. He was mamed August 
12 1852. to Sarah Ann Elizabeth Beeman, and they have had four children. 
Burton J. (killed in a railroad disaster), Jesse E Eva (wife of Charles J elch. 
of Newton Kas.), and Anna A. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson are prominent mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Republican. 

J L ANDREWS, proprietor of the Hotel Brunswick. Bradford, was born 
ranuarv 19 1842. He was reared in Bradford county, Penn and enlisted in 
§62 n the One Hundred and Thirty- second Pennsylvania Volunteer Infan^ 
try Company D, serving his term of enlistment. He has lived m Bradford 
See ,1875, and has been one of the most active in the promotion of her public 
interests. He was one of the most prominent movers in the organization o 
he Bradford Fire Department, and was elected its first chief, serving in that 
capacity live years, and still enjoys the reputation of having bee.! one of the 
best chiefs the department has had. He is now serving his third term as a 
member of the select conned of Bradford In politics Mr. Andrews ,s a Re 
nnhlican and he is a member of Bradford Post, No. 141, G. A. R. He was 
£Sin Jamestown, N.Y., in 1870, to Miss Blanche, daughter of Col. James 
T Henrv, and ttaev have two children: James and Blanche Broder. 

' S AUERHAIM, dealer in dry goods, millinery, etc., Bradford, is a na tive 
of Germany, born November 28, J 838. He was reared in his native country. 
and his father, Moses Auerhaim, being a merchant, he when but a child, be- 
gan to learn the business, serving a regular apprenticeship of three years. In 
1850 he came to America, and in New York learned the cigar-maker s trade 
He was obliged to rely on himself for support, and as he had not money enough 
to start the dry goods business, for some time be gave his attention to the 
manufacture andUle of cigars. He remained in New York unti 866 when 
he removed to Petroleum Centre, Penn., and there embarked m the drj goods 
business; later he went to Erie, and from there to Oil City, where ne remained 
five years In 1879 he located in Bradford, where he now has one of the best 
dry goods stores in the place. Mr. Auerhaim married Miss Fanmelvuntz, and 
thev have seven children: Selina. Ida. Bertha. Emma. Clara. Samuel and 
Moses Martin. In politics Mr. Auerhaim is a Republican. He is a membei 
of the Jewish Reformed Church, of which he is a trustee. He is also a mem- 
ber of the I. O. O. F. , . . _ -,„ -, 

HARVEY S BAKER, M. D., one of the oldest physicians in Bradtonl. 
settled in McKean county in an early day. and has lived to see the wonderful 
chances in the county in the last half century. V> hen he first came to the 
county, and for many years thereafter, his practice extended for twenty miles 
from his home, in all directions, and his professional visits were mostly made 
on horseback, he carrying his own drug store in his saddle-bags He has had 
an extensive practice both in Pennsylvania and New York, and is one of the 
best-known physicians in the county. Dr. Baker is a native of New York, 
born May 26, 1827, a son of Thomas and Abigail (Shaw) Baker His grand- 
father, Abner Baker, was a soldier in the colonial army during the war ot the 
Revolution. Dr. Baker graduated from the Medical Department of the State 
University of Michigan. March 211, 1855. He was married September J>. 
I860 to Xancy J. Comstock. who died in 1878, leaving four children: C. J... 
i; \ . Ernestine and Nancy J. February 2?,. ISM. Dr. Baker married 
Nellie M.. daughter of Emamilus O. and Lydia (Starkwether) Dickinson and 
they have one child, Leala D. Dr. Baker is a member of the Methodist Epis 

copal Church. . ., , __ u„„_ 

J. W. BAKER, one of the prominent business men of Bradford, was boin 



330 HI8TOBY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

in Allegheny county, Penn., July 13, 1840. son of Daniel and Harriet (Hughes) 
Baker, natives of Maryland, former of German, and latter of English 
descent. Mr. Baker remained with his parents in Allegheny City until seventeen 
years of age. attending school the most of the time, and then went to work in the 
. > i 1 fields, later buying propertj and working wells for himself, until 1875, when 
he began dealing in torpedoes and nitro-glycerine. In 1878 he removed to 
Bradford, where he has continued the same business. In polities Mr. Baker 
is a Republican. He is a member of the F. & A. M., lodge and chapter. 

A. F. BANNON, reading clerk of the Pennsylvania State senate, is a well 
known figure of McKean county, where he has hosts of friends among all par- 
ties. He is a native of the Keystone State, born in Blossburgh, October L3, 
1847, and is a son of Patrick and Joanna (Lanergan) Bannon. natives of Ire- 
land. His parents came to America in 1841, and soon thereafter settled in 
Blossburgh, Penn. When he was twelve years of age the subject of these 
lines was put to work with his father in the mines, an occupation he followed 
ten years. As he was obliged to work at an age when most buys are at school, 
his educational advantages were necessarily very limited: but being of a stu 
dious disposition, and having a natural thirst for knowledge, he attended 
night school, thus obtaining a fair education. In the year after reaching his 
majority, being determined to seek other employment, he secured a situation 
as clerk in a grocery store in Blossburgh; and so well did he imp)' 
opportunities that, in 1n7'-!, he was enabled to start in business for himself. 
In l^l't he closed out his store, and in 1877 removed to McKeau county, where 
he entered the employ of the Erie Railroad Company at Kendall Creek. A 
year later he embarked in the coal business, in which he continued five years. 
when, having purchased valuable oil property, he sold out and devoted his 
attention to the production of oil, a business he is thoroughly acquainted with. 
In politics Mr. Bannon has for a long time been a prominent Republican, and 
in L883 he was chairman of the county committee. In 1880 he was elected 
coroner of the county; between the years 1885 and 1888 he served as sheriff of 
the county, and in L889 he was appointed to his present position of reading 
clerk of the Pennsylvania State senate, his services commencing with the 
session of that year. He has two years to serve, so that his voice will be 
heard in that distinguished body in 1891. Mr. Bannon was married August 
25, 1870, at Corning, N. Y., to Mary J., daughter of Samuel Carlyle. and 
they have three children: Anthony F., William P. and Mary. The family are 
members of the Catholic Church. Mr. Bannon is a member of Lodge N", , 
133, A. O. U. W., and represented his lodge in the grand lodge in l v v! 

H. F. BARBOUR, editor of the Bradford Evening Star. Bradford, was 
born in Chemung county. N. Y., March 14. 1845, the youngest of five children 
that lived to maturity of J. N. and Elizabeth (Thompson) Barbour, the former 
a native of New York, and the latter of Connecticut. His mother died just as 
he leached manhood. His father, over eighty, is now residing near Elmira, 
N. Y. The subject of these lines was reared in his native county, and here 
obtained his rudimentary education, and at the age of sixteen entered Alfred 
University. After three years be left college to prepare himself for his life 
work as publisher and editor, the University, at the commencement in IsMt. 
voluntarily granting him an honorary diploma and degree of Master of \n- 
ln March, L869, be received an appointment in the Government printing office 

at Washington, where for three years he held the (ireek Cases. In 1 S i 'J he 

McKean int] and purchased the Smethport Miner. In 1 S M he sold 

the Miner and bought a half interest in the Bradford Evening Star. A year later 

he purchased his partner's interest and organized The Star Publishing I 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 331 

pany, of which he is president, and owner of more than three-fourths of the 
stock. He is an able writer, aggressive and forcible, but never scurrilous; is an 
out-and-out Republican, and the Star, being conducted in the interests of that 
party, has proved of great benefit to the Republican cause of McKean county. 
The Star is published daily, and has the largest circulation in the county, in- 
deed, remarkably large for a city like Bradford. Mr. Barbour is an indefati- 
gable worker, and the success the paper has attained is due to his untiring 
energy and his ability as publisher and editor. He is an active member of the 
Masonic order, and is a Knight Templar. Mr. Barbour was married at Smeth- 
port, McKean Co., Penn., September 17, 1873, to Mary E. , daughter of Rev. 
H. and Jane (Smith) Peck, her father having been a minister in the Methodist 
Church for several years, in McKean county, but now living in the State of 
New York. Mr. and Mrs. Barbour have one child, Ward W. , a lad of fifteen 
years. 

J. S. BARLOW, alderman of the First Ward, Bradford, Penn., was born 
in Rochester, N. Y., November 20, 1849, a son of A. S. and Margaret (Phelps) 
Barlow, the former of English and German, and the latter of Irish descent. 
His father was a prominent citizen of Rochester and later moved to Chicago, 
111. , where he was extensively engaged in the real estate business. J. S. Bar- 
low attended the schools of Rochester and also the Satterlee Institute, and, 
when a boy, clerked in a grocery store, a business he carried on for himself for 
a time in Rochester. In 1869 he moved to Pennsylvania and, for a time, was 
engaged in refining oil in the lower oil fields; then went to Butler county and 
embarked in the grocery business. In 1878 he came to Bradford and engaged 
in the oil business, juoducing oil in the Bradford fields. He was elected 
constable in 1878, served nine years, and in 1888 was elected to his present 
position. He is a Democrat in politics. Mr. Barlow was married in Rochester, 
in 1871, to Miss Maggie Ward, a native of Rochester, N. Y., of Irish descent, 
daughter of Anthony Ward, and they have one child, William. Mrs. Barlow 
is a member of the Catholic Church. He is a member of the A. O. TJ. W., 
and also a member of the Select Knights. 

B. H. BARR, superintendent and general manager for the C. F. McAmbley 
Lumber Company, Bradford, was born in Bradford, McKean Co., Penn., July 
11, 1852, the eldest of eight children of Henry W. and Statira (Sears) Barr. 
former a native of New York, and latter of Pennsylvania. The father, who 
was a lumber dealer, was a pioneer settler of McKean county, being at the 
head of the Tuna Lumber Company. B. H. Barr was given good educational 
advantages, and was a clerk for his father for several years. In 1879 he entered 
the employ of the Ridgway Lumber Company, an extensive concern, operating 
at Ridgway, Elk county, and elsewhere, remaining with them three years, and 
has since 1886 been with the C. F. McAmbley Lumber Company at Bradford. 
Mr. Barr was married in 1886, at Kendall Creek, McKean Co., Penn., to 
Luella R., born June 29, 1853, a daughter of P. and Clarissa (Owens) Ackley, 
and they have one child. Lulu. In politics Mr. Barr is a Democrat. He and 
his wife are members of the Episcopal Church. He is a member of the Knights 
of the Maccabees. 

J. L. BARRETT (deceased), late manager for the Postal Telegraph Cable 
Company, at Bradford, Penn., was born in Steuben county, N. Y., July 16. 1 859, 
a son of Charles and Margaret (Christler) Barrett, former of English and latter 
of English-German descent. He began the study of telegraphy before he was 
twelve years old, and in 1874 was given charge of an office on the Erie Rail- 
road. In 1877 he came to Bradford, and was in the employ of the Western 
Union Telegraph Company until 1883. when the operators had a strike, and 



332 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

he worked an independent line between the oil exchanges in Bradford until 
1884, in which year he accepted the position of manager for the Postal Tele 

graph Cable Company at Bradford. Mr. Barrett was married October \'l, ISM. 
in Bradford, to Miss Minnie, daughter of Albert DeGolier, and to this anion 
.in.- child, Paul D.. ■was born. Mr. Barrett died August 28, 1889. In politics 
he was a Republican, and socially he was treasurer of the Royal Arcanum. 

(1. \\ . BARTLETT, general" superintendent of the Buffalo, Rochester & 
Pittsburgh Railroad Company at Bradford, Penn.. was born in Portsmouth, 
N. H.. August 20, 1856, a son of James P. and Frances (Harris) Bartlett, 
natives of New Hampshire, and of English descent. He graduated from Dart 
mouth College in 1877, then went west, and obtained a position in the freight 
office of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad at Council Bluffs, where 
he remained two years; then moved to Buffalo, N. Y., where he was employed 
as civil engineer by the Erie Railroad Company, and from there went to Port 
Jervis, same State, where he became chief clerk in the superintendent's office. 
Here he remained until appointed road master of the Delaware Division of the 
Erie road, and subsequently was promoted to superintendent of the Rochestei 
Division, with headquarters at Rochester. In 18S7 he was again promoted b\ 
the Erie Company to the position of superintendent of the Third and Fourth 
Divisions of the New York. Pennsylvania it Ohio Railroad, with headquarters 
at (ialion. Ohio, but in 1888 he resigned to accept his present position, and 
located at Bradford. He is a young man of good business ability, and his vari 
hi promotions have been the results of his integrity and strict business prin 
ciples. He married in 1883, and has two sons: Francis Harris and Robert 
Duncan. In politics he is a Republican. 

W. W. BELL, cashier of the First National Bank, Bradford, was born in 
McKean county. Penn.. April ti. lSo4, a son of Horatio and Ann Man ' I .. I 
ard) Bell, who were natives of New York, of English descent. His father was 
a successful lumberman until after the breaking out of the war of the Rebel 
lion, when he enlisted in the One Hundred and Fiftieth Pennsylvania Volun 
teer Infantry, was elected captain of Company O, and served in that capacity 
until he was killed at the battle of the Wilderness. W. W. is the elder of 
two children. He attended the common school and also a select school in his 
boyhood and youth; when sixteen years old he obtained a position in a bank in 
a neighboring town. Here he remained tive years. In April. L876, he was ap 
pointed cashier of the bank of Canisteo, N. Y., which position he held four years, 
and in April. 1880, came to Bradford to accept the position of assistant cashier 
in the First National Bank, which he tilled only nine months, when he was 
promoted to his present incumbency. He is well qualified for this responsible 
position, which he has now held over nine years. Air. Bell was married at 
Cuba, N. Y., in August. ls77. to Alary E., daughter of M. F. Underwood, and 
they have tive children: William Lawrence. Mary. Leonard J., Donald YY. and 
Margaret E. In politics Mr. Bell is a Republican. 

-JOHN ALEXANDER BELL, farmer, P. O. Custer City, was bom in 
Scotland about 1840, a son of John and Elizabeth (Steele) Bell, who died in that 
country. John A. Bell immigrated to America in 1853, and thence to Canada 
West, where he remained four years with his brother. While there he learned 
the machinery moulders 1 trade, and returned to Buffalo, where he worked at 
his trade until 1861, when he enlisted in Company K, Twenty first Regiment, 
New York Volunteers, and served two years as corporal of his company. He 
was wounded at the battle..!' Fredericksburg, after which he re-enlisted in 
Companj 1. New York Heavy Artillery, and served until the close of the war. 
He was wounded in the knee at the battle of Batch's run, and again in the 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 333 

shoulder at Petersburg. He was sent to the hospital in 1864, and remained 
there until mustered out of service in 1805. After the close of the war he re- 
sided in Buffalo until 1871, when he moved to Olean and remained until L877, 
thence to Fort Smith, Ark., where he engaged in farming for one year; thence 
to Kansas, and in 1883 came to Bradford township, McKean Co., Penn. , 
where he has since resided. In 1872 he married Miss Emma A., daughter of 
William S. Morris, of Bradford township, and they have one child, Elmer 
Julian. Mr. Bell is a Republican in politics, and is a member of the Union 
Veteran Union of Bradford; also of the Machinery Moulders' Union. His wife 
is a member of the Free Methodist Church and of the Women's Christain Tem- 
perance Union of DeGolier. 

G. G. BENNETT, grocer, Bradford, was born in New Lebanon, N. Y., 
October 4, 1836, a son of G. K. and Mary E. (King) Bennett, natives of New 
York. They moved to Crawford county, Penn., when the subject of these 
lines was a boy, and he made that his home until coming to Bradford in 1878. 
He keeps a full line of groceries, bothforeigD and domestic, and his prices are 
always as low as the lowest. Mr. Bennett was married in Rochester, N. Y., 
in 1866, to Miss Mary Aldrich, daughter of Adam Aldrich.and they have had 
a family of three sons, all of whom are deceased. Mrs. Bennett is a member 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Bennett is a Democrat in politics; 
is a member of the F. & A. M. and of the A. O. U. W. 

G. E. BENNINGHOFF, M. D., Bradford, was born in Petroleum Centre, Ve- 
nango Co., Penn., February 10, 1854, a son of George and Julia (Baney) 
Benninghoff, natives, also, of Pennsylvania, of German descent. In 1SIJ7 his 
parents moved to Meadville, Penn., where they still live. He was' given good 
educational advantages and after leaving the common schools was sent to Ober- 
lin College. Ohio. Choosing medicine as his profession he attended the medi- 
cal department of Wooster College, Cleveland, Ohio, from which he graduated 
in 1879. He first located at Kendall Creek, where he remained until 1886, 
when he moved to Bradford. His partner in practice is Dr. James B. Stewart, 
who is a graduate of Washington College, and also of Ohio Medical College, 
at Cincinnati, from which he graduated in 1887. Dr. Benninghoff was mar- 
ried in June, 1880, to Nannie, daughter of James Hogau, and they have one 
child, Walter Garrett. Mrs. Benninghoff is a member of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church. The Doctor has been a Government examining surgeon for 
pensions since 1883. He is a member of the County, State and American 
Medical Societies. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and in politics 
is a Republican. In his profession he gives his special attention to surgery, 
while Dr. Stewart, his partner, gives his attention to the general practice. 

GEORGE A. BERRY, attorney at law, Bradford, was born in Centre 
county, Penn., November 9, 1848, the youngest of five children of Dr. Benja- 
min J. and Nancy J. (Irvin) Berry, former a native of Maryland, and latter of 
Pennsylvania, both of Scotch Irish descent. His father practiced medicine 
in Centre county, Penn., about forty years, dying in that county in 1864. 
George A. Berry was reared near Bellefonte, Centre Co., Penn., where he 
attended the public schools and the old Boalsburg Academy, later becoming a 
student at Washington and Jefferson College, from which he graduated in 
1868. He then began the study of law, and for one year read under the in- 
struction of James A. Beaver, the present governor of Pennsylvania, at Belle- 
fonte. Following this he went to Ebensburg, Cambria county, same State, 
and studied with J. M. Reade, an eminent attorney of that place. He was ad- 
mitted to the bar of Cambria county in March, 1871, and immediately entered 
upon the practice of his profession. For two years he was successful, but on 



334 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

account of failing health ho was obliged to abandon work, and for a year he 
devoted his time to travel and sightseeing. Regaining his health he, in 1874. 
located in Warren county, Penn., and in December, 1875, removed to Brad 
ford, where he has been in active practice, having been admitted to the bar of 
McKean county in February, 1876. Mr. Berry is a Republican in politics. 

served one term as chief burgess of Ebensburg, and as a member of the scl 1 

board of Bradford. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. He was mar 
ried in 1876 to Kate I., daughter of Nelson Parker, a well known lumber 
dealer of McKean county in his day. who was killed in a railroad accident in 
1N74. Mrs. Berry is a member of the I'niversalist Church. 

JOHN BIRD, oil producer, Bradford, was born in the State of Maine. 
August 12, 1842, a son of Francis and Mary (Trainor) Bird, natives of Ire- 
land, who came from their native country to New Brunswick, and thence to 
Maine, where the father still lives, now eighty live years old. John Bird was 
reared in his native State, remaining there till past his majority, and in 18<>4 
came to Pennsylvania, settling at Oil creek, where he was employed at different 
oil wells, also in teaming, and later contracting for the drilling of wells. 
Since a year after he first located at Bradford, he has operated on his own 
account. He is also a partner iu a fruit canning company in Michigan. Mr. 
Bii-d was married May 2."). 1880, in Ohio, to Miss Belle, daughter of John 
Williamson, and they have two children: .lay and Cora. Mr. Bird is a mem- 
ber of the Masonic fraternity, and has taken the thirty-second degree; his 
wife is a member of the Presbyterian Church. In politics Mr. Bird is iude 
pendent. 

CAPT. JOHN T. BISHOP, of the American Oil Company. Bradford, was 
born in England. January 1. 1836, a son of William and Sarah (Coates) 
Bishop. His parents came to America in 1S40, and settled in the county of 
Yeik, Canada, where the father died in 1 S44. John T., the youngest of 
eleven children, attended school in Canada, also in New York City, and began 
his business career when quite young, obtaining employment with a railroad 
company. In 1855 he was sent to Iowa as contractor's paymaster of a 
Western road, and a year later went to Illinois, with headquarters at Decatur. 
August 1, 1862, he enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Sixteenth Illi 
nois Volunteer Infantry, and September (5 was commissioned first lieutenant. 
This regiment was assigned to the First Brigade, Second Division, Fifteenth 
Army Corps, and so served until mustered out at the close of the war. Iu 
1863 lie was promoted to captain, and served in this capacity until compelled 
to resign, on account of ill-health. He returned to Decatur, where he re- 
mained until L869, when he again took up the railroad business, and had 
interests in contracts in the States of Michigan. New Jersey. Maine. New 
Hampshire and Vermont. In 1877 he came to McKean countj and located in 
Bradford, since which time he has been with the American Oil Company. In 
1^7^ 7'.) he was clerk of the borough of Bradford, and also served two years 
as a member of the school board, and six years as city comptroller. While in 
Decatur he was deputy circuit clerk, and for two years was police magistrate. 
In politics ('apt. Bishop is a Republican. He was an active mover in the 
organization of the first G. A. R. Post in the United States* and was a charter 

m be] -of Post No. 1. at Decatur, 111. He is a member of Bradford Post, 

No. ill. and has served as its commander, quartermaster and adjutant, and 
i> also an aid decamp to the commander in chief. For tweuf\ six years he 
bas been identified with the I. 0. O. F., and is a member of the F. & A. M.. 
the Knights of Honor, and other societies. He was married, in 1860, to Miss 

See Historj of the Grand \nm ol the Republic, l>j Gen. i; I'., liratli. 



i 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 335 

Sarah E. Vermillion, a native of Scott county, 111., daughter of William Ver- 
million, and they have seven children. 

J. E. BLAIR, merchant and farmer, Bradford, is a native of Worcester 
county, Mass., born March 28, 1818, a sou of Artemus and Sally (Easterbrook 
Blair, who were also natives of Massachusetts, of Scotch-Irish descent. J. E. 
is the second of nine children. In his boyhood his parents moved to the 
State of New York, where he was reared on a farm and was given good educa- 
tional advantages. In December. 1840, he came to Bradford, Penn., where 
there was but one log house on the present site of the town. He embarked in 
the lumber business, and later clerked in a store for a time. He invested in 
land, which he cleared of a heavy growth of timber, and has since devoted the 
greater part of his attention to farming. He owns 155 acres, on which are 
twenty- seven oil wells. In 1861 Mr. Blair was elected by the Republican 
party sheriff of McKean county, and at the expiration of his term was elected 
treasurer, being required to give bonds for $100,000. While serving as 
sheriff he helped to organize the regiment known as the Pennsylvania Buck- 
tails. Mr. Blair was married in Chautauqua county, N. Y. , to Miss Calista 
Tozer, daughter of Richard and Polly (Fitch) Tozer, natives of Otsego county, 
N. Y. , of English ancestry. To Mr. and Mrs. Blair have been born nine chil- 
dren: Albert R.. of Bradford; Laura I., wife of James Broder; Sarah J., wife 
of Corydon Emerson; Emma, at home; Effie, wife of A. B. Walker; Jose- 
phine, wife of T. H. Steele, of Findlay, Ohio; Frank P., who died, aged three 
years; Elmer E., in his father's store at Bradford, and Henry. Mrs. Blair is 
a member of the Universalist Church. 

A. HENRY BLOMER, assistant postmaster at Bradford, was born in the 
city of Philadelphia, May 16, 1846, a son of A. H. and Selina (McDowell) 
Blomer. of German, Welsh and Scotch descent. His father was a cabinet- 
maker, and was the owner of one of the largest manufacturing interests in the 
city of Philadelphia, his factory covering an entire block. He died in 1860. 
A. H. is the seventh in a family of eight children, six of them boys . His 
mother and five brothers still live in Philadelphia. When he was twenty 
years of age he embarked in the oil business at Oil City, remaining there and 
at Rouseville three years. In 1870 he moved to Bradford, where he sunk the 
pioneer well in the now celebrated Bradford oil fields, and has since made 
this his principal business, having drilled eighty wells in this region. In 
politics Mr. Blomer is a Democrat, and takes an active interest in his party. 
He served as a member of the State committee, also as chairman of the county 
committee, and at present is treasurer of the latter. He was appointed to his 
present position, that of assistant postmaster, in 1NS6. He is an active mem- 
ber of the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association, and is a member of the grand 
council of the State and chairman of the committee on laws. He is also past 
chancellor and United States supreme deputy of the C. B. L. Mr. Blomer 
was married in Philadelphia, December 8, 1870, to Nettie M. Martin, daughter 
of Benjamin L. Martin, a prominent member of the Society of Friends, and 
they have two children: Harry and Martin. 

H. S. BLOSSOM, of the firm of Madison & Blossom, merchants, Bradford, 
was born in Cayuga County, N.'Y., February 13, 1841, a son of Erastus and 
Elizabeth (Gartner) Blossom, natives of New York, former of Scotch-Irish and 
latter of Dutch descent. He remained at home until eighteen years old, when 
he bought his time of his father, and, choosing a sea-faring life, obtained a 
situation as cabin boy, from which, by merit, he rose until he became master 
of a vessel. He sailed both the ocean and the lakes, and when he left sailing 
he began farming in Linn county, Mo., but on the breaking out of the oil ex- 



386 HISTORY. OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

citement at Titusville he removed to that section, where he worked at wells 
and also built oil derricks for a company, later becoming its manager. In 
1880 he was employed by Bennett & Quick to superintend their wells in Me 
Lean county and remained with them until 1888, when he became associated 
with L. O. Madison in the grocery business at Bradford. Mr. Blossom was 
married in 1868, at Hawley, Wayne Co., Penn., to Miss Fannie M. Lord, 
and they have one child. Sarah Ellen. The wife of Mr. Blossom is the daugh- 
ter of Solomon Zolotus and Sarah (Mulford) Lord, the latter deceased and tin- 
former now residing at the home of Mr. Blossom, and ninety-one years of age. 
Mi'. Lord is a native of New York State and Mrs. Lord was born at Southamp 
ton, Long Island. Mrs. Blossom is a member of the Presbyterian Church. In 
politics Mr. Blossom is a Republican. He is a Master Mason. 

A. B. BOOTH, oil producer, Bradford, was born in England. June 5, 1M7. 
His parents, John E. and Mary Ann (Bamber) Booth, emigrated to America in 
1851, and engaged in farming in Montgomery county, N. Y. They reared six 
children, one of whom is deceased, the living being as follows: Dorothy 'wife 
of J. W. Perkins, of Amsterdam, N. Y. ), Henry A. (partner with A. B.. re- 
siding at Warren, Penn.), A. B., Elizabeth (wife of I. C. Sheeler, of Amster- 
dam! and William Alexander (of Missouri). The subject of this sketch was 
educated at Amsterdam. X. Y., and at the age of twenty-one years went to 
Chicago, where he lived one year. He acted as superintendent in railroad 
construction for several years at New Orleans, in Texas. Arkansas, etc., and 
for two years was engaged in mercantile business at Hot Springs, Ark. In 
1876 he came to McKean county, and has since produced oil under the firm 
name of Booth Bros. In 1883 he married Miss Maggie D. , daughter of Da- 
vid Bovaird, of Bradford, and they have two children: Mary Elizabeth and 
Albert Edward. Mr. Booth is a member of Star Lodge, No. 162, F. & A. M., 
of Hot Springs. Ark., and of the Royal Arcanum. He is a Republican in 
politics. 

DAVID BOVAIRD, of the firm Bovaird & Seyfang, manufacturers of oil 
tools, Bradford, Penn., is a native of Scotland, born in July, 1834, a son of 
William and Dorcas (Walker) Bovaird, who were natives of Ireland. David 
was the seventh in a family of nine children. He went into a factory to learn 
the trade of a calico printer, at which he served an apprenticeship, and in 
1854, when twenty years old, came to America, whither his parents had pre 
ceded him in 1852. He first located in Allegheny county, Penn., where he 
followed farming, subsequently dealing in cattle, and was also for a time in 
the coal business. He afterward went to Venango county, and engaged in 
teaming, having for a time work for twenty horses. He went to Titusville 
during the oil boom, and opened a repair shop with Mr. Seyfang, where he had 
a Large custom repairing the machinery and tools used in the oil wells. From 
there he removed to Bradford, and in 1878 entered into partnership with J. 
L. Seyfang in their present business, which has increased beyond their most 
Banguine expectations. They have a branch office in Pittsburgh, which is in 
charge of Mr. Bovaird' s son. Walter. Mr. Bovaird was married in Allegheny 
City to Mary A., daughter of John McClanahan. and they have six children: 
Maggie (wife of A. B. Booth), Mary, William John, Walter, David and Joseph 
H. Mr. and Mrs Bovaird are members of the Presbyterian Church. In 
politics Mr. Bovaird is a Republican, and is a member of the A. O. U. \\ . 

WILLIAM J. BOVAIRD, foreman of the blacksmith shops of the Central 
lion Works. Bradford, was born in Allegheny county. Penn , March 25, L863, 

'i of David and Mary A. (McClanahan) Bovaird, former a native of Scot- 
land, and the latter of Ireland. He was reared and educated in Titusville, 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 337 

Perm. , and early learned the blacksmith's trade. In 1878 he came to Brad- 
ford, where he worked in the shops of Bovaird & Seyfang, proprietors of the 
Central Iron Works, and since 1885 has held his present position. Mr. Bovaird 
was married May 20, 1885, to Anna L. Davis, daughter of F. T. and Mary 
(Donthett) Davis, both natives of Pennsylvania, now residents of Bradford. 
Mr. and Mrs. Bovaird have two children: Zella A. and Francis David. Mr. 
and Mrs. Bovaird are members of the Presbyterian Church, and are active 
workers in both church and Sabbath school. He is a member of the K. O. T. 
M. ; has been president of the Bovaird & Seyfang Employes Mutual Benefit 
Association four years, and is one of the active young business men of 
Bradford. 

PATRICK C. BOYLE, Bradford, was born in County Donegal, Ireland, 
in 1846, and was brought to this country by his parents while still an infant 
in arms. His boyhood days were passed at Brady's bend, in Armstrong county, 
Penn. He received a common-school education, and not much of it. He en 
listed in January, 1862, in the Fifty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and re-en- 
listed in March, 1864, and served to the end of the war as a private soldier. 
He began life as a laborer in the mines; came to the oil country in 1868; 
labored in various capacities about wells and pipe lines till 1874, when he began 
writing for the press. A year later he entered actively into newspaper work, 
which, with few brief interruptions, has been continued up to the present writ- 
ing. In Martinsburg, Penn., about 1877, he helped to establish the first dis 
tinctively labor newspaper in the oil country. It died young, but none too young 
for its alarmed stockholders. Since then he has been at various times associated 
with the leading oil country dailies, and at this writing is publisher of the Oil 
City Derrick, Bradford Era and Toledo Commercial. 

E. A. BOYNE, oil producer, Bradford, is a native of New York City, born 
January 14, 1839, the fourth son of Patrick and Julia (Corcoran) Boyne, natives 
of Ireland, who came to America about the year 1830, locating in New York 
City, where they resided during their lives. At an early age our subject was 
thrown upon his own resources, for at the age of twelve he was left an orphan. 
In 1861 he enlisted in Company I, Twenty-seventh Regiment, New York Vol 
unteers, under Maj. -Gen. Henry Warren Slocum, serving two years, when he 
returned to his home, where he remained for six months, and again enlisted 
for three years, serving until the close of the war. He was in the first and sec- 
ond battles of Bull's Run, was in the Seven Days' engagement at Gaines' Mill, 
here receiving a wound in his left arm, and participated in the battle of An- 
tietam — these embracing the chief engagements covering his first enlistment. 
On his return to the field he enlisted January 4, 1864, in the Fifth New York 
Heavy Artillery, and was through the Shenandoah Valley with Maj. -Gen. David 
Hunter on his famous raid. Mr. Boyne was mustered in as a private, and, 
being twice promoted, returned to his home at the close of the war a sergeant, 
with honors well earned. In 1865 Mr. Boyne came to Bradford, Penn. At 
the opening up of the Bradford oil field he became interested as a producer, 
to which business he has devoted most of his attention since. In 1887 he was 
elected city treasurer, serving two years, and re-elected in 1889. Mr. Boyne 
is a member of Union Lodge, 334, F. & A. M., of which he was worship- 
ful master two consecutive years, Chapter 260, Bradford Council, 43, and Trin- 
ity Commandery, 58. Our subject was married September 12, 1883, to Miss 
Rosalie Van Scoy, daughter of John K. and Elizabeth (Lain) Van Scoy; the 
fruit of this union is two sons and two daughters: Elizabeth Van Scoy, Olive 
Lain, Edward Corcoran (deceased) and Peter Kennedy. Mrs. Boyne is a mem- 
ber of the Episcopal Church. Mr. Boyne is treasurer of the Masonic Temple 



338 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

recently erected on Main street at a cost of §30,000; politically he is a Re- 
publican. 

C. L. BRADBURN, wholesale and retail dealer in wall paper, draperies, 
fixtures and curtains, Bradford, is one of the most artistic paper hangers and 
drapers in the United States. He keeps a full stock of everything in his line, 
and has a large trade, his reputation for tine work bringing the custom of the 
best families in town. He served a regular apprenticeship at his trade, and 
for several years was employed by others, but since 1879 has been in business 
for himself. Mr. Bradburn is a native of New York, born January 25, 1 s ~> I 
a son of John and Elvina (Bailey) Bradburn. who were of Scotch -Irish ances- 
try. He was married January 1, 1883, to Ella, daughter of C. Heath, of 
Titusville, Penn. He is now erecting a three-story brick block, 37x90 feet: 
the first floor he will occupy for his store room and it will be filled with wall 
paper, drapery goods, paints, etc. ; the second story is laid out in commodious 
offices, the third story being fitted up expressly for lodge rooms, including 
dining-room, cloak and ante-rooms, the interior wood-finish of the whole build 
ing being antique oak, and interior decorative work being the latest arts of 
the work, embracing lincrusta scratch work, high relief and all bronzed in an- 
tique and modern bronzes. In politics Mr. Bradburn is a Democrat. He is 
a member of the Knights of Pvthias. 

JAMES BRODER was born in Ellenburg, Clinton Co., N. Y., January 
14, 1835, a son of William and Mary (McKee) Broder, former a native of Ver- 
mont, of German descent and latter of New York, of Scotch Irish descent. 
His father died in New York State in 1870. James, who is the fourth of a 
family of ten children, eight sons and two daughters, early in life learned to 
depend on his own exertions for his support, and began to work in the lumber 
districts on the head-waters of the Hudson river, in the Adirondack Moun- 
tains. In 1856 he went to Canada, and in 1861 to Michigan. In 1865 
he came to Pennsylvania, where he represented a large lumber company in 
McKean county, and in 1868 removed to Bradford, where he continued the 
lumber trade until 1876, having under his supervision two hundred men, and 
then became agent for an oil well supply company. In 1873 he was elected a 
commissioner of McKean county, in 1876 a justice of the peace, and in 1879 
first mayor of Bradford, being re-elected to the same office in 1883. Mr. 
Broder was married December 'IS, 1S71, to Miss Belle Blair, daughter .'I 
James E. Blair, of Bradford, and they have one son, William .1., a clerk in the 
gas office. Mr. Broder is a member of Union Lodge No. 334. F. & A. M: 
Bradford Chapter No. 260, R. A. M., and Trinity Commander; No. 58, K. 
T., being a charter member of chapter and commandery. He is also a stock- 
holder and director in the "Manufacturers' (las Company of McKean County. '' 
In politics he is a Democrat. 

F. E. BROOKS, superintendent of the Pennsylvania Lumber Storage Com 
pany, Bradford. Penn., was born in Olean, N. Y., March 19, 1860, a son of 
Vino- c. and Mary (Miner) Brooks, natives of New York, and of Irish, German 
and English descent. His father died in 1873. leaving to the widowed mother 
the care of live children, F. E. being the second son. He was reared on a 
farm, attending the common schools, and early in life learned the carpenter's 
trade, at which he worked until 1888, when he became a stockholder in the 
Pennsylvania Lumber Storage Company and was appointed its superintendent, 
having about 100 men under his supervision. In politics Mr. Brooks is a 
Republican. 

WILLIAM WALLACE BIJOW N was born at Summer Hill, Cayuga Co., 
N. Y, April 22, 1836. He is the son of Rasselas W. and Mary (Brownell) 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 339 

Brown, natives of New York, of Scotch and English blood, and, in religion, of 
the Baptist faith. They emigrated to Pennsylvania in the year 1838, and 
soon established their home in the then unbroken wilderness of that part of 
Elk county formerly belonging to McKean, and where is now located Rasselas. 
The land upon which they settled was covered with an immense growth of 
pine and hemlock. It was remote from a mill, and as the trees could not be 
manufactured into lumber, they had to be burned to ashes. To this huge 
task the father and sons addressed themselves with hard and constant labor. 
A large share of the settlers who undertook a like task in that neighborhood 
gave up in despair. The Browns came to stay and to conquer, and in a large 
sense they were successful. The farm was cleared, the children, six in num- 
ber, three boys and three girls, were comfortably fed and clothed, their educa- 
tion made sure and their moral and religious culture in no wise neglected. 

William Wallace, named in honor of his Scotch ancestors, was the second 
son. In such a home, and inured to hardships of such a frontier life, he grew 
to robust and hardy manhood. The opportunities for a common-school 
education were few and precarious. His first recollection of going to school 
was in the winter time, on horse- back, accompanied by his mother and elder 
brother, the three perched upon a single horse. The first mile of the journey 
was up a steep hill, through the woods and over a rough road covered with ice 
and snow. The old mare was " smooth shod," and it was quite as difficult for 
her to cling to the road as for the three to cling to her back. Wallace being 
in front, it became his duty to grip to the horse's mane, and as the hill grew 
steeper and the road more slippery, his youthful imagination brought him to 
the easy conclusion that his little arms alone kept the four from going to the 
bottom of the hill in a heap together! Thereafter, no matter how much his 
brother was inclined to go to school on horse-back, Wallace insisted that he 
would rather " climb the hill of science " upon his legs than " pull through " 
by his arms! By the time young Brown had reached his sixteenth birthday, 
he had not received more than that number of months of school training. At 
this time, it was determined that he should go to the Smethport Academy. 
Arrangements had been made for a home in the family of Solomon Sartwell, 
where he was to work mornings and evenings for his board and washing, and 
to remain two winters "if he suited.'' It must be assumed that he suited, for 
he remained the two winters. During a portion of the time he was in attend- 
ance at this academy it became somewhat difficult to get tuition money. This 
little hinderance was overcome by his ringing the academy bell and building 
the fires, which being passed to his credit squared the tuition account. 

Returning in the spring, he took to the plow with a zest that plainly told 
that, under the tuition of Prof. Fordyce A. Allen, his mind had been filled with 
an enthusiasm that would be satisfied with nothing short of a college diploma. 
By teaching school in the winter, and at the same time pursuing his studies, 
he succeeded by the autumn of 1857 in preparing himself to enter college. 
While attending a teachers' institute at that time, he listened to a lecture by 
the president of Alfred College, Prof. W. C. Kenyon, in which many times he 
repeated the injunction: "Young man, do your best." So much pleased was 
he with the lecture of the pushing and sanguine professor, that he at once 
determined upon Alfred as the place, and that very fall as the time to enter 
college. If he could obtain the money to pay his board and tuition for the 
first term, he would take chances for the future. Knowing as he did that. 
though he would not ask of his father in vain, the amount could not well be 
spared by him, he at once called upon Col. A. I. Wilcox; $3'2 was the sum 
required. Of course, he secured it; Col. Wilcox was never known to refuse 



3-KJ HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

such an appeal. With this sum added to his meager savings, just about 
enough to pay railroad fare both ways, with grip in hand he undertook, on 
foot, the journey of fifty-one miles to Olean, then the nearest railroad station. 
There was a good deal of struggle in his heart when, reaching the top of the 
hill, he turned to wave good-bye to the dear ones "still standing at the gate," 
for it was then that a whole chorus of voices persuasive seemed to say: " Fling 
to the winds thy ambition; there is no rest or peace whither thou goest; return 
to contentment and home." This was no time to parley. A moment, and hesi- 
tation had fled, the command, "Young man, do your best, " had come clear 
and unmistakable; he had waved his adieu, and was trudging on with firm, 
determined step, out into the conflict where men contend and faint and strug 
gle and conquer. 

By practicing the most rigid economy, working during vacation, at any 
labor offered, and teaching and clerking for a year, and sometimes borrowing 
money of his elder brother, he succeeded in reaching his place in the class of 
sixty-one. Two months more would bring him to his graduation day. ft 
was then that the thunder of guns in Charleston's harbor disturbed the 
dreams of many a college student. None responded sooner or more freely 
than the class of sixty-one, of Alfred University. On the day the Tribum 
brought full details of the surrender of Sumter, twelve students, mostly of 
his class, gathered in the room of "Brown and Dexter," and there, before 
separation, pledged each the other, to go and be a soldier for the Union. 
They started next day for Elmira, and at once enlisted to fill the ranks of 
the Southern Tier Rifles, a well-drilled and fully officered militia company, 
which, in due time, was incorporated in the Twenty third New York Regiment. 
In this regiment, as private ; n Company K, he served until December, when 
he was transfened to the famous Pennsylvania Bucktails, serving the balance 
of his term of enlistment as a member of Company C. He participated in 
several hard fought battles, among them being South Mountain, Antietam, 
the second battle of Bull Run, Shantilla and Fredericksburg. After his return 
from the war, he came to Smethport, Penn., and studied law under the in- 
struction of the Hon. B. D. Hamlin, and while pursuing his legal studies 
served as register and recorder of McKean county and at the same time as 
deputy prothonotary. He was admitted to the bar at Smethport in 1866, and 
the same fall was elected district attorney. He also filled the office of county 
superintendent of common schools of McKean county by appointment of 
Gov. Geary. In 1809 he moved to Erie county. Penn., and for nine years 
was a resident of Corry. While there he served three years as city attorney, 
and two years in the city councils. From 1872 to INTO Mr. Brown was a 
member of the legislature, serving on the judiciary committee two sessions. 
He introduced the first bill to establish fish culture west of the Allegheny 
Mountains, which became a law. He was appointed aid decamp to <;>>y 
Hartranft in 1S7<5, and has been connected with the National Guards of Penn- 
sylvania ever since, serving upon the staff of the major-general. Coming to 
Bradford in 1878, he has since lived in that city, and has been an active 
worker in the ranks of the Republican party. He was elected to the Uuited 
Mates House of Representatives in 1882, and served in the XL V 111 and 
KLIX Congresses. He took an active part in opposition to the Morrison 
mtal tariff bill, and was the first member from Pennsylvania to oppose 
the bill for the stoppage of the coinage of silver. When President Cleve 
land's message was read to Congress, urging the measure, mosi <>f the Penn 
sylvania members were in favor of the bill, but before it came to a vote, over 
one half agreed with Mr. Brown, and voted in opposition to the demonetiza 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 841 

tion scheme. During his terms in Congress, Mr. Brown procured appropria- 
tions for the United States court-house and post-office now being constructed in 
the city of Williamsport. and, besides establishing a very large number of 
post-offices and mail routes in his district, secured free delivery of mails for 
Bradford, that being the youngest city ever securing free delivery of mails in the 
State of Pennsylvania. At the expiration of his Congressional term, Mr. Brown 
resumed his law practice and soon became a member of the firm of Stone, 
Brown & Sturgeon. He has always been active in the promotion of public 
enterprises; he procured the charter for the city of Bradford, organized and 
obtained the charter for the Bradford, Bordell & Kinzua Railroad and 
its branches, and has served as a director of the road since its comple- 
tion. For several years he has been a member of the Board of Trade, 
and is now its president. Since 1879 he has been interested in the production 
of oil, owning considerable oil lands in McKean county. He is a member of 
the Grand Army of the Republic; has served several times as post commander, 
and has been junior vice-commander of the department of Pennsylvania. 

March 16, 1862, while at home from the army on recruiting service, Mr. 
Brown married Miss Ellen Crandall, of Independence, N. Y., daughter of Nel- 
son Crandall, and they have one daughter, Jessie Lincoln. Mr. and Mrs. Brown 
are members of the Baptist Church, and have always been active in church and 
Sunday-school work, he having been superintendent most of the time for 
twenty-five years in Smethport, Corry and Bradford. He was graduated at 
Alfred in 1861, after he had entered the army (receiving, with others of his 
class, a fvfrlough to return for that purpose) and from the same institution, the 
degree of LL. D. , was conferred in 1886. 

T. B. BROWN, a prominent merchant of Bradford, is a native of the Key- 
stone State, born in Armstrong county. May 24, 1852, a son of Matthew and 
Kate (Foster) Brown, natives, also, of Armstrong county, of Scotch -Irish de- 
scent, former of whom now lives on a farm in East Brady, Clarion Co., 
Penn. T. B. is the youngest son in a family of four sons and two daughters. 
He was given good educational advantages, and in 1872 graduated from the 
Iron City Commercial College. He then clerked for a time in a store at Park- 
er's Landing, and the same year became established in the dry goods trade 
at Petrolia, Penn., where he remained until 1881, when he removed to 
Bradford and opened his present place of business. He is a man of good 
business ability, whose gentlemanly demeanor and fair dealing have been the 
means of building up a large trade, and have placed him on a sound financial 
basis. He gives employment to eight persons, having one of the largest stores 
in the town and keeping on hand a complete stock of dry goods, notions, etc. , 
which he sells at the lowest market price. Mr. Brown was married in Erie, 
Penn., January 1, 1S77, to Rose F. Rolph, a daughter of Charles Rolph, and 
they have one child, Mary. Mrs. Brown is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. In politics Mr. Brown is a Republican. He is a member of the 
I. O. O. F. , both lodge and encampment. 

JOHN N. BROWN, farmer, P. O. Custer City, was born in Blandford, 
Hampden Co., Mass., June 15, 1830, a son of Andrew and Tryphena (Shep- 
pard) Brown, natives of Massachusetts and Columbia county, N. Y., respect- 
ively. William Henry Brown, the grandfather of our subject, was also born 
in Massachusetts, and was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. Andrew Brown 
and family moved to McKean county, Penn., in 1844, and purchased the farm 
now owned by John N. , in Bradford township; starting in life poor he worked 
hard and made himself financially well-to-do. In early life he was a Democrat, 
but afterward joined the Republican party. He and his wife were prominent 



342 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Ee died August 26, 1880, and 
his widow December 13, 1882. Their family consisted of seven children, six 
of whom are living: Amy (widow of William Chose, of Livingston county, 
X. Y. i, .1. \V. (of Bradford township), Lavina (widow of Hiram D. Turner, of 
Bradford township), Jane P. (wife of Sylvester Blaavelt, of Nebraska), Henry 
VV. (of Bradford township) and John N. (our subject, who came to McKean 
county when thirteen years of age and for three years engaged in lumbering). 
In 1851 he moved unto his present farm, which he has cleared and improved 
November 7. 1849, he married Miss Samantha L., daughter of Samael L. and 
Roana Davis, of Bradford township, and formerly of Erie county, N. Y. \'>\ 
this union they have four children: Ella (wife of Roswell Smith, of East 
Otto, Cattaraugus Co.. N. Y. ; has four children: John, Blanche. Leola and an 
infant i; Frank A. (of Bradford township, married Miss Lydia. daughter of 
Daniel Barr, of Cameron county, Penn.. and has three children: Archibald, 
Clarence C. and Jennie Ada): Eva (wife of Frank H. Kleiner, of Bradford 
township, has one child, Theo). and Lewis E. E. (of Bradford township, 
married Miss Haley Barr). For many years Mr. Brown was a member of the 
Republican party, but now he is a supporter of the Democratic party. He has 
served as auditor and in various other town-hip offices. He and family are 
members of the United Brethren in Christ. 

I. H. BURTON, farmer and driller. P. (). Bradford, was born in Bradley, 
Penobscol Co., Me., April 27, 1852, a son of Walter and Louisa (Smith) Bur 
ton, natives of that State, who went to Clean, \. Y., in L856, and in 1857 
moved to Bradford township. McKean Co., Penn., where the father fol- 
lowed the Lumbering business. I. H. Burton received an ordinary education, 
and worked at. lumbering until the oil excitement, since which time he has 

I ii engaged in drilling wells. In 1876 he married Miss Addie, daughter of 

William S. Morris, of Bradford township, and they have had two children: 
Theo. \Y. (died October 2, ISSN) and Eva Gertrude. Mr. Burton is identi- 
fied with the Democratic party. He is a member of the Knights of Labor of 
Custer City, also of the Mister Workmen and Well Drillers Union. 

M. H. BYLES. member of the firm of McSweeney & Byles, attorneys at 
law. Bradford, was born in Pleasant ville. Venango Co. . Penn., April 1. 1851, 
the youngesi in the family of ten children of W. D. and Maria (Smith) Byles, 
natives of Erie county, Penn.. and of Scotch-Irish descent, former of whom 
died iii 1883. M. H. Byles was given good educational advantages, graduat 
ing from the Western Reserve College, at Cleveland. Ohio, in the classical 
•our e, in L875. He then went to Erie City, Penn.. where he studied law in 
the office of J. Ross Thompson, and was admitted to the bar in 1S7H. In the 
winter of 1 S 7 ', » he came to Bradford, and for a time was a partner with Henry 
McSweeney, and later the present partnership was formed. The firm is com- 
posed of energetic young men, destined to stand at the head of their pro 
Cession. Mr. Byles was married September 20, 1882, to Miss M. Agnes Am- 
tell, ami they have one child. Ralph. Mr. Byles is a. member of the Knights 
of Honor, Royal Arcanum, and the I. 0. O. F. lodge and encampment. In 
politics he is a Republican. Mrs. Byles is a member of the Episcopal Church. 

HENRY BYPvOM is a native of Lancashire. England, where he attended 
school during his boyhood, but finished hi- education at the commercial schools 
of Bremen, Germany. Hi' first visited the United States in I s is on his way to 
lifornia gold fields-, but sickness prevented the execution of his plans, 
and he returned home. In 1852 he again arrived in New York and wa en 
ii the importation of Russia goods until (864, when he went to Pens 
sylvania, leasing the celebrated Blood farm on oil Creek. Venango county, of 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 343 

which he afterward became the owner. la 1870 he went to live at Titusville, 
taking great interest in the municipal affairs of that city, and tilling the office 
of president of the council. Mr. Byrom was prominently identified with all 
the earlier movements of the producers' councils. He removed to Bradford in 
L885, and took charge of the interests of the Tide Water Pipe Company in that 
district. Mr. Byrom is married, and has two children. He is Republican in 
politics, and the family are members of the Episcopal Church. 

CHARLES P. BYRON, oil producer, Bradford, is a native of Ireland, born 
in 1844, a son of Thomas O. and Bridget (McGraw) Byron. His mother died 
m 1849, arid in 1850 his father came with his family of seven children to the 
United States, and settled at Little Falls, N. Y., where he died in 1875. 
Charles P. commenced working in the paper-mills when a child, going to 
school a half day and working the other half. When fourteen years old he 
left home and went to sea, and from 1858 to 1876 he followed the life of a 
sailor, being both on the ocean and the lakes. In 1861 he enlisted in the 
United States Navy, and was assigned to the " Penguin," one of the first naval 
vessels to do duty in the war, and went to Port Royal. In 1862 he was trans- 
ferred to the United States Ship of War "Oneida," and was at the battles of 
Vicksburg, New Orleans and Grand Gulf. After the war he returned home for 
a time, and then once more sailed the lakes; subsequently he became inter- 
ested in the production of oil, and has drilled several wells in the oil fields of 
Pennsylvania. He also has -interests in the gas districts, and is president of 
the Smethport Gas Company. He was married June 9, 1874, to Miss Anna 
Buckley, daughter of William Buckley, who was a native of Ireland. In poli- 
tics Mr. Byron is a Democrat, and was a delegate to the State and national 
conventions of 1S88. He and his wife are members of the Catholic Church 

A. B. CAMPBELL, agent for the Bradford, Bordell & Kinzua Railroad at 
Bradford, was born in Iowa City, Iowa, January 20, 1862, a son of John D. 
and Elizabeth (Rutherford) Campbell, former a native of Scotland and latter 
of Allegany county, N. Y., of Scotch descent. Mr. Campbell's education was 
mostly "received at Angelica, N. Y., and after leaving school he studied teleg- 
raphy at Derrick City, Penn. ; in 1883 he obtained his present position. He 
is a young man of good business ability, and as he is industrious and trust- 
worthy, has the promise of a prosperous future. 

HARRIS ANSEL CANFIELD, M. D., Bradford, Penn., was born May 
1, 1852, in Chautauqua county, N. Y., son of Lewis and Harriet (Hiding) Can 
field. He early chose the profession of medicine, and after completing a high- 
school course, began his medical studies. He spent a few months at Sherman. 
Chautauqua Co., N. Y., with Drs. Osborne & Ames: then entered the Michi- 
gan University at Ann Arbor, took one course there, one course at Rush Medi- 
cal College, Chicago, 111., returned to Ann Arbor and graduated from the 
medical department. University of Michigan, in 1877. He then went to Day- 
ton, Cattaraugus Co., N. Y.. and began practice; staid there a few months, 
when the oil excitement broke out in McKean county, Penn., and the Doctor lo- 
cated in the village of Gillmor. McKean county, where he had an extensive and 
lucrative practice. He was married March 12. 1879, to Miss Flora C, daugh 
ter of Wesley and Lovinia (McArthur) Flint. Tney have at present two chil- 
dren: Clyde C. and Clair C, aged nine and seven years. The Doctor's 
parents were both born in New York State, and as far as known of purely 
Anglo-Saxon or Yankee extraction. Mrs. Cantield's father was of same, but her 
mother was of Scotch extraction. The Doctor's family are nut members of 
any church. The parents of both were of the Baptist faith. In 188 I the Doctor 
took a course of lectures at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York 



344 HISTOKV OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

City, and removed to Bradford. McKean Co., Pean..in 1889, where, his record 
as a successful physician having preceded him. lie is now established in a good 
practice. He is a prominent member of the McKean County Medical Society 
and was one of the founders of that society. He is also a member of the 
Masonic and several other fraternal societies. In politics Dr. Canrield has 
always been a stanch Republican. 

C. L. CASTERLINE, dealer in torpedoes and oil producer, Bradford, 
was born in Allegany county. X. Y.. a son of G. S. and Marietta (Moore- 
house) Casterline, of German and English descent, respectively, and both 
deceased. He was reared a fanner, but when he started in life for' himself he 
followed teaming. In 1877 he came to Bradford, embarking in the coal busi- 
ness, and in 1879 began dealing in torpedoes; he also became an oil producer, 
and has since had the entire oversight of all his interests. He also, in 1886, 
became interested in a livery stable at Bradford. Penn., which is superin- 
tended by his partner, C. S. Corthell; he also engaged in the, same business 
the following spring, at Findlay. Ohio, having several men in his employ at 
Findlay, and also at Bradford. Mr. Casterline has made bis own way in the 
world, and from a small beginning has become one of the leading citizens of 
Bradford. He is a Republican in politics. He is also a member of the 
Knights of Pythias. * 

WILLIAM CHAMBERS, one of the worthy representative citizens of 
Bradford, was born in Erie county, Penn., November 10, 1839, a son of 
David and Mabel (Nash) Chambers, natives of Pennsylvania and of Irish 
descent. His grandfather located in Erie county in an early day, buying, in 
company with his brother, several hundred acres of land; and his son David 
(father of the subject of this sketch) became heir to a part of the property. 
Here David Chambers died in 1878. He had been twice married, and had a 
family of ten children, William being a son by the first marriage. William 
Chambers was reared on his father's farm, where he was taught lessons of 
thrift and self dependence. When he commenced for himself he embarked in 
the grocery business, which he continued in until 1868, when he sold out and 
moved to the lower oil country, where he was employed two years. In 1877 
he came to McKean county, where he bought property and began drilling 
wells for himself, in which he has met with good success. On October 20, 
1 s7"J. Mr. Chambers married Harriet E. Burgess, a native of Erie county, 
Penn., daughter of L. A. and Clemanda (Hitchcock) Burgess. In politics 
Mr. Chambers is a Prohibitionist, and he and his wife are members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Chambers is an active member of the 
\\ . C. T. U. , and is president of the county organization; in 1888 she was a 
delegate to the national convention at New York. 

CAPT. W. B. CHAPMAN, attorney at law, Bradford, is one of the oldest 
practicing lawyers of the bar of McKean county. He was born in Cleveland, 
Ohio, October 8, 1826, the second of five children of Daniel S. and Margaret 
(Burt) Chapman. His ancestors were of English and French origin. His 
paternal grandfather was in the war of the Revolution, and his father in the 
war of 1812. The latter was wounded at the battle of Lundy's Lane, but 
lived to the advanced age of eighty-six years, and died May 'J'J. 1882. W. B. 
Chapman was reared and educated in Ashtabula county. Ohio, and graduated 
from the academy at Conneaut in is Hi. He began the study of law in the 
office of Gen. Brewster Randall, at Conneaut. and was admitted to the bar at 
Columbus, Ohio, in February, 1852, to practice in the supreme court-. lb 
soon won a good clientage, which he held until the breaking out of the Re- 
bellion, when, in July. L861, he enlisted in the Second Ohio Light Artillery. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



345 



and when the battery was organized was elected first lieutenant, being after- 
ward promoted to captain. He was wounded at the battle of Pea Ridge, 
whicli incapacitated him from further service, and caused his resignation and 
return home. On his recovery he again took up tbe practice of law, which 
he continued in Ohio until 1873, when he came to Pennsylvania, and in 18 il 
located in Bradford, where he now has a large practice. Mr. Chapman was 
married October 14, 1847, to Cynthia Olds, a native of Conneaut, Ohio, 
daughter of Ezekiel Olds. She is one of a family of eight children, two boys 
and six girls, all of whom are living, the youngest being fifty-six years old, 
and in 1888 all met together and had a family picture taken. Mr. and Mrs. 
Chapman have five children: Sarah M. (wife of Charles Howard, of Conneaut, 
Ohio) Phoebe, wife of S. A. Holbrook, of Bradford), Henry W. (of New York- 
City).' John B. (an attorney, of Bradford) and Will B. (a student in his father's 
office). Mr. Chapman was reared in the Whig school of politics, but since its 
organization has affiliated with the Republican party, and has been an active 
worker in its ranks. He is a strong advocate of temperance, but has always 
opposed the third party movement. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, 
both of lodge and chapter. 

THOMAS CHATTLE, proprietor of the " Hotel Florence, also interested 
in the production of petroleum at Bradford, Penn., was born in Orange county, 
N. Y., October 24, 1819, a son of Thomas and Nancy (Pike) Chattle, who were 
natives of New England. His father was a physician, who practiced many 
years in the State of New York, and died in 1824, leaving six children, of 
whom Thomas is the youngest son. Thomas Chattle' s first business venture 
was as a peddler, traveling with a team and selling goods at wholesale. In 1860 
he removed to Pennsylvania, and embarked in the lumber business, also con- 
ducting a grist-mill in McKean county. He sold his milling interests in 188 I. 
and has since given his attention to his oil interests and to carrying on his 
hotel in Bradford. Mr. Chattle was married in 1844 to Adaline Corwin, who 
died in 1855, leaving four children: Augusta (wife of G. Ewen), Garafaba 
(wife of William A. Harris, of Brooklyn, N. Y.), Amelia R. (wife of W. H. 
Rogers) and Lulu (since deceased). In 1857 Mr. Chattle married Julia F. 
Corwin, a sister of his first wife, and she died in 1887; their only son, Harvey 
O, is a machinist in Bradford. Mr. Chattle is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. In politics he is a Republican. 

DR. H. C. CHESNEY, Custer City, was born in Lawrence county, Penn. , in 
1862, a son of John and Catherine (Stoner) Chesney. natives of that county, 
where they are still residing, engaged in farming. He received his education 
at the public schools and Westmoreland College, read medicine with Dr. J. M. 
Balph, of Rose Point, Lawrence county, and attended lectures at the Medical 
College of Columbus, Ohio, graduating from Fort Wayne Medical College 
in 1883. Dr. Chesney first began to practice at North Liberty, Mercer Co., 
Penn., and in 1885 came to Custer City, where he has since enjoyed an exten 
sive practice. The Doctor is also a professional druggist, and conducts a well- 
equipped chug store. He is a member of McKean County Medical Association 
and of the Knights of the Maccabees, Columbian League: is identified with the 
Republican party, and has served as township clerk two years. 

CAPT. ALFRED W. COBURN, oil producer, Bradford, and a pio- 
neer in the oil business in Pennsylvania, has operated in several fields and has 
been extensively engaged in both the production and refining of oil. He has 
seen the rise and fall of several towns and cities, and has also seen fortunes 
made and lost. ' He has experienced all the varied fortunes of an oil specu- 
lator; has seen the time when his check for $100,000 would be honored where- 



34:6 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

ever he was known, and then has had his entire fortune swept away. His 
early life was spent on the water, and during the war of the Rebellion he was 
a member of an independent company from Titusville, Penn. From 1870 to 
1876 he was oil inspector, and in 1876 be became a member of the Oil Ex- 
change at Titusville. In 1878 he removed to Bradford, where for a time he 
represented the Farrar & Trefts Manufacturing Company; also served one year 
a- superintendent of the Telephone Company, and three years as tax collect- 
or. In 1885 he moved to Erie City, Penn., and in 1886 was injured in an ac 
cident on the Nickle-Plate Railroad, for which he received $10,000 damages. 
Capt. Coburn was born in Louisville, Ky., in January, 1838, a son of Henry 
R. and Eliza (Fosilick) Coburn. He has a family tree that traces his ancestry 
in the United States to 1636. He was married in 1860 to Huldah Paine, a 
native of Massachusetts, daughter of Joseph P. Paine, and they have one 
daughter, Millie C. Mrs. Coburn is a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

ALLAN COCHRAN, oil producer, Bradford, was born in Glasgow, Scot- 
land. January 1. 1820, a son of John and Grace (Lester) Cochran, former of 
whom was a physician in Scotland. Allan was the eldest of three children. He 
learned the boiler makers' trade after coming to America in 1849, and worked 
at his trade in New York State until 1865, when he removed to the oil country 
of Pennsylvania, and lived in Venango county six years. He then bought 
property, and has been in business for himself, owning at present 200 produc- 
ing wells. In 1SS'2 he removed to Bradford with the intention of making 
that his home. He has a neat and substantial residence, is well to do, and 
his declining years may be spent free from the anxiety and cares of business. 
He is an unassuming, genial gentleman, and has many friends who deem it a 
pleasure to spend their spare time in his company. Mr. Cochran was married in 
Glasgow, Scotland, in 1847, to Miss Elizabeth Caggie, a native of Scotland, 
daughter of Allan and Jean (Keir) Caggie, and they have six children: John, 
Grace (wife of Samuel Kerr). Jean (wife of Edward Holden), Lizzie (wile of 
E. E. Northup), Allan and William. Mr. and Mrs. Cochran are members of 
the Presbyterian Church. In politics he is a Republican. He was a crockery 
merchant in Glasgow, Scotland, until he came to America. 

C. P. CODY, of the firm of C. P. Cody & Bro., general insurance agents, 
Bradford, was born in Mount Elgin, Canada West (now Ontario), July 19, 
1854, a son of Charles G. and Abigail E. Cody. He attended Woodstock 
Canadian Literary Institute for some time, and after leaving school came to 
the United States, first going to Virginia, and thence to Michigan, Illi- 
nois, Indiana, and lastly Pennsylvania. He located in Bradford in 1878. 
embarking in his present business in 1882, and in 1886 his brother E. V. 
became associated with him. They represent eighteen leading companies, 
foreign and domestic, embracing tire, accident and life insurance. They are 
also engaged in the real estate business, E. V. Cody being treasurer of the 
Petroleum Real Estate Company. Mr. C. P. Cody was married in Cleveland. 
Ohio, in 1S82. to Ella, daughter of Elias and Julina Ede. He is a member of 
the Baptist and his wife of the Episcopal Church. In politics he affiliates 
with the Prohibition party, his brother being a Republican. He is secretary 
of the Bradford Hoard of Trade and treasurer of the Automatic Car Brake 
Company. 

E. V. CODY was born at Mount Elgin. Ontario, Canada, April 30, L862, 
a son of Charles G. and Abigail E. Cody. About 1877 he removed with his 
parents to London. Ontario, and there attended the London Collegiate [nsti 
tute. In 1882 lie came to the United States, locating in Bradford. Penn. For 
four years he was librarian of the Bradford Library Association, In January. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 347 

1886, he became associated with his brother, C. P. Cody, in the insurance 
business. 

S. G. COFFIN, one of the successful and enterprising business men of 
Bradford, was born in New Hampshire October 17, 1847, the only son of J. 
M. and Dorothy S. (Gale) Coffin, also natives of New Hampshire, of English 
descent, former of whom died in his native State in 1887. S. G. Coffin was 
given good educational advantages, and when he embarked in business for 
himself went to Brady's Run, Penn., where he opened a flour and feed store, 
continuing there eighteen months, when he sold out and went to Butler 
county, where he was in the livery business till 1880, when he again sold out, 
and, coming to Bradford, engaged in the same business. He is a good busi 
ness man, and has been successful in his operations. He owns two livery and 
sale stables in the city and never has less than twenty-five horses, often fifty. 
He does a general livery business, and also buys, sells and ships horses on a 
large scale. He is also quite extensively engaged in the oil business. Mr. 
Coffin was married in Armstrong county. Penn., June 24, 1874, to F. M. 
Fleming, daughter of A. W. Fleming, and they have three children: Claudie 
D., George Ralph and Charles J. In politics Mr. Coffin is a Republican. He 
is a member of the A. O. U. W. , the Knights of Honor, and several benevo- 
lent orders. 

PHILIP W. CROAK, general foreman in the Buffalo, Rochester & 
Pittsburgh Railroad shops at Bradford, has held this position since 1888. He 
learned the machinist's trade in his youth at Renovo, Penn., and from 1884 to 
1886 he was foreman of the Pennsylvania Railroad shops at that place; in the 
latter year he was transferred to Erie City, and in 1888 came to Bradford. 
He now has about 130 men under his supervision and there are about forty- 
five engines to be kept in repair at the shops in Bradford. He is a thorough 
machinist and understands every detail of his work. Mr. Croak was born in 
Bradford county, Penn., in March, 1852, a son of Edward and Honora (Mul- 
queen) Croak, natives of Ireland. He was married in March, 1877, to Miss 
Mary Jones, a native of Renovo, Penn., of German descent, daughter of 
David Jones, and they have eight children: William, Edward, Viola, Bessie, 
Winlan, Philip, Thomas and Sarah. Mr. Croak and his wife are members of 
the Catholic Church. In politics he is a Democrat. 

LEVI M. CROSS, P. O. Kendall Creek, was born in Carrollton, Cattar- 
augus Co., N. Y., August 6. 1841, and is a son of Levi and Eliza (Conklin) 
Cross, natives of New York and Pennsylvania, respectively. He was reared 
in Bradford, McKean Co., Penn., from three years of age, and received a 
common-school education. At the breaking out of the civil war he was en- 
gaged in farming and lumbering, but in August, 1862, he enlisted in Com- 
pany H, Fifteenth New York Volunteers, and served nine months, when he 
was discharged on account of disability. In April, 1864, Mr. Cross re-enlisted 
in Company E, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was wounded at 
Chapin Farm, near Richmond, Va. , September 29, 1864. As a result of this 
wound he lost his left leg at the thigh, and was honorably discharged from the 
service in March, 1865. Since the war he has made his home in Bradford, 
this county, and has been engaged in teaming and the oil business. Mr. 
Cross married, March 21, 1867, Fannie, daughter of David and Amanda (Rey- 
nolds) Cornelius, of Bradford, and has two children: Leda M. and Autie V. 
He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and G. A. R. , and polit- 
ically is a Republican. 

E. J. CROSS, grocer, Bradford, was born at Sandy Hill. Washington Co., 
N. Y., August 2, 1850, a son of Stephen Oscar, and Ruby Ann (Conrey) Cross,. 



348 HISTOEY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

natives of New York, and of English and Irish descent. The father was a promi- 
nent farmer, and during the war was a United States marshal: after the war lie 
was appointed United States revenue collector. The mother was a relative of Gen. 
Putnam, the hero of Bunker Hill. Mr. Cross prepared for college at Fort 
Edward Institute, and then took a course at Eastman's Business College, Pater- 
son, N. J., from which he graduated in 1873. In 1876 he went to Butler county. 
Penn., where he carried on a general mercantile business four years, and in 
1880 removed to Bradford, where for three years he carried on a whole 
sale and retail vegetable market. He then embarked in the tiour and feed 
business, to which he has since added groceries. He now owns his place of 
business, and also a small farm, which is under the supervision of William Ten- 
ney, a practical gardener, and is cultivated as a vegetable garden. Mr. Cross 
was married September -Ml. 1876, to Alice E. Keith, daughter of Alonzo A. 
and Alvina (Carter) Keith, and they have three children: Oscar K.. Alice E. 
and Ruby E. Mrs. Cross is a member of the Baptist Church. In politics Mr. 
Cross is a Republican. 

H. G. CUTTING, farmer, tine stock raiser and oil producer, Bradford, 
was born in St. Lawrence county, N. Y. , January 22, 1838, a son of D. H. and 
Jane H. (Barrows) Cutting, former of whom is still living in New York, and 
is now eighty six years old. Mr. Cutting was reared on his father's farm, re 
maining in his native county until 1802. when he came to Pennsylvania, and 
worked about the oil wells. In 1876 he bought and drilled several wells, and 
in 1883 purchased 135 acres of land, which he has cultivated; is also exten 
sively engaged in stock raising, making a specialty of horses and cattle, and 
dealing only in the finest breeds. He devotes his attention to his farm and 
-tuck, hiring an overseer for his wells, of which he owns fourteen. Mr. Cut 
ting was married in 1860, to Ellen Blanchard, wh'o died in 187-j. leaving three 
children: Bertha, Blanchard and Algernon. The parents of Mrs. Ellen Cut- 
ting were named Orville and Almeda (Newman) Blanchard. In 1S77 Mr. 
Cutting married Miss Amy Gunn, daughter of William and Isabella Harriet 
(Pond) Gunn. the former a Canadian, of Scotch descent, and the latter an 
American, of English extraction. They have three children: Hawley G., Mai 
comb J. and William P, Mrs. Cutting is a member of the Episcopal Church. 
In politics Mr. Cutting is a Republican. He is a member of the F. & A. M 
and the A. O. U. W. 

F. W. DAYIS. president of the First National Bank, Bradford, was born 
near the city of Bradford. Penn., June S, 1844, the eldest of four children of 
li. W. and Sarah C. (Moore) Davis, former a native of Vermont, and latter of 
New York, of English descent. His father was a cabinet maker by trade, 
which he followed in Chautauqua county. X. Y. . until his removal to Brad 
ford in 1842, where he continued the business until his death in 1876. F. W. 
Davis attended the common schools until seventeen years of age, at which time 
the war broke out, and in November, 1861, he enlisted in Company E. Fifty 
eighth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, and rendered faithful service until 
the close of the war. at which time he held the rank of first lieutenant. He 
was with his regiment in all its battles and skirmishes. They were on detailed 
duty the greater part of the time, lighting bushwhackers, and were present at 
'in 1 capture of Fort Harrison, below Richmond. After his return home Mr 
I>avis was employed as clerk and bookkeeper, taking a regular course at 
Eastman's Business College, and in ls7<i he embarked in the drug business, 
which he continued until 1878. When the First National Bank of Bradford 
was organized be became one of the stockholders and a director; in 1887 he 
was elected vice president, and in 1888 president. He has been one of the 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 349 

leading citizens of Bradford, and has built one of the best blocks in the city: 
is owner of considerable real estate, having devoted a portion of his time to 
that business. Mr. Davis was married in 1S68 to Albina T. Sanford, daugh- 
ter of George Sanford, of Bradford, and they have one child, Sarah G. Mrs. 
Davis and her daughter are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In 
politics Mr. Davis is a Democrat, and he is a member of Union Lodge No. 334. 
F. & A. M. 

F. G. DAVIS, of the firm of Brennan & Davis, jewelers and booksellers, 
Bradford, is one of the leading business men of the city, where he has spent 
his life. He became established in his present business in 1883, and as suc- 
cess came to the firm they have gradually increased their stock until it is now 
unexcelled in variety and quality in the city. Mr. Davis was born in Bradford, 
McKean Co., Penn.. August 8, 1851, a son of R. W. and Sarah (Moore) Davis. 
He wa9 the youngest of three children, and is a brother of F. W. Davis, pres- 
ident of the Bradford National Bank. He was married at Fredonia, N. Y. , in 
1876. to Eva Cowdrey, who died in 1882. Mr. Davis has one son, Clyde H. 
Davis. 

P. H. DAVITT, proprietor of bottling works. Bradford, is a native of Ire- 
land, born March 14, 1854, a son of John and Nora (Rush) Davitt. In 1866 
he came to America with his parents, who settled in Erie county, N. Y. , where 
the father worked at the stone masons' and plasterers' trades, and later became a 
contractor and builder. In 1878 the subject of our sketch came to Bradford, 
soon after opened his bottling works, and has built up a good trade in his line. 
Mr. Davitt was married in New York in 1889 to Miss Ella J., daughter of John 
Considine. Mr. and Mrs. Davitt are members of the Catholic Church and he 
is a member of the Catholic Benevolent Association. He is a Democrat in poli- 
tics, and has served as a member of the select council. 

ALBERT DeGOLIER, oil producer, Bradford, was born in Keating town 
ship, McKean Co., Penn., June 4, 1831, a son of Abel and Elizabeth (Overhi- 
ser) DeGolier, natives of Western New York and descendants of the earliest 
settlers, the former of French ancestry and the latter of English and Mohawk 
Dutch. The father moved to McKean county in 1830 and died in 1833 at 
Smethport, when only thirty-one years old. The mother's health failing] she 
was obliged to give over her children to the care of others. Albert found a 
home with Warren Edson, who gave him the benefit of the common schools. 
and as he grew older he assisted in the work of the farm. He started in life 
for himself as a farmer, and in 1860 went to Iowa, where he remained six years. 
In 1866 he returned to McKean county, and embarked in general mercantile 
trade, which he continued ten years, and in 1876 became interested in the pro- 
duction of oil. Mr. DeGolier was married October 17, 1853, to Miss Eleanor, 
daughter of Absalom and Elizabeth (Faloon) Hutchinson, natives of Ireland, 
who came to McKean county in 1832. Mr. and Mrs. DeGolier have had eleven 
children, seven of whom are living: Charles Fremont, Elmer A.. Spencer M., 
Elizabeth A.. Mary A. (Mrs. J. L. Barrett), Margaret L. and Eleanor J. 
Emma E., Ella O. and John died in infancy; the second son. Albert E., died 
March 15, 1886. Politically Mr. DeGolier is a Republican. He has served 
as a member of the school board and also of the common council of Bradford. 

D. DeGOLIER, gardener, P. O. Bradford, was born in Prattsburgh, 
Steuben Co., N. Y., July 16, 1820, a son of Samuel and Esther (Olds) De- 
Golier, natives of Saratoga county, N. Y., and Vermont, respectively. In 1831 
Samuel, James, Abel and Nathan DeGolier came to McKean county, and took 
up land in Bradford township, which is now known as DeGolier settlement or 
station. James was in the war of 1812; Samuel was an active business man, 



350 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

and tilled various offices in Bradford township, and was a prominent member 
of the Baptist Church. He died in 1844. His widow married Phineas Hall 
and died in L870. Three of the children of Samuel and Esther DeGolier 
are yet living: R. A., of Northport, Mich.; Esther, wife of Daniel Dikeman. 
of Bradford township, and the subject of this sketch. D. DeGolier married, 
in 1842, Miss Dersy C, daughter of Simeon Morris, of Bradford township. 
She died in 1881, leaving three children: Sylvester B.. living at home; Maur- 
ice, of Wisconsin: and W. F., of Florida. Mr. DeGolier was nest married 
to Mrs. Laviuda E. Emery, of Erie county, N. Y. He was engaged in the 
mercantile business at Bradford for five years, and, with this exception, h< j has 
always been engaged in farming and market gardening. He had always been 
identified with the Republican party, and served as justice of the peace of 
Bradford township for ten years, but since the formation of the Prohibition 
party has been identified with it. He is a deacon and trustee in the Baptist 
Church, of which he has been a member fifty-four years. 

C. DeHART, superintendent of a district for the New York Pipe Line Com- 
pany, Bradford, was born in Auburn, N. Y. , January 2, 1846, a son of Joseph 
and Margaret DeHart, natives of New York, and of French descent, former 
of whom died in 1881. C. DeHart was reared in Titusville, and in his youth 
began to work at the oil wells. For eighteen years he has worked for pipe line 
companies, and for sixteen years has been in the employ of the New York com- 
pany in various capacities, coming to Bradford in 1877. Mr. DeHart was 
married, in 1871, to Mary, daughter of William Carey, and they have three 
children: Mabel, Lloyd and Helen. Mrs. DeHart is a member of the Catho- 
lic Church. In politics Mr. DeHart is a Republican. 

R. A. DEMPSEY, ex mayor of Bradford and capitalist. was born in Venango 
county, Penn., April 26, 1 V>7. the eldest of three children of Thomas C. and 
Mary Ann (Arthur) Dempsey. natives of Pennsylvania, former of Venango 
county, of Irish and German descent, and latter of Warren county, of Snitch 
and English descent. The father died in 1SN4, at an advanced age. R. A. 
Dempsey was reared a farmer, and followed that vocation until 1862, when he 
enlisted in Company E. One Hundred and Twenty first Pennsylvania Volun- 
teer Infantry, and by promotion finally was commissioned first lieutenant. His 
regiment participated in many hard fought battles. Near Petersburg. \ a., 
October 1, 1864, he was captured and was held prisoner three months and two 
weeks at Salisbury. Being detailed to cut wood, he found an opportunity to 
make his escape, and joined the Union lines in Tennessee. After the close of 
the war he returned to Pennsylvania, and for a time was engaged in mercantile 
business, later in oil producing, and since 1871 has owned and conducted an 
oil refinery. In 18N2 he became a member of a manufacturing company at 
Custer City that has been extensively engaged in the manufacture of high ex- 
plosives. He is also interested in the cattle business in Kansas, owning a 
large tract of land. He has been a successful business man, and is now cue . i 
the leading citizens of Bradford. He has served as supervisor of Bradford 
township, also as school director, and in 1886 was elected mayor of the city. 
He has served two terms as postmaster, one term in Venango county and one 
in McKeau county. He is a member of Bradford Post No. 141. G. A. R., and 
has held all the important offices in his post. He is a member of the I. O. O. 
F. lodge and encampment, of the Knights of Labor, and of several beneficiary 
societies. In politics Mr. Dempsey is a Republican. He was married in No- 
vember. 1859, to Martha E. Campbell, daughter of Joseph Campbell, and they 
have four children: Mary (wife of Frank Howard), Lizzie, Nora and Lulu. 
Mrs. Dempsey is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 351 

C. W. DENNIS, a member of the firm of Spence & Dennis, dealers in tor 
pedoes and nitro glycerine, Bradford, was born in Buffalo. N. Y. , October 30, 
1853, a son of Joseph W. and Delia (Tolles) Dennis, who were also natives of 
New York, of English descent. Joseph W. Dennis is still a resident of Buf 
falo, and is aged sixty-two. Mrs. Delia Dennis died in Detroit in 1858, and in 
1867 Mr. Dennis married Lucy M. Newman, of Nunda, N. Y. After his 
mother's death our subject lived with an aunt, sister of his mother, several 
years, in Albion and Marion, Ohio; then lived on a farm near Kenosha. Wis., 
for eight years, and then returned to Buffalo, N. Y., in 1869; he had good 
educational advantages, and after leaving school clerked for his father, who 
was a government contractor. In 1877 he came to Bradford and engaged in 
the oil business, adding the torpedo interest in 1878. In 1883 Spence & 
Dennis obtained the agency for the Torpedo Company of Delaware, and have 
met with good success in this line. Mr. Dennis was married January 24, 1883. 
in Buffalo, to Miss Jennie, a daughter of Capt. James W. Moore. In politics 
he is a Republican. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and of the 
Knights of Honor, as well as of the Royal Arcanum. 

WILLIAM H. DENNIS, senior member of the firm of Dennis & Booth, 
who has been identified with the building up of the city of Bradford from the 
early days of the oil excitement, was born in England, of English parents, in 
October, 1852, son of James and Sarah (Stephens) Dennis. Early in life he 
was apprenticed to learn the carpenter's trade. In 1872 he came to Pennsyl- 
vania and settled in Carbondale. Lackawanna county, where in 1875 he was mar- 
ried to Maggie O, daughter of David and Charlotte (Farquharson) Andrew, 
who were natives of Scotland, coming to New York in L853, and settling in 
Ontario county, where Maggie C. was born in June, 1854. In 1876 Mr. Den- 
nis entered into partnership with I. S. Jones, and the firm of Jones & Dennis 
in 1877 moved to Bradford, where C. S. Booth was added, and the firm of 
Jones, Dennis & Booth did an extensive business both in Bradford and adjoin- 
ing cities. Among the buildings erected by them are the Producers' Petroleum 
Exchange, the Central school building, the Baptist and Methodist Churches, 
L. Emery, Jr., & Co.'s stores, the residences of George A. Berry, Esq., Sena- 
tor Emery and many others. In 1886 Mr. Jones withdrew and Dennis & 
Booth, in addition to their building business, engaged in the production of 
petroleum, having purchased some valuable oil lands in Foster township, Mc- 
Kean county. From the start this firm have held the position of leaders in 
the building business, and at the present time employ a large number of 
skilled workmen. Mr. Dennis also does architectural drawing, furnishing 
plans and specifications for buildings when desired. Mr. and Mrs. Dennis 
have six children: Lizzie B. , Lottie S., Margie A., Marion H. , Charles J. and 
Edith M. Both are members of the Baptist Church, which, in 1878, fchej 
took a prominent part in organizing in Bradford and in which he has for years 
held the office of deacon and church clerk. He is also president of the Young 
Men's Christian Association of Bradford, a member of the Royal Templars 
of Temperance, and in politics votes the Prohibition ticket. 

DAVID A. DENNISON. managing editor of the Era, Bradford, Penn.. 
was born at Cromwell, Conn., in 1856, where his parents had settled after 
their immigration from Cork, Ireland, about forty-five years ago. The family 
moved to Pennsylvania before the war of the Rebellion, and in this State the 
subject of this notice received an elementary education, while assisting on the 
home farm in Crawford county. In 1878 we find him in the State of Iowa, 
where he followed agricultural pursuits, but deeming the hills and valleys of 
the Keystone State a much happier clime, he returned hither, where he was 



352 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

engaged in various industries until 1887, in which year he was appointed to a 
position on the staff of the Era at Bradford. From the age of fifteen Mr. 
Deunison had been a contributor to several publications, and after coming 
here he acted as correspondent of the Elmira Sunday Telegram, and other 
papers, on oil Held news and other subjects. On July 3, 1S89, he was pro- 
moted to the managing editorship of the Era, vice Mr. C. H. Steiger. trans 
ferred to the Toledo ' 'nmmercial. 

JOHN A. DIETER, farmer, P. O. Custer City, was born in Livingston 
county, N. Y., February 28, 1835, a son of John and Annie C. (Kline) Dieter. 
natives of New York State, who came to McKean county, Penn., in 1848, and 
purchased a farm in Bradford township. The father was a stone mason, brick 
layer and plasterer by trade. In politics he is a Republican, and tilled vari- 
ous township offices; although not a member of any church, he was a con- 
scientious Christian man, and his wife was a member of the United Brethren 
Church for many years. He died in 1857 and his widow in 1881. Ten children 
were born to them, eight of whom are still living: Barbara J. (wife of William 
Baker, of Bradford township). Samuel Jackson (of Michigan). Michael K. (of 
Chautauqua county, N. Y. ), John A., Eliza C. (wife of John Mack, of Ohio). 
Mary C. (wife of Spencer Tibbitts, of Custer City), Martha M. (wife of Henry 
Hammond, of Colorado) and George W. (of Cattaraugus county, N. Y. ) John 
A. was reared mostly in McKean count}', and obtained but a limited education. 
as he had to assist his father in clearing and improving the farm and attending 
stone masons. He was married May 2, 1865, to Miss Mary Ann, daughter of 
Charles Hayter, of Eden, or Marshburg, McKean county, and they have four 
children: Charles Stanley, John Franklin, Emma Frances and Henry Joseph. 
all living at home. Mr. Dieter has been identified with both the Republican 
and Democratic parties, and of late years has been a strong supporter of the 
Prohibition party. He has always been a prominent member of the Fnited 
Brethren Church, and for vears has been a licensed exhorter and class leader. 

LORENZO DRAKE, farmer and oil producer, P. O. Custer City, was born 
in Morris county, N. J., September 20, 1819, a son of Silas C. and Sarah 
(Hamilton) Drake, natives of that State. In 1840 they came to McKean county. 
Penn., and entered the tract of land in Bradford township now owned by Lorenzo 
Drake. Silas C. Drake was a captain of the New Jersey State Militia. He was 
a Whi^. afterward a Republican, and tilled various township offices. He died 
in Bradford township in 1858, and his wife in 18B2. They reared seven chil- 
dren, three of whom are living: Clarissa, widow of John Rutherford, of Erie 
county, Penn.; Theodore F., of Great Valley, Cattaraugus Co., N. Y. ; and 
Lorenzo, the eldest, who removed with his parents from New Jersey to Tioga 
county, N. Y., when four years of age. He received a common-school educa 
tion, and has followed the occupation of farming. In 1840 he married Miss 
Rhoda, daughter of Sheldon Tuttle, of Tioga county, Penn., and to them have 
been born nine children, named as follows: Silas, Ralph, Leroy. Russell and 
Guy, all fanners in Nebraska: Charles, civil engineer, at home; Millie, wife of 
Frank Smith, of Springville, N. Y. ; Ida and Sarah A., at home. Mr. Drake i* 
an active Republican. 

S. R, DRESSER manufacturer of oil well and gas well packers, Bradford. 
was bora in Litchfield. Hillsdale Co.. .Mich.. February 1. 1842, a son of Parkl- 
and Lvdia (Cronkhyte) Dresser, former a- native of Massachusetts, of Eiiffli>h 
descent, and latter of New York, of Dutch descent. The father died in 1 s 7 "_' . 
Mr. Dresser, when a young man. went to La Fayette. Ind. , where he clerked 
in a dry goods store, and in 1865 moved to West Virginia, and was there tin 
ployed in the oil fields. Iu 1S72 he changed his location to Butler county and 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 353 

for three years continued in the oil business. In 1880, having invented his 
packer, he began manufacturing, and now has a good business. Mr. Dresser 
was married in 1864 to Vesta E., daughter of Chauncey Simpson, who died in 
1SS3. and they had a family of five children, two of whom are living: lone 
and Robert A. In 1885 Mr. Dresser married Caroline, daughter of Carl 
Kirsch. Mrs. Dresser is a member of the Presbyterian Church. In politics 
Mr. Dresser is a Republican, and has held various official positions, being a 
prominent citizen. He is a member of the Masonic lodge of Bradford. 

C. A. DURFEY, State oil inspector, oil producer and dealer in real estate, 
Bradford, is a native of Connecticut, born April 1 9, 1838, a son of Benjamin 
and Harmony (Kingsley) Durfey, also natives of Connecticut. His father was 
a prominent citizen of that State and served as a member of the legislature from 
New London county. He died in 1874, in the seventy-second year of his age. 
C. A. Durfey was the second in a family of six children. He learned the 
blacksmith trade in his youth, and during the Civil war was employed on gov- 
ernment work in the armory at Springfield, Mass. In 1865 he came to Penn- 
sylvania as superintendent of the Prescott and Seymour Oil Companies, and 
made his headquarters in Venango county twelve years. He then removed to 
Bradford county and worked in the oil fields, where he has since been success- 
ful as an oil producer. In 1877 he was appointed State oil inspector, a posi- 
tion he has since held. He has bought, considerable real estate in the county, 
and has sold portions at quite an advance on the purchase price. Among his 
valuable possessions in the county may be mentioned the Durfey block, on Main 
street, Bradford, which is one of the handsomest buildings in the city. Mr. 
Durfey was married in 1864 to Lizzie V. Bowles, who died in 1872, leaving two 
children: J. W. and Gertrude S. In politics Mr. Durfey is a Democrat, and 
he has been a member of Bradford city council, and also of the school board. 

EDGETT & McALLISTER, real estate, 1, 2 and 3 Bradburn block, 95 
Main street, Bradford. The firm of Edgett & McAllister is composed of Roy 
W. Edgett and R. McAllister. They have been established in their present 
business only about one year, and in that time, by close application and careful 
study of values, have succeeded in steadily increasing the number of their 
transactions, until to-day they are among the leading real estate firms, and en- 
gaged in handling some of the very best properties in the country. They have 
a branch office at 315 Main street, Buffalo, N. Y. , and handle property all over 
the United States. In addition, they enjoy facilities for placing loans on most 
reliable securities. They are always willing and anxious to assist in any laud- 
able effort to build up and maintain enterprises of a useful nature. They hold 
in the community an enviable position for their liberality and progressive spirit, 
and are gentlemen of pleasant and courteous manners. 

G. C. EDMUNDS, proprietor of a livery stable, Bradford, was born in Warren 
county. Penn.. April 8. 1849, fifth in a family of nine children of Robert and 
Elizabeth (Caskey ) Edmunds, former of whom came from Scotland to America 
and settled in Warren county, where he spent the last years of his life. G. C. 
Edmunds was reared in his native county, attending school when a small boy, 
but in 1862 he was apprenticed to learn the blacksmith's trade. After com- 
pleting his apprenticeship he engaged in business for himself, and for some 
time dealt extensively in horses. He also bought valuable oil laud leases and 
has been successfully engaged in the oil business. Since 1870 he has been a 
resident of McKean county, and at present devotes the most of his attention to 
the livery business, having stables at both Bradford and Kendall. In politics 
Mr. Edmunds is a Republican, and has held the offices of constable and road 
commissioner of McKean county. He was married in Tennessee, in IS 70. t .> 



354 HISTOKY (IF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Miss Eva. daughter of D. C. Hayes, and they have five children: Ina, Eliza- 
beth, George, Frank and Eva. 

LEWIS EMERY, Jh., Bradford, was born about two miles from the pretty 
little village of Cherry Creek, Chautauqua Co. , N. Y., August 10, 1839. In 
1842 his father had been engaged constructing a railway near Olean, N. Y., 
for the nld Erie, now the New York. Like Erie iV Western Railroad, and lost 
a great deal of money through the failure of that corporation. After severing 
his o mnection with the railroad he secured a contract on one of the levels of 
tie 1 Genesee canal, and when that company defaulted he was again a sufferer, 
financially, and, becoming disgusted with the state of affairs in the East, 
determined upon going to the West. In January. 1842, he started, with his 
family, to drive overland to Janesville, Wis. He was a thorough general 
mechanic, and an adept in all the varied details of woolen cloth making. 
When he reached Jonesville, Mich., on his westward journey, the loss of some 
of his live stock compelled him to make a halt, and the people of the surround- 
ing country, learning of his ability, persuaded him to settle among them, and 
they agreed to and did build a mill for him. allowing him to pay for it from 
the profits on his sales. He remained in Jouesville for seven years, during the 
latter part of which period he built another mill at Hillsdale, the county scat, 
to which place he moved with his family in 1849. 

Hon. Lewis Emery, Jr., the subject of this sketch, after spending his early 
youth learning the trade of his father, and acquiring what rudimentary educa 
tion the country schools afforded, was sent to Hillsdale College, Hillsdale, 
Mich., where he finished his mental training. At the age of nineteen he en 
gaged to teach the district school of Wheatland township, and continued to do 
so for two years; after which he resumed work at his father's flour mill, which 
he continued until he left the State. During his attendance at the Hillsdale 
College he met with, and formed an attachment for, Miss Elizabeth A. Cald- 
well, and on December 29, 1863, he married her at the home of her parents, 
in Vistula, Elkhart Co.. Ind. Four children were the result of their marriage: 
Delevau Emery, born September 26, 1867; Grace Elizabeth Emery, born Jan- 
uary 27. 1874; Earle Caldwell Emery, born December 12, 1875, and Lewis 
Emery, born August 27. 1878. In May. lS'U. he went to Southern Illinois 
and engaged in general merchandising, and also built a mill. The war was 
brought to a'close soon after he went there, and, business coming to a stand 
still, he concluded to seek other fields, and in August, 1865. started for the oil 
regions of Pennsylvania. He made his first stop in Pit Hole, Venango county, 
remaining a short time, and in that memorable year located his first well at 
Pioneer, that county, and shared the up3 and downs of the producers of that 
period. For the next five years he followed the excitement, so characteristic 
of the oil country, with all its varied successes and disappointments, until, in 
1870, he went to Titusville, Crawford Co.. Penn., and was fairly on the way 
to wealth. H^ rapidly rose to the top rank among the well-known producers 
of that field, and by his determination and enterprise, coupled with a strong 
sense of honor in all business dealings, he soon commanded the respect and 
confidence of the whole community. Like hundreds of others of the then 
prosperous producers, the financial panic, precipitated by the failure of Jay 
< ' i ike & Co., of New York, caught him with the floating obligations that could 
ii ot be quicklj enough protected to save him from the desolating ruin that fol 
lowed, and in the parlance ot the country he " went to the wall." almost hope 
lessly ruined. With a record • 1 debt against him that would have driven a less 
intrepid man to lunacy or, possibly, to the grave, he, with his characteristic 
enterprise ami confidence in himself, was soon looking about for a way to 



BIOGEAPHICAL SKETCHES. 355 

recover his lost fortunes. He bad often viewed the hills and vales of McKean 
county, Penn., with a strong suspicion that they held beneath thrni a vast lake 
of petroleum, only waiting to yield up its wealth to the pioneer who should tap 
it. Now, in a spirit of desperation, almost, he determined to test his ideas 
with the drill. He had leased and purchased about 14,000 acres of territory, 
without a cent of money. The people had confidence in him, trusted in his 
ability to pay, and never questioned his honor. He commenced operations in 
this Held July 28, 1875, his first well being at Toad Hollow, on what was 
known as the Tibbets farm, about two miles south of the city of Bradford. 
This well opened up at a rate of forty barrels per day, and not only proved of 
vast financial importance to him, enabling him to wipe out every cent of debt, 
and accumulate a handsome fortune, but it virtually opened up the greatest 
oil territory the world has ever seen. His wealth piled up, and each year 
saw acres of territory falling into his possession, until over 500 wells were 
pouring their wealth into his storehouse. In thus entering such a vast under- 
taking without money, the film of Eaton, Cole Burnham Company, of New 
York, proved great friends to him. They gave him unlimited credit, though 
he was a bankrupt. They realized that a man who had gone down two or 
three times, and as often ccrne out of the ordeal with honor unstained, would 
not long remain down, and so it proved. In 1878 he was elected by the peo- 
ple of McKean county to represent them in the general assembly, where, in 
the session of 1S7U, he took such a warm and untiring interest in the wants of 
the oil country, that the people returned him to the legislature, in 1880, with 
credentials of a senatorship. During his sitting in the lower house of the 
legislature, he manifested an independence of spirit in political labor similar to 
that which had always characterized his action elsewhere. While he did not 
object to the party caucus, he would follow no leader whom he suspected of 
packing the caucus, either by purchase or the paity lash. He ever advocated 
the most frank and honest dealing where the rights of the people came into 
the question; and never could reconcile the mandates of packed caucuses with 
either frankness, honesty or honor. It was for this reason that he refused to 
go into the senatorial caucus of 1879. At that time the Bepublican party was 
being wielded by and for the interests of a few individuals, and the "gag" 
rule and caucus packing were two of their favorite instruments to carry on 
their plans. The continuation of these practices led to the memorable sena- 
torial dead-lock in the legislature in 1881, when fifty-six Republicans remained 
out of the party caucus, many refusing to be tied to Galusha A. Grow for the 
United States senatorship, and this action ultimately resulted in the election 
of Hon. John I. Mitchell, and was followed a year later by the three-cornered 
fight for the gubernatorial chair, by Hon. John Stewart. Robert E. Pattison 
and James A. Beaver. He was re-elected to the State senate from the Twenty- 
fifth district, in 188.4, by a largely increased majority. In the same year he 
was chosen delegate-at large to represent the State of Pennsylvania in the 
National Republican Convention, that convened at Chicago, June 19, and was 
in attendance during the memorable contest which ended in the nomination of 
James G. Blaine and John A. Logan. He was a warm advocate of Mr. 
Blaine's nomination, and an ardent supporter of him in the election that fol- 
lowed. In 1886 he was a candidate for congress from the Sixteenth district, 
and again in 1888 from the Twenty-fourth district, but both times was compelled 
to yield his claim, because of the rotation system so determinedly clung to in 
that part of the State. During his ten years of public service he was unflag 
ging in his opposition to the tendency of corporate monopolies and trusts to 
prostitute their rights to private purposes, and the crushing out of fair compe 



356 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

tition. In this direction he was the recognized leader of the anti-monopolists. 
and, though tempted to withdraw his opposition to the monopolists, by pros- 
pects of ample financial returns in the way of business facilities, he consist 
ently stuck to his principles, and refused to be cajoled in any manner. In 
1879 he went to Europe, and made a thorough investigation of the oil fields of 
the Baku region in Russia, to learn, if possible, what its competition with 
American oil would ever attain. In 1881 he made a second visit to Europe, 
this time traveling through France. Germany, Italy. Turkey. Greece, and up 
the Nile 1,000 miles, as far as the second cataract. He lias also traveled e\ 
tensively in this country, and in the Canadian provinces, and has equipped 
himself with a vast store of general information as to the needs and capability 
of the country. While traveling he was always a keen observer and a pains 
taking student of the men aud things he met. He is a man of broad views, a 
ready reasoner and most determined in execution. His philanthropic work. 
while it has been very extensive, has been directed in a modest and unostenta- 
tious manner, and many are the institutions and private personages who have 
felt the influence of his quiet beneficence. In his personal habits, as in his 
public actions, he is plain and unpretentious. His home life is one of domestic 
peace and happiness, and furnishes him a harbor from the labors of business 
and public service, to which he always hies with pleasure unfeigned. His 
public spirit, coupled with a firm conviction that the rights of the common 
people must be sustained against the encroachment of individual or corporate 
gain, has made him an object of admiration among the people, and one to 
whom they have always shown a readiness to entrust their welfare. He is 
now engaged in the production and refining of petroleum on a very extensive 
scale in Bradford, McKean Co., Penn. : merchant flour milling in Three Rivers, 
Mich. ; has large wheat land interests in Northern Dakota, and is lumber mill- 
ing in Farmers, Rowan Co.. Ky., and is owner of a large oil well aud general 
supply store in Bradford. McKean Co.. Penn. 

J. B. FARREL. oil producer, Bradford, was horn in Erie county. N. Y.. 
Aprils. 1844, a son of Robert and Mary (Wells) Farrel, natives also of the 
Empire State, and of Scotch-Irish descent, He remained at home until after 
the breaking out of the Rebellion, when, in 1861, he enlisted in Company A. 
One Hundred and Sixteenth New York Volunteer Infantry. He was dis 
charged in 1863 on account of wo.unds received in battle, which incapacitated 
him for active service. Soon after his return home he came to the lower oil 
fields of Pennsylvania, and drilled wells at Petroleum Centre, remaining in 
that vicinity until 1S7<>, when he removed to Bradford, where he ha-- since 
lived, owning a number of wells near the city. He has been a successful 
business man, is one of the leading citizens of Bradford, and has served as a 
member of the select council. He is a Republican in politics. 

JOSEPH FISCHER, of the firm .if L. A. Fischer & Co.. wholesale and re- 
tail grocers, Bradford, is a native of Alsace. Germany, born February 18, 
1857, the youngest of seven children of Lithony and Catherine Fischer, for 
merof whom died in 1869; latter still living on the old homestead in Germany. 
Joseph was reared in his native country, and there received a good common 
school education. After coming to America he took a commercial course at 
Bryant «\ Stratton's Commercial College, Buffalo, X. Y. In 1880 he came to 
Bradford and clerked for his brother in a wholesale and retail grocery busi 
lies-, c intinuing in that capacity until 1SS(. when he was admitted to the firm 
as a partner. This firm have a large retail trade, giving employment to thir 
teen men and three delivery wagons. Mr. Fischer was married in Buffalo, 
April II. 1888, to Miss Lucj A. Diebolt, daughter of George A. Diebolt. a 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 357 

prominent boot and shoe merchant of Buffalo. In politics Mr. Fischer is a Re- 
publican. He and his wife are members of the Catholic Church, and he is treas- 
urer of the Catholic Benevolent Legion. 

JOHN FLANAGAN, dealer in oil well supplies, Bradford, Penn. , was born 
in Ireland, in 1850, a son of John and Bridget (Kelly) Flanagan. His parents 
came to the United States in 1851, and settled in Armstrong county, Penn., 
where the father died April 7, 1864, and where the mother still lives. Left 
fatherless at an early age, the subject of our sketch was obliged to rely on his 
own exertions, and began working in the mines, which he continued until 
1883. He then came to Bradford, where for a few months he worked at 
plumbing; then opened a junk shop, and has been successful in that line of 
trade, also handling a full line of oil well supplies. Mr. Flanagan was mar- 
ried April 24, 1873, at Brady's Bend, Penn., to Anna, daughter of Manasseh 
Boyle, and they have eight children : Anna, Mary, John, James, M. J., Rosella. 
Stephen and William. Mr. and Mrs. Flanagan are members of the Catholic 
Church. In politics he is a Republican. 

LEONARD SAMPSON FOSTER, deceased, was a native of Townsend, 
Mass., born March 25, 1792. His father was a soldier in the Revolutionary 
war, and he a soldier in the war of 1812. He was one of a family of twelve 
children, who were noted for their longevity. His mother lived to be over 
one hundred years old, and two brothers lived to be ninety, and one sister to 
the age of eighty-three years. Mr. Foster moved with his family to McKean 
county, Penn., in 1827, and settled in what was afterward Foster township, 
the same having been named in his honor. He first embarked in the lumber 
business, but afterward devoted his attention to agriculture. He died at his 
residence at Foster Brook, June 13, 1882, in the ninety-first year of his age. 
March 27, 1817, he married, at Watertown, N. Y., Miss Betsy Hinds, and 
they spent together a happy married life of over sixty- five years. They had 
a family of eleven children, three of whom died in infancy. One son, A. G., 
laid down his life for his country during the war of the Rebellion. Seven of 
their children and over thirty grandchildren are now living. 

HON. C. H. FOSTER, oil producer, Bradford, was born in Cattaraugus 
county, N. Y. , September 5, 1826, a son of L. S. and Betsy (Hinds) Foster, 
his father a native of Massachusetts and his mother of Vermont, of English de 
scent. In 1827 his parents moved to McKean county and made this their home 
the rest of their lives. The father died June 13, 1882. He was a prominent 
man in the county, and Foster Brook and Foster township were named in his 
honor. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. C. H. Foster was the third born 
in his parents' family. He was reared on his father's farm, attending the dis- 
trict school, and early in life embarked in the lumber business on his own ac- 
count, which he continued until 1872, and since then has been largely engaged 
in the oil producing business. In 1845 Mr. Foster married Miss Euphemia Sni- 
der, daughter of William Snider. She died in 1867, leaving five children: 
Charles C, C. M. (of Michigan), C. H. (of Findlay, Ohio), Effie (wife of Otis 
Kingsbury) and Emma E. (wife of L. A. Smith.) In 1870 he married Evaline 
A., daughter of John F. Melvin. Mr. Foster is a Republican in politics and 
has held different positions of trust. He has served his town as school director 
and treasurer, his county as treasurer one term of three years, and as auditor 
one term of three years, and in 1877 and 1878 was a member of the State legis- 
lature. He is also a member of the Masonic fraternity. His brother, 
Capt. A. G. Foster, was a member of the Pennsylvania Bucktail Regiment dur- 
ing the war of the Rebellion, and after a service of three years and three days 
was killed at the battle of the Wilderness. 



358 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

A. T. FOSTER, farmer, P. O. Custer City, was born in Bradford township, 
McKean Co., Penn., February 28. 1841. His father, Ephrairn Foster, was a na- 
tive of Onondaga county, N. Y., and married Miss Lydia Bliss, who was born 
in the State of Vermont, Orange county, but moved to New York State with her 
parents when a child. About 1836 thej came to McKean county and purchased 
a farm in Bradford township and engaged in farming and lumbering. The 
father and mother are still residing in Bradford township, although retired from 
active life. Ten children were reared by them, eight of whom are still living: 
David B. (of California). Mary Etta (wife of Patrick Shady, of Panama, N, V. |, 
Noah (of Chautauqua county, N. Y.), A. T.. I'lissa (wife of A. J. Brooks, of Guf- 
fey, Penn.), Willard G. (of Bradford township), Augustus (of Michigan) and 
Eugene (of Bradford township). A. T. Foster received a common-school edu- 
cation, and has principally followed farming and lumbering. In 1SC>1 he mar- 
ried Miss Ellen P.. daughter -of G. W. Watrous. of Lafayette township, and to 
them have been born eight children: Elvira (wife of G. W. Dieter, of Cat 
taraugus county. N. Y.), Alice (wife of Donald Kidd, of Potter county, Penn.). 
Alida, Elmer, Lulu, Laura, Charles and Olive. Mr. Foster- has always beeD 
identified with the Republican party. He and family are members of the 
United Brethren Church. 

NELSON M. FRANCIS, oil producer, Custer City, was born in Chautau- 
qua county, N. Y., February 8, 1836. His father. Paul Francis, was a native 
of England and a currier by trade. He immigrated to America in 1830 and 
married, in Chautauqua county, N. Y., Mrs. Polly Willoughby. formerly Miss 
Polly Boss; he was married three times. He died in ISN7. Nelson was the 
only child reared to maturity. He was educated in Chautauqua county. N. 
Y., and remained there until eighteen years of age. In 1854 he went to Belle 
vue. Wis., where he taught school during the winter and worked on a farm 
during the summer, until 1861, when he enlisted in the Eighth Wisconsin, 
Company H, served thirteen months, and on account of sickness was honorably 
discharged. He then located near ForestviJle. Chautauqua Co.. N. Y.. where 
he engaged in farming and dairying until 1869, and then for one and one 
half years followed the butter and cheese business at the same place. In 1 8 1 1 
he went to Petroleum Centre, and in partnership with Mr. J. Hurlbert pur- 
chased the McClintock House, which they conducted for about two years. 
Since that time Mr. Francis has been engaged in oil producing in Venango 
county, Penn. In 1S77 he came to McKean county and has since resided at 
Custer City, operating from twelve to thirty- live wells most of the time. 
Since 1882 he has been a member of the Bradford Rock Glycerine Com 
pany, is a member of the Ohio Rock Glycerine Company, of Lima, Ohio. 
and is also a member of the linn known as the Western Drilling Company. 
In 1858 he married Miss Tyrella M., daughter of Edward and Tyrella (Blair) 
Durand, of Ohio, and they have four children: Edward Paul. Nelson Thornton. 
Egbert Earl and Grace Louise. Mr. Francis is a member of Hanover Lodge. 
No. 152, F. & A. M., and of the A.. O. U. W. of Custer City, also of Post 111. 
G. A. R., and Iron Hall of Custer City; politically he is a Democrat, and for 
nine years has been school director of Bradford township. 

D. U. FKASER, watchman for the Erie Railroad at the Elm street cross 
ing, Bradford, is the oldest railroad man in the employ of the Erie Road i 
Bradford. He carried the chain in the survey of the road, then worked on its 
construction, and when the road was completed was appointed baggage mas- 
ter at Bradford, holding that position until 1SS7. when lie resigned ami was 
appointed watchman at Elm street. This is a post of great responsibility, and 
one that few could till, even if they desired it. Mr. Fraser has been in the 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 350 

employ of the Erie Company for over a quarter of a century, and is one of 
their most reliable men. He was born in Scotland in 1832, a son of Alexan- 
der B. and Margaret Fraser, being the eldest of six children. When twenty- 
four years old (in 1856) he left his native country, and as the ship that brought 
them across the ocean was leaving port, the bells were ringing in the town 
and the people were rejoicing at the glad tidings of the close of the Crimean 
war, and the proclamation of peace. He landed in New York City, where he re- 
mained a few months, and in 1857 came to Bradford. Mr. Fraser was married 
at Forestville, N. Y., in 1858, to Ann McKenzie, a native of Scotland, and 
they have one child, Margaret, Mr. Fraser is a Republican in his political 
views. 

F. F. FRENCH, dealer in nitro-glycerine and torpedoes, Bradford, was 
born in Allegany county, N. Y., September 4, 1854, a son of Sanford and 
Usley (Holdridge) French, natives of New York and Vermont, respectively. 
He remained in his native county until 1876, when he came to Bradford and 
was here employed in the oil fields. Later he bought a lease and began to op- 
erate for himself. In 1878 he became associated with Mr. Gormley, and has 
since been engaged in his present business. In politics he votes with the 
Democratic party, but is in no sense a politician, devoting his entire attention 
to his business interests. 

G. GARDELLA, restaurateur, Bradford, is the proprieter of a first-class 
fruit and confectionery establishment. He started in business in Bradford in 
1878 in a small way, has been successful and now carries a good stock, and 
well merits the patronage he receives. Mr. Gardella was born in sunny Italy, 
March 10, 1849, a son of Stephen Gardella, and on his father's farm he spent 
his youth. On coming to the United States he located in New York City, and 
the same year went to Cincinnati, Ohio, but remained there only a short time. 
Returning to New York City, he was employed for a time on the Brooklyn 
bridge, and then began business for himself by keeping a fruit stand. In 1873 
he went to Middletown, Conn., where he continued in the fruit business until 
his removal to Bradford. Mr. Gardella was married in Italy to Mary Gar- 
della, and they have five children: Rosa Ella, Amelia, Anna, Andrew and 
Lewis. In politics Mr. Gardella is a Republican. He and his family are 
members of the Catholic Church. 

CHAUNCEY W. GARDNER, chief train dispatcher for the Erie Railroad 
at Bradford, was born in Otsego County, N. Y., March 13, 1838, a son of War- 
ren and Clarissa (Cooley) Gardner, who were of Scotch and English descent, 
respectively. His father, who was a contractor and bridge builder, lost his life 
on the Erie Railroad in 1859, leaving a family of two sons and one daughter. 
Chauncey W. Gardner was reared in his native county, and was given a good 
education. Early in life he learned telegraphy, and then went into a railroad 
office as telegraph operator and clerk, and by the faithful performance of his 
duties was steadily promoted until he became superintendent of the Susque- 
hanna, Buffalo & Rochester Divisions of the Erie Railroad. He later became 
interested in the oil business, and in 1877 removed to Bradford, where he in- 
vested in property, to which he devoted his attention until 1888, when he was 
appointed to his present position. Mr. Gardner was married in June, 1859, in 
Dalaware county, N. Y., to Miss Thelinda V. Lord, daughter of John Lord, 
and they have two children, Charles H. and Chauncey W., Jr., both employed 
by the Erie Railroad Company at Bradford. Mr. Gardner in his political af- 
filiations is a Democrat. He is a Knight Templar, and Consistory Mason, 
and an attendant of the Presbyterian Church, being a member of the choir. 
His son Chauncey is a member of the Methodist Church. 



360 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

T. M. GRIFFITH, of the firm of T. M. Griffith & Son, dealers in hardware, 
Bradford, was born in Monroe county, N. Y., May 22, 1841, a son of Richard 
and Caroline (Lewis) Griffith, former a native of Wales, and latter of New 
York, of Dutch and English descent, respectively. He remained at home un- 
til 1870, when he came to Pennsylvania and located at Petroleum Centre, 
where he was employed at drilling oil wells for some time, and then removed 
to Bradford. In 1878 he embarked in the livery business, which he followed 
two years, and in 1880 went to Cattaraugus county. N. Y., where for four 
years he was in the hardware trade, and in 18S4 moved his business to Brad- 
ford, where he also does considerable business as an oil contractor. Mr Grif- 
fith was married January 14. 1869, at Petroleum Centre, to Alveretta Smawley. 
born in Peoria. 111., June 7, 1852, and a daughter of Ausbury and Mary L. 
Smawley, of English and Dutch descent. Mr. and Mrs. Griffith have four 
children: W. H. E. M., R. A. and C. E. In politics Mr. Griffith is a Repub- 
lican. He is also a member of the A. O. U. W. 

J. K. HAFFEY, deceased, was born in County Armagh, Ireland, April 
27, 1830, and moved to Canada with his parents in 1844. He attended the 
colleges of Ireland, and afterward his own efforts procured him a fine educa- 
tion. At an early age he came to the United States, and for a time taught in 
the public schools of New York State. He afterward was ordained a min- 
ister, and in 1851 was given charge of the Bradford Baptist Church. He 
soon resigned the charge, and accepted the agency of the American Bible 
Union Society, which position he held for many years. In 1852 he was 
united in marriage with Miss Diantha E. DeGolier, and took up his resi- 
dence on a farm in Bradford township, following the occupation of a sur- 
veyor, geologist, clerk, etc. In 1801 he enlisted under Col. Kane in the 
Forty-second "Bucktail" Regiment, Company I, and held the position of 
sergeant. After serving two years his health failed, during the Seven Days' 
fight near Richmond, and he was honorably discharged. He was afterward 
appointed major by Gov. Hartranft, and later promoted to colonel and aid de- 
camp. After the close of the war he spent ten years in Philadelphia and New 
Jersey. He was a stanch Republican; was a notary for many years. He 
died November 7, 1881. His widow still survives him and lives on the home 
stead farm in Bradford township; also three children, viz.: George M. (of 
Colorado, who married Miss Maggie Higginsi, John Nathan (brakeman on 
the Erie Railroad), and Zillah (now teaching). Mrs. Haffey's parent.-, were 
Nathan DeGolier, who was born near Saratoga. X. V.. March 25, 1801, and 
Rhoda Ackley, who was born in Addison county, Vt.. January 8, 1801. About 
1831 they came to McKean county, Penn., and took up a tract of haul in 
Bradford township. He was a millwright by trade, and erected the first saw 
and grist-mill at DeGolier, which was named in honor of him. He was also 
the first postmaster of the place. He was a supporter of the Republican 
party, and a prominent member of the Presbyterian Church. He died Decern- 
ber '-', 1871, and his wife July 11, 1874. Three children were born to their 
union: Hannah Maria (wife of Truman Sherman, of Bradford township), 
Diantha E. (now Mrs. Haffey), and James Nelson (who died February 14. 
1878). 

L. E. HAMSHER. oil producer. Bradford, was born in Livingston county. 
N. Y.. near the city of Dansville, December 31. Is 13. the eldest of four children 
of Reuben and Martha (White) Hamsher. former a native of Pennsylvania, of 
German descent, and latter of New York, of English descent. His mother died 
in l^SO. and his father now lives in Elkhart county, Ind. L. E. Hamsher 
was reared in Elkhart county, where his parents moved when he was a child. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 361 

and in his boyhood began clerking for merchants in Bristol. He enlisted, 
August 9, 1862, in Company I, Eighty-eighth Indiana Volunteers, for three 
years, but was discharged in about six months. In 1867 he embarked in the 
hardware business on his own account, which he continued three years, and in 
1870 came to Pennsylvania, where he worked at the oil wells two years. In 
1872 he bought property in Clarion county, and began drilling for oil, since 
when he has had the varying fortune of an oil operator, although in the main 
he has been successful. In 1876 he located in Bradford, and became a mem- 
ber of the firm of Hamsher & Weaver, which has merged into the Emery Oil 
Company. Mr. Hamsher was married at Bristol, Ind., to Miss Sarah G. Cald- 
well, daughter of William Caldwell. In politics Mr. Hamsher is a Republican, 
and is serving the city of Bradford in the common council. He is a F. & A. 
M. of 32°. 

JOHN M. HART, contractor and builder, Bradford, was born in Montreal. 
Canada, April 11. 1846, a son of John and Anorah (Battles) Hart, natives of 
Ireland, former of whom died in Canada in 1886. John M. Hart learned the 
carpenter's trade in Canada, and worked as a journeyman several years. He 
came to the United States, making Oil City, 1'enn., his home until 1880, when 
he removed to Bradford, where he now has a good business, having from six 
to ten men in his employ the greater part of the time. Mr. Hart enlisted in 
the defense of the United States Government in 1862, and was assigned to 
Company I, Fourteenth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. He was soon trans- 
ferred to the quartermaster's department, where he served until the close of 
the war. He was married, May 30, 1875, to Miss B. Gallagher, a native of Ire- 
land, and they have six children: Gertrude E., Catherine Mary, Charles E. , 
John M., Bertha J. and Theodore Thomas. In politics Mr. Hart is a Demo- 
crat. He and his family are members of the Catholic Church. 

JUDSON E. HASKELL, oil producer, Bradford, was born in Arcade, 
Wyoming Co., N. Y., September 22, 1*44, a son of Andrew L. and Cath- 
erine (Stowe) Haskell, former a native of Vermont, latter of New York, and 
both of English descent. His father is now a farmer in Erie county, Penn., 
where he settled in 1852. Judson E. is the eldest in a family of seven chil- 
dren. His youth was spent on a farm in Erie county, where he attended the 
common schools, and also Waterford Academy. He graduated from Bryant 
& Stratton's Commercial College, Buffalo, N. Y., in 1864, and soon after was 
employed in the freight office of the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad, at Corry, 
where he remained a year. From 1865 to 1873 he was employed by the firm 
of Vandergrift & Foreman, oil dealers; in 1873 he became connected with the 
Titusville Pipe Line Company, and in 1876 was given charge of the purchas- 
ing agency of the Standard Oil Company, under J. A. Boswick, in Bradford, 
where he now has his office; he is also owner of several wells in the Bradford 
oil fields. Mr. Haskell was married in Erie county, April 1, 1871, to Miss 
Mary E. Kibbe, daughter of Levi Kibbe, and they have four children: 
Florence, Kate. Jessie and Fred In politics Mr. Haskell is a Republican, 
and has served in the select council of Bradford. He is a prominent Free- 
mason, and is past master of Pleasantville Lodge No. 501; a member of Aaron 
Chapter No. 207. of Titusville; Occidental Council, of Titusville; Trinity 
Commandery, No. 58, K. T., of Bradford, and Caldwell Consistory, of Blooms- 
burg. He is a noble of the Mystic Shrine, Syria Temple, of Pittsburgh. Since 
1887 Mr. Haskell has been president of the Keystone Land Company, which 
owns 6,000 acres in Dakota, 4,000 acres of which are cultivated in wheat. 

BENJAMIN C. HAVEN, farmer, P. O. Custer City, is a son of Luther 
and Jemima (Colegrove) Haven, natives of Connecticut. In 1819 they came 



362 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

to McKean county and located on a tract of land in Norwich township, aeai 
Smethport, on Potato creek. They lived there thirty-five years, then moved 
to Illinois, where thej both died. Mr. Haven was prominent in politics and 
tilled various township offices, and he and wife were prominent members of the 
Baptist Church. Benjamin C. Haven was born in Connecticut, January 2, 
1819, and came to McKean county with his parents in the same year. He 
received but a limited education, and engaged in manufacturing lumber, 
shingles, etc. He has lived at Custer City since he was twenty years of age. 
with the exception of ten years spent in Bradford as foreman in a lumber-mill. 
In INK'* he married Miss Elnora, daughter of Ebenezer Calkins, of Crawford 
county, Penn., and two of their children are living: William with his father, 
and Martin, of Bradford township, who married Ida, daughter of Erastus 
Turner and has two children. Erastus and Benjamin 0. Mr. Haven has four 
oil wells on his farm. He has always been identified with the Republican 
party, served as constable and collector of Bradford township when a young 
man. and has also served as school director and supervisor for five years. He 
was a member of the Baptist Church of Norwich township. B. C. Haven is 
one of a family of eight children, live boys and three girls, who are all living 
at present. 

BENJAMIN F. HAZELTON, lumberman, Bradford. The subject of 
this sketch was born at Machias, Cattaraugus Co. , N. Y., March 26, L847, 
being the fourth son of O. J. Hazelton and wife, of that place. When he was 
six years of age, his parents moved to a farmnear Waterford, Erie Co., Penn., 
where they resided for about nine years, his father keeping a large stock of 
horses, cattle and sheep, also being engaged in the lumbering business. Here 
young Hazelton's time was occupied in caring for the stock, and helping his 
father and elder brother about the farm and lumbering. At the age of eight 
years he was given a team to drive, and hauled lumber from the mills to Erie 
City, a distance of sixteen miles, making a trip daily during the greater part 
of the summer. Shortly after this the oil excitement on Oil Creek broke out, 
and he went to what was then known as the Buchanan farm, but later as 
Rouseville, where he was engaged in helping to drill oil wells by horse power. 
He was present when the famous Rouse well was struck, and when it was 
burned. It was here that Mr. Rouse lost his life. Young Hazelton remained 
on Oil Creek, drilling wells and driving team, hauling oil from the wells to Ti 
tnsville, until the winter of 1861 -62, when, though not fifteen years old, and 
too young to enlist, he joined the anny. He was in the battle of Shiloh. where 
his regiment went in eleven hundred strong and came out with less than three 
hundred men. After this battle he was sent as nurse, with hospital boats, to 
Pittsburgh, Penn.. which place he left for his home at Waterford, Penu., and af- 
terward went back to Oil Creek. The summer of 1S03 his parents moved to 
Oconomowoc, Wis., he himself following the next winter. The succeeding 
spring he purchased a meat market in the then village of Oconomowoc. giving 
only his word for the whole purchase price. In this business he succeeded in 
paying for his shop and fixtures, and accumulated several hundred dollars, but 
feeling the need of an education, of which, up to this time, he had been de- 
prived, he decided to go to school, and entered a preparatory school at Hori 
con. Wis., where he remained one year, and then entered the preparatory de- 
partment of Lawrence University, Appleton, Wis. He was now seventeen 
years old, and having no help was obliged to teach district school in winter 
and keep up his studies with his class, and during the summer vacation he 
worked in the harvest Geld. At the ageof nineteen he entered the Ohiversitj 
proper, but, from overwork, was taken sick with typhoid fever, and his physi 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 803 

cian forbade bis going to school again for a year. Tbat spring bis mother 
died, and he remained at home, taking charge of the farm while bis father 
made a trip to his old home in the East. That fall he went to Madison, Wis. , 
taking a business course in the Worthington Commercial College. It was here 
he made the acquaintance of Miss Clarissa Florence Purple, daughter of As 
sistant State Treasurer C. H. Purple, and the following year, 18(59, she be- 
came his wife. 'Although the combined years of the young couple were but 
thirty-eight, they started out in life to make a success of it, and while they 
were' met by the various disappointments incident to folk of their years, they 
uvercame every difficulty, and can look back to their small beginning with 
pride. At twenty-four years of age Mr. Hazelton had charge of heavy grading 
and rock work on the Madison Division of the Chicago and Northwestern Kail 
road, and upon the completion of that division he was given a train, but re- 
signed to accept a position with the lumber firm of J. W. Woodruff & Co., 
Green Bay. It was here that he first acquired an insight into the business he 
chose as his own, and in which he has been so successful. He remained with 
J. W. "Woodruff & Co. until the summer of 1878, when he moved to Bradford, 
accepting a position as foreman at the Bradford Oil Company's mill on the 
West Branch, and within a few months he and a brother, A. L. Hazelton. had 
secured the mill property of said firm, and for several years they enjoyed a large 
local business. About this time Mr. A. L. Hazelton sold his interest to E. E. 
Wheeler, and Hazelton & Wheeler were kept busy for the next few years sup 
plying the demand for rig lumber in the Bradford field. In January, 1884, Mr. 
Hazelton purchased Mr. Wheeler's interest, and at once set about increasing the 
business, and acquiring better facilities for handling the stock and placing it 
in the large markets of the North and East. He purchased large blocks of 
timber, built another mill on the West Branch, was largely interested in and 
had charge of the construction and management of the West Branch Railroad, 
until its purchase by the Erie Railroad Company. Each year his business has 
increased, and he and his lumber are known in most of the markets of the 
East. He has lately purchased a large amount of timber lands in Elk county, 
on the Clarion river, where he has built one of the finest mills in the State, a 
hotel, shops, etc., for operations in that locality. He has platted out the 
new village of Glen Hazel, and has built the necessary railroad to connect 
it with the Erie system, and to convey his logs to the mill, and the product to 
the market. He has in his employ, at the various seasons of the year, from 
150 to 300 men, besides contract work, and, as his headquarters have always 
been at Bradford, which has been largely benefited, his employes all pur- 
chasing their supplies of the various merchants in that thriving city. In> 
addition to his mills and yards he has lately purchased the Bradford furniture 
plant, and has converted it into a planing mill to surface and dress lumber for 
the various markets. Although these enterprises take up the greater portion 
of his time, and all requires his personal attention, Mr. Hazelton has still found 
time to do much for the improvement of draught horses in this section of the 
country. Using many teams, and knowing the value of first-class draught 
stock where heavy loads are to be moved, together with a natural love for fine 
horses, he was led to make purchases of this class of horses both in this coun- 
try and in Scotland. In 1887 he formed a partnership with Mr. Joseph Gar- 
field, of Jamestown, N. Y., for the purpose of importing and breeding stock, 
and already the stock farm of Garfield & Hazelton is favorably known to all 
lovers of choice high-bred horses. There, and at Mr. Hazelton's barns in 
Bradford, may be seen prize winners in the various classes, from the 200 
pound Shetland pony to the Clydesdale of a ton weight, one of which, Sir 



364 HISTOBY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Herbert, has just taken first premium at the New York State Fair. So much 
for the business energy displayed by Mr. Hazel ton. Socially, he is a gentle- 
man of retiring manners, and. while most of li is hours of recreation are en 
joyed with his. family, he is always willing, by his presence or means, to con 
tribute to the enjoyment of others. He and his wife being both members of 
the Bradford Methodist Chinch and Sabbath-school, of the latter of which he 
is superintendent, not a little of their time is devoted to various interests c< □ 
nected with these organizations. Their family circle includes a son, Frank, 
aged seventeen, now in his last year in the high school, another son. Courtney. 
aged twelve, a little daughter, Bessie, aged eight, and Bennie F. , an infant. 
Lumbermen being noted for large-heartedness and an appreciation of good 
things, Mr. Hazelton is no exception to the rule. He is a good liver, a liberal 
giver, and is well liked by those having business or social intercourse with 
him. He has always voted the Republican ticket, believes in protection, fair 
profits, good wages, and better advantages to the wage workers. Were we aske 1 1 
to point an example of what energy, patience self-denial, honesty and strict 
attention to business could accomplish, we would not have to look beyond ti 
subject of this sketch, who, hardly at the prime of life, has already accuinu 
lated a very handsome property in McKean and Elk counties. While in it one 
of the old settlers of the county, he has nevertheless taken a deep interest in 
its welfare, and has done what he could to develop some of its natural 
resources. 

A. N. HEARD, insurance agent, Bradford, was born in Mercer county. 
Penn., November 30, 1834, a son of William and Anna Heard. \A ben 
he was fourteen years old he worked for a short time in a nail factory, ami 
then began to learn the cabinet-maker's trade, at which he served an appren- 
ticeship. He soon after went West, where he worked on a railroad a year and 
a half, and then returned to Mercer county. Five years later he removed to 
Petroleum Centre, where for a year and a half he was engaged in the grocery 
trade, which he sold out, and then built a hotel at Rouseville, which was after- 
ward burned. His next move was to Turkey City, where he followed mercan- 
tile trade until again burned out, when he came to McKean county and lived 
in Duke Centre five years, becoming while there a solicitor for a fire insurance 
company. In 1886 he removed to Bradford, where he continues the insurance 
business, representing the Providence Fund of New York, and the manufact 
urers of Geneva, N. Y r . Mr. Heard takes an active interest in the order of the 
Knights and Ladies of Honor, and has spent considerable time in organizing 
lodges. He has also passed all the chairs in the I. O. O. F. and Royal Tem- 
plars of Temperance. Mr. Heard was a soldier in the defense of his country . 
during the war of the Rebellion, as a member of Company K, Fifty fifth 
Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, and at the time of his discharge was second 
sergeant of his company. He is now a comrade of the Grand Army of the 
Republic, and is sergeant-major of his Post. Mr. Heard was married in 186] to 
Adelaide L., daughter of Samuel and Sarah Newkirk, and they have had three 
children, two of whom are living: C. M. and Lillian; a daughter. Edna, died 
at the age of seven years. Mr. and Mrs. Heard and their daughter are mem- 
bers of the Presbyterian Church. 

JACOB HECKEL, proprietor of the meat market, t ">'_! Corydon street. 
Bradford, was born in Wurtemburg, Germany. November 1. 1 S T> 7 . a son of 
Jacob and Barbara Heckel, both natives of Germany. He is the youngest of 
six children, four son-, and two daughters. All the brothers came to America, 
where they now reside, but their two sisters still remain in Germany. Our 
subject was reared in his native country, and there served an apprenticeship to 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 36 5 

a butcher. In 1873 he came to America and worked at his trade in Chicago, 
111., until 1S75, when he removed to Buffalo, N. Y. , where he remained until 
1877. Learning of the new oil field he moved to Bradford, then a hamlet 
but now a thriving city, known all over the world, where he embarked in bus- 
iness for himself. In 1881 he made a flying visit to his native country. After 
returning to Bradford he was married, in 1881, in Buffalo, N. Y., to Miss 
Mary Mollath, daughter of Jacob and Margaret Mollath, and born in Wies- 
baden, Germany. In 1883 he sold his business here and started west "to 
grow up with the country," but, not being contented there, returned in a short 
time and embarked in the same business at his present location, where he is 
now carrying on his business successfully. He has three children: Gustav, 
Mary and Gretchen. In politics he is a Democrat. He is a member of the 
Knights of the Maccabees of the World, of the order of the Equitable League 
of America, of the order of the Golden Chain, and is also an active member 
of the Bradford Fire Department. 

S. D. HEFFNER, coroner of McKean county, Bradford, was born in Hunt 
ingdon county, Penn., December 16, 1843, a son of Benjamin and Eliza (Leich- 
enteller) Heffner, natives of Pennsylvania, of English and German descent, 
respectively. He was reared on a farm and was given good educational advan 
tages. He learned the blacksmith's trade, at which he worked until August 30, 
1861, when he enlisted in Company D, Forty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteer In- 
fantry, and participated in twenty-two battles, among which were Gettysburg, 
Autietam, Chancellorsville and the Wilderness. His regiment went into the 
battle of Gettysburg after marching thirty-six miles without stopping for rest, 
coming in on the relief. He was wounded at Mine Run. After the war he re- 
turned to his native county and learned the miller's trade, working at it until 
I SOT. when he took charge of the Franklin Hotel, which he carried on two 
years, and since 1S69 he has been in the oil business. In 1879 he removed to 
Parker's Landing, and later to Bradford. In politics Mr. Heffner is a Repub- 
lican. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, being senior vice- 
commander of his post. No. 1-11, of the Union Veteran Legion, of which he was 
commander, and of the Knights of Pythias. He was married in McConnells- 
town, Huntingdon Co., Penn., in the spring of 1868 to Mary J., daughter of 
Henry Peightel, and they have two children: Daisy May and Henry Clay. 
Mrs. Heffner is a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

WILLIAM HELENBRECHT, farmer, P. O. Custer City, was born in Buf- 
falo, N. Y. , May 4. 1844. His parents were natives of Germany, his father serv- 
ing twelve years in the French army and two years in the Mexican war, draw- 
ing a pension. In 1873 "William married Miss Julia M. Morris, of Bradford 
township, and they have seven children: Ella, Roy, Ray, Ivy, Ralph, Pauline 
and Ruth. 

J. W. HICKOEv, liveryman, and dealer in horses, buggies and carriages, 
Bradford, was born in Sullivan county, N. Y., November '2, 1856, a son of 
David and Mary J. (Russell) Hickok, now of Bradford, Penn., but natives of 
New York, and of Irish and English descent, respectively. He remained in his 
native county until 1876, when he came to Bradford and became established in 
the livery business, which he has since continued. He has a large, well stocked 
stable, keeping on hand from six to twenty horses and a tine line of buggies 
and carriages. He also buys and sells horses and carriages, having a good 
trade in this branch of his business. Mr. Hickok was married in Sullivan 
county, N. Y. , in 1879, to Miss Maggie Hawkins, a native of that county, 
daughter of James Hawkins. They have two children: Lena Bejle and Mag- 
gie. Mr. Hickok is a Republican, and is a member of the Masonic fraternity. 



366 HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

LeROY L. HIGGINS, hotel proprietor, Bradford, was born in Beaver 
county, Penn., June 21, 1849, a son of Richard L. and Elizabeth J. (Ham 
mond) Higgins, former a native of the Eastern States, and latter of Pennsyl- 
vania. LeRoy L. was given a business education, attending Duff's College, at 
Pittsburgh, where he graduated in 1869. His father being a merchant, his 
spare time had from a boy been spent, in the store, and he acquired a practical 
knowledge of business. After leaving school, he obtained a situation as book- 
keeper, which he retained until L872, when he removed to Oil City and worked 
in the oil fields. The same year he changed his location to Etouseville, where 
he carried on a hotel until 1879, and then removed to Bradford, where he was 
again employed as book-keeper and clerk until 1882, in which year he estab- 
lished the Higgins Hotel. This structure was destroyed by lire November 11, 
L889, but Mr. Higgins immediately set to work to erect a new building, to be 
opened to the public March 1, 1890. Mr. Higgins was married in Ohio, in 
1ST I, to Miss Laura Carrollton, a native of Vermont. She died in 18S6, 
leaving one child. Richard L. In politics Mr. Higgins is a Democrat. He is 
a member of the Knights of Pythias and Independent Order of Red Men. also 
of the A. O. U. W. and the Equitable League of America. 

I\ P. HOLLEY, proprietor of the Riddell House, Bradford, was 
born in Monticello, Sullivan Co., N. Y., June 24, L855, a son of John C. and 
Phoebe (Linderman) Holley, natives of New York, of English descent. 
His father, who was a hotel keeper in early life, and later a merchant, died in 
L868. F. P. Holley was reared in his native State, and when a boy clerked in 
his father's store. In 1879 he went to Port Jervis, N. Y. , where for five 
years he was in general mercantile business. In 1884 he sold out and came 
to Pennsylvania, where he became proprietor of the Hyde House, at Ridgway. 
Elk county, but in L885 removed to Bradford, and. in company with W. An 
derson, took charge of the well known Riddell House. In 1887 he bought 
Mr. Anderson's interest, and has since conducted the hotel alone. The Rid- 
dell House is first-class in every respect, fitted with all modern conveniences, 
and under the able management of Mr. Holley is well patronized, being favor 
ably known by the traveling public. Mr. Holley was married in June, L877, 
at Port Jervis. N. Y., to Ada Geraghty, daughter of Frank Geraghty. and 
they have two children: George M. and Earl. In politics Mr. Holle} i- ;i 
Democrat. 

J. F. HUBBARD, proprietor of a meat market, Bradford, was born in 
Chautauqua county, N. Y.. August 15, 1847, a son of Nehemiah and Harriet 
Hubbard, now dead. After reaching maturity he engaged in farming in his 
native county until 1873, when he began butchering, which he continued until 
1876, when he came to Bradford, and. with the exception of abouttwo years 
and a half, when he was engaged in the manufacture and sale of oil well pack- 
ers, bas carried on a meat market in which lie has been successful. He is also 
one of the largest stockholders in the Bradford Paint Company, and was treas 
urer of its first organization. He has charge of the Ohio territory, and has 
appointed his son a salesman. This enterprise promises to be successful. 
Mr. Hubbard and wife are members of the Knights and Ladies of Honor, 
and of the Equitable Aid Union. Mr. Hubbard is also a member of the 
Knights of Honor, and the Southern Tier Masonic Relief Association. He 
was married in Chautauqua county, X. Y.. in L868, to Lodeska A. Eggleston, 
daughter of Rolf and Patty Eggleston. and born in 1S4<"> in Chautauqua 
county, V Y. She is a member of the Ladies' Aid Society, the Woman's 
Christian Temperance Union, and the Woman's Relief Corps, No. 1-i. auxiliary 
to the (i. A. R.. and of the last named she is now the president. They are 



BIOGBAPHICAL SKETCHES. 367 

the parents of three children: Levant, Lavern and Sadie Bell. Mr. and Mrs. 
Hubbard are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a 
Republican. 

CAPTAIN J. C. HUGHES, grocer, Bradford, was bom in Northumber- 
land county, Penn., December 2, 1831, a son of Morgan and Martha (Corey) 
Hughes, of Welsh and English descent, respectively, former of whom died in 
1861. Mr. Hughes began business for himself at Scio, Allegany Co., N. 
Y., as a druggist, continuing there until 1877, when he removed to Bradford, 
and became established in the grocery business. He enlisted in the war of the 
Rebellion in 1862, in the Sixty-seventh New York Volunteer Infantry, and 
was commissioned second lieutenant of his company. After the battle of Cold 
Harbor, he was promoted to first lieutenant and later to captain. He was 
slightly wounded once, but did not leave the battle-field until the enemy was 
defeated. He is an active member of the Grand Army of the Republic. In 
politics he is a Republican. Capt. Hughes was married in 1857 to Miss Maria 
Louden, daughter of James and Ordella (Jacobs) Louden, natives of New York, 
of English ancestry, and they have one son, J. C Jr. 

MAYNARD INGALSBY, farmer, P. O. Custer City, was born in Steu- 
ben county, N. Y. , in 1827, a son of John and Amanda (Chapin) Ingalsby. 
His father was born at Black River, New York State, his mother in Massa- 
chusetts. In 1843 they moved to McKean county, Penn., and located on the 
present farm of Maynard Ingalsby, in Bradford township, where they lived 
and died. The father took an active part in politics, and tilled various town- 
ship offices. He was a deacon in the Bradford Congregational Church for 
many years, and died April 18, 1865; his widow died in 1866. 

Maynard Ingalsby moved from Steuben county, N. Y. , to Warren county, 
Penn., when about two years of age, and since coming to McKean county has 
lived on his present farm. In 1854 he married Miss Melinda, daughter of 
Edward Freeman, of Bradford township, and they have one child, Maynard 
Ingalsby, Jr., who is living with his father and studying for the ministry. He 
married Miss Minnie Wright, of Potter county, Penn. Mr. Ingalsby, Sr. , is 
Republican in politics, with Prohibition proclivities. He has tilled the office 
of assessor, auditor, etc. He is one of the trustees and is superintendent of 
the Sunday-school in the DeGolier United Brethren Church. In 1861 he en- 
listed in Battery H, Independent Pennsylvania Light Artillery, and served imtil 
the close of the war; is now a member of Bradford Post, No. 141, G. A. R. 

I. G. JACKSON, oil producer, Bradford, was born in the State of Wiscon- 
sin, February, 27, 1844, a son of George and Mary (Clark) Jackson, who were 
natives of Utica, N. Y. His father, who was a commission merchant, became 
a pioneer of Wisconsin, and afterward moved to Coldwater, Mich. , which city 
he took a prominent part in building up. He was twice married, and had 
three children by his first wife: S. D. Jackson, superintendent of the Security 
Trust Company of New York City; L. A. Jackson, cashier of the Coldwater 
National Bank, and I. G. Jackson, our subject, who received a high-school ed- 
ucation at Coldwater, Mich., and for a number of years held a position in the 
banks of that city. In 1866 he moved to Titusville, Penn., where he was 
assistant cashier in the First National Bank for some years; later, he held the 
same position in the City Savings Bank, and after that he was cashier of the 
Citizen's Bank for some years. In 1876 he came to Bradford, where he has 
since been engaged in oil producing. He has been a member of the Bradford 
Oil Exchange for six years. In 1867 he married at Highland, on the Hudson 
river, Miss Mary E. , daughter of Dr. DeWitt and Phcebe Hosbrook, of Ulster 
county, N. Y., and of French Huguenot descent. Mr. and Mrs. Jackson have 



368 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

three children: Frank D. (of Cornell University), Edith and Eugene (of the 
Bradford high school). Mr. Jackson attends the Presbyterian Church, of which 
his family are members. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum, and in poli- 
tics is a Republican. 

T. C. JAMES, M. D., Bradford, was born in Wales. March 21, 1852, a son 
of Rev. Daniel C. and Elizabeth (Lewis) James, natives of England. In 1S56 
they came to America, residing in Pittsburgh, Penn., three years, and in 1859 
moved to Armstrong county. The father was an Episcopal clergyman, 
and was engaged in ministerial work until his death in 1875. T. C. Jaim-s 
attended the schools of Pittsburgh and Dayton, Penn.; began the study of 
medicine at Pittsburgh, and completed his course at Bellevue Hospital Medical 
College, New York City, in 1876. He began his practice at Pittsburgh, remain- 
ing there two years, and then for three years was in Butler and Armstrong 
counties; in 1881 he came to McKean county, but remained only a short time, 
going to Cattaraugus county, N. Y., where he remained until 1889, when he 
again located at Bradford. He is examining surgeon of several insurance 
companies and beneficiary associations. He is a member of Cattaraugus 
County (N. Y.) Medical Society, and also of McKean County Medical Society. 
He is a diligent student, devoting his time to his profession, and he has been 
successful. In politics Dr. James is a Republican. He is a Knight Templar 
He was married in June, 1881, to Jennie Louise, daughter of Joseph and Jane 
(Garner) Dixon, and a native of Canada, of English descent. The doctor and 
his wife are members of the Episcopal Church. 

SHELDON JEWETT, farmer, P. O. Custer City, is a son of Benja 
min Jewett, who was born in the State of Vermont about 1800. Benjamin 
married in Tioga county, Penn. . Miss Lucinda Tuttle, and moved to McKean 
county. Penn., about 1826 or 1827. He purchased a farm in Bradford town- 
ship which is now the present site of Custer City. The farm was covered with 
a dense forest, and Mr. Jewett cleared and improved the same. He was a mem- 
ber of the Democratic party, and filled various township offices; also a member 
of the Baptist Church. He died in Custer City in 1883; his widow died on 
the homestead July 27, 1889, aged seventy-six years. Eight children were 
reared by them, four of whom are still living: Sheldon; Hiram, of Ohio; Al- 
bert, of Wisconsin; and Lydia, wife of Henry Bremen, of Elk county. Sheldon, 
our subject, the eldest of the living children, was born in Bradford township. 
McKean Co., Penn.. December 2, 1840. He received a common-school edu- 
cation, and has been principally engaged in farming, although for eight years 
he was engaged in the mercantile business in Custer City. The whole of Cus 
ter City is built on Mr. Jewett' a farm, and he pays taxes on every building in 
the town. He also has a good oil production, securing a royalty on twentj 
five wells. In 1866 he was united in marriage with Miss Olivia, daughter of 
John Ingalsby, of Custer City, and they Lave two children: Blanche and 
Grace. In 1861 Mr. Jewett enlisted in Company I, First Pennsylvania "Buck- 
tails,"' and served three and one half years. He was taken prisoner at the 
battle of Bethesda Church, near Cold Harbor, and confined in Andersonville 
prison for six months. He is a member of Bradford Post, No. 141, G. A. R.. 
is an active supporter of the Republican party, and is postmaster of Custer 
('it \ ai the present time. 

F. S. JOHNSON, Bradford, was born in Madison County, N. Y., De 
ccmbcr 5, 1840, a son nl' Franklin and Marietta (Spencer) Johnson, who 
were of English and Irish descent, respectively, former of whom died in 1S68. 
Mr Johnson was reared in Brooklyn. N. Y. . where he received good educa 
tional advantages, and in 1858 graduated from the Hudson River Institute, 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 369 

where he won the prize for scholarship. Early in life he worked in a cotton 
factory in New York, and in 1860 engaged in business with his father in the 
manufacture of and dealing in oils. In 1862 he accepted a position with the 
Pennsylvania Railroad, to take charge of their oil warehouses, in Brooklyn, 
N. Y. , remaining with the company six years. He then engaged in the 
lighterage business until 1873, when he removed to Warren county, Penn., 
and was employed in the oil fields. In 1875 he moved from Warren county to 
Bradford, and began operating for oil on his own account, and was one of the 
first to assist in developing McKean county's rich oil basin. From 1877 until 
1880 he was one of the purchasing agents for the Standard Oil Company in 
the Bradford oil fields, and since then has bought and shipped oil on his own 
account. In 1877 Mr. Johnson was elected a member of the town council, be- 
ing a member when Bradford was incorporated as a city, and in 1880 he was 
re-elected. In 1S82 he was elected a county commissioner, and in 1886 was 
elected by the Republican party a member of the State legislature, where he 
had the honor of introducing the bill which gave the first appropriation to the 
Bradford Hospital. Mr. Johnson was married in Buffalo, N. Y., in 1886. to 
Miss Nettie M. Butler, daughter of John C. Butler, and they have one child, 
F. S. , Jr. Mr. Johnson is a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

FRANK M. JOHNSTON, oil producer, Bradford, was born in West- 
field, N. Y., June 25, 1850, a son of Samuel and Margaret (McKee) Johnston, 
natives of County Down, Ireland, who came to America in 1832 and settled at 
Westfield, where the father still lives. The subject of these lines graduated 
from the commercial school at Buffalo, N. Y. , in 1868, and afterward studied 
telegraphy, at which he worked three years. He then was employed as a book- 
keeper until 1878, when he came to the oil fields of Pennsylvania, and drilled 
wells in what is known as the lower fields. In 1S81 he came to Bradford, and 
bought an interest in several producing wells, being associated for a time with 
J. Kemp Bartlett, of Baltimore, but since 1885 has operated alone. He now 
owns ninety producing wells, and is still adding to his possessions, having been 
quite fortunate in all his speculations. Mr. Johnston was married at St. 
Petersburg, Penn., in May, 1881, to Josie A., daughter of Sampson and Maria 
Kerr, of England. In politics Mr. Johnston is a Republican. Mrs. Johnston 
is a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

CAPTAIN JOSEPH T. JONES, Bradford, one of the largest oil producers 
in the United States, was born in Philadelphia, Penn., June 11, 1842, a son of 
Albauns A. and Jane (Thomas) Jones, former a native of Philadelphia, of 
English descent. The father died early in 1843, leaving the widowed mother 
with two children, a daughter who now lives in Philadelphia, and Joseph T.. 
who was reared in his native city, and attended school until after the breaking 
out of the war of the Rebellion. September 10, 1861, when he was only nine- 
teen years old, he enlisted, and was assigned to Company H, Ninety first 
Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, in which he served just two weeks over three 
years. He participated in many battles and skirmishes, thirteen of which were 
among the most noted battles of the war, prominent among them being Fred- 
ericksburg, Antietam and Gettysburg. At the last-named battle he had 
command of the picket guard in front of the summit of Round Top. On July 
2, at the battle of the Wilderness, he received a slight wound; at Cold Harbor 
he was wounded in both feet, from the effects of which he has never thoroughly 
recovered. At Alexandria, Va., he was promoted to quartermaster- sergeant, 
afterward to second lieutenant, and later to captain. At the time of receiving 
his last wounds he was in command of two companies. After his discharge he re- 
turned to Philadelphia, and soon thereafter went to Oil Creek, Venango Co., 



370 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

this State, where he began drilling for oil. The first thirteen wells drilled 
proved worthless, and by tins time his funds were gone. Being crippled, as a 
result of his wounds, and scarcely able to do hard manual labor, he became 
now very much discouraged. However, he continued to try again, and from 
that time his fortune changed, his wells having proved successful almost with- 
out exception. He is now by far the most extensive individual producer in the 
Bradford oil fields, owning nearly 500 producing wells and having territory foi 
at least 200 more. Capt. Jones is the owner of the Bradford, the Mitchell & 
Jones, and the Post iV Jones Oil Companies. He moved to Bradford in 1877, 
and was at that time a stockholder in the Atlantic Pipe Line Company. He 
was one of the incorporators of the Bradford Oil Company, and has since be- 
come its sole owner. Capt. Jones is a public-spirited man, and a liberal 
supporter of all measures of benefit to the community. He is a Republican in 
politics, and in 1888 was appointed one of the Presidential electors from Penn- 
sylvania. He was married in Venango county. Penn., October 15, 1876, to 
Miss Lou E. Blackmarr, daughter of Rev. R. L. Blackmarr, a minister of the 
M. E. Church, and they have two children: Joseph Albert and Grace. 

R. B. JONES, owner and proprietor of the Eagle Brass foundry, Bradford. 
was born in Pittsburgh, Penn.. April 28, 1850, a son of Robert and Margaret 

E. (Hill) Jones. His father dying in 1866, from that time he was obliged to 
rely on himself, and, with the exception of a short time he was in the livery 
business, has worked at the molder's trade. He located at Bradford in 1879, 
and in 1880 became established in business for himself, being now at the head 
of one of the important industries of the city. Mr. Jones was married in 
1873 to Luella Fulkenson, daughter of Cornelius Fulkenson. Mrs. Jones 
died in 1882, leaving three children: Arthur, Laura and Robert. Mr. Jones 
is vice-regent of the Royal Arcanum, is also a member of the Knights and 
Ladies of Honor, and of the 0. U. A. M. 

WILL F. JORDAN, of the Harrisburg Telegram, was bom in Bed- 
ford, Bedford Co.. Penn , June 26, 1848, and is a son of Hon. Francis and 
Louise (Farquhar) Jordan. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, and his 
mother a native of Maryland, and they were of Scotch-Irish and English descent, 
respectively. His mother died in August, 1862. His father was for many 
years a prominent politician, having served the State in the capacity of sena- 
tor, secretary of the commonwealth, military agent, paymaster in the army, 
and chairman of the Republican State central committee for nine years. Will 

F. Jordan was educated in the common schools, graduating at Hyatt's .Military 
Academy, West Chester, Penn. During his term at the latter institution he 
ran :iwa\ and joined the military forces at Camp Curtin, near Harrisburg. at 
the time of the Gettysburg emergency, and the rebel invasion into Pennsyl- 
vania, After passing several years at St. Louis. Mo., and York. Penn., he 
accepted a position with George Iv Anderson, the then oil king of the world. 
and located at Pleasantville, Penn. Soon realizing that the oil regions required 

i to assert their individuality, he resigned his position and went into oil 

operations and dealing in oil, with Col. A. C. Hawkins. This partnership con- 
tinued for several years, when Mr. Jordan branched out. went to Parker's 
Landing, and associated himself with some of the live spirits and oil pioneers in 
that imperfectly developed country. He took many leases, and speculated 
heavily and successfully in oil and oil lands. In 1874 he dispose I of most of 
his producing interest-, and invested in an agency controlled by the Standard 
Oil Company, for the manufacture and sale of refined oil, gasoline, benzine 
and lubricating oil, in the counties of Clarion. Armstrong and Butler, remain 
ing in that business until 1877, when he made a sale to the Standard, some of 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 371 

whose agents desired hirn to devote his entire time to the reorganization and 
perfecting of a newspaper bureau throughout the oil country. To secure this 
end, he purchased the Daily Derrick, of Oil City, the Breeze and Era of Brad- 
ford, all daily papers, also the Sunday Herald of the latter city, and subse- 
quently he became owner of the Sunday News and Evening Star. The sub- 
ject of this sketch was too modest to detail his part in the exciting scenes 
which such purchases involved. Suffice to say that the work he performed 
was in no sense popular, as the oil regions, en masse, have uever taken kindly 
to corporations, notwithstanding the fact that all the successful and leading 
business men in that part of the State have made their fortunes by or through 
combines or corporate investments. On July 14, 1887, Mr. Jordan bade adieu 
to oil region journalism, selling his entire interest to the Standard Oil Com- 
pany, who have since that time added the Toledo Commercial to their oil region 
plant. Mr. Jordan has owned half interest in (he Harrisburg Telegram since 
1885, and purchased the other half January 1, 1890. Politically, Mr. Jordan 
has taken quite an active part, although always under protest, in the politics 
of Northwestern Pennsylvania, directly, and indirectly, in those of the State 
and Nation at large. He is one who has invariably preferred to create, assist 
and cater to the ambitions of others, to whom he could render service in a jour- 
nalistic sense, rather than hold offices himself, although he was. in 1874. per- 
suaded to run for burgess of Petrolia, and for mayor of Bradford in 1881, to 
both of which offices he was elected by overwhelming majorities, despite the 
opposition that was wielded against him, on account of his connection with 
corporations. In January, 1890, Mr. Jordan associated himself with Mr. J. J. 
McLaurin, in the management and control of the Harrisburg Telegram, the 
largest weekly paper in Pennsylvania, outside Philadelphia, having a sworn 
circulation of over 50.000. 

C. E. JUDD. attorney at law, Bradford, was born in Russell, Geauga 
Co.. Ohio, March 9, 1856, a son of Lucius and Harriet (Cole) Judd, natives 
of Ohio and of English descent, their ancestors having been among the early 
settlers of Eastern Massachusetts. C. E. Judd is the second of four children, 
but two of whom are living. He was a student at Chester Seminary, from 
which he graduated in 1877, having taught prior to his graduation. After 
leaving school, he again was engaged in teaching, and in 1879 came to Brad- 
ford, where for a time he was engaged in the oil business; also studied law 
with Henry McSweeney. He was admitted to the bar at Smethport in 1884, 
and has since built up a good practice. He was married in October. 1887, to 
Mi^s Mary L. Haggerty, daughter of John Haggerty, and they have one 
child, Margaret Louise. In politics Mr. Judd is a Republican. 

DAVID KIRK, president of the McCalmont Oil Company, Bradford, has 
1 ii engaged in the oil business since 1860, when he drilled a well at Frank- 
lin, and for two years devoted his attention to the production of oil. In 1862 
he built a refinery, which he conducted eight years, and also in the meantime 
opened the first yard for the storage of oil. In 1870 his business was ruined 
by the Standard Oil Company, and since then he has been engaged in thn de- 
velopment of oil wells. In 1880 he organized the company he now represents, 
which operates extensively in the lower oil fields. Mr. Kirk was born in 
Scotland, February 18, 1831, a son of Arthur and Marion (Smith) Kirk, who 
came to America in 1839, and settled in Pittsburgh, Penn., where they reared 
a family of six sons and six daughters. David being the fourth child. Early 
in life he was put to work in a cotton factory, and later learned the carpen- 
ter's trade, but followed it only a short time, when he went to Allegheny City, 
where he found employment in a grocery. In 1856 he embarked in business 



372 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

for himself, continuing it until 1860. Mr. Kirk has always taken an interest 
in the community in which he lives, and while in Pittsburgh was nominated 
for congress by the Greenback party, but was defeated by a small majority, 
although he ran 5,000 votes ahead of his ticket. In 1880 he was nominated 
by the Greenback and Democratic parties to represent the Sixteenth Congres- 
sional District in congress, but was defeated by 500 votes. In politics Mr. Kirk 
is now a Republican. He was married in 1856 to Miss Ellen Baldwin, a native 
of Allegheny City, Penn., and to them were born eight children, four sons and 
four daughters: W. M. Kirk. Charles Kirk. Mrs. Mary Bell Davidson, Mrs. 
Ella Bovard, Elizabeth Kirk. David Kirk, Jr., Clara Kirk and Albert E. 
Kirk. Mrs. Kirk died in 1885. 

W. K. LANEY, oil producer and contractor, Bradford, was born in Ger- 
many in October, 1844. When he was an infant his father died, and when he 
was about six years old his mother came to the United States and settled in 
Venango county, Penn. He remained with his mother until shortly after his thir- 
teenth birthday, when he left home aud has since made his own way in the world. 
He worked in the oil fields in the summer, saved his earnings and attended 
school in the winter, and in this way obtained his education. He has lived in 
Bradford many years, and in addition to owning several wells has also engaged 
in drilling oil, gas and water wells, having had extensive contracts in different 
Stairs. In 1862 Mr. Laney enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Forty- 
Second PennsylvaniaVolunteer Infantry, and served until the close of tin' war. 
participating in many severe battles, among which may lie mentioned Chan- 
cellorsville, Antietam and Gettysburg. He was captured on the first day of the 
last-named battle, but, being shortly after released, he rejoined his company 
and was present at the surrender of Gen. Lee. He is now an active member 
of the United Veteran Legion, and has served as lieutenant -colonel of Brad- 
ford Post. He is also a member of the Masonic order. Lodge, chapter, council 
and commandery. Mr. Laney was married in Meadville, Penn., in July. 1870, 
to Flora, daughter of Charles Huntley, and they have three children: Ada. 
Grace and Charles. Mrs. Laney and her daughters are members of the Pres- 
byterian Church of Bradford. In politics Mr. Laney is a K 'publican. 

L. B. LOCKARD, oil producer. Bradford, was born in Hanover, Colum- 
biana Co.. Ohio, January -. 1888, the third of nine children of William and 
Sarah (McBride) Lockard, former a native of Ireland and latter of Ohio, of 
Irish descent. He was given good educational advantages, attending the com- 
mon and high schools of his native county, then took up the study of law at 
New Lisbon, and was admitted to the bar. He had but just commence,! his 
practice when the Civil war broke out. aud he immediately enlisted in the serv- 
ice of the government, aud was assigned to duty in the arsenal at Pittsburgh, 
where he served until the close of the war. He then returned to Ohio and 
embarked in the dry goods business at Salem, being subsequently interested 
in various manufacturing enterprises, and while there served five consecutive 
term-- as mayor. In 1875 lie moved into the oil regions of Pennsylvania, 
where he invested in properly: in 1879 he came to Bradford, and until 1881 
operated in the lower fields. He then bought in the Bradford oil fields, and 
has since made his home in the city of Bradford. Mr. Lockard was married 
October 25, L859, to Miss Phoebe, daughter of Rev. 1. ^.rchbold, a minister of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church, aud they have six children: Vesta. Charles. 
Fannie, John, Lorenzo and Edith. Mr. and Mr-. Lockard are members of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics Mr. Lockard is a Democrat. 
He i- supreme vice protector of the Knights and Ladies of Honor, and grand 
protecl ir of the Stiit.- has served the order as grand secretary; represented 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 373 

Pennsylvania in the Supreme Lodge at Chicago in 1885, and again in 1887, 
and at Philadelphia was unanimously chosen to his present position. 

DENNIS LUNDERGAN, passenger and freight agent for the Buffalo, 
Rochester & Pittsburgh Railroad Company, at Bradford, was born in Cat- 
taraugus county, N. Y., March 27, 1853, the eldest of five children of 
Martin and Catherine (Ryan) Lundergan, natives of Ireland, who came to 
America in 1851, and settled in New York. Dennis, being the eldest son, nat- 
urally drifted into the railroad business, as his father was for many years em- 
ployed by different companies. When a small boy he began to learn telegraphy, 
and when thirteen years old was employed as an operator by the Erie Railroad 
Company, holding a position with them seven years, and for two years, from 
1873 to 1875, he was both operator and station agent at Fosterville, N. Y. In 
1875 he came to Bradford, and was clerk and agent for the Erie Company until 
1882, when he accepted his present position. Mr. Lundergan was married in 
New York, in 1875, to Julia, daughter of Thomas Welsh. In politics be is a 
Democrat. He is a member of the Catholic Church. 

A. McALPINE, D. D. S., Bradford, was born in Welland county. On- 
tario, Canada, a son of Vulney and Lavinia (Chapman) McAlpine, who were 
also natives of Canada, and of Scotch and English descent. His father is a 
dentist, and is still in practice in Cleveland, Ohio. Dr. McAlpine was reared 
in Ontario, and choosing dentistry as his profession took a course at the Dental 
College of Baltimore, Md. , from which he graduated. He practiced at Oil 
City and Petrolia, Penn., and in 1879 located at Bradford, where he Las met 
with success, and has built up a good practice. He was married in October, 
1881, to Luella, daughter of L. Mitchell, and they have four children: John, 
Ethel, Archie and Evelyn. Mrs. McAlpine is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. In politics Dr. McAlpine is a Republican. He was second lieu- 
tenant of the Sixteenth Regiment, P. N. G., five years. He is president of 
the Bradford Bicycle Association. 

GEORGE BYRON McCALMONT, attorney at law, Bradford, was born 
in Fort Madison, Iowa, September 4, 1845, a son of Robert and Parthena 
(Sage) McCalmont, natives of Venango county, Penn., and of Scotch and In'sh 
descent, respectively. He was given a good education, graduating in 1864 
from Westminster College, and then began the study of law in Venango 
county, Penn. ; was admitted to the bar in 1869, and for five years practiced 
in Butler, Butler Co., Penn. He came to Bradford in 1878, and has here 
built up a good practice. For eight years he has served as city solicitor, and 
was admitted to the supreme court of the United States in 1885. He was a 
Democrat in politics until 1888, when he transferred his allegiance to the Re- 
publican party. He was sent to New York by the central committee in favor 
of protective tariff, and for two weeks was in New York City, and two months 
in the State. He was married March 26, 1886, to Miss Elizabeth M. , daugh- 
ter of John Redmond. 

JOSEPH M. McCLURE, attorney at law, a member of the firm of Mul- 
lin &McClure, Bradford, was born in Perry county, Penn., December 28, 1838, 
the sixth of ten children of James and Rachel Oliver (Patterson) MeClure, 
who were natives of Pennsylvania, of Scotch -Irish descent, former of whom 
died in 1865. In his boyhood Joseph M. had but limited educational advan- 
tages, attending in the winter the district schools. He served an apprentice- 
ship at the tanner's trade, and after mastering the main details served two 
years in the currier and roller department. Although his time was so much 
taken up, his thirst for knowledge induced him to study in all his spare mo- 
ments, and when be was twenty years old he accepted a position to teach, and 



:j(4 HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Fully taught the higher department of a graded school. The next year 
he entered Tnscarora Academy, where he prepared for college, and in the 
autumn of 1862 he was able to enter the freshman class at Yale College, where 
he graduated in 1866 in a class of ninety-six. He then took up the study of 
law at Mifflintown, Penn., completing his course in Chambersburg with the 
Hon. John Stewart, who is now president judge of Franklin county. He was ad- 
mitted to the bar in Franklin county in 1867, and in 1868 moved to Harris 
burg. In L869 he vvas appointed assistant State librarian, and in the fall of 
1869 was appointed deputy attorney-general of the State. In 1873 he went 
to Doylestown, Bucks county, where he edited and managed English and Ger 
man weekly newspapers. In 1875 he again resumed the practice of his pio- 
fession at Allentown, and in 1879 removed to Bradford. He was admitted fco 
the supreme court in 1869, and also to the United States Court. In politics 
he is a Democrat. He takes an active interest in the cause of education, and 
has served as a member of the Bradford school board, of which for a time he 
was president. He was married in Philadelphia November 27, 1867, to Alice 
Hamersly, daughter of George W. Hamerslv. and they have five children: 
Mary L., Margaretta D. , Eobert, Kenneth and Donald. Mrs. McClure is a 
member of the Episcopal Church. 

J. W. McCRAY, of the firm of McCray Brothers, oil producers. Brad 
ford, was born in Crawford county, Penn., February 6, 1840, a son of .1. F 
and Margaret (Allen) McCray, the former of Scotch-Irish and the latter of 
Scotch descent. Mr. McCray started in business for himself, in 1865, at Titus 
ville, Penn., and has since that time been interested in the production of petro- 
leum, locating at Bradford in 1880. He has been in the main successful 
(although in one year he put down nine dry wells i. and has been associated 
with his brother, T. E. McCray. since 1871. They are energetic, industrious 
men, recognized as being among the leading oil men of the vicinity. Mr. J. 
W. McCray was married in Clarion county, Penn., in 1879. to Miss Laura 
Boland, a native of Bockland township. Venango Co., Penn.. and a daughter 
of Andrew and Mary Boland. and they have one child. Fenton A. In polities 
Mr. McCray is a Republican, and has served as a member of the council of 
Bradford. He is a member of the Royal Templars of Temperance. Mr. Mc 
Cray's grandfather, James McCray, was a British soldier, but deserted, and 
came from Canada to the United States, where he afterward made his home. 
.Mr. and Mrs. McCray are regular attendants of the Methodist Church, but 
are not members of that denomination. 

T. E. McCREA, chief of police, Bradford, was born in Armstrong county. 
Penn., April 2, 1848, a son of Daniel and Sarah (Coyle) MeCrea. natives of 
Pennsylvania, and of Irish descent. He was reared and educated in Butler 
county, Penn., remaining at home until twenty years of age. when he went to 
Petroleum Centre, and there worked at the oil wells. For two years lie was 
superintendent for an oil company. In 1875 and L876 he was constable and 
assessor and collector of taxes in Donegal township. Butler Co. . Penn. In l^i < 
he removed to Bradford, and was hero engaged in the oil business for some time, 
and still retains an interest in that industry. For two years he was in the em- 
ploy of a gas company as inspector; for nine years has been on the police force, 
and tor two years has been chief of the department. Mi-. MeCrea was married 
at St. John's Church. Clearfield township. Butler Co., Penn., February 17, 
1ST 1. to Miss Margaret Duff, a native of Butler county. Penn.. and of Irish 
descent, daughter of Dennis and Mary (Dugan) Duff, and fchej have three 
children. Harry. Rose and Albinas. Mr. MeCrea and his family are mem 
bers of the Catholic Church. In politics he is a Democrat. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 375 

D. F. H. McDOWELL, senior member of the firm of McDowell Brothers, 
merchants, Bradford, was born in Mercer county, Penn., May 10, 1859, a son 
of W. D. and Sarah (Barnes) McDowell, who were both of Scotch descent. He 
received his literary education in the common schools, and acquired his busi- 
ness knowledge in his father's store at Rouseville, Venango Co., Penn. In 188(1 
he came to Bradford and entered the employ of a wholesale grocery house. The 
following year he embarked in the retail grocery business on his own account, 
in which he retained his interest until 1885, although for two years during this 
period he was in the employ of the McCalmont Oil Company. In the year 
named (1885) he bought a half interest- in what is now the firm of McDowell 
Brothers, at present one of the leading grocery firms in the city of Bradford, 
his associate being C. J. C. McDowell. The firm deals in groceries, provisions, 
crockery, flour, feed, hay, corn, oats, etc., and supplies its customers with the 
best articles to be found in the trade. In politics Mr. McDowell is a Repub- 
lican, and in religion a Presbyterian. He is still unmarried. 

J. C. McKENNA, superintendent of the Bradford, Bordell & Kinzua and 
the Bradford, Eldred & Cuba Railroads, at Bradford, was born in 
Shelby, Orleans Co., N. Y., April 23, 1858, a son of John and Adelaide C. 
(Wheeler) McKenna, former a native of Ireland, and latter of New York, of 
English descent. For six years Mr. McKenna was employed as a clerk in the 
freight office of the New York Central Railroad Company at Buffalo, and 
then for a year was clerk for the Buffalo & Southwestern Railroad. In 1880 
he was appointed general freight agent for the Bradford, Bordell & Kinzua, 
and the Bradford, Eldred & Cuba lines, and in 1885 was elected to his present 
position. Mr. McKenna was married in Buffalo, April 23, 18S4, to Miss 
Mary A. Seymour, daughter of John A. Seymour, and they have two children: 
David Allen and John Wheeler. Mr. McKenna is a Republican in politics. 
He is a member of the Royal Arcanum and the Regents of Honor. He and 
his wife are members of the Catholic Church. 

M. McMAHON, contractor, Bradford, was born in Rochester, N. Y. , Oc- 
tober "24, 1834, a son of Michael and Elizabeth (McCarty) McMahon, natives 
of Ireland. He learned the carriage maker's trade in his youth, and carried 
on that business fourteen years. In 1864 he enlisted in defense of the Union, 
was commissioned lieutenant and appointed recruiting officer. He recruited 
and organized the One Hundred and Eighty-eighth New York Volunteer In- 
fantry, of which his brother was colonel until promoted to brigadier-general. 
After the war he and his brother came to Pennsylvania and worked in the oil 
fields near Pit Hole until 1876, when they began contracting for oil and gas 
lines. They also took the contracts of putting in water-works, and have been 
very successful from the start. In 1889 they completed the reservoir and 
water works at Ridgway, the county seat of Elk county. In politics Mr. Mc- 
Mahon is a Democrat, and was the first assessor of Bradford, a position he held 
sixteen years, and is the present assessor of the county. He has filled all the 
chairs and is past commander of the C. M. B. A. He was married in Roches- 
ter, N. Y. , to Miss Mary A. Sugru. Mr. and Mrs. McMahon are members of 
the Catholic Church, and Mrs. McMahon is a member of the Aid Society. 

J. C. McMULLEN, one of the publishers of The Petroleum Age and 
one of the editors and publishers of the Daily Oil Neus. died at the age 
of thirty-seven years, January 31, 1888. A. R. Crum calls him one of the 
famous oil scouts, and writing of him, says: " His conscientious accuracy was 
frequently noted during the time he lived in the shadows of the towering hem- 
locks of Cherry Grove, on Cooper Hill and at Balltown. When others 
telegraphed rumors and guesses, he staid up all night secretly to run the 



370 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

gauge pole in mystery tanks. When no important well was drilled in, his 
tireless energy was expended in mapping important locations, compiling 
statistics and getting geological records. He was not always first in the mad 
rush to the telegraph office, for he never telegraphed anything until he knew 
it to be right, The last Held work he did illustrated the integrity that actu- 
ated him. A week before his death he started out to collect the data for the 
monthly report of operations. There were conflicting reports regarding the 
Pittsburgh Manufacturers' Gas Company's well at Cannonsburg, and to settle 
all doubts Mr. MeMullen went to the well to get a gauge. He was sick then. 
Other tieldmen went out from Pittsburgh with him. When they reached the 
well, they were told it had just made a flow, and would probably not make 
another until the afternoon. They were told what the well was doing. 
This was good 'hearsay,' evidence, and as the thermometer stood several 
degrees below zero, the other tieldmen went away satisfied with it. Not 
so with ' Mac' There had been false reports about the well and he must know 
the truth. For more than six hours he waited there, chilled to the very mar- 
row, until the well flowed again and he had gauged the flow. Then he 
went back to Pittsburgh sick. But he did not give up. He must complete 
his oil report, and he did, though the pain he suffered was terrible. The 
data he brought home with him, and dictated to his loving wife from lii- 
death-bed, was as accurate and reliable as an}- ever gathered." 

H. L. McMULLEN, oil producer, Bradford, was born in Ireland. De- 
cember, 12, 1846, a son of James and Susan (Sands) MeMullen. His parents 
came to the United States in 1848 and located at Warren, Penn. . where he was 
reared, and in his youth he learned the blacksmith's trade of his father. His 
father subsequently became one of the pioneers in the drilling of wells and the 
production of petroleum. H. L. MeMullen was associated with his father at 
Oil Greek, and later in other oil fields until 1878, when he removed to Bradford. 
He is now in partnership with C. S. Whitney, and the firm of Whitney .V Me- 
Mullen do a large business. In addition to their oil interests, they established 
the Bradford Chemical W r orks in 1886, where they employ about thirty men. 
Mr. MeMullen was married in February, 1869, to Miss Lucie M. Hall, of Wor- 
cester, Mass., daughter of Lowell Hall, and they have five children: Maud Al- 
ice. James Arthur, Clifton Adair, Hugh Therou and Edith. In politics Mr. 
MeMullen is a Democrat. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum. 

EDWARD McSWEENEY. member of the firm of McSweeney .V Byles, 
attorneys at law, Bradford, was born in Pittsburgh. Penn., Fein -nary -I. L853, a 
son of John and Elizabeth (Quinn) McSweeney. the former a native of Ireland, 
the latter a native of Armstrong county. Penn.. of Irish and German descent, 
and both now reside in Oil City, Penn. Of their family of six children the sub- 
ject of these lines is the eldest. He was reared in Armstrong county and in Oil 
City, Penn., and. his father being a school-teacher, was given good educational 
advantages. He studied law in Butler, Penn., in the office of Kennedy & Mar 
shall, and was admitted to the bar in 1875. In 1878 he came to McKean 
county, and has since been engaged in the practice of his profession at Brad- 
ford. In 1SS1 he was elected district attorney by the largest majority that was 
ever given to any Democratic office holder in McKean county, the county being 
at that time reliably Republican, and served one term. The present partner- 
ship of McSweeney A: Byles was formed in lNS,"i. and the firm are transacting 
a successful law business. In the spring of ISS'.I Mr. McSweeney was elected 
mayor of Bradford for a term of two years, but the terms of all holding city 
offices woe shortened by tin' passage of an act of the assembly, approved M aj 
'S-'>. I sMi. providing for a new election in the spring of 1890, under which a new 



BIOGKAPHICAL SKETCHES. 377 

set of officials were elected for a term of three years. Mr. McSweeney is a 
member of Bradford Tent No. 4, K. O. T. M., and also a member of the 
Knights and Ladies of Honor. 

0. F. MADISON, foreman of A. Watson's manufacturing establishment, 
Bradford, was born in Chautauqua county, N. Y., March 17, 1845, a son of 
Charles A. and Hannah (Winegar) Madison, natives of Washington county, N. 
Y. . of German and English descent, respectively. He was reared in his native 
county and in Warren county, Penn., and in 1860 went to the oil fields at 
Titusville, where he worked, as well as in Butler county. In 1879 he came to 
Bradford, and was employed at different oil wells until 1833, when he entered 
the employ of A. Watson. Mr. Madison was married in Union City, Penn., in 
1873 to Jennie Gross, a native of Erie county, Penn., and daughter of David 
and Olive (Hulburt) Gross, and they have three children: Archie, Ernest and 
Ollie. Mr. and Mrs. Madison are members of the United Brethren Church; he 
is a member of the K. O. T. M. , also of the Junior Order of United American 
Mechanics, and in politics is a Republican. 

L. O. MADISON, of the firm of Madison & Blossom, grocers, Bradford, 
was born in Chautauqua county, N. Y., March 22. 1848, a son of C. A. and 
Hannah A. (Winegar) Madison. ' Mrs. Hannah A. Madison died September 5, 
1887, and C. A. Madison January 14, 1890, both deaths occurring in Bradford. 
When a boy L. O. Madison began working about the oil wells, and as soon as old 
enough began taking contracts for drilling wells, and has worked in all the 
principal oil fields in the United States. In 1885 he became established in the 
grocery business at Bradford, which he has since continued. He was married 
in Venango county, Penn., May 21, 1872, to Miss Maggie E. Loveless, and 
thev have two children: Clara Pearl and Florence Ethel. Mrs. Maggie E. Mad- 
ison was born at Deerfield, Warren Co., Penn., August 4, 1855, daughter of 
Nathan A. and Mary A. Loveless. Nathan A. Loveless died in 1862, at Har- 
rison's Landing, W. Va. , while serving as sergeant of Company F, Seventy- 
fourth New York Volunteers; his widow, Mary A. (Walker) Loveless died De- 
cember 7, 1885. Mrs. Madison is a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. In politics Mr. Madison is 'a Republican, and has served as a member 
of the common council of Bradford. He is a member of the K. O. T. M., 
Knights of Pythias and the Knights and Ladies of Honor. 

L E. MALLORY. one of the representative oil producers of Bradford, was 
born in Cambridge, Erie Co., Penn., April 6, 1849, the eldest of six children 
born to Truman and Charlotte (Phelps) Mallory, who still live in Erie county. 
where the father is a prominent citizen. L. E. was reared on his father's farm, 
attending the district schools in his boyhood. When fifteen years old he began 
working in the oil fields as driller, and was subsequently employed in differ- 
ent capacities until 1869. when he embarked in business for himself at Oil City. 
He afterward went to Titusville. and from there came, in 18/6, to Bradford, 
where he has since been operating most of the time. He now owns an interest in 
about two hundred oil-producing wells, a large number being in the Bradford 
oil fields. He has been an industrious man, always at work, and his success is 
the result of his energy and good management. He has, since his residence in 
Bradford, taken an interest in the prosperity of the town, and has always been 
ready to give of his means or of his time to the advancement of any enterprise 
of public benefit. He now owns a neat and substantial residence in the town, 
where he and his worthy wife dispense hospitality with an open hand. Mr. 
Mallory was married January 1, 1873, to Miss Emma Crawford, daughter of 
Eben and Elizabeth (Wilson) Crawford, who are of Scotch descent. Mr. and 
Mrs. Mallory have two children: Lewis E. and Nellie. Mr. Mallory is a Repub- 



378 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

licau in politics. He has taken the thirty-second degree in Freemasonry, and 
is a deputy grand master of Bradford Council. Mrs. Mallory is a member of the 
Presbyterian Church. 

LOl T IS MARCK, oil producer, and lately owner and proprietor of the " Union 

Hotel," Bradford, is a native of Mulhouse, Alsace, France [now Germany ]. born 
Oct iber 19, 1849, asonof Francois I,, and Eve (Eisenzimer) Marck. His father 

was in early life a cotton spinner, but dining the French war was a soldier 
serving in Algiers, Africa; while there he studied Burgery, and after leaving 
the army devoted his attention to his profession. He came to America in 
ISM), aiid is still a resident of Pennsylvania. Louis Marck is the eldest of 
a family of live children, was given good educational advantages, and after 
leaving college learned the trade of landscape gardener and florist, serv 
ing an apprenticeship of three years, and subsequently became chief gardener 
for one Albert Taschare. one of the senators of France. In INTO he came 
to America, and settled first at Buffalo, N. Y. Being in a strange country 
and tire winter being unusually severe, he was unable to obtain employment 
at his own trade; consequently he began working at the barber's trade, 
win h he followed three years. He then took employment as a florist until 
1878, when he removed to Bradford and engaged in the hotel business 
He has met with success, also with misfortune, and recently has embarked 
in the oil-producing industry. Mr. Marck was married in January. 1 S 7 "_! . 
to Maria Stuller, a native of Bavaria. Germany, daughter of John Stuller, 
and they have had three children, but one of whom, Louis A., is living. 
They are members of the Catholic Church. In politics Mr. Marck is a Re 
publican, and has served two years as a poormaster. 

A. M. MAYER, senior member of the firm of A. Mayer & Co., whole-ale 
dealers in wines, liquors, cigars, tobaccos, and wholesale agents of Bartholo- 
may's Rochester lager beer, at Bradford, is a native of Germany, born Janu 

ary 23, 1836, s nd son of Gabriel and Elizabeth Mayer, both parents being 

dead, the mother having died in 1876 at the age of sixty-five years, and the 
father, April 1, L889, at the mature age of nearly ninety years: both died at 
Oil City. Penn. A. M. Mayer landed in New York City in the year 1853 ;it 
the age of seventeen; he engaged in the dry goods trade, principally, until 
1N7'2. locating at (hi City; thence moved to Millerstown. Butler county, where 
he remained until the fall of 1S7S. when the above firm started in the above 
named business at Bradford. McKean Co., Penn.. where, under his able man 
agement, the firm has attained the highest rank in the business community. 
Mr. Mayer has held various positions of honor in said city, such as member of 
the common council, director of the board of trade, ami is now a member of 
tl board of school control, also one of the executive board of the Bradford 
bospital. lie also holds the position of president of the Hebrew Reform con 
gregation. He was married in New York City April 10. 1871, to Miss Ade] 
heit Rolland, daughter of Leopold and Babeth Holland, the parents residing 
then mi Germany, but both now dead. This union is blessed with a family of 
five daughters- ranging from six to seventeen years of age — namely. Hay. 
Belle, Flora. Estelle, and Selma. 

JOHN F. MELV1N (deceased) was a pioneer of McKean county. Penn., 
having come here from the State of New York about lv_y>. lie was born in 
Chester, N. 11., December 2, \^i'l, the second in a family of three children 
of John and Susanna (Richardson) Melvin, who were of Scotch Irish ancestry. 
Hi- father was a soldier in the war of 1812. Mr. Melvin was a prominent man 
in the earbj days of the county, a pioneer merchant, and an extensive lumb fr 
dealer. lb- also was a huge land owner, and in connection with his othei 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 379 

work carried on farming. Probably no man did more to develop the country 
about Bradford than Mr. Melvin. He owned extensive landed interests. 
which, since his death, have developed into the extensive Bradford oil fields. 
Mr. Melvin was married July 12, 1828, to Lucretia Farr, who was born at 
Bellows Falls, Vt., October 11, 1810, a daughter of Isaac and Pantha (Clark) 
Farr, who were also of Scotch-Irish descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Melvin were 
born ten children, but four of whom are living: C. C. ; Adaline E., wife of 
Judge Loyal Ward; Evaliue A., wife of Hon. C. H. Foster, and Thomas J. 
One son, John S. , was killed in the war of the Rebellion; a daughter, Mary L., 
was the wife of A. L. Smith, and died in Dunkirk, N. Y. ; four children died 
in infancy. Mr. Melvin was a Democrat of the old school. He died in 1858. 
O. C. MELVIN, oil producer, Bradford, is a native of Bradford, Penn., 
born April 15, 1833, and is the eldest son of John F. and Lucretia (Farr) 
Melvin, the former of whom was for many years a prominent citizen of McKean 
county, whose name is well known in business circles. C. C. Melvin was 
reared and educated in his native city, and has been closely identified with her 
business prosperity. In 1876 he became interested in the production of oil, 
and has since been very successful in that line. He has taken an active part 
in promoting the development of Bradford, especially in the advancement of 
her educational and religious interests. He was married December 26, 1874, 
to Miss Lina Loomis, daughter of E. R. Loomis, and they have two children: 
Lucretia and Carroll. Mr. Melvin is a Democrat in his political views, and is 
a member of the Masonic fraternity, lodge and chapter. 

THOMAS J. MELVIN, oil producer. Bradford, is a representative of one 
of the pioneer families of McKean county. He was born in Bradford town- 
ship August 18, 1847, a son of John F. and Lucretia (Farr) Melvin. He was 
reared in Bradford, where he had good educational advantages, and later at- 
tended Bryant & Stratton's Commercial College, at Buffalo. He then found 
employment as a clerk, which vocation he tilled until 1869, when he embarked 
in the mercantile business on his own account, continuing in that line until 
1876, when he became interested in the oil business. Mr. Melvin was mar- 
ried September 28, 1869, to Miss Marion B. Parker, daughter of Nelson Par- 
ker, who are of Scotch-Irish and English descent. Mr. and Mrs. Melvin have 
four children, all boys: John P., Charles O, Milton F. and Thomas J., Jr. 
In politics Mr. Melvin is a Republican. He is a member of the Masonic fra- 
ternity, and has taken the Knight Templar degree. 

JOHN K. MERRIAM, a well-known business man, and proprietor of 
meat market, Bradford, was born in Franklin county, N. Y. , January 9, 1840, 
the second in a family of six children of John and Lurey (Keeler) Merriam, 
natives of Vermont, but now residents of New York. He was reared on his 
father's farm in Franklin county, attending school in his youth, and when a 
young man began teaching, a vocation he followed six years. In 1808 he 
moved to Pennsylvania, first locating at Shamburgh three years, then at Titus- 
ville, all the time in the market and oil business, and in 1877 settled in Bradford, 
where he opened a meat market, which is now one of the largest in the city. 
During the time of the oil boom in this section his sales in his market amounted 
to nearly 1200,000 per year. In the oil trade he has also been successful. 
He was married in 1873 to Mrs. Mary (Harney) Reed, widow of Capt. Reed, 
who lost his life in the war of the Rebellion. Mr. and Mrs. Merriam are 
members of the Presbyterian Church, and are active workers in all that per- 
tains to either church or Sunday-school. In politics he is a Republican, and 
a member of the Masonic fraternity. 

C. V. MERRICK, superintendent of the Bradford division of the New York, 



380 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Lake Erie & Western Railroad, Bradford, was born in Canton, Bradford Co.. 
Penn., June 17. L848, a son. of J. Q. Merrick, and was reared in Potter county. 
whither his parents had moved when he was a child. He attended the district 
schools, and by close application to his studies was able, when a young man. 
to obtain a teacher's certificate, and thus earned the money to pay his expenses 
at the State normal school, from which he graduated in 1871. He then taught 
a year in the village of Knoxville, Penn.. and in 1872 obtained a situation with 
the company he now represents at Addison, where he remained two vears: in 
the meantime he learned telegraphy, and was promoted tu night operator at a 
small station near Elmira, N. Y., and a year later was given the same position 
at Elmira, where he remained four and a half years. In the meantime he 
studied law and was admitted to the bar. He was next promoted to assistant 
train dispatcher, and then to train dispatcher at Elmira. January 1, 1888. he 
was transferred to his present position. Mr. Merrick was married in 1878 to 
Mis.-, Dell, daughter of T. V. Willow. In politics Mr. Merrick is a Repub 
lican. He and his wife are members of (he Presbyterian Church. 

JOHN MEYERS, wholesale and retail dealer in leather, and manufact 
urer of uppers for shoes. Bradford, was born in Buffalo. N. Y.. January 16, 
L842, a son of John and Anna Barbara (Miller) Meyers, natives of Bavaria, the 
father coming to America in 1835, and locating in Buffalo. John was reared on 
a farm, but in early life learned the shoemaker" s trade, at which he worked 
until 1878, when he removed to Bradford, and soon after became established in 
his present business. Mr. Meyers was married in New York, in 1872, to Mai 
garet Sproul, a native of that city and daughter of Andrew Sproul. who came 
from Scotland; they have two children: George and Ida. Mrs. Meyers is a 
member of the Methodist Church. In politics Mr. Meyers is a Republican. 
He is a member of the I. O. O. F. , lodge and encampment. 

C. G. MILLIGAN, of the firm of Sterns k Milligan, wholesale produce 
and commission merchants, Bradford, was born in Maryland, Otsego Co., 
N. Y. .December 23, 1849, a son of David and Rhoda (Strain) Milligan. natives 
of Massachusetts, of Scotch-Irish descent, who now reside in Georgia, where 
the father is engaged in farming. C. G. Milligan is the third in a family of 
four children. He was reared on a farm, but not liking agricultural pursuits, 
obtained a situation as clerk in a store, which he continued until 1881, when 
the present firm of Sterns & Milligan was formed. In politics Mr. Milligan 
is a Republican. 

GEORGE H. MILLS, assistant cashier of the First National Bank. Brad 
ford, was born in Buffalo, N. Y., June 11. 1857, a son of George and Mary 
(Lee) Mills, natives of England, who came to the United States in 1S44. and 
settled at Buffalo. He was educated in the schools of his native city, and 
since sixteen years of age has been employed in a bank, commencing as a rues 
senger boy, from which he has worked his way up to his present position. He 
came to Bradford in 1880, and was book-keeper for the First National Bank- 
one year, and in 1SS1 was appointed teller, and in 1886, assistant cashier. Mr. 
Mills was married September 22, 1886, to Miss Lena F. Bittles. a native of 
Newbury. Ohio, of English descent, daughter of C. H. and Flora E. Bittles 
Mr. and Mis. Mills have one son, George Charles. In politics the subject of 
these lines is a Republican; he is a member of the Royal Arcanum, and of the 
[ndependent Order of Heptasophs. He and wife are members of the Presby- 
terian Church. 

!■'. A. MOORE, farmer ami oil producer, Bradford, was born in Erie 
county, X. Y, April 8, 1822, a son of Amos and Cynthia (Gardner) Moore, na- 
tives of Massachusetts, who moved to McKean county, Penn., in 1839, where 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 381 

the mother died in 1844, and the father in 1845. F. A. remained with his 
parents until after his father's death, and then succeeded him in the owner- 
ship of the farm. He owns '236 acres of land on which are several oil wells, 
which have been the source of considerable revenue. In 1888 Mr. Moore 
built a handsome residence in Bradford, which is now his home. In addition 
to his other interests he has dealt extensively in lumber, and for ten years was 
manager for a coal company in Bradford and Lafayette. He was married 
in March, 1844, to Miss Edith, a native of Gates county, N. ¥., and a daugh- 
ter of Abraham and Dorothy (Vanderhoff) Vandine, the former born in New 
York, the latter in New Jersey, and both deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Moore 
have two children, Amos F. and Anna, former being a prominent merchant of 
Bradford, married to Amanda Potter, of Friendship, N. Y. They have two 
children. Charles and Lillian Maude. In politics Mr. Moore is a Republican. 

J. L. MORRIS, farmer and oil producer. P. O. Custer City, is a son of 
"William S. Morris, and a grandson of Simeon M. Morris, a native of New Eng 
land and a settler in Madison county, N. Y. Simeon M. Morris came to Mc- 
Kean county when a young man, and first located on a tract of land near Eldred. 
About 1812 he married Miss Louisa McCrea, second cousin of Jennie McCrea 
of Revolutionary fame, and about 1828 moved his family to Bradford town- 
ship, where he purchased a farm at $1 per acre. He participated in the war 
of 1812. and his father was a Revolutionary soldier. He was a licensed ex- 
horter in the Methodist Episcopal Church. His family consisted of four chil- 
dren: William S., deceased; Emeline, wife of Lyman Imus. of Bradford town- 
ship; Dersy, deceased wife of David DeGolier, and Sarah, who died when 
young. William S. Morris was born near Ceres township, in McKean county. 
October 15, 1815, and obtained a good education for \hat early day. In 1843 
he married Miss Eliza P., daughter of Jonathan Seaman, of Westfield, Tioga 
Co. , Penn. He was a farmer and lumberman by occupation, and rafted lumber 
and shingles down the river. He started in life poor, but by hard labor and 
frugal habits met with fair success financially. He was identified with the 
Whig party, and was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He died 
in 185U; his widow still resides on the homestead. Six of their children are 
still living: Emma, wife of John A. Bell, of Bradford township; J. L. ; Robert, 
of Stillwater, Mont. ; Julia, wife of William Helenbrook, of Bradford town- 
ship; Charles, of Bradford township; Adeline, wife of I. H. Burton, of Brad- 
ford township. J. L. Morris was born on his present farm January 1, 184(3. 
He received the advantages of a limited education, and remained with his parents 
until twenty-six years of age. Since then he has been principally engaged in 
farming and lumbering, also in producing oil. In 1876 he married Miss Alice, 
daughter of John Helenbrook. of Olean, N. Y., and to them have been born 
five children: William, Minnie, George, Earl and Claud. Mr. Morris is an 
active member of the Republican party, and has filled various township offices. 
He is a member of the A. O. U. W., Tununguant Lodge, No. Ill, Bradford. 

EUGENE MULLIN, attorney at law, Bradford, a member of the firm 
of Mullin & Mullin, is one of the most able criminal lawyers in the county of 
McKean. He is a native of the Empire State, born in Monroe county, a son 
of Timothy and Catherine (Wallace) Mullin, natives of Ireland, where they 
were married. Of their seven children, all save one daughter, were born in 
America. They came to the United States, and first located in Monroe county, 
N. Y. ; then in 1846 moved to McKean county, Penn., and settled in Annin 
township, where they still live. Mr. Eugene Mullin was reared on a farm, 
receiving his early education in the schools at Turtle Point, in Annin town- 
ship. His first occupation for his own account was teaching, but having 



382 HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

chosen the profession of law, he entered the office of John C. Backus, at 
Smethport, and in 1876 was admitted to the bar at that place. He lirst 
opened an office at Fort Allegany, but removed to Bradford, where he has 
since lived. He has met with marked success in criminal cases. He makes 
an able plea before a jury, stating the case with such clearness and force as 
to generally carry the jury with him. His arguments are convincing, and his 
own conviction of the justice of his client's claims makes him, for the time, 
oblivious of all else but the point at issue. Mr. Mullin was married in Oedar 
Falls, Iowa, in ISfU, to Mary C. Harding, a native of Canada, of Scotch 
descent, daughter of John Harding, and they have a family of live children: 
T. F. Mullin, John. Wallace. Edward and Francis. Mr. Mullin and his 
family are members of the Catholic Church. In politics he is a Democrat. 

P. MULQUEEN, proprietor of the United States Hotel, Bradford, was 
born in Ireland in 1S48, a son of Thomas and Jane (Hennessy) Mulqueen, 
also natives of Erin. In 1865 he came to America, learning and working at 
the boiler maker's trade at Titusville, Penn. He subsequently went to New 
York State and opened a hotel at Hornellsville, where he remained until 1^75. 
when he came to McKean county and carried on a hotel at Tarport, sis years, 
and in 1877 removed to Bradford, where he has since conducted the United 
States Hotel, and is, besides, the owner of thirteen producing oil wells. Mr. 
Mulqueen was married, November 18, 1873, to Miss Rose A. Biggins, and 
they have had nine children, two of whom are dead. Mr. Mulqueen and his 
family are members of the Catholic Church. 

S. A. MUNDY, of the firm of W. S. Weed & Co., dealers in lumber, Brad 
ford, was born in Bradford county, Penn., May 3, 1858, a son of H. F. and 
Adelaide (Curtis) Mundy, former a uative of Broome county, N. Y.. and latter 
of Connecticut. He was reared and educated at Williamsport, and when eight- 
een years old entered the employ of an extensive lumber firm at Buffalo, N. 
Y., being their purchasing agent until 1884, when he became associated with 
the firm of W. S. Weed & Co., in Broome county, N. Y. Having large inter- 
ests in McKean county, it became necessary to establish an office in Bradford, 
and in 1888 Mr. Mundy was appointed to represent the firm. They own 18,- 
000 acres of land in McKean county, and give employment to 401 I men the year 
round. Mr. Mundy was married, in 1878, to Elizabeth, daughter of John F. 
Swartz, and they have two children: Willie A. and Bessie S. Mrs. Mundy 
is a member of the German Reformed Church. In politics Mr. Mundy is a 
Republican. 

FRANK H. MURDOCH, M. D., Bradford, is a native of Ontario. » 
born March 5. L846, a son of John A. and Jean (Hall) Murdoch, natives "t 
Scotland. Hi* father was a graduate of the University of Edinburgh, Scot 
land, and came to Canada in the employ of the government, becoming ulti- 
mately superintendent of public instruction in Lanark county. He died in 
Canada in 1868. Frank H. Murdoch was reared in Canada, and for a time. 
after the usual common-school training, attended the collegiate institute at 
Woodstock, Ontario, then taught school four years. In ISTI he entered the 
Slate University at Ann Arbor. Mich., and in 1873 graduated from the medi- 
cal department of same, when he at once entered upon the practice of his pro 
Cession at Parker City. Penn. In 1878 he removed to Bradford, where he has 
become established in a lucrative practice. In L884 he took a post-graduate 
course at Post Graduate School, New York City, and then spenl several 
months in Europe, visiting the London. Glasgow and Edinburgh hospitals. 
Dr. Murdoch is a member of the State, County and American Medical Associa- 
tions, and Is president of the county medical society. He is medical examiner 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 383 

for several insurance companies, and also for the Royal Arcanum, of which be 
is a member. In politics he is a supporter of the Republican party. He is a 
member of the Presbyterian Church. . 

JAMES MURTY, proprietor of the Capital restaurant, Bradford, was born 
in Union county, Penn., in 1853, a son of Owen and Harriet (Conrad) Murty, 
of German ancestry, former of whom died in Union county in 1878. Mr. 
Murty came to Bradford in 1878, and from that time until 1884 was employed 
as clerk in a restaurant; in the latter year he commenced business for himself, 
locating at No. 42 Main street, where he has met with good success. Mr. 
Murty was married in 1879 to Nellie Shields, and they have one child, Charles. 
Mr. Murty is a member of the A. O. U. W. His wife is a member of the 
Catholic Church. 

W. O. NEELY, druggist. Bradford, was born November 2, 1858, in 
Columbiana county, Ohio, a son of Dr. William and Eliza (Black) Neely, the 
former of Irish and the latter of Scotch descent. Mr. Neely's father, who is a 
physician, now lives in Kansas. W. O. Neely, who was given a good education, 
graduated from the high school of Stark county, Ohio, in 1877, and in the 
regular classical course from Mount Union College, in 1880. He then began the 
study of medicine, and took one course at the College of Physicians and Sur- 
geons at Baltimore, and coming to Bradford in 1883, he here, in 1886, em- 
barked in the drug business, and at the same time continued his medical 
studies. He keeps a full line of drugs, giving especial attention to tilling 
physicians' prescriptions. 

AUGUSTUS WILLIAM NEWELL was born at Newton, Mass., October 9, 
1832, the eldest of the nine children of Artemus and Martha (Mcintosh) New- 
ell, former of whom died, in 1873, in Massachusetts, where he had spent his 
life. His ancestors in this country were among the first settlers of Massachu 
setts, coming from England in 1642. They have for generations been farm- 
ers, never having aspired to political distinction, but in an early day one was 
appointed magistrate under George III, and for five generations this office 
has been held by some member of the family. Both great-grandfathers of 
Mr. Newell were soldiers in the war of the Revolution. A. W. Newell at- 
tended school at Brookline, Mass., until thirteen years of age, when he began 
to learn civil engineering, and from that time he has made his own way in the 
world. While studying his profession he clerked for two years in the office 
of his father (who was a magistrate), and while there acquired the habit of ex- 
actness. He had from a child a thirst for knowledge and decided literary 
tastes, and here he had some opportunity to gratify them. After leaving his 
father's office be was employed four years as clerk for different railroad com- 
panies, among others being the Boston & Maine, the Erie, and the Atlantic & 
Great Western. His uncle, Daniel Kingsbury, had bought the property of 
the United States Land Company, which embraced 200, <W0 acres of land in 
McKean and adjoining counties, and when he was twenty years old Mr. New- 
ell gave the money he had saved to his uncle to invest in land in McKean county, 
and two years later took up his residence in Bradford. He was for thirty five 
years a civil engineer, and was in the employ of the Buffalo, Bradford & Pitts- 
burgh Railroad Company, when the line was built through Bradford. His 
uncle, Daniel Kingsbury, already referred to, was president of and a large stock- 
holder in this company. When the company went into bankruptcy, and stopped 
running their cars, he could not get his pay, and he finally conceived the idea 
of hiring an engine and running a train himself. Having obtained permission 
to do this, he hired a man, and together they mowed the track, with old- 
fashioned scythes, from Bradford to Carrollton, a distance of twelve miles. He 



384 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

then hired an engine and commenced railroading. He was fireman, engineer, 
conductor and brakeman, doing all the work himself. He soon made enough 
to pay the company's indebtedness to him, and here was laid the foundation 
of his own fortune. The enterprise was also very beneficial to the prosperity 
of Bradford. What money he had accumulated he invested in lands, and 
thus began his extensive real-estate business. Since Bradford has become the 
great oil town and railroad center, he has sold his land, which was laid out in 
town lots, at a great advance on the purchase price. He still owns 200 town 
lots, and fifty or sixty dwelling houses in the city, besides other valuable real 
estate Mr. Newell was married February IT. lstil. to Anna M. Haynes, who 
died in 1864, leaving one child, Frederick Haynes Newell, who is now a prom- 
ising young man in the employ of the United States Government as mining 
engineer. In 1877 Mr. Newell married Miss Phcebe Lewis, and they have 
three children: Lewis, Henry Foster and Augustus William. Mr. Newell. 
though not an aspirant for political honors, has served the public in various 
relations. His knowledge of engineering enabled him to render important 
services to the city in organizing a system of water-works, aud for eight years 
he has been a member of the board of water commissioners. He has also filled 
the office of school director, and was postmaster at Bradford under Lincoln's 
administration. He was a commissioner from the State of Pennsylvania, by 
appointment of Gov. Beaver, to the late International Exposition at Paris. 
lie is a member of the American Association of Engineers, and accompanied 
its excursion to Europe in 1889, where the party was received under the ana 
pices of the English and French engineers, and banqueted in Guildhall, Lon- 
don, and on the Eiffel Tower, Paris. Upon his return home, the Pompelon 
Club, a permanent intellectual association of Bradford, afforded an opportu- 
nity for social welcome by r giving a formal reception and banquet in his honor. 
Mr. Newell has been a member and director of the Bradford board of trade 
from the date of its organization, and scarcely any public enterprise of impor- 
tance has been undertaken without his assistance. In measures for fostering 
the growth of the city his policy has, as in private life, been generous, bui 
discriminating and quite independent of popular clamor. He is a member of 
the Masonic fraternity, and was the first member initiated in the oldest lodge 
of Bradford, No. 33-4. For eleven years he has served as a trustee in the 
.Methodist Episcopal Church. 

L. W. OAKES. in the real estate business at Bradford, was born in Cat 
taraugus county, N. Y., May 5, 1848, a son of Nichols aud Mary (Rich) Oakes. 
natives of Massachusetts, former of German and latter of English descent. 
His father settled in Western New York in 1824, residing there until his death 
in L884, after a married life of sixty years. Of his family of ten children, 
eight grew to maturity. L. VY. Oakes obtained a good education, attending 
Griffith Institute, Erie county. N. Y. His first occupation was that of school- 
teacher, which he continued two years, when he began to learn the printer's 
trade at Little Valley, N. Y., and after completing his apprenticeship worked 
at same, either as compositor or editor, seven years. In 1876 he came to Brad 
ford in the employ of Ferrin <.V Weber, and assisted in establishing the Brad 
ford Era. He subsequently went to Salamanca. X. Y.. and acted as local 
editor of the Cattaraugus County Republican for one year, and then engaged in 
mercantile business until coming to Bradford, In L879 Mr. Oakes was married 
at Jamestown, N. Y., to Miss Georgina C. Newell, a daughter of A. T. and 
Caroline I Rogers) Newell, early settlers of McKean county. Mr. and Mis 
Oakes have three children: Bertha Newell, Jessie Nelson and Ida Beatrice. In 
politics Mr. Oakes is a Republican. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 385 

P. O'BRIEN, repairer of steam-boilers etc., Bradford, is a native of Can- 
ada, born January 7, 1854, a son of Martin and Kate (Leary) O'Brien, former 
a native of Canada, of Irish parentage, latter a native of Ireland. The subject 
of these lines learned the trade of a machinist in Canada, although he never 
served an apprenticeship. Being a natural mechanic, he gradually acquired a 
knowledge of the business. In 1876 he came to the United States, and worked 
in repair shops until 1884, when he began business for himself in Bradford, 
and now has a good trade, making a specialty of repairing steam-boilers. He 
is a self made man, and has by hard work and energy been successful in busi- 
ness. He is not allied to any church or any political party, but is an inde- 
pendent thinker on all subjects. 

THOMAS OSBORNE, constable and tax collector, Bradford, was born in 
Newark, N. J., May 3, 1852, a son of John and Mary (Smith) Osborne, natives 
of Ireland, who came to this country in 1841. Thomas learned the trade of 
lathing and plastering in his native city, and followed that occupation until 
1880, when he became interested in the production of oil in the Bradford field. 
In 1881 he was elected city assessor of Bradford, and in 1883 was elected 
constable and collector of State and county taxes, which position he holds to 
this day; in 1885 he was elected county auditor, and served McKean county 
in that position for three years. He is a prominent member of the Bradford 
fire department, and has been, from its organization, holding several offices in 
the department from time to time; he is now director and first assistant fore- 
man of the Exempt Fireman's Association of Bradford. In politics he is a 
Democrat, and was chairman of the Democratic county committee during the 
years 1887 and 1888. In 1887 he was married to Miss Sophie H. Reilly, 
daughter of Patrick and Sophie Reilly, both now dead. Mr. and Mrs. Osborne 
have one child, Florence, three years old. They are members of the Catholic 
Church. 

ENOS PARSONS, dealer in real estate, one of Bradford's early settlers, 
was born in Cortland county, N. Y., April 22, 1818, the fifth of ten children 
of Reuben and Matilda (Morton) Parsons. His early life was spent on his 
father's farm, and in attending the district school, later becoming a student at 
Homer College. After leaving school he invested a little money in clocks, 
which he sold in the country districts, being employed in this way during the 
Harrison campaign of 1840. In 1846 he came to McKean county, and in 1847 
to Bradford, where for eight years he carried on the "Bradford Hotel." He 
then engaged in mercantile business, also in real estate, and was one of the 
prime movers in the building of the street car line from Bradford to Tarport, 
of which he now owns the most of the stock, his son, Newell B. , being super- 
intendent. He is one of the largest real estate owners in the city, and now de- 
votes the most of his attention to that business. Mr. Parsons was married in 
1849 to Mary Blair, and they have three children: Newell B. , Charles and 
Grace. Mrs. Parsons is a member of the Presbyterian Church. In politics 
Mr. Parsons is a Republican, and in 1858 he served McKean county as 
treasurer. 

B. D. PATE, painter and paper-hanger, Bradford, was born in Stark 
county, Ohio, November 22, 1842, a son of William and Maria (Helen) Pate, 
natives of Ohio, of Irish and English descent, respectively. He was reared 
in his native county, remaining with his mother (his father having died in 
1859) till 1863, when he enlisted, in the defense of his country, in Company F, 
One Hundred and Fifteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was afterward 
transferred to Company F, One Hundred and Eighty-eighth Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry, in which he served until the close of the war. He then returned to 



38G HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Ohio, and soon after went to Cleveland, where he learned the trade of a painter 
and paper-hanger. In 1877 he moved to Pittsburgh, and same year ro the 
lower oil fields, thence, in 1879. to Bradford, where he has built up a good 
business. Mr. Pate was married in 1867 to Miss .Maria Henderson, and they 
have three children: Hattie. Florence and Lulu. Mr. Pate is a Republican in 
politics. He is a member of Bradford Post, G. A. R. The family are members 
of the Baptist church. 

GEORGE VV. PIKE, farmer. P. O. Bradford, was bom in Bradford 
township, this county, April 13. 1840, a son of Barnabas and Mary Ann 
(Colegrove) Pike, natives of Massachusetts, who came to McKean county, about 
1828, and located on a farm in Bradford township, where they resided until 
their death. Barnabas Pike was a supporter of the Democratic party; he was 
a prominent member of the Universalist Church, helping to build the same. 
George W. Pike received a common-school education, and remained at home 
until twenty years of age. He then engaged in lumbering, and for a number 
of years rafted lumber down the river. In 1874 he married Miss Emma, 
daughter of Peter Fox, of Cattaraugus county, N. Y. . and they have one child, 
May Virginia. In 1875 they settled on their present farm of It 10 acres, and 
also have a fine oil production. Mr. Pike is a Democrat. 

HARLOW B. PIKE, fanner and oil producer, Bradford, was born in 
Bradford township, McKean Co., Penn. . May 12, 1843. a son of Barnabas 
and Mary Ann (Colgrove) Pike. The father came to McKean county from 
Massachusetts in 1829, and settled on the farm now owned by his son. Harlow 
P.. where he died in 1SN0, aged eighty-five years. Harlow B. Pike was reared 
a farmer, attending school until the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, 
when, in 1861. he enlisted in Company I, Seventy-first, New York Volunteer 
Infantry, in which he served three months; then enlisted in the three-years' 
service, and participated in some of the most severe battles of the war, in- 
cluding Gettysburg, Chancellorsville and the Wilderness. Since the war he 
has lived in Bradford, with the exception of six years spent in the West. He 
was married in 1878 to Miss E. R. Beckwith, daughter of Simon and Eliza- 
beth (Palmer) Beckwith, and they have three children: Daisy, Bertha and 
Olive. Mr. and Mrs. Pike are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 
In politics he is a Republican, and is a member of the Union Veteran Legion 
and of the Knights of the Maccabees. 

T. J. POWERS, treasurer of the Bradford Oil Company, Bradford, was 
born in Erie county, N. Y., November 2, 1835, a son of P. W. and Esther 
(Huntley) Powers, former of whom died in 1887, at the age of seventy three 
years. Our subject is the younger of two children, his brother (R. F. I being 
a farmer of Erie county. T. J. Powers was given a good education, and 
taught school in his early days, for six years serving as superintendent of 
public instruction in Erie county. In 1876 he came to Bradford, but in lss7 
he removed his family to the homestead farm in Erie county. He hits been 
treasurer of the Bradford Oil Company since 1881, and has served six years 
as a member of the select council of Bradford, being president of the board. 
He is a member of the A. O. U. W. ; was a member of the Ninety-eighth 
New York National Guards, and was in active service rive months at Elmira, 
N. Y. In politics Mr.- Powers is a Republican. He was married in Fredonia. 
\. Y . m lsr,s. to Miss Frances M.. daughter <>f A. F. Taylor, and they have 
four children: Willis H, Robert Iv. Helen E. and Fitch T. Mr. Powers and 
his family are members of the Baptist Church. 

EDWARD QUIGLEY. of the linn of Connors. Quigley & Granger. 
plumbers. Bradford, was born in Chili. Monroe Co.. X. V.. July 8, L857, 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 387 

a son of Edward and Bridget (McVey) Quigley, natives of Ireland, who 
came to the United States in their childhood, and were married in the State of 
New York. Edward is the second of a family of nine children, and. his father 
being in limited circumstances, he was obliged when quite young to work for 
his own support. He was employed as a farm band until 1878, when he came 
to Bradford and worked about the oil wells. For a time he was foreman of 
men employed by Wheeler & Whitney, oil producers, remaining with them 
until 1888, when the tirm of Connors, Quigley & Granger, plumbers, was 
formed. They contract for all styles of plumbing and gas fitting, and also 
general repairing. Mr. Quigley was married in Wayne county, N. Y. , to 
Mary McVey, daughter of John McVey, and they have two children: Edward 
anil William. Mr. Quigley and his wife are members of the Catholic Church. 
In politics he is a Democrat. He is a member of the Catholic Mutual Benefit 
Association, and is vice-president of the order in Bradford. 

CHARLES H. REED. M. D. , Bradford, was born in Clarendon, Orleans 
Co., N. Y. , January 17, 1851, a son of Ebenezer and Mabel (Snyder) Reed, the 
former a native of Vermont, of French descent, and the latter of New York, 
of German descent. He was desirous of obtaining a good, solid education, 
and when fifteen years old taught a term of school in order to obtain money to 
defray his expenses for further education, finally graduating from the Lock- 
port high school. He then taught nearly five years, and in the meantime 
began the study of medicine. In 1873 he took a course of lectures at Buffalo, 
and in 1876 graduated from Bellevue Hospital Medical College, New York. 
He began his practice at Wilson, Niagara Co., N. Y. . remaining there three 
years, and in 1879 he moved to McKean county, Penn., first locating at Eldred, 
where he remained five years. In 1884 he took a special course on the eye 
and ear at Wills Eye and Ear College and Philadelphia Dispensary, since 
when he has made a specialty of the treatment of the diseases of those organs, 
and stands at the head of his profession in that branch of the practice. His 
headquarters are now at Bradford, but his fame extends to all the surrounding 
towns, and even counties. Dr. Reed was married in Niagara county, N. Y., 
January 9, 1878, to Ada M., daughter of Sylvester and D. M. (Wilson) 
Parsons, the former of whom is a prominent attorney of Rochester, N. Y. 
Mis. Reed died in 1887, a member of the Presbyterian Church. Dr. Reed is 
a Democrat in politics, and is past master of Eldred Lodge, No. 560, F. & A. 
M. He is a member of McKean County (Penn.) Medical Society, and also of 
Niagara County (N. Y.) Medical Society. 

MOSES REIS, of the firm of Wagner & Reis, theatrical managers, Brad 
ford, was born in New York City, June 20, 1851, a son of Samuel and Caro- 
line (Bear) Reis, who were natives of Germany. Mr. Reis removed with his 
parents to Titusville, Penn., in 1863, remaining there until 1876, when he 
came to Bradford. He was engaged in the grocery business, both in Titus- 
ville and Bradford, until 1877, in which year he and Mr. Martin W. Wagner 
became associated in theatrical management. In politics Mr. Reis is a Repub- 
lican. He is a thirty-second degree Freemason, also a member of the Knights 
of Pythias. 

T. W. ROBERTS, manufacturer of wooden oil tanks at Bradford, was 
born in Leyden, Lewis Co.. N. Y., June 6, 1847, a son of William and Jane 
(Evans) Roberts, natives of Wales, former of whom came to this country in 1839, 
locating in Lewis county, N. Y., June 2 of that year. Mr. Roberts' mother 
died when he was but an infant, and from that time until he was eleven years 
old he had his home with Robert Morris. In 1871 he came to the oil fields 
of Pennsylvania, and drove a team for his brother, who was in business at 



388 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Parker's Landing, subsequently becoming a partner. In 1878 be removed to 
Bradford, where be bas since been engaged in bis present business. He was 
married in bis native county in 1877 to Miss Winnie Jones, a native of Lewis 
county, N. Y., daugbter of Jobn E. and Mary (Perry) Jones, who were na- 
tives of Wales. Mrs. Roberts is a member of tbe Methodist Episcopal Church. 
Mi Id. berts is a member of tbe I. O. O. F., lodge and encampment. In poli- 
tics be is a Republican. 

WILLIAM ROBERTS( >X. < .f t be firm of Robertson & Son. manufacturers of 
oil well tools, Bradford, was born near Aberf eldy , Perthshire. Scotland. Septem 
ber 29, 1822, a son of William and Isabella (Fergusson) Robertson, both born 
within two miles of the town named. He was reared and educated in his native 
county, and there learned the blacksmith's trade. When twenty years of age 
he went to England, where for eleven years he worked at his trade, being in 
the employ of railroad companies or contractors for the same. His first railroad 
work was on the Lancaster & Carlisle, at Kendall, Westmoreland, for Brassey. 
McKenzie& Stevenson; he next went to Shiffnal, Shropshire, where he had charge 
of the shops on the Shrewsbury & Birmingham Railroad; then went to Grant- 
ham, Lincolnshire, and took charge of the shops on the London & York Rail- 
road; thence moved to Bacup, and was engaged on the East Lancashire Rail- 
road; from there he went to the Canada Works, Birkenhead, and for some time 
worked for Jackson, Peto, Brassey & Betts, and was by them engaged in L852 
to go to Canada to take charge of the shops on the Grand Trunk Railroad. 
Thither he went in 1853, and was manager of the Grand Trunk Railroad -Imps 
there for a few years, then left on his own account and was in business for 
himself in Stratford, county of Perth, Ontario, for some years, remaining in 
Canada a period of about ten years. In about the last year of the war of the 
Rebellion he came to the United States, and bas been in the oil region of Penn- 
sylvania ever since the Pithole excitement began until the present time. For 
the first six years after bis arrival in the States, he was engaged in the manu- 
facture of oil-well tools at Pithole City and Petrolia, and in 1880 came to Brad 
ford, where he has since carried on the same business most successfully in 
partnership with his son. Daniel W. The marriage of Mr Robertson took 
place in Grantham, Lincolnshire. England, in 1848, to Miss Harriet Guy. who 
was born near Wellington, Shropshire. England, and six children were born to 
the union, of whom only two are living: Maggie and Dan W. Mrs. Robert- 
son and the youngest child died in Petrolia in 1880, and are interred side by 
side at that place; two of the children died at birth. Mr. Robertson is a mem- 
ber of tbe Masonic fraternity, and bis son, Dan W.. is a Knight Templar. In 
politics Mr. Robertson is a Republican, and while at Petrolia served as a mem- 
ber of the town council. 

I'.. W. ROLFE, oil producer. Bradford, was born in Concord. X. H.. August 
12, 1849, a son of H. M. Rolfe, an iron manufacturer of Pittsburgh, Penn., 
where E. W. was reared. The first business experience of our subject was as 
clerk in his father's office, and in 1869 he wan elected secretary and treasurer 
of the Pittsburgh & Castle Shannon Railroad, being the first to til! that posi 
tion. He continued with the railroad c iinpany two years, and in 1872 located 
in Elk county, Penn.. where he embarked in the lumber trade, and for eleven 
year- conducted an extensive business, having in his employ from 300 to l" 1 * 
men. A town was established near the place of his operations, which still 
bears his name. In 1883 he sold his lumber interests, moved to Bradford and 
began operating in oil. His first experience in that line of business was while 
clerking for hi> father, at which time be bought land near Parker's Landing. 
Penn., and had several wells drilled. He now has interest-, in the oil fields of 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 389 

Washington, Allegheny and Butler counties, and also in the lower oil fields. 
He is an active business man. and is a member of the oil exchange. He has 
served as a member of the board of health of Bradford, four years, from 1884 
to 1888. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Rolfe was married in 1870 to 
Elizabeth Davis, and they have four children: Herman, Margaret, Emma and 
Mary. Mrs. Rolfe is a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

D. H. ROOK, funeral director and undertaker, Bradford, was born in 
Centre county, Penn., October 31, 1842, a son of William and Sophia 
( Woomer) Rook. William Rook was born in the town of Chambersburg, Md., 
January 4, 1816, and Sophia Woomer. his wife, was born near Bald Eagle, 
Penn., January 1, 1816. They were both of German origin, and were married 
July 13, 1837. William Rook was a forgemaa by trade, which he followed 
until 1840, when he abandoned it and engaged in lumbering and various other 
pursuits until his death in June, 1S74, his wife having died some years pre- 
viously. The children born to the marriage of William and Sophia Rook were 
nine in number, and named, respectively: Susan, Decatur, Martin G. , David 
H., Caroline E., Eliza, George W. , William G. and Mariah J. The eldest of 
these, Susan Rook, born April 14, 1838, was married to Richard Phillips, of 
English origin, and became the mother of two sons and four daughters : she 
died in October, 1865, and her husband a few years later. Decatur Rook, 
born October 7, 1839, died at the age of about two years. Martin G. Rook, 
born November 1, 1840, married Miss Nettie Gearhart, a native of Pennsyl- 
vania and of German descent, and to this union have been born six children, 
all living but one; the family reside in Clearfield. Penn., where Martin G. is 
engaged in the clothing business. Caroline E. Rook, born October 25. 1844, 
was married to Abednego Woomer, of German extraction, and has borne four 
children, all girls; the parents and children are still living. Eliza Rook was 
born April 14, 1846, and died April 3, 1852, aged five years, eleven months 
and nineteen days. George W. Rook was born April 12, 1848, and died April 
5. 1852, at the age of three years, eleven months and twenty-three days. 
William G. Rook was born September 27, 1850, and married Miss Anna E. 
Erb. of German extraction, and to this union have been born three sons and 
one daughter, but the eldest child, a son, died in August, 1889: the remainder 
of the family now live in Berwick, Penn., where Mr. Rook is conducting an 
extensive livery business. Mariah J. Rook, born March 25, 1853, was but a 
few months old when her mother died; she was reared and cared for by her 
aunt, Mrs. Betsey Goss, until her marriage with Jacob Moyer, of German 
origin, and settlement near Kylertown, Penn. 

David H. Rook, the fourth child and third son of his parents, was born at 
the date and in the county named at the opening of this sketch, at Allegheny 
Forge, located on the Phillipsburg and Bellefonte turnpike, Rush township, 
in which forge his father was employed. The family soon moved to Phillips- 
burg, and a year later, when about six years of age, our subject was placed in 
charge of Henry Baughman, a cousin, residing on a farm in Samburn settle 
ment, Clearfield county, with whom he remained until sixteen years of age. 
assisting on the farm for his board and clothes. He then returned to his 
father, who at that time lived about two miles from Phillipsburg on the old 
Erie Pike (the mother being then deceased), and went to work with him and an 
elder brother at lumbering, to the almost entire neglect of his education, the 
advantages for which were very limited. In the spring of 1860 he went to 
Phillipsburg and engaged at small wages with John Morgan, a cabinet-maker 
and undertaker as well as carpenter; a year and a half later he went to work 
for William McClelland, who was then running a muley saw-mill, but afterward 



390 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

put up the first and largest steam-mill in Centre county, on what was then 
known as Bear Run, and here Mr. Rook gained a fair knowledge of the mill- 
wright trade, which, in conjunction with carpenter work, he followed for r-ome 
years. In the spring of 1864 he went to Port Matilda, Centre county, where 
he went to work for John I. Thompson, in the lumber business. Here, in a 
short time, he made the acquaintance of Miss Margaret Griffiths Jones, young- 
est daughter of John H. Jones, a native of Wales, who came to America when 
a boy, ami about 1816 married Mrs. Mary Tombelson, by whom he became the 
father of twelve children, viz. : John G., Eliza G. (deceased). Marshall W. 
(deceased), Edward P., Ann P., Levie. Elizabeth (deceased), Edie R.. Johnston 
(deceased). .Margaret G. . George T. and Ellen (the last-named also deceased). 
September 10, 1864, Mr. Rook took to wife Miss M. G. Jones aforesaid, the 
ceremony taking place in the Methodist Episcopal parsonage, and the officiat- 
ing clergyman being Rev. H. M. Ash, who then had charge of the denom 
ination at Port Matilda. April 11, 1865, the young couple began house keep 
ing. and in October they found themselves in a snug little home of their own, 
with workshop and wareroom attached, ready for the undertaking business, 
which Mr. Rook then began and has continued ever since, a period of about 
twenty-eight years. In October, 1865, Mr. Rook united with the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, and his wife a few years later; subsequently, in 1868, lie 
donated 1150 toward the erection of a new church edifice, the former one hav 
ing been destroyed by fire. In 1873 he bought a site, and built an extensive 
planing-mill, with new machinery, and in 1876 purchased the Jones farm, on 
which his wife had been born and reared, and on which he erected a handsome 
new building and an extensive new barn, and other necessary outbuildings. In 
1878 he sold his then prosperous planing-mill to Hoover, Hughes & Company, 
but for two years was retained by that firm as its manager, when, finding his 
shop and farm demands increasing, he resigned and devoted his entire atten- 
tion to these interests. In 1884 failing strength caused him to relinquish his 
farm and shop at Port Matilda, both of which he sold, together with his dwell- 
ing, and then took his family to Curwensville. Clearfield county, where he 
bought a new home, engaged in mercantile business, and continued undertak- 
ing until November 1, 1885. when he came to Bradford, his present place 
of residence, and bought out the Webster Undertaking Company, which he 
still continues to manage. To the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Rook have been 
born nine children as follows: Harry H (married to Emma E. Evey, and the 
father of one son), George M. (deceased I. Benner T. (deceased i. Man E. (mar- 
ried to Merritt E. Starr, and the mother of one son and one daughter, the 
daughter now deceased), Eliza T. (deceased). Edith A. (deceased), Chauncey 
B. , David F. and Cambridge G. Mr. Rook is a member in good standing of 
the the following secret societies: A. O. U. W., Knights of St. John and 
Malta, Royal Templars of Temperance, E. A.U.. Iron Hall, S. K. of A. O.U. W.. 
Improved Order of Red Men, F. t *c A. M. and the S. T. M. R. A. 

HENRY SAALFIELD, proprietor of the '"Arlington Hotel," Bradford. 
was born in Germany, December 8, 1854, a son of John C. and Margaret S 
(Plogfhoft) Saalfield, also natives of Germany. He left his native country for 
the United States in 1870, landing in New York City, and soon after removed 
to Titusville, Penn., where for a time he clerked in the "American House." 
He then went to Petrolia, Butler county, where he engaged in business for 
himself. In 1872 he moved to Lancaster, Penn., thence to Armstrong 
county, same State, and then again to Petrolia, where he conducted the 
"Griffin House" a time. In 1878 he formed a partnership with George R. 
Griffin in the production of oil, which he has since continued, and they are 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 391 

also partners in the hotel business, Mr. Griffin having charge of the oil inter- 
ests and Mr. Saalfield of the hotel. Mr. Saalfield was married, in 1883, to 
Mary, daughter of James H. Lewis of Meadville, and they had three children: 
John S., Florence M., and Charles H. (who died at the age of one year). Mrs. 
Saalfield is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Saalfield in politics is 
a Republican. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and has taken the 
thirty-second degree. 

CHARLES SAMUELS, dry goods merchant, Bradford, is a native of Ger- 
many, where he lived till manhood, receiving a collegiate education. In 1868 
he came to America, and soon after located at Union City, Penn., where he 
engaged in the dry goods business. He has moved several times, but finally, 
in 1879, located in Bradford, where he has since lived, and is now carrying on 
an extensive dry goods, carpet, and millinery trade. He aims to keep a com- 
plete and varied stock of goods to please all tastes, and his store, which is well 
fitted up. is one of the best in its line of trade in the city. Mr. Samuels was 
married in 1881 to Miss Clara Rosenstein, and they have two children: Lillie 
and Ro-ia. He has three sons by a former marriage: Israel, Moses and Abra- 
ham. In religious faith Mr. and Mrs. Samuels are Israelites. In politics he 
is a Democrat. 

GEORGE SANFORD, retired, Bradford, is one of the few men now living in 
that city who have watched the development of McKean county from a wilderness 
to its present state of thriving villages and towns. In the early days he cut 
logs, rolled them into the creek at Bradford, and took them thence to the river, 
and so on to Cincinnati, Ohio, having made thirty trips to and from that city 
on such business. He was born in Columbia county, N. Y., January 23, 1810, 
a son of John and Hannah (Hicks) Sanford, natives of New York, of English de- 
scent. He was reared a farmer, but after he attained his majority learned the 
carpenter's trade, at which he worked in addition to farming. He came to 
McKean county in 1838. and here bought considerable land (a part of which 
was afterward within the corporation limits of Bradford), which, at the time of 
the oil boom, he leased for several years, and several good producing wells 
were drilled on his land. He has sold a number of lots, but still owns twelve 
acres within the city limits. Mr. Sanford was married July 21, 1841, to La- 
vantia Whitaker, a native of Rochester, N. Y., daughter of Jonathan and 
Betsy (Lafferty) Whitaker. They have two children: Albina T. (wife of 
F. W. Davis) and Emily R. (wife of Frank P. Wentworth). In politics Mr. 
Sanford is a Republican. 

CHARLES E. SCHEANCK, wholesale produce merchant, Bradford, 
was born in Allegany county, N. Y. , March 31, 1864, a son of W. C. and 
Polly M. (Ellsworth) Scheanck, natives of that county, and who still reside 
there. His father is a mechanic by profession, and politically a strong sup- 
porter of the Prohibition party. Charles E. was educated at the public 
schools, and learned the trade of a paper maker, which he followed for five 
years. In 1886 he came to Bradford, and engaged in his present business, the 
firm being then Russell & Scheanck, formerly Madison, Russell & Co. , and 
during last year Mr. Scheanck purchased the entire business which he now 
conducts at 19 Kennedy street. In 1887 he married Miss Nellie, daugh- 
ter of \Villiam Davidson, of Allegany county, N. Y. Mr. Scheanck is a member 
of Angelica Lodge, A. O. U. W., and the Bradford Tribe of the Maccabees 
He is a strong supporter of the Prohibition party. 

O. F. SCHONBLOM. president of the Bradford National Bank. Brad- 
ford, is a native of Prussia, born September 26, 1838, a son of John P. 
and Elizabeth (Schutz) Schonblom. He is the eldest of a family of six 



392 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

children. His parents came to the United States when he was a child, and 
settled in Buffalo, N. Y., where he was reared. He has lived in Bradford 
since 1879, and is one of the leading business men of the place. Mr. Schon- 
bloin was married in Erie county. X. Y.. in 1864, to Miss Christine Burkhal- 
ter, a native of Xew York, of French descent, and they have three children: 
Anna (wife of Thomas H. Kennedy). Clara and Harry. In politics Mr. 
Schonblom is a Republican. He is a Knight Templar. 

J. L. SEYFAXG. of the rirm of Bovaird & Seyfang, manufacturers, Brad- 
ford, was born in Germany May 3, 1844, a son of George and Mary B. 
(Heim) Seyfang. His father died in Germany in 1849, and in 1850 his 
mother came to America with her three children. J. L. being the eldest, and 
settled in Buffalo, X. Y. Mr. Seyfang was reared in Buffalo, where for a 
time he attended the graded schools, but in his youth learned the machinist's 
trade, at which he served an apprenticeship of four years. He then worked 
at his trade in Buffalo two years, and in 1868 moved to Petroleum Centre, 
where he was employed at the oil wells live months, and then returned to Buffalo, 
and worked at his trade a year. Early in 1869 he came to Shatnburg. Ve- 
nango county; in 1875 he removed to Titusville. Crawford county, and in 
1879 established his present business on a small scale. His trade has con- 
stantly increased from the start, and is now the largest manufacturing estab- 
lishment in the city, giving employment to 200 men. In 1875 he admitted 
David Bovaird as a partner, who has charge of the outside work. Mr. Sey- 
fang being manager and general superintendent of the factory. They manu- 
facture steam-engines, boilers, drilling tools, and all kinds of special machin- 
ery. Mr. Seyfang was married in July, 1869, to Miss C. T. Montgomery, a 
native of Franklin, Venango Co., Penn. , a descendant of the old Dutch colon- 
ists. They have six children: Kittie A.. M. M.. John E.. Charles F.. Clarence 
L. and Herbert C. Mr. and Mrs. Seyfang are members of the Presbyterian 
Church. In politics he is a Republican, and was president of the common 
council of Bradford. 

P. M. SHAXXOX, oil producer, Bradford, was born September 2. 1846, in 
Shannondale. Clarion Co., Penn., a son of C. S. and Martha (McFarland) 
Shannon, natives of Pennsylvania, of Scotch-Irish and English descent. He 
was reared in his native town, and had just entered on his college course, when. 
January 1, 1862, in response to the President's call for more men to assist in 
suppressing the Rebellion, he enlisted, and being of manly appearance was 
able to deceive the enrolling officer as to his age. He was assigned to Com- 
pany C, Sixty-second Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, under Col. Samuel W. 
Black, of Pittsburgh. He served with his regiment in the army of the Potomac, 
until the battle of Gaines' Mills. Va. , where he was wounded in his right foot, 
and thus being disabled for further service he was discharged and returned 
home, and after his recovery was employed in Pittsburgh, Penn.. as a traveling 
salesman. While visiting Parker City, Armstrong Co., Penn., in 1879. lie be- 
came interested in the workings of an oil well, and immediately turned his at- 
tention to that business which he has since followed. He was one of the 
pioneers of Millerstown, Butler county, operating extensively in that section, as 
well as in most of the lower oil fields. He removed to Bradford in lsTi*. where 
he has since made his home, and has here been associated with some of the 
largest operators. Mr. Shannon has taken an active interest in politics in the 
ranks of the Republican party. In 1873 he was elected burgess of Millers- 
town, and in 1876 he was nominated on the Republican ticket to represent his 
district in the Legislature, but on account of a strong feeling against the oil 
men the vote of the oil portion of the county was thrown out of the convention, 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 393 

thereby defeating him. In 1885 he was elected mayor of Bradford, and being 
firm in his convictions in favor of morality and in enforcing the law, he gained 
considerable popularity and credit for such successful administration. His 
brother, ex sheriff Irwin M. Shannon, of Clarion county, is as strongly Demo- 
cratic as he is Republican. Mr. Shannon married June 18, 1881, Miss Hattie 
M. Mcintosh, daughter of George W. and Anna (Evans) Mcintosh, and they 
have one child, Hazel M., born May 28, 1884 Mr. and Mrs. Shannon are 
members of the Episcopal Church congregation, of which church he has been a 
vestryman seven years at Bradford. Mr. Shannon is a prominent Mason, hav- 
ing attained the thirty-second degree. He is member of Union Lodge No. 
334, F. & A. M. ; past high priest of Chapter, No. 260, R. A. M. ; member of 
Bradford Council, No. 43; past eminent commander of Trinity Commandery. 
No. 58, K. T., all of these bodies located at Bradford; he is also a member of 
the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, thirty-second degree, sitting in the Val- 
ley of Pittsburgh, Penn. , of the N. M. J. , U. S. A. 

S. R. SHEAKLEY, superintendent of the Forest Oil Company, Bradford, 
was born in Butler county, Penn., July 14. 1846, a son of John and Catherine 
(Keep) Sheakley, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. His father 
died in 1852, leaving a family of seven children, of whom S. R. was the fourth. 
He was reared on a farm and was given good educational advantages, attend- 
ing Dayton College in Armstrong county, and Union Academy, from which he 
graduated in 1866. He then went to Kentucky, where he was engaged in the 
oil business. From there he proceeded to West Virginia, thence to Ohio, and 
from there to McKean county, Penn., in 1877. Mr. Sheakley was married in 
November, 1882, to Nellie C. Cameron, daughter of John Cameron, and they 
have two children: John C. and Fannie. Mrs. Sheakley is a member of the 
Presbyterian Church. In politics Mr. Sheakley is a Republican, and he is a 
Knight Templar in the Masonic fraternity. 

W. P. SHOEMAKER. M. D. (deceased), was bom in Armstrong county. 
Penn., June 6, 1848. a son of Jesse and Susan (Brubaker) Shoemaker, both 
natives of Pennsylvania, and of German descent, former of whom died, in 1856, 
in Armstrong county, where he spent his entire life. Dr. Shoemaker was the 
seventh in a family of nine children, of whom the three youngest were phy- 
sicians. He was given fair educational advantages, attending for a time the 
State normal school at Millersville, Penn. Choosing the profession of medi- 
cine, he began its study, and finally graduated in 1874 from the Michigan Uni- 
versity (Department of Medicine) at Ann Arbor. He first located in Ontario. 
Canada, where he remained three years, when he returned to his native State, 
settling in the oil regions. In 1880 he came to Bradford, McKean county, 
where he soon had a good practice. He afterward took a post-graduate course at 
Bellevue Hospital Medical College, New York City, and in 1884 went to Eng- 
land, where for a year he practiced in the London hospitals. Returning to 
Bradford in 1885, he was for some time surgeon for the Erie, the New York & 
Pittsburgh, and the Bradford, Bordell & Kinzua Railroads. He was a mem- 
ber of the State and County Medical Societies (being president at one time of 
the latter), and also of the American and International Association. He was 
a Knight Templar. Dr. Shoemaker was generous in the bestowal of his chari- 
ties, and left at his death a large circle of friends to mourn his loss. 

HENRY J. SIEGFRIED, druggist, Bradford, was born in Mercer county, 
Penn., March 5, 1853. the eldest son of Daniel M. and Anna (Myers) Sieg- 
fried, natives of Berks county, Penn., of German and English ancestry, who 
now live in Dakota. After leaving school Mr. Siegfried began clerking in a 
drug store at Franklin, Penn., and later took up the study of pharmacy. In 



394 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

1880 he removed to Bradford, where he became established in business for 
himself, and has built up a large trade. He makes a specialty of compound 
ing physicians" prescriptions, and has a goodly share of that branch in the 'bug 
business in the city. He is recognized as a careful and reliable pharmacist, 
and his honorable and upright dealings with his customers have gained the 
confidence of the community. Mr. Siegfried was married August 11, 1885, to 
Miss Marion Baker, daughter of Daniel Baker, of Allegheny City, Penn. Mr. 
Siegfried is a member of the German Reformed Church; his wife of the Meth 
odist Episcopal Church. In politics Mr. Siegfried is a Democrat. He is a 
member of the Masonic fraternity. 

W. E. SLOCUM, agent for the United States Express Company, Bradford, 
was born in Troy, N. Y. , October 5, 1847, a son of H. C. and Mary (Hyde) 
Slocum. He was well educated, having attended school in Washington county, 
X. Y., and also in Chautauqua county, X. Y. When a young man he was 
cashier for his father, who controlled the stock yards in Tioga county. N. Y . 
near Owego. the present home of his parents; later he went south, and final!) to 
Chicago, where he remained until 1871, carrying on a farm and dairy near the 
city until about the time of the great fire. He then obtained a situation with 
the United States Express Company as messenger on the night line of the 
Erie Railroad, between Dunkirk and Elmira, N. Y. In 1884 he was appointed 
agent at Owego, and in 1886 was transferred to Bradford, Penn. Mr. Slocum 
was married in Owego, N. Y., February 4, 1873, to Miss Viola A. Goodrich, 
a native of Delaware county, N. Y. , of Holland-Dutch ancestry, daughter of 
David Goodrich, and they have one child. May E. Mr. and Mrs. Slocum are 
prominent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Slocum is a 
member of the W. C. T. U., and takes a great interest in the workings of that 
association. In politics Mr. Slocum is a Republican. 

B. P. SMITH, carriage manufacturer, Bradford, was born in Chautauqua 
county, N. Y., February 26, 1854, the youngest son of Pliny and Fannie 
(Rbinehart) Smith, and is a member of the fifth generation from Henry Smith. 
one of the Puritan fathers. He was given a good education, attending the 
normal school at Fredonia, N. Y., and then taught two years. He afterward 
began to learn the carriage maker's trade, which he has since followed. 
He came to Bradford in 1882, and in 1887 embarked in business for himself. 
He is a prominent citizen of the city, and is serving his third term as a mem- 
ber of the council, representing the third ward. In politics he is a Republican. 
Mr. Smith was married at Brockton, N. Y., in 1875. to Miss Sophia N. Fay. 
and they have one child, Viola F. The parents of Mrs. Sophia X. Smith are 
O. X. and Emeline Fay r , the latter deceased. Pliny and Fannie Smith were 
both born in Xew York State, and are residents of Fredonia. Mrs. Sophia 
X. Smith is a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

S. H. SMITH, a member of the firm of Smith & Bro. , grocers, Bradford, 
was born in Xortheast, Erie Co., Penn., June 18, 1856, a son of S. C. and ■) 
A. (Valentine) Smith, former a native of Erie county, Penn., and latter of 
Michigan, both of English descent. Mr. Smith was given good educational 
advantages, and for a time taught in the schools of his native county. He 
then came to Bradford and became a member of the firm of Willis & Smith. 
and three years later bought his partner's interest, continuing the business 
alone until 1884, when he admitted his brother as a partner. The firm dues 
an extensive business, both wholesale and retail, giving employment to six 
men, and keeping two delivery wagons busy all the time. The Smith Bros, are 
young men of good business ability, and their fair prices and accommodating 
ways have built them np a large custom. S. H. Smith is also associated with 



BIOGHAPHICAL SKETCHES. 395 

B. F. Williams in the oil business. Mr. Smith was married in 1883 to 
Mary Hagerty, a native of Hornellsville, N. Y. In politics he is a Repub- 
lican. He is a member of Union Lodge, No. 334, F. & A. M. ; Bradford Chap 
ter, No. 260, R. A. M. ; Trinity Commandery, No. 58, K. T., and of Council, 
No. 43; he is also a member of the Royal Arcanum. He and his wife are 
members of the Presbyterian Church, Bradford. 

ALFRED L. SNELL. editor and associate manager of the Bradford 
Era, was born at St. Johnsville, Montgomery Co., N. Y. , October 20, 1854. 
His parents were natives of that county, of which their ancestors were pio- 
neers. Mr. Snell received a liberal education in the public schools, and passed 
three years at Cornell University, Ithaca, N. Y. From 1877 to 1880 he was 
engaged in mercantile business in his native town, but university life and the 
great oil stampede suggested to him a different vocation, and on July 1, 1880, 
we find him enrolled on the list of the true Bohemians of the Pennsylvania oil 
fields as reporter and oil statistician for the Derrick. He, assisted by J. C. 
McMullen, compiled the elaborate report of wells and well owners in McKean 
county in 1881, and later reports of production for the producers' committee 
from July, 1881, to March, 1882. Afterward he became reporter for the Even- 
ing Star, but during the summer and fall of 1882 he was among the oil scouts 
at Cherry Grove, Balltown and the Cooper tract. Subsequently he served as a 
broker's clerk in the Bradford Oil Exchange; in 1882-83 he was clerk in the 
clearing house and member of Producers' Oil Exchange, and in August, 
1883, with J. C. McMullen and W. C. Armor, he purchased the Petroleum 
Age, with which he was connected until December, 1887, when he was ap- 
pointed editor and associate manager of the Era. On June 20, 1883, Mr. 
Snell married Mary L. Horn, of St. Johnsville, N. Y. 

HENRY SONDHEIM, one of the well-known merchants of Bradford, is a 
native of Germany, born July 22, 1832. When he was four years old his 
parents came to America and settled in New York City, where, when he was a 
boy, he obtained a situation as clerk in a dry-goods house. In 1852 he went 
to California, returning to New York in 1859. In 1863 he began business for 
himself in Rochester, N. H, and in 1868 removed to Buffalo, N. Y., where he 
remained until 1878, when he moved his stock to Bradford, Penn. He carries 
a large and well-assorted stock of dry goods, carpets, etc. , his being one of the 
best stores in the city. Mr. Sondheim is a public-spirited citizen, and one of 
the leading business men of Bradford. He was married November 10, 1861, in 
the city of New York, to Miss Alice Kahn, and has four children : Solomon, Philip, 
Ray and Sophia. In politics Mr. Sondheim is a Democrat. He is a member 
of the Knights of Pythias, and is a past worthy chancellor; has also passed all 
the chairs of the I. O. B. B. ; he is also a member of the K. S. B., the I. O. F. S. 
of I., and of the Iron Hall fraternities. He and his family are members of 
the Hebrew Reformed Temple, Beth Zion. His parents, Simon and Rachel 
Sondheim, are both deceased. 

H. S. SOUTHARD, Bradford, Penn., was born in St. Louis, January 9, 
1841, a son of Allen and Jane (Hughes) Southard, the former a native of 
Brooklyn, N. Y., of English descent, the latter a native of Wales. His father 
was a sea captain who spent most of his life on the ocean and the great lakes. 
Mr. Southard was reared in Pennsylvania, was married in the spring of 1865 
to Sarah Rose Mizener, of Mifflinburg, Penn., daughter of Rev. D. Mizener, a 
minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church. They have one son, H. S., Jr. 
While quite a young man, not yet of age, Mr. Southard became one of the 
pioneers in the oil business, putting down his first well on the Blood farm on 
Oil Creek, and from this on was an active operator in oil stocks in New York, 



396 HISTOBS OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

and at the same time a producer of oil, shipping the oil at that early date, in 
llat boats to Pittsburgh, down the Allegheny river, in all of which enterprises 
he met with good success. During the years from IM',7 to 1870 he was en 
gaged in the wholesale dry goods and notion business, under the firm name of 
Southard. Crawford & McCord, in the city of Erie. His health failing, he was 
obliged to leave the lake shore for a time and go west. While in Minneapolis 
he organized the Minneapolis Gas Ligh! Company, and gave his attention to 
real-estate, making some valuable investments. Returning to Pennsylvania 
he engaged again in the oil business, and he is now largely identified also in 
the lumbering interests of McKean county. He laid out the town of Bordell. 
the post-office of which bears his name, and organized the Bordell & li.w 
City Plank Road Company. As a resident of Bradford he is a member of the 
common council, and president of the Bradford Building and Loan Association. 

C. SPANGLER, proprietor of a meat market. Bradford, was born in Ger- 
many, January 15, 1835, a son of George and Rachel Spangler. His parents 
came to America in 1838, and settled in Pittsburgh, Penn.. where the father 
died in 1878. and the mother in 1871. Mr. C. Spangler began clerking in a 
meat market in his youth, and has made that his business thus far through life. 
In L865 he located at Oil City, Penn., and established a market, removing 
thence to Bradford in 1880. Mr. Spangler was married in Allegheny City. 
Penn., in 1859, to Dora Dune, a daughter of George Dune, who is of German 
descent, and they have nine children: Charles, Emma, Ida, Caroline, George 
W., Alfred, Arthur, Howard and Edna. Mr. and Mrs. Spangler are members 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum, 
of the E. A. U., also of the Protected Home Circle, and is president of both 
the latter organizations. 

H. M. SPENCE, of the firm of Spence & Dennis, dealers in torpedoes and 
nitro glycerine, Bradford, was born in Paterson, N. J., June 24, 1852, a son 
of Archibald and Mary Spence, former of whom was a native of Scotland, and 
latter of New York, of German descent. He remained at home with his 
parents, who had removed to Michigan, until twenty-two years of age, when 
he went to Chicago and worked for the Chicago City Street Railway Company 
for two years. In 1876 he became interested in the account of the Pennsyl 
vania oil fields, and accordingly moved to Bradford, where he engaged in the 
oil producing business two years, and in 1878 became established in his present 
business. Mr. Spence was married October 4. 1SS6, to Miss Dora Davis, 
daughter of Col. XL L. Davis. In politics Mr. Spence is a Republican, and is 
a member of the county central committee. He has served one term on the 
city school board, and is at present a member of the select council of Bradford 
City. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum, of which he is past regent. 
Mrs. Spence' s father, Col. Davis, is a resident of his native State. New York. 
He was born October 27, 1812, a son of Stephen and Sally (Frisbee) Davis, 
who were of Welsh and English descent, respectively, and a grandson of Capt. 
John Davis of the Revolutionary war. Col. Davis has in his possession fchrei 
commissions granted to his grandfather, the oldest bearing the date of 1 762. 
Imbued with true military spirit, and inheriting the patriotism of his grandsire, 
when the war of the Rebellion was declared Col. Davis raised the Eighty-lifth 
New York Volunteer Infantry, and served as its colonel until obliged to resign 
on account of ill health in 1862. He has recent h received the old sword he 
Carried while in the service, and which was captured by the Confederates. He has 
been a prominent citizen of his county (Allegany), and has served as sheriff of 
the same. Political!) he is a Republican. He has been married three times, 
and has three children, two by the tirsi and one by the second marriage, viz.: 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 397 

Helen R. ; E. F., who was lieutenant in the Eighty- fifth New York Volunteer 
Infantry, and died in the service in 1862, and Dora S., now Mrs. H. M. 
Spenoe. 

L. M. STERNS, of the firm of Sterns & Milligan, wholesale produce and 
commission merchants, Bradford, was born in Lake county, Ohio, Novem- 
ber 3, 1844, a son of Ziba and Eliza (Emerson) Sterns, also natives of Ohio, 
of English descent. His parents still live on the farm near Madison, where 
he spent his childhood. After leaving the common schools of his native 
county Mr. Sterns started in life for himself, his first business venture being 
in the produce line. In 1878 he moved to Bradford and became established 
in his present business, conducting it alone until 1881, when Mr. Milligan was 
admitted as a partner, and their business increased. Mr. Sterns was married 
May 29. 1866, to Elma D. Hodges, daughter of S. S. Hodges, and they have 
three children: Mattie, Harry and Eva. Mrs. Sterns is a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics Mr. Sterns is a Republican; he is a 
member of the Masonic fraternity. 

RUFUS BARRETT STONE, counselor at law, Bradford, was born in 
the town of Groton, Mass., November 24, JN47. He is the son of Warren 
Fay and Mary (Williams) Stone, the former of English and the latter of Welsh 
descent. His maternal great-grandfather, Jacob Williams, was a Revolution- 
ary soldier, and his first American ancestor, Thomas Williams, was one of the 
original proprietors of the town of Groton. which was settled in 1655, and a 
reputed relative of Roger Williams, founder of the Rhode Island colony. 
Mr. Stone's paternal ancestry was intermarried with the families of Warren, 
Prescott and Green, of heroic Revolutionary fame, and is traced directly to 
Simon Stone, who came to this country in the ship "Increase," in 1635, and 
settled at Watertown, Mass. His early descendants were engaged in the In- 
dian wars, a garrison having been established at the house of Deacon John 
Stone, in Groton, in the year 1691, known in the early records as "Stone's 
Garrison." Just a hundred years later, and yet as early as 1790, a school kept 
at his house took the name of a lineal descendant, Jonas Stone. Of the same 
lineage was Rev. Thomas T. Stone, the oldest living Unitarian minister, the 
friend of Emerson and Alcott, and a contributor to the Dial. Mr Stone's 
father followed the trade of a carpenter. He was an anti-slavery Republican, 
and at the presidential election of 1856 was chosen to the lower house of the ■ 
Massachusetts legislature. He had three children now living: Charles War- 
ren Stone, of Warren, ex-lieutenant-governor of Pennsylvania, and at present 
secretary of the commonwealth; George Fisher Stone, late city superintendent 
of public instruction of Bradford, now engaged in the practice of law at South- 
port, N. O, and Rufus Barrett Stone, the subject of this sketch, of inter- 
mediate age. The latter, who was but ten years old at his father's death, 
was reared on his grandfather's farm, which the three sons cultivated during 
their minority. At the outbreak of the Civil war the lad applied for the posi- 
tion of powder-boy on a man-of-war, but was rejected. He has had the honor 
since the war to become a member of the famous Massachusetts Sixth Regi- 
ment. He attended the district school, high school and Lawrence Academy, 
where he graduated in the classical department. Subsequently he took a 
special course at Williams College in the junior year of the class of 1869, 
from which he was recalled by domestic bereavement. In the latter year he 
entered the United States Internal Revenue service as chief clerk of the as- 
sessor of the third district of Mississippi; and later as assistant assessor and 
deputy collector, he passed through the experiences incident to the perform- 
ance of such official duties, including the capture of illicit border distilleries 



398 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

during the days of Southern reconstruction. "While so engaged he took up 
the study of law, and was admitted to practice in lfs72 at Hernando. De Soto 
Co., Miss., before the courts of that district, and later in the supreme court of 
the State. Having resigned from the revenue service he entered upon the 
practice of law at Okolona, Miss., in copartnership with F. S. Pate. Esq.. a 
native of the State and formerly district attorney for the county. In the en- 
suing year Mr. Stone held the appointment of United States commissioner for 
the northern district of Mississippi. In 1873 he was appointed chancellor of 
the seventeenth chancery district, composed of the counties of Scott. Simp 
son. Smith and Covington, and six months later waB unanimously confirmed by 
the senate, including Democratic senators representing the district. Of his 
decisions only one was reversed, although several were mooted in the news- 
papers and published at length, especially one relating to Confederate money 
as a contract consideration, and another relating to the statute of limitations 
as affected by the Civil war. In 1870 he resigned and removed to Bradford, 
Penn. During his residence in Mississippi Mr. Stone was deeply interested 
in the progress of reconstruction, and his active espousal of the policy of the 
Republican party rendered him obnoxious to the lawless element of the oppo- 
sition. He was repeatedly assaulted, shot at, hung in effigy and made the 
recipient of death notices. He went to the State while it was a department of 
the fourth military district, and accepted an appointment under Gen. Ames 
as one of the registrars of the ensuing election in Chickasaw county. He 
was subsequently made chairman of the Republican county committee, and 
repeatedly sent as a delegate to political conventions. He not only took part 
in public speaking during several campaigns, and often before riotous assem- 
blies with one hand resting upon his revolver, but also contributed editorial 
articles to the Mississippi Pilot, the State Republican organ published at 
the capital, and temporarily edited the Prairie News, published at Okolona. 
The constitutionality of a State revenue act. separating the offices of sheriff 
and tax collector, having been denied in a legal opinion published editorially 
by ex-Representative Watson, of the Confederate congress, and accepted with 
much demonstration by the Democratic press of the State. Mr. Stone con- 
troverted the position in a series of articles which, published over an initial 
signature, were commonly attributed to ex- Attorney Gen. Morris. 

While a resident of Mississippi Mr. Stone became acquainted with Marga- 
ret Sarah Baldwin, a native of Ashfield, Mass., but then a resident of Mon- 
trose, Susquehanna Co., Penn.. to whom he was married at the home of her 
uncle, P. H. Porter, in Newark, N. J., April 18. 1872, her father, Rev. Bun- 
Baldwin, officiating, assisted by Rev. Jonathan Stearns, D. D.. a brother-in- 
law of Sargent S. Prentiss, of Mississippi, the favorite orator and famous 
Southern statesman. 

Life in the South, with its vigils and dangers, had not been without attrac- 
tion hitherto. But a bullet-hole over the mantel, a shattered shutter, the 
head-gear of a Ku-Klux, and an array of deadly weapons, were rather grim 
relics to constitute the bric-a-brac of a honeymoon. Right bravely the gentle 
wife bore the sight of an armed mob, the occasional news of neighborhood 
assassination, the dutj of midnight entertainment to a vigilance committee. 
\iul Mr. Stone, with the quiet sympathy of the best people of the community, 
still Bought among his neighbors to revive the broken confidence of the people 
in our national form of government, to encourage faith in its administri 
and to commend the Republican policy as a just basis of mutual trust between 
the races. But public opinion seemed rigid, the future of the South locked up 
in sullen hatred, and the time far off when it could become a congenial and in- 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 399 

spiring home for people of Northern birth. Upon his removal to Bradford Mr. 
Stone lost no degree of interest in the cause of his political party. Upon the 
organization of a Republican club he became its president, and was twice re- 
elected. In 1878 he was made chairman of the county committee, and subse- 
quently a member of the State committee. In 1882 he received a unanimous 
Republican nomination for mayor of Bradford, and was barely defeated by 
the intervention of an independent candidate. He has taken part in every 
campaign, speaking in his own county and occasionally in other neighboring 
counties. The Evening Star, a daily Republican newspaper published at 
Bradford, was founded with his aid in 1879, and soon after he became its sole 
proprietor and publisher. Having conducted it at an average loss for several 
years, he at length disposed of it. The paper passed through subsequent 
stages of ownership until finally it reached the Star Publishing Company, its 
present corporate proprietor, of which Mr. Stone is a director. While engaged 
in its publication he conducted its editorial department, and in periods of es- 
pecial public interest wrote its leading articles. Thus, during the controversy 
between Conkling and Garfield, he sustained the position of the New York 
senators throughout, as in accord with the ideas of Franklin and Madison, and 
justified by custom aud by the clearest views of public policy. Certain of these 
articles, having fallen under the eye of Mr. Conkling, received his graceful ac- 
knowledgment. In the New York campaign which followed the senatorial 
election the Star took earnest ground against the re-election of State Senator 
Sessions from the counties of Chautauqua and Cattaraugus, and its editorials 
were reprinted and posted on the dead walls and fences throughout the dis- 
trict. Sessions was defeated. The Star resisted the Independent movement 
in Pennsylvania under Wolfe and Stewart, against strong local influence and 
loss of patronage. It made successful opposition to the adherents of the 
Greenback theory when, under the remarkable leadership of David Kirk, they 
sought for him a seat in congress. Notwithstanding a threatened suit for libel 
in a season of great excitement among oil producers, it opposed the right of 
"mystery" owners to play with the fortunes of small producers by the publi- 
cation or tacit sanction of false reports. In respect to municipal affairs, its 
criticism of the administration of Treasurer Critchlow for disbursing indis 
criminately from distinct funds resulted in his defeat as a candidate for 
re election. Its influence was exerted against the adoption of the Holly system 
of water-works, and in favor of the present gravity system, which it supported 
with diagrams and engineers' reports prepared under its direction. In 1879 
Mr. Stone made an elaborate but ineffectual argument before the common coun 
cil in favor of the seating of F. S. Johnson, a contestant, and in 1885 success- 
fully conducted an investigation and trial before the same body, which resulted 
in unseating one of its members. Soon after his arrival in Bradford Mr. Stone 
became interested in the petroleum business, and served for a number of years 
as chairman of a limited co-partnership, which operated successfully as a pioneer 
company of Knapp's creek. He has since been continuously engaged in oil 
operations, with varying success, and his interests have extended to. the coun 
ties of Washington and Allegheny, in Pennsylvania, and into the fields of Ohio, 
West Virginia and New York. In 1879, at a mass meeting of oil producers 
held at Bradford, he was chosen as a member of a committee to oppose the 
taxation of oil before a legislative revenue commission, and at the request of 
the committee prepared an argument which was submitted to the commission 
and supplied to members of the legislature. The measure was not afterward 
pressed. He subsequently drafted a bill, which in modified form became a 
law, requiring abandoned oil wells to be plugged. Mr. Stone is a corporator 



400 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

and officer in several natural gas companies, and in like manner engaged in 
certain railroad enterprises. In 1884 he went to Leadville, Colo., as the presi- 
dent of the Muncie Mining Company, and the year previous visited the Pacific 
coast. At home Mr. Stone has exhibited marked interest in the growth and 
prosperity of Bradford. He drafted the charter and by-laws of the board of 
trade, aided conspicuously in its organization, and. as its vice-president and 
member of the board of directors, helped to shape its policy of encouragement 
to manufacturers, and conducted the negotiations which resulted in the location 
and erection at Bradford of the repair shops of the Rochester & Pittsburgh 
Railroad Company. He was a member and afterward treasurer of the Brad- 
ford Hotel Company, limited, which erected the St. James Hotel; a corporator 
and afterward president of the Bradford Manufacturing Company, which 
erected the furniture factory now occupied by B. F. Hazelton, and a corporator 
and treasurer of the Bradford Glass Works, which erected the works now con- 
ducted by the Bradford Glass Company, limited. He was a corporator and 
director of the Bradford. Smetbport & DeGolier Railroad Company, which was 
merged in the Bradford. Bordell & Kinzua Railroad Company, under an agree- 
ment that the line should be extended to Smetbport; and a corporator and trustee 
of the Bradford Hospital, whose charter and by-laws he prepared. At the 
organization, in 1880, of the State Hospital for the Insane for the northwestern 
district, comprising the counties of Cameron, Clarion, Crawford. Elk, Erie, 
Forest, McKean, Mercer, Venango and Warren, he was appointed a member of 
the board of trustees, and in 1888 he was elected president of the board. 
Upon various public occasions he has not infrequently been called upon to pre- 
side or to respond. He has made reported remarks at a celebration of the 
Irish Land League; at the dedication of the Bradford City Hospital: at a stated 
meeting of the Temperance Rescue Corps: at the dedication of the McKean 
county court house, on the event of the death of Garfield, and upon numerous 
other occasions, but these are sufficient to show the breadth of his sympathies 
and public spirit. His published addresses include one delivered at the dedi- 
cation of Armory Hall; a speech under the title "The Republican Idea," de- 
livered at Rixford, in 1884; Memorial Day addresses delivered at Eldred. at 
Olean. N. Y., and at Bradford; an address of welcome to the survivors of the 
"Bucktail Regiment," and a lecture on political economy before the Brad- 
ford Business College. Comprehending the future growth of Bradford, and 
regarding it as his permanent home, he purchased at an early date desirable 
sites for his dwelling and office. The former is an attractive cottage in the 
foot-hills, and the latter a brick building of pleasing architectural design, which 
he christened " Pompelon Hall." adopting the name of a noted Spanish city 
because it was borne by the tract or warrant, as originally granted, on which 
the city of Bradford is situated. A society known as the Pompelon Club, 
comprising a'membership of about 200, meets in this building weekly, and 
has attained celebrity in this section for its discussions of important public 
topics. Upon his arrival in Bradford Mr. Stone at once resumed the practice 
of bis profession, and at length formed a partnership with A. Leo Weil. Esq.. 
with whom he subsequently opened a branch office in Pittsburgh, when thai 
city had become an oil metropolis, attracting their clientage, and there Mr. 
W.'il ia now separately engaged in practice. Mr. Stone discovering that his 
professional business at Bradford demanded more exclusive attention than he 
could give to it without hazarding other business, which he had undertaken. 
the partnership with Mr. Weil was succeeded b\ the association of Hon. Wal- 
lace W. Brown (lately representing the district in congress) and George A. 
Sturgeon, Esq. (since elected district attorney for the county), under the firm 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 401 

name of Stone, Brown & Sturgeon. Mr. Brown having temporarily retired 
from practice in 1889. the association with Mr. Sturgeon still continues. Mr. 
Stone is admitted to practice in the district and supreme courts of the State, 
tlic circuit and district and supreme courts of the United States, and his prac- 
tice has extended to each of these courts. 

R. J. STBAIGHT, one of the most extensive oil producers in the Bradford 
oil fields, has lived in Bradford since 1876. He began working in the oil fields 
when sixteen years old, being first employed in Venango county. He had 
charge of the famous Noble well on the Ferris farm, the output of which, from 
its beginning to its close, was over 44'2,000 barrels. He also worked for a 
time at the oil refining business, and while at this began drilling wells for him- 
self. He went to Tidioute, Warren county, where he operated until he came to 
Bradford, and since coming here has been one of the heaviest producers in this 
section. Since beginning his career as an oil producer Mr. Straight has drilled 
over 1.000 wells, the output of which has been enormous. He is an active 
member of the Producers' Protective Association, which was organized in 1887. 
Mr. Straight is a native of Crawford county, Penn. , a son of Randall and 
Maria C. (Clark) Straight, and a brother of Dr. A. M. Straight. He was mar- 
ried in 1870 to Miss Augusta Shirley, daughter of Alfred Shirley, of Niagara 
county, N. Y. Mrs. Straight died, a member of the Presbyterian Church, in 
1876, leaving two children: Edith and Herbert. Mr. Straight is a Democrat. 

A. M. STRAIGHT, M. D., one of the most successful physicians of Brad- 
ford, was born in Crawford county, Penn., August 5, 1847, the third of five 
children of Randall and Maria C. (Clark) Straight, who were natives of New 
York, the father of Madison county and the mother of Cattaraugus county, and 
both of English descent. The father died in 1879, in Warren county, Penn., 
where he had lived a number of years. A. M. Straight was reared and received 
his rudimentary education in his native county, later taking a course at Oberlin 
College. Choosing medicine as his profession he entered the Western Reserve 
Medical College, from which he graduated in 1870. Wishing to be still more 
thoroughly versed in his profession he then attended Bellevue Hospital Medical 
College, at New York City, from which he graduated in LS75. He then located 
at Wilcox, Elk Co., Penn., where he remained until 1NS5, when he moved to 
Bradford. His office is in the Berry block. Dr. Straight is an untiring student 
of his profession, and keeps himself well informed on all subjects of interest 
and benefit to the fraternity. He has met with remarkable success in his prac- 
tice, which is large and constantly increasing. He is an active member of the 
county medical society, which he has served as president, and is also a member 
of the State, American and International organization. For sixteen years Dr. 
Straight was surgeon for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company; since 1885 he 
has been surgeon for the Buffalo, Pittsburgh & Rochester Railroad Company. 
He is also secretary of the United States Examining Board for Pensions. Dr. 
Straight was married in September, 1S73. to Miss Minnie Preston, daughter of 
A. B. Preston, and they have four children: Preston, Grace, Anna and Persis. 
Mrs. Straight is a member of the Presbyterian Church. The Doctor, in poli- 
tics, affiliates with the Democratic party. 

GEORGE A. STURGEON, lawyer, and district attorney for the county of 
McKean,was born near Girard, in the county of Erie, Penn., June 1, 1852. He 
is a son of Andrew and Eliza J. (Caughey) Sturgeon, the former being a na- 
tive of Erie county, N. Y., and the latter a native of Erie county, Penn., both 
of Scotch-Irish lineage. The family name is distinguished in the history of 
the State by Daniel Sturgeon, who, as a colleague of Simon Cameron and his 
successor, James Buchanan, held the office of United States senator from 1839 



402 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

to L851. George A. Sturgeon was reared upon his father's farm near Girard, 
which was quite extensive, and took his part in its cultivation. He attended 
Girard Academy and completed his education under private tuition. He sought 
employment as a teacher, and while so engaged began the study of law. and 
finished his course uuder the instruction of J. C. Sturgeon, Esq., an older 
brother, who had been the district attorney for the county of Erie. From 
1870 to 1878 Mr. Sturgeon served as deputy United States marshal for the 
Western District of Pennsylvania. Be came to Bradford in January. 1878, 
and there completed his studies, and in the following year was admitted to the 
bar of McKeau county, where he has since c mtinued in active practice. He is 
also admitted to practice in the supreme court of the State, aud in the circuit 
and district courts of the United Stat.'.-. He has been associated with Hon. 
W. W. Brown, who represented the district in congress, and R. B. Stone, and 
is now the junior member of the law firm of Stone & Sturgeon. In 1887. a- the 
candidate of the Republican party, to which he belongs. Mr. Sturgeon was 
elected by a large popular majority to the office of district attorney for the 
term of three years. In the practice of his profession Mr. Sturgeon is distin- 
guished for care and unswerving fidelity, which have won for him a reliable 
clientage, as well as the esteem of the bar and the court. His services are 
frequently sought in the execution of trusts and administration of estates. 
His quick comprehension of mechanical device-,, and aptitude in their explana 
tion, are appreciated by inventors and patentees. It is not unlikely that this 
gift of genius is shared as a family heritage, since William Sturgeon, of Lan- 
cashire, England, is noted as one of the earlier inventors in electro-magnetism, 
ami as a lecturer on science in the Royal Victoria Gallery at Manchester. Mr. 
Sturgeon was married November 10, 1881, to Miss Mary L. Davis, daughter of 
Charles Davis, a prominent citizen of Friendship. N. Y.. aud they have two 
children: Clara C. and Bertha L. The family attend the services of the IV, - 
byterian Church, of which Mrs. Sturgeon is a member. Their home, in a de 
sirable quarter of the city, is spacious and attractive. 

MOSES SULLIVAN." attorney at law. Bradford and Butler. Penn., is a law- 
yer of superior ability, and has a large practice both in McKean and Butler 
counties. He is well educated, being a graduate in a regular classical course 
from Westchester University, class of L866, ami prior to his attendance there 
he was a student at the Moravian Boarding School at Nazareth. Penn. After 
leaving college he studied law with the Hon. E. McJunkiu, of Butler. Penn.. 
was admitted to the bar, and began his practice in that city. He opened his 
office in Bradford in 1880. Mr. Sullivan was born in Butler, Penn.. .March 28, 
1848, the second of five children of Charles ('. and Susan ('. | Seltzer) Sullivan. 
who wereof German and Irish descent, respectively. His father died in I860. 
Mr. Sullivan is a Republican in politics. He is a member of Butler Lodge, E. 
& A. M. He is also an active member of the Presbyterian Church. 

J. C. SWAIN, agent fur the New York. Lake Erie & Western Railroad 
at Bradford, was born in Wellsville, Ohio, April 23, 1855, a son of Silas and 
Martha (Coffin) Swain, natives of Nantucket Island. Mass. He was educated 
at Ravenna, Ohio, and there learned the art of telegraphy. He came t<> Brad 
ford in 1876, and in 1 SS-t he was there employed a- train dispatcher, serving 
in that position four years. He then went to Salamanca, N Y.. where he was 
clerk in tin' freight office until L888, when he was transferred to his present 
positional Bradford. Mr. Swain was married in l^ s o. at Bradford, to Miss 
Mary A. Single, daughter of John Ringle, who was of Swiss descent, aud they 
have ..ne child, William E. Mrs. Swain is a member of the Catholic Church. 
In politics Mr. Swain is independent. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 403 

H. H. TAGGART, conductor on a passenger train of the Western New 
York & Pennsylvania Eailroad, was born in Livingston county, N. Y. , April 
14. 1842, a son of Washington and Mary Ann (Havens) Taggart, former a 
native of Pennsylvania, and latter of New York, of English descent. His father 
dying when he was in his childhood, he was reared by relatives, living in his 
native State until the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion. He enlisted 
in April, 1861. in the First Pennsylvania Regiment, Volunteer Infantry, known 
as the First Pennsylvania '' Bucktails," as a drummer, and participated in 
many hard-fought battles, among others Antietam, Chancellorsville, Gettys- 
burg and the Wilderness. At the close of his term of service he went to Law- 
renceville, Tioga Co., Penn., where he remained but a short time, going from 
there to Erie, Penn., where he was employed by the Lake Shore & Michigan 
Southern Railroad until 1872, when he accepted a position as conductor on the 
B., N. Y. & P. R. R., now known as the Western New York & Pennsylvania 
Railroad, and in 1881 he was appointed to his present position. Mr. Taggart 
was married in Buffalo, N. Y. , in 1869, to Fannie Clark, daughter of George 
R. and Caroline E. (Howard) Clark, and they have one daughter. Emma Hen- 
rietta. Mrs. Taggart is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In 
politics Mr. Taggart is a Republican. He is a member of the Masonic frater- 
nity and the Union Veteran Legion, and was the first chaplain of the Brad- 
ford Legion. He is also a member of Excelsior Lodge, No. 4, E. O. M. A. , 
of Buffalo, N. Y. 

JOHN A. THEETGE. of the firm of Mclntyre & Theetge, proprietors of a 
meat market. Bradford, was born in Chemung, Chemung Co. , N. Y. , in October, 
1844, a son of Oliver and Polly (Robberts) Theetge, former a native of New 
Hampshire, and latter of Maine. He remained in his native county until he 
was twenty-four years old. and when thirteen years of age began the carpenter's 
trade, working at same seven years and six months before reaching his majority. 
He came to McKean county in 1868, and commenced working for the Lafay- 
ette Coal Company as foreman under Gen. N. J. Jackson; was superintendent 
for the same company until 1872, and then lived in Elmira. N. Y., until 1876, 
when he located in Bradford, where he worked at his trade four years, or until 
1880, when he went to Custer City, same county, where he kept the Custer 
City Hotel seven years. Returning to Bradford in 18S7, he became associated 
with Mr. Mclntyre in the meat market business, and they have built up a good 
trade, having one of the best markets in the city. Mr. Theetge was married 
in Cattaraugus county, N. Y. . in 1872, to Ellen, a native of East Ran- 
dolph, that county, and daughter of M. and Mary (Curns) Callahan, and they 
have two children: S. L. and Gracie G. In politics Mr. Theetge is a Demo- 
crat. He is a past noble grand in the I. O. O. F. His parents are still living 
in Chemung county, N. Y., at the ages of seventy- seven and seventy-nine years, 
respectively, but the parents of Mrs. Theetge are both deceased. 

MYRON ALLEN TODD, M. D., was born at Ovid, Seneca Co., N. Y., 
February 11, 1847. His parents moved to Angelica, N. Y., in the year 1848, 
where he received his academic education. At an early age he ably filled the 
position as manager in his father's store, consisting of drugs and general mer- 
chandise. In May, 1873, he commenced the study of medicine under his 
father, attended lectures at the university of Buffalo, N. Y. , and the Homoeo- 
pathic Hospital College at Cleveland, Ohio, graduating from the latter 
February 16, 1876. He was associated afterward with his father in general 
practice at Angelica, N. Y., until May 1, 1878, when he located at Bradford, 
Penn. January 3, 1879, he was elected health officer and city physician of 
Bradford, Penn., was re-elected May 22, 1880, and June 14, 1881, and served 



404 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

continuously till August 8, 1882. The Doctor is a member of the board of 
surgeons of the Bradford Citv Hospital, and medical examiner for the follow- 
ing secret orders: K. of P., K. of H, I. O. H., K. & L. of H. O. G. C, 
A. O. U. W., R. T. of T.. S. K. of A. O. U. W„ I. O. S. of B.. I. O. R. 
M., I. O. F. S. of I., besides several regular and accidental insurance com- 
panies. He has confined himself exclusively to homoeopathy and is considered 
one of the representative men of the city. The Doctor was united in mar- 
riage t>> Miss Anna Helena, daughter of J. O. Akerlind, of Trade Lake, \\ is., 
January 6, 1873. His father, who successfully practiced medicine at Angelica, 
N. Y., thirtv-seven vears. was born at Hvde Park, Dutchess Co., N. Y., July 
L2, L819. His only' brother. Dr. W. S. Todd. Jr., located at Belfast, N. Y.. i's 
a practitioner of the same medical school. In politics the Doctor is a strong 
believer in the Democratic principles as far as they pertain to the government 
of the count ry. 

CHARLES E. TUCKER, oil producer and manufacturer of ladies' and 
misses' fine shoes, Bradford, was born at Bath, Me., December 26, 1848. a 
son of George W. and Mary (Read) Tucker, descendants of early settlers of 
Maine. He was educated for the Universalist ministry, attending the St. 
Lawrence Theological University, and after completing his course entered the 
ministry, for thirteen years following his calling in Maine. Massachusetts. 
Pennsylvania and Illinois. He received a call to th^ church of Titusville 
in 1875, and four years later was called to Aurora, 111., where he remained 
two years, and in 1881 he retired from the ministry to attend to his old inter 

ests. He then moved to Bradford, Penn.. whore he has ever since I a 

actively engaged in business; he is also a member of the firm of Tucker 
& Marvin, Jamestown, N. Y. He was married in 1S71 to Mary D. Drullard, 
daughter of Solomon Drullard. a wealthy iron manufacturer, of Buffalo, and 
now have four children: Charles M.. Elwin D., Alice M. ami Solomon D. In 
politics Mr. Tucker is a Prohibitionist. 

W. N. VALENTINE, agent for the American Express Company at Brad- 
ford, was born in Fort Plain, Montgomery Co., N. Y., January 5. lSo-4, a son 
of Peter and Eliza (Van Slyke) Valentine, natives of New York, and of Ger- 
man descent When W. N. Valentine was a child his parents moved to Erie 
City. Penn.. where he lived till manhood. His first work was as clerk in a 
grocery store, and then he went west, and for two years clerked in a hotel. He 
has been in the employ of the American Express Company since 1N7'.'. first as 
porter, and by promotion has finally reached his present position. He is a 
member of the Knights of Pythias. 

MARTIN W. WAGNER, owner and manager of the Wagner Opera Eouse, 
Bradford, and also a member of the firm of Wagner & Reis, who have the 
management of eleven theaters in towns in Pennsylvania, New York and Ohio, 
was born in Allegany county. X. Y.. November 28, 1^11. a son of H. and 
Eleanor (Sears) Wagner. Early in life he learned the carriage makers' trade, 
at which lie worked until 1862, when he wen! to Venango county. Penn., and 
became interested in the production of oil. Later he op, .nod a hotel in Pit 
hole. Penn.. and also dealt in coal and lumber. In IStiii he removed to Iliad 
ford, where he Imilt the Wagner Opera House in 1876, which he enlarged in 
1879, making if one of the best houses for dramatic, operatic and other enter 
tiinments in the State. He became associated in l s 7'.t with Mr. Moses Reis, 
and they have made a success of their business above mentioned. Mr. Reis 
give- his entire time to procuring talent for and managing their various thea 
ters, while Mr. Wagner gives par) of his attention to his farm, on which he 
now lives, near Limestone. N. V. Mr. Wagner was married in 1868 to Miss 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 405 

Mary D. Frank, and they have three children: Frank M. (who is local manager 
of the theater at Olean, N. Y.). Fred W. and Charles A. In politics Mr. Wag- 
ner is a Republican. He is a member of the F. & A. M., Knights of Pythias 
and <>f the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. 

T. L. V. WAGNER, farmer, P. O. Bradford, was born in Oneida county, 
N. Y. , April 19, 1822, a son of John and Sarah (Van Alstine) Wagner, who 
moved to Steuben county, N. Y. , in 1827, and engaged in farming there until 
their death. T. L. V. Wagner remained on the homestead until 1843, when 
he married Miss Eliza, daughter of James Slocum, of the town of Pultney, 
Steuben Co., N. Y. In 1844 they came to McKean county, Penn., overland, 
bringing all their goods and chattels on a sled drawn by two teams of horses. 
They purchased a farm in Bradford township, and after living on it for some 
years and clearing and improving it, they traded for their present farm, where 
they have since resided. They were among the early settlers of Bradford town- 
ship, there being but three houses in the present city of Bradford on their 
arrival in the township. Eleven children were born to their union, seven of 
whom are living: John, in Cattaraugus county, N. Y. ; Diantha, wife of Joseph 
Story, in Bradford township; Albert, Arthur, Frank, in Bradford; Isabella 
and Delia, at borne. The family are members of the Presbyterian Church. 

J. A. WALDO, wholesale and retail dealer in flour and feed, hay, straw, 
oats, corn meal, etc., Bradford, was born in Portage county, Ohio, May 17, 
1843, a son of H. A. and Christiana (Kilpatrick) Waldo, former a native of 
New York, and latter of Vermont, of Irisb and Welsh descent, respectively. 
J. A. Waldo learned the carpenter's trade with his father, working at it until 
the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, when, June 13, 1861, he enlisted 
and was assigned to the First Ohio Artillery. He participated in many hard- 
fought battles, among the more important being Fort Donelson and Pittsburgh 
Landing. He was discharged in 1863 on account of disability, and returned 
home. He soon after came to Pennsylvania, first to Corry and then to Brad- 
ford, of which place he has been one of the leading citizens, and has served as 
a member of the select council. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the 
Knights of Malta. In politics he is a Republican. When a boy at home in 
Ohio, his Sunday-school teacher was James A. Garfield, afterward president of 
the United States. Mr. Waldo was married January 3, 1864, to Eunice 
Johnson, daughter of Anson Johnson, and they have two children: Anson S. 
and Delia. 

A. B. WALKER, oil producer, Bradford, was born in Harrisville, Butler 
Co., Penn., February 28,1847, a son of R. R. and Jane H. (Wallace) Walker, 
natives and still residents of that county. A. B. Walker received his educa 
tion at the common and high schools of Harrisville, leaving his home perma- 
nently at about twenty years of age, and after going through all the practical 
work — drilling and contracting for wells, etc. — he tried his first venture as a 
producer near Petrolia, in 1873, and in 1875 came with three others to Brad- 
ford, where they drilled their first well on a leased piece of ground, taken 
from P. T. Kennedy, and this well really started the Bradford oil excitement; 
later he became a member of the firm of Melvin, Walker & Co., who devel- 
oped and held an interest in 7,000 acres of land, called the Moody tract. Mr. 
Walker also assisted in organizing the Bradford Oil Exchange, and was then 
and ■-till is one of its directors; he is also a member of Union Lodge, No. 334, 
F. & A. M., of Bradford Chapter, R. A. M. , and of Trinity Commandery, K. 
T., No. 50; he was also one of the original stockholders of the First National 
Bank of Bradford, and has always been one of its board of directors. In 1877 
he married Miss Effie, daughter of James E. Blair, of Bradford, and to this 



406 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

anion have been born three childreu: Gertrude, Nellie aud Ruth. In politics 
Mr. Walker is a Republican. 

JAMES A. WALKER, of the firm of Bodine & Walker, hardware mer- 
chants, Bradford, is a native of Butler county, Penn., born in Harrisville. June 
11, 1854, a son of Robert R. and Jane H. (Wallace) Walker, natives of Penn- 
sylvania, of Scotch and German descent, respectively. He was reared in his 
native town, attending school until fifteen years of age, when he began clerk- 
ing in the store of J. N. Culbison, remaining with him until his majority. He 
then came to Bradford, and was employed at the oil wells until the present 
partnership of Bodine & Walker was formed. Mr. Walker was married in 
1881 to Miss Lizzie Elrick, daughter of Dr. J. H. Elrick. and they have two 
children: Charles and Bessie. In politics Mr. Walker is a Republican; he is 
a Knight Templar. Mrs. Walker is a member of the United Presbyterian 
Church. 

LOYAL WARD, attorney at law and collector. Bradford, was born in 
Great Valley, Cattaraugus Co., N. Y., January 1. IS'^7. the fourth in the fam- 
ily of eight children of Charles and Lydia A. (King) Ward, natives of Rut- 
land county, Vt., and of English descent, the former of whom died in Great 
Valley in 1848. The subject of these lines was reared on his father's farm. 
and in his youth attended the common schools and the seminary at Spring- 
ville, Erie Co., N. Y., after returning from Racine county. Wis., where he vis- 
ited three years during his father's residence in the West. In early life we 
find the youthful aspirant teaching school at Tarport. Littleton. Limestone and 
Salamanca, being principal of the high school at the latter place for a time. 
In 1850 he came to Bradford, Penn., where he taught for two years in the acad- 
emy, and in the meantime he read law. In 1871 he was elected associate judge 
of his county, serving a full term, and it may be remarked that during his 
incumbency much care was exercised in granting licenses. The Judge has 
given his attention mainly to the settlement of estates, and to the abstract and 
collecting businesses. He was married in 1853 to Adaline E. . daughter of 
John F. and Lucretia (Farr) Melvin. who were of English descent, and pio 
neers of McKean county, settling here in 1826. Mr. Melvin became one of the 
wealthy men of the county, and at his death, which occurred in L857, was the 
owner of 472 acres of valuable land. He was also proprietor, for many years, 
of the only store at Tarport. Mr. and Mrs. Ward have had seven children, four 
of whom are living: Bernice E., wife of Brewer Button; Wilber. in Lima. Ohio: 
Edna M. and Charles M. ; one daughter, Edith (wife of S. D. Weaver), and 
two infants are deceased. Mrs. Ward is a member of the Methodist Church, 
the Judge of the United Brethren in Christ. In politics he is a Republican, and 
has been a member of the school board of Bradford several years. He is an 
earnest advocate of temperance, but not a third party man. In 1873 Judge 
Ward purchased the Porter farm, in Bradford, aud in L879 he became posses 
sor of a few oil wells on the Babcoek & Hulings Foster-Brook tract, by pay- 
ing a nominal price. In 1878-79 he sold the oil privileges on his farm to the 
Enterprise Transit Company, who opened six producing wells, clearing heavy 
profits, and in 1884 he retired from the oil business. In 1S75 the Judge was 
appointed agent of the Newell estate, subsequently, in 1 880, of the Ed--- m 
estate, and later was trustee of the Kingsbury estate, Eor four years. In Feb- 
ruary. 1890, the popularity of Judge Loyal Ward was made manifest by his 
election to the office of mayor of Bradford. 

ALEX WATSON, one of the prominent oil producers of Bradford, and 
also proprietor of one of the manufacturing industries of the city, was born in 
Elgin, Morayshire, Scotland, October 23, 1842, the eldest of five children of 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 407 

James and Arm Watson, who came to America when he was a young child, set- 
tling in Canada, where the father died in 1882. The subject of our sketch was 
reared in Cowansville, Canada East, coming to the United States in 1865, and in 
August of that year to the oil districts of Pennsylvania, where, being a carpen- 
ter, he found employment making derricks. He bought property which proved 
to be rich with oil, and he has been one of the successful men in the field, be- 
ing now a member of three companies. In 1879 he began the manufacture of 
wooden tanks and bull wheels for oil wells, and now employs twenty men, his 
foreman being C. F. Madison, at Bradford. He also employs about twenty 
men in Washington, Penn., where his brother, R. D. Watson, superintends the 
works. Mr. Watson was married August 15, 1871, to Mary A. Madison, a na- 
tive of Pennsylvania. The parents of Mrs. Watson are Charles A. and Han- 
nah A. (Winegar) Madison, both born and reared in Washington county, N. Y. , 
the former family coming from Rhode Island, and the latter being of Dutch 
descent. Mr. and Mrs. Watson have four children: Berdie, Earl, Clara and 
Clifford. Mrs. Watson is a member of the United Brethren Church. In pol 
itics Mr. Watson is a Republican. He is a member of the Knights of Honor, 
and also of the Improved Order of Heptasophs. 

W. R. WEAVER, hardware merchant and oil producer, Bradford, was 
bom in Hillsdale county, Mich. , March 24, 1840, a son of William and Mercy 
(Willetts) Weaver, former a native of Vermont, and latter of New York, both 
of English ancestry. His father died in Michigan in 1886, at the advanced 
a»e of eighty-six years. W. R. Weaver was the sixth of seven children, and 
was reared in his native county, attending in his boyhood the district schools. 
As soon as competent he began teaching in order to acquire means to further 
pursue his studies. In this way he attended for a time Hillsdale College, and 
then the State University at Ann Arbor, teaching alternately with attending 
school, to defray his expenses. After leaving school he again taught for a 
time, devoting in all about four years to this vocation. Preferring a business 
life to the school- room, however, he accepted a position in the store of Lewis 
Emery, Jr. , at Hudson, Mich., which he managed from 1867 to 1870. In 1870 
Mr. Emery sold out and discontinued the business. Mr. Weaver then joined 
Emery at Titusville, and took charge of his financial interests there until 1876, 
when he became a partner with him at Bradford, Penn., in the hardware and 
oil supply business, conducted under the firm name of L. Emery, Jr., & Co., 
and that of oil producing under the name of the Emery Oil Company. 
Mr. Weaver is the financial manager of this vast business, and his qualifica- 
tions in this connection are well established by the marked success which is the 
result of his management, and also by the fact that from an employe he has 
risen to a partnership in the business. In addition to attending to the manage- 
ment of his business Mr. Weaver is secretary and treasurer of the Citizens' 
Light and Heat Company, which succeeded to the plant of the old Light and 
Heat Company of Bradford in 1888. He is a Republican in politics, in 1888 
and 1889 was chairman of the McKean county central committee, and the 
county gave the largest Republican majority at the November (1888) election 
ever given since its organization. He is a prominent member of the I. O. O. F., 
and has passed all the chairs of both lodge and encampment. He is also a rep- 
resentative member of the F. & A. M.. member of lodge, chapter, council 
and commandery, is past high priest of Bradford Chapter, No. 260, R. A. M. . 
and captain-general of Trinity Commandery, No. 58, K. T. He is also a mem- 
ber of the thirty-second degree, Pennsylvania Consistory, at Pittsburgh, A. & 
A. Scottish Rite; a member of Syria Temple A. A. O. U. M. S., as well as 
member of thirty-third degree, ninetieth degree and ninety-fifth degree Sov- 



i'l.S HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

ereign Sanctuary of U. S. Royal Masonic Rite. Besides these he is president 
of the board of school control, and secretary of the Bradford Driving Park 
and Fair Association. He was married April 19, 1865, to Helen A. Gilson. and 
they have three children: Genevieve, Clarence E. and Mabel. Mr. and Mrs. 
Weaver are members of the Episcopal Church, of which he is a vestryman. 

P. L. "WEBSTER, surveyor, Bradford, was born in Lebanon. N. H. . Au- 
gust 6, 1830, a son of Philip H. and Lucy J. (Dix) Webster. His father was 
a nephew of Daniel Webster, and his mother was a sister of Gen. John A. Dix. 
who was famous for having said " Whoever attempts to tear down the Ameri- 
can flag, shoot him on the spot." His father died in October, 1830, leaving 
two sons, Charles D. and P. L., and in 1837 his mother married Col. L. C. 
Little. The Colonel was employed as their agent by the United States Land 
Company, who owned 140,000 acres of land, considerable of it lying in Mc- 
Kean county, and soon after his marriage started for Pennsylvania, where he 
established headquarters at Bradford, which town was called Littleton until 
about 1859. This country at that time was a wilderness, and the trip from 
New Hampshire was made with a team. Col. Little was a good father to his 
stepsons, and the subject of this sketch was given good educational advantages, 
taking an academic course at Springville. N. Y. The Colonel died in 1854, 
and his wife in 1858. After his stepfather's death. Mr. Webster was em- 
ployed by the land company, and spent some time settling up the business. He 
learned the carpenter's trade, at which he worked for a time. For twenty-five 
years he was engaged in the undertaking business, and has few superiors as a 
funeral director. In all his enterprises Mr. Webster has met with success, 
and is now one of the leading business men of Bradford. He has a fine orange 
grove in Florida, where with his family he spends his winters. He was mar- 
ried in 1871 to Mrs. Ellen (Johnson) Morrison, and they have one son, Frank 
Morrison. Mr. Webster is a Republican in politics, and has held most of the 
offices in the city of Bradford, among others those of treasurer and burgess. 
In 1862 he was appointed military storekeeper at Fortress Monroe, and had 
charge of twenty assistants, serving in that position until 1865. His brother. 
Charles D. "Webster, was captain of Company E, Fifty-eighth Regiment of 
Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, serving throughout the war. and now lives 
at Tarpon Springs, Fla. Mr. and Mrs. Webster are among the prominent 
citizens of Bradford, both in social and religious circles, Mrs. Webster being a 
member of the Baptist Church. 

W. L. WELLS, ticket agent for the Western New York & Pennsylvania 
Railroad at Bradford, was born in Dunkirk. N. Y. January 7, 1855, a son 
of W. R. and Ann (Lippencott) Wells, former of whom died iu 1880. W. L. 
Wells, who is the only surviving member of his father's family, when a boy 
began learning telegraphy, and in 1872 he entered the employ of the Atlantic 
& Pacific Telegraph Company at Dunkirk, N. Y. , remaining with them four 
years, and since 1877 has been iu the employ of the Erie Railroad Company. 
with the exception of one year, during which he was a clerk in the Bradford 
post-office. He was married in Summit. N. J., in 1882, to Nina Effie. daugh 
ter of Rev. J. W. Loane. but she died March 30. 1NS4. Their only child, 
William Snow, died February 29, 1884. In December, 1885, Mr. Wells mar 
ried Frankie Holt, daughter of J. T. Holt, and to this union have been born 
oik- girl and one boy. Coral Vane and Hugh Eugene. Mr. and Mi's. Wells arc 
members of the Methodisl Episcopal Church. He is a member of the Masonic 
fraternity, and in politics is a Prohibitionist. 

t '. P> WHITEHEAD, postmaster, Bradford, was born in LawrencevHle, 
Tioga Co., Penn., Januan \ is ID. ;l son of Isaac and Sarah (Lugg) White 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 409 

bead, former a native of Massachusetts, of Swedish ancestry, and latter a 
native of England. His father moved to Tioga county in 1830, and made that 
his home until his death, in 1848. He was twice married, and had a family 
of three children, C. B. being a son by his second marriage. G. B. Whitehead 
was reared in his native county, where he attended the common schools, and 
afterward became a student at the high school at Spring Mills, N. Y. In 1860 
he went to Titusville, where he was employed by Brewer, Watson & Co. , oil 
producers, two years, and then for four years was in the employ of Fisher 
Brothers at Oil City. He then returned to Tioga county, and with his uncle, 
A W. Lugg, was engaged in mercantile business at Nelson, four years. He 
sold his interest in 1870, and went to Blossburg, Penn. . where he carried on a 
hotel four years; but not liking that business he opened a drug store in Wells- 
boro, Penn., which he conducted until 1878, when he removed to Bradford. 
and has since been engaged mainly in oil producing. He is a Democrat in 
politics, and has served three terms as a member of the select council, a part 
of the time as chairman of the board. He is a member of the Masonic fra- 
ternity. In 1875 he married Miss Mary Ferris, daughter of H. W. Ferris, 
and they have two children: Sarah and Waldo M. 

R. E. WHITELEY, manager of the Star Publishing Company, Bradford, 
was born May 5, 1838, at Hyde Park, Dutchess Co., N. Y., whither his 
jjarents (who came to the United States in 1823) had removed from Philadel- 
phia about 1837. Mr. Whiteley was educated in the last-named city, to which 
the family returned in 1843, and in 1859, when twenty-one years of age, he 
moved to the lumber woods of Maine, where he followed lumbering until Sep- 
tember 28, 1861, at which date he enlisted in the First Maine Cavalry. During 
Banks' retreat from the Shenandoah Valley he was captured at Middletown, 
Va., and imprisoned at Lynchburg and Belle Isle from May 24 to October, 
1862, when he was paroled. In December of same year, being exchanged, he 
rejoined his old corps at Frederick, Md. , and served with it until mustered out 
in November, 1864. During the three years following his discharge from the 
army he was in the employ of the C. & A. R. R., and then embarked in busi- 
ness in Jersey City. Mr. Whiteley was married in 1866 to Allie E., daughter 
of Joshua King, of Smethport, and nine years thereafter moved with his fam- 
ily to Port Allegany, McKean county, taking up his residence in 1876 at Brad- 
ford. Later Mr. Whiteley became paymaster during the construction of the 
Tide Water Pipe Company's line, and in 1880 he was engaged in a similar 
position during the construction of the Buffalo Company's pipe line. From 
1881 to 1885 we rind him filling the position of deputy sheriff of McKean county 
under Col. A. I. Wilcox, and in June, 1885. he assisted in organizing the Star 
Publishing Company, in Bradford, of which he is manager. 

WHITNEY & WHEELER. Bradford. Among the representative oil pro- 
ducers in the city of Bradford mention should here be made of the well-known 
firm of Whitney & Wheeler. This firm is composed of Charles S. Whitney 
and Samuel A. Wheeler, both of whom have been identified with the oil- 
producing interest at Bradford from its infancy, and are among the largest 
producers at the present time. Mr. Whitney, who has been in the oil country 
since the '•sixties,'" at present resides at Belmont, N. Y. Mr. Wheeler came 
to the oil country in 1871 ; he was formerly a wholesale dealer in dry goods in 
Toledo, Ohio, and his present residence is in Buffalo, N. Y. 

C. A. WILBUR, merchant, Custer City, was born in Chautauqua county, 
N.Y., December 6, 1850, a son of Simeon and Christina (Griffith) Wilbur,natives 
of Otsego and Chautauqua counties, N. Y., respectively. His father, who 
was a farmer by occupation, was one of the early settlers of Chautauqua 



410 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

county; he was a supporter of the Republican party, and filled various town- 
ship offices; was a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and 
died in Chautauqua county; his widow is still livingon the homestead. ('. A. 
Wilbur and his brother and partner in business, were the only children bom to 
their parents. They were reared on the homestead farm, and received a com- 
mon school education. C. A. Wilbur engaged in mercantile business in Chau- 
tauqua county for a number of years, and in 1876 came to McKean county, es 
tablishing a general store at DeGolier. In 1883 Mr. Wilbur moved to Custer 
City, where he has since conducted a general store — oil well supplies, etc. In 
is i 1 Mr. Wilbur married Miss A. Damon, of Chautauqua county, N. Y. , who 
died in 1873, leaving one child. Florence E. He was again married, on this 
occasion, in 1883, to Miss Adell Carrier, daughter of Timothy Carrier of Cat- 
taraugus county, N.Y., and to them have been born two children: Ralph and an 
infant unnamed. Mr. Wilbur is a supporter of the Republican party. 

FRANK S. WILBUR, was born in Chautauqua county, N.Y.,. July 20,1862. 
In L878 he came to McKean county, where he engaged in mercantile business 
with his brother C. A. This partnership still exists, under the iirm name of 
Wilbur Bros. They are also oil producers, owning at the present time fifteen 
wells. In 1880 Mr. Wilbur married Miss Jessie, daughter of John Cobb, of 
Chautauqua county, N. Y., and they have two children: Daisy and Lillian. 
Our Bubject is a member of Columbia League of Custer City, E. A. U.. and is 
an active supporter of the Republican part \ . 

COL. A. I. WILCOX, vice-president "of the Bradford. Bordell & Kinzua 
Railroad, Bradford, was born in Herkimer county, N. Y. , March 22, 1819, the 
only son of William P. and Betsey (Paine) Wilcox, who were natives of the 
New England States, of Irish ami English descent. His father was a mer- 
chant in Connecticut when a young man, and thence moved to Nunda, N. 
Y. . where he lived until 1832, when he came to McKean county, Perm., and 
settled in Williamsville, but removed to Port Allegany, where he died. He 
was a prominent Democrat, was speaker of the State senate during the 
administration of Gov. Porter, and for many years took an active part in 
State politics. The subject of this biographical record was reared under 
Democratic doctrine, and adhered to the faith of his father until the break- 
ing out of the war of the Rebellion, when he became a strong Union man, 
and has since voted the Republican ticket. He was given good educational 
advantages, first attending the common schools, and then the academy at 
Lima, N. Y. After reaching his majority, he embarked in the lumber trade. 
in which he was very successful until the flood of 1861, when, in one night, 
$100,000 worth of his lumber was swept away. He had built a neat and 
substantial residence at Wilcox (a place which had its origin in his lumber 
interests, and was named in his honor), at that time the best private resi 
dence in the county. After his loss by the Hood, Mr. Wilcox began con- 
tracting and building railroads, becoming superintendent of the construction 
of a large part of these roads. He next embarked in the oil interests, as 
a producer, and he has carried on an extensive business in this line. Col. 
Wilcox has experienced many ups and downs in his business career, having 
seen fortunes vanish in a few hou*s, then made fortunate investments, and 
thereby retrieved his losses. He has not been soured by misfortune, but 
through all the varied vicissitudes of life, his manliness and integrity have 
been manifest. He has taken an active interest in the prosperity of Brad- 
ford, and it was largely through his influence that the Board of Trade, of 
which he is now general manager, succeeded in establishing many new indus 
trie- in Bradford. He earned his title of colonel by serving on the staff of Gov. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 411 

William F. Packer, and Gov. John W.Geary. In 1847 he represented Warren, 
Elk and McKean counties in the legislature as a Democrat, and was re-elected, 
serving two terms; and in 1871 he represented Jefferson, Elk and Cameron 
counties as a Republican, although at that time those counties were strongly 
Democratic. In 1881 he was elected and served one term as sheriff of McKean 
county. He was married in June. 1845, to Miss Louisa Horton, daughter of 
Judge Isaac Horton, of Elk county, Penn. She died in 1880. Their only 
child, Ida, is the wife of Ernest Koester, an attorney of McKean county. 

D. J. WILDER, proprietor of the Pierce House, Bradford, was born in 
Franklin county, Mass., September 18, 1837, a son of Josephus and Louisa 
(Hastings) Wilder. In 1851 his parents moved to South Cleveland, Ohio, 
where he remained until after the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, 
and in 1862 he enlisted in the Forty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, his 
commander being James A. Garfield. Prior to this enlistment he had served 
three months in the Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry. While in the service 
he had seven holes shot in his clothes, and one bullet-hole in his hat, but was 
never seriously wounded. After the war he returned to Ohio, and for seven 
years was engaged in the flour and feed business, and then for sis years was 
in the ice business at Cleveland. Ohio. In 1878 he came to Bradford, and in 
1888 embarked in his present business. He was married, in Ohio, to Miss 
Lilian Yeager. They have no children. Mr. Wilder is a Republican in poli 
tics, and is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. 

E. S. WILLIAMSON, proprietor of Williamson's restaurant, Bradford, 
was born in Buffalo, N. Y. , March 12, 1847, a son of Ely and Elizabeth 
(Riding) Williamson, natives of England. His father was a mechanical en- 
gineer, and established the Buffalo Steam Engine Works in Buffalo, N. Y., 
known now as Tiff's Engine Works. He still lives in Buffalo, and is now 
eighty-one years old. E. S. Williamson was given a good business education, 
graduating from Bryant & Stratton's Business College at Buffalo. In 1S64 
he removed to the oil regions and worked in the oil fields, buying an interest 
in some wells. He then became manager of the hardware store of D. C. 
Backus, and in 1877 established three stores for Kerr, Geider & Co., in Brad- 
ford, and superintended their business till 1879, when he again turned his 
attention to the oil industry. In 1882 he went to Richburg, Allegany Co., 
N. Y., and established the Central Machine Shop which afterward burned, 
and in 1883 he returned to Bradford and opened the restaurant which 
he is still conducting. He was married in 1878 in Buffalo, N. Y., to 
Miss Lottie A. Keeler, and they have two children: Pearl and Hazel. Tru- 
man Keeler. father of Lottie A. , is now deceased; Nancy A. (Hoard) Keeler, 
her mother, still survives. Mrs. Williamson is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. Mr. Williamson is a Master Mason, and in politics is a 
Democrat. 

THOMAS WILSON, farmer, P. O. Bradford, was born in Pittsburgh, 
Penn., July 5, 1825, a son of Thomas and Margaret (Rogers) Wilson, former 
a native of Ireland, latter of Pennsylvania. The father was a stone-mason by 
trade, and moved with his family to Ohio in 1828, where he remained until his 
death. Thomas Wilson received an ordinary education, and came to McKean 
county in 1845, and purchased his present farm, where he has since resided. 
In 1854 he married Miss Amanda J., daughter of Dyer Cranmer, who moved 
from Steuben county, N. Y., to McKean county in 1844. Five children were 
born to this union, two of whom are living: John E. (farmer of Bradford town- 
ship, married to Miss Lina Black, and has three children: Fred E., Alice and an 
infant), Rose B. (wife of Hill Buroughs, of Bradford township, also has three 



412 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

children: Laura, Harry and Nellie). Mr. Wilson has always been identified 
with the Republican party. 

F. J. YOUNGS, oil producer and dealer in boots and shoes, Bradford, 
was born in Normal. X. Y.. June S. ]S.Y,t. a son of Charles and Caroline (Tator) 
Youngs, natives of New York, and of English descent, who moved to Brad 
ford. Perm., in L860, and are still residents of the place. They have three 
children: James. F. J. and Charles. F. J. Youngs has spent the most of his 
life in Bradford, and since 1876 has been engaged in the production of petro- 
leum, owning several good wells. In ls^s he embarked in the boot and shoe 
business, and now carries an extensive and well -assorted stock. He is a young 
man of good business ability, and is one of the prosperous and active men ol 
Bradford. He is a prominent Freemason, and has taken the thirty-second 
degree in that fraternity. In politics he is a Democrat. 

JOHN P. ZANE. oil producer, Bradford, was born in Bridgeport. X. J.. 
February 15, 1826. He was the only child born to James and Catherine 
(Bender) Zane, natives of New Jersey, former of Danish and latter of 
German descent. His ancestors were among the poineers of New Jersey who 
figured in the Revolutionary war. They came to America from the Old World 
in search of a country where liberty prevailed, and where men's rights were 
not due to birth, but where every one succeeded according to his own merits. 
The mother of the subject of these lines dying when he was eighteen months 
old, his father married again, but died in 1834. When John P. was but eight 
years old he went to live with a farmer, and when fourteen went to Camden. 
where he was bound to a saddler and harness maker, understanding that he 
was to have three-months' schooling. This contract was not kept, as Mr. Zane 
never attended school a week in his life. Having an innate desire for knowl- 
edge, however, his spare moments were given to study, and he is now. purely 
by his own efforts, one of the best-informed men in the county. He has been 
a frequent contributor to the papers, writing extensively on political subjects, 
and as his position has given him the opportunity of knowing the needs of 
business men, his articles are read by many, and have been the means of doing 
much toward helping men in the ordinary walks of life. He was a personal 
friend of President Lincoln, and was a delegate to the convention that nomi- 
nated him for the presidency. Mr. Zane was engaged learning his trade until 
eighteen years of age, when he concluded to start in life for himself. He 
went to Philadelphia, and served a further apprenticeship of two years at the 
harness maker's trade: in 1846 he proceeded to New Orleans, where he worked 
as a journeyman for a time, and then embarked in business for himself. In 
1851 he sold out and went via the isthmus to California, where he engaged in 
various speculations and business enterprises, and became the owner of large 
landed interests. He was an active member of the vigilance committee, and 
prominent in political circles. In 1861 he was appointed, by President 
Lincoln, United States appraiser for the port of San Francisco, and was con 
tinned by the senate July 29, 1861. He held that office until 1863 when he 
concluded to resign, on account of business speculations, and was permitted to 
name his own successor. Mr. Zane built a street railroad in San Francisco. 
but before doing so was obliged to get a bill through the legislature, granting 
the charter. The road cost 8400.000: Mr. Zane put in $100,000 cash and 
borrowed 847.001 1 to bear interest at 2 per cent a month, compounded monthh . 
He found the interest growing so rapidly that he concluded to go to New York 
and borrow the money to pay the indebtedness. He, however, found that he 
would have to borrow nearly three times that amount as it was to be paid in 
gold, and owing t<> the expansion of currency during the war, gold was at a 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 413 

high premium. Hearing of the oil excitement at Titusville, he concluded to 
try and make the money instead of borrowing it. He accordingly went to the 
oil fields, where he took in the situation and bought and leased land. He 
soon after sold one half of his land for $200,000 to a Hartford company, but 
six days before the papers were made out panic came and the price of oil went 
down, and the company backed out. Mr. Zane lost his all, and was obliged 
again to commence at the foot of the ladder. He remained in the oil fields, 
and September 10, 1877, came to Bradford, bought land and took leases. 
Since coming to Bradford he has been successful, and is now the owner of a 
large number of producing oil wells. He has a pleasant home on Congress 
street, and is counted among the leading business men of Bradford. He was 
married in San Francisco, November 9, 1854, to Miss Jane Herrington, 
daughter of John Herrington, and they have one child, Anna Jane, who is 
now the wife of J. W. Vantine, and has five children. 

JOHN R. ZOOK, dealer in wall paper, etc., Bradford, is a native of the 
State of New York. He was born in AYilliamsville, Erie county, in 1831, the 
son of David and Anna Zook, natives of Lancaster. Penn. Joseph Zook, the 
youngest of the family of seven sons and two daughters, was born in Canada 
in 1833. John R. Zook married Jennie A. Youngs, of Williamsville, Erie 
Co., N. Y., daughter of Hon. Jasper B. Youngs, who was elected member 
of assembly of the State of New York in 1854, was also elected several terms 
as supervisor of the town of Amherst, and was appointed one of the commis- 
sioners for the building of the city and county buildings, erected in Buffalo, 
N. Y., and was one of the founders of the Republican party. He died in 
1886, at the age of seventy-one years. John R. Zook moved, in 1858, to 
Kansas, was appointed station agent for the Pike's Peak Express Company, 
and settled seventy-five miles from Denver City, then a small town. The 
family, which then consisted of Mr. and Mrs. Zook and one son. moved 
back to Buffalo in 1861, and in company with his brother, Joseph, opened a 
store on Commercial street, where they carried on business until 1S77, when 
they removed to Bradford, Penn.. and began a business, dealing principally 
in wall paper, at No. 68 Main street, where they may still be found. The firm 
name is Zook & Co. In politics Mr. Zook is a Republican; he is a member and 
trustee of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and one of the directors of the 
new Commercial National Bank of Bradford; his family consists of Jasper F., 
Florence E., Clara B. , Minnie V. and Gertrude G. 



CHAPTER XXIII. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES -KEATING TOWNSHIP AND 
BOROUGH OF SMETHPORT. 

N. W. ABBEY, merchant, Smethport, son of Timothy and Betsy (Jaycoxl 
Abbey, was born at New Berlin, Chenango Co., N. Y. , in 1819, and with his 
parents removed to Norwich township, McKean county, where his father be- 
came a farmer. Their family consisted of four sons and four daughters, of 
whom three are deceased. N. W., the second son, received a common-school 
education, and learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed until ISStj, 



■414 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

when he started a grocery, flour and feed store in Smethport. He married 
Emily P. Patterson in 1850, and they have two sons: J. B. and Pitt E. Mr. 
Abbey is an active Republican, and was elected county commissioner in 1881. 
serving a term of three years. 

M X. ALLEX, justice of the peace and insurance agent. East Smeth- 
port, was born in Steuben county, X. Y. , January 21, 1>>54. a son of Alfred 
and Jane (Davis) Allen, natives of Xew York State. He received a practical 
business education in Watkins, X. Y. . and when only thirteen years of age 
began working in a foundry and machine shop, where he remained five years; 
then engaged with Matteson Brothers, of Watkins, N. Y., to learn the mill- 
wright trade; he worked there for six years, when he came to East Smethport 
with the same firm for the purpose of building the extract works. Since that 
time lie has rebuilt the works throughout, and has also been engaged in con- 
structing bridges, etc. He married July 3, 1878, Miss Emma, daughter of 
William S. and Belinda (Hall) Oviatt. William S. Oviatt published the tirst 
newspaper in this section of the country. Mr. and Mrs. Allen are the parents 
of four children, named as follows: Barber D., Bessie O., Rena R. and Frank. 
all at home. Mr. Allen worked at his trade until 1884, when he was elected 
justice of the peace at East Smethport. since which time he has been en- 
gaged in the duties of his office and in the insurance business. Mr. Allen 
has erected a handsome residence in East Smethport, and is one of the wide 
awake men of the town. 

JAMES F. ANGLUX, county commissioner, Smethport, was born in County 
Clare, Ireland, in 1840, and with his parents, Thomas and Bridget Anglun. 
came to Steuben county, X. Y.. in L849, where he remained until 18<i0. when 
he removed to Scranton, Penu. In 1861 he enlisted in Company K, Seventeenth 
Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry. He was twice wounded, first at the battle of 
Gettysburg, and again at Five Forks. He was promoted to tirst lieutenant, 
was discharged at the close of the war. and removed to Bradford, Penn. . where 
he was engaged in hotel keeping and the oil-producing business, and was 
for eight years member of the council and of the school board. There he 
remained until July, 1888, when he came to Smethport, having been elected as 
one of the county commissioners in 1887. He married May 16, 1S87, Catherine 
Cannavan, and they had ten children, six of whom are still living: John F., 
aged twenty years; Nellie, fifteen years; Thomas C, thirteen years; Man. 
nine years; Charles, six years, and William, three years. Mr. Anglun is a 
member of the Union Veteran Legion and of the Catholic Church. In politics 
lie is a Democrat. 

A. B. ARMSTRONG, druggist, Smethport, is a son of Alexander and Julia 
Armstrong, and was born at Cuba, Allegany Co., N. Y. . in 1838. His parents were 
originally from Seneca county, X. Y. , but removed to Allegany county about 1830. 
being among the pioneers of that county. They were married at Nunda, Living- 
ston Co., X. Y. Alexander Armstrong was a cabinet maker by trade, and for many 
years resided at Cuba, X. Y. ; he was also a contractor, engaged upon the con- 
struction of the Erie Canal, but moved to Rushford, Allegany county, in 
1849, and went west in I860, locating in Iowa. They reared a family of eight 
children, of whom but three arc 1 living: A. B.. M. L. la reliant in Smeth- 
port) and Alice (now Mrs. .). L. Anderson, of Kansas). A. B. Armstrong 
completed hi> education at Rushford Academy, Allegany Co., X. Y.. and in 
L854 became an employe of Joseph Hyde, of Ridgway, Penn., with whom he 
remained about a year: then was clerk in a store and hotel for .lames M. Miller 
at Smethport, and later with Ford & Smith, merchants. In 1S57 he became 
associated with (lideon Irons in the purchase of the grocery store of H. F. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 415 

Williams, and the general store of Ford & Smith, the firm name being Irons 
& Armstrong. He continued in business for about two years, when he sold 
his interest to his partner and began the study of law with John C. Backus, of 
Smethport, being admitted to the bar in 1861. He, however, never became a 
practitioner, and that year found him in the grocery trade as the senior member 
of the firm of A. B. Armstrong & Co. In this he was engaged until 1866. In 
that year he, with H. L. McCoy, purchased the drug store of Seems & Hogarth, 
corner of Main and State streets — it being the only drug store in the county at 
that date. In 1869 he was elected a member of the legislature, representing the 
counties of Clinton, Cameron and McKean, which necessitated a dissolution of 
partnership, and since his return to private life he has been in business alone. 
In I Mill Mr. Armstrong married Carrie, daughter of David R. Bennett, and 
they have one child, Ethel. Mr. Armstrong is a member of McKean Lodge, 
No. 334, F. & A. M. . and of the Chapter at Olean. Politically he is a Demo- 
crat. Mr. Armstrong is practically a self-made man, and in the evening of his 
years enjoys the fruits of a successful business career, having the esteem and 
confidence of the community generally. Domestic in his tastes, he has never, 
with but one exception, accepted positions of a political nature which tended 
to separate him from the home circle, although he served as justice of the peace 
for ten years, and was a member of the borough council many terms; an active 
member in the Rose Hill Cemetery Association, holding the position of treas- 
urer Tor the last twenty years; was also among the first to organize the Smeth- 
port Water Company — securing to Smethport one of the best systems in the 
State — being the treasurer and manager and director from its first meeting; he 
was also among the first citizens of Smethport to secure and make successful 
the Smethport Gas Company, which supplies the borough with fuel — being its 
treasurer and managing director; also any enterprise with which Smethport 
was to be benefited found in Mr. Armstrong a champion and an earnest sup- 
porter. He is contented with his lot, and is the owner of the oldest drug store 
in McKean county. 

M. L. ARMSTRONG, jeweler, express agent and telegraph operator, 
Smethport, son of Alexander Armstrong, was born in Cuba, N. Y., in 1845. 
In early years he attended school at Cuba, and when thirteen years old 
his parents removed to Denmark, Iowa, where he completed his studies, 
remaining there until he was nineteen years of age. In 1865 he came to 
Smethport and engaged in the jewelry trade, which he still continues. He is 
also agent for the American Express Company and has charge of the telegraph 
office; he was also postmaster for many years. Mr. Armstrong married Alice, 
daughter of John R. Chadwick, but she did not long survive her marriage, dy- 
ing in November, 1877, and he afterward married Miss Nettie Ripley, daughter 
of William Ripley. She died in November, 1887, leaving two children — one 
son and one daughter. Mr. Armstrong is a member of the Select Knights of 
the A. O. U. W. He has been burgess of the borough, and for the past three 
years has been a member of the council and trustee of the borough. 

L. J. BACKER, one of the proprietors of the Smethport Extract Works, 
East Smethport, son of Peter and Eovisa Backer, was born in Tioga county, 
Penn., in 1836, where he was reared and educated and began his business career. 
For several years he was in the employ of a large hemlock extract company, 
and as their traveling agent and salesman visited nearly all the territories of 
the United States, also Europe. While in their employ he contemplated the 
establishing of a company, and the erection of works for the manufacture of 
an extract for tanner's that would be in every way serviceable and reliable. 
With that purpose in view he devoted a year's time, and expended over $1,000 



416 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

in traveling through the hemlock districts in search of a location. Finally his 
attention was called to Smethport, which is located in one of the finest white 
hemlock districts in the world, and he decided to make this the place of his opera- 
tions. He accordingly had the necessary buildings erected, supplying them with 
the latest improved machinery, and in 1N77 began the manufacture of the ex- 
tract. In 1883 the buildings were destroyed by fire, but were immediately re- 
built, and greatly enlarged, having now a capacity of 300 barrels weekly, being 
the largest works of the kind in the United States, and affording emplo\ tnenl 
to a large number of men. The factory is now under the superintendence of 
Mr. Backer's son, Clarence A.. Mr. Backer and his family residing in Boston. 
Mass. Mr. Backer was married in 1860 to Miss H. E. Peters, and they have 
three children, two daughters and one son: Minnie E., Effie L. and Clarence 
A. In religion Mr. Backer is a Methodist, and in politics a Republican. 

MAJOR JOHN 0. BACKUS (deceased). Among the leading and represents 
tive men of Smethport. no one has held a higher place in the affections and es- 
teem of its people than the late Maj. John C. Backus, who for nearly half a cen- 
tury was closely connected with all their efforts for its welfare and improvement. 
Maj. Backus was generous almost to a fault, no one needing help ever applying 
to him in vain; naturally positive and energetic, he pursued with untiring zeal 
every cause he championed, and every work he undertook. He was born in 
1S17, at Lee, Berkshire Co., Mass.. and had seven brothers and two sister-, of 
whom Cornelia (the eldest, born in 1801), William and Seth survive him. In 
his fourth year his parents, Thomas and Rebecka Backus, removed to Lansing. 
N. Y., where his childhood and youth were spent. He was a graduate of 
Oberlin College, Ohio. After attaining his majority, he with his older brother. 
Seth, engaged in the lumbering business at Wellsville, N. Y., and in 1S45 they 
came to Turtle Point, McKean Co.. Penn., where they purchased a saw mill 
(the remains of which are still to be seen), and continued their lumbering opera- 
tions at that point, until 1848, when, becoming tired of the business, John C. 
removed to Smethport, and commenced the study of law with N. W. Good 
rich, a then prominent lawyer of the county. Mr. Backus was admitted to the 
bar in 1851, and to practice in the supreme court in 1856. For over twenty 
five years he was engaged in nearly every important, case tried in the county, 
and at the time of his death, which occurred October 26, 1888, he had prac 
ticed law for a longer time than any other attorney in McKean county, except 
Hon. 1? D. Hamlin. In politics Mr. Backus took an active part, being a life- 
long Democrat, and in 1851 was elected register and recorder of McKean 
county; was burgess of Smethport borough about ten years, and was a member 
of the legislature in 1875 and 1876. He was one of the first to answer the 
nation's call to arms in 1861, and in December of that year was commis 
sioned captain of Company E, Fifty eighth Regiment, P. V. I., afterward 
rising to the rank of major; he participated in all the engagements of his regi 
niiMit until he was compelled to resign on account of ill health, in 1863. In 
1877 Sheridan Gorton, of Friendship, N. Y., became his law partner, continu 

ing with him until the major's decease, and suc< ded to his extensive law 

practice. He was a charter member of McKean Post. No. 317. Q-. A. K., and 
its second commander. In 1857 he married Mary, the only daughter of Solo 
nion Sartwell, one of the oldest residents of the county, and to them were born 
two children: Frank, who died in infancy, and Cora, who died in 1880. This 
wife died in 1N60, and in 1861 Major Backus married Mary A. Windsor. 
daughter of Ebed and Mary A. Windsor, who. with eight children — six sons and 
two daughters was left to mourn his loss. His funeral obsequies were con 
ducted bj the Masons, of which order he was a prominent member. No more 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 417 

fitting tribute can be paid his memory than that said of him by his brethren of 
the bar. '"In him his country has lost one who proved, by his acts, that he 
fully appreciated the duty of a good citizen and true patriot. In him his wife 
has lost a kind husband, children an indulgent father, and kin of every degree 
a generous friend." 

JOHN BAKER, proprietor of planing-mill, Smethport, son of Ezra and 
Sarah (Sweet) Baker, was born at Stanbridge, Canada, in 1821. With his par- 
ents he removed to Malone, Franklin Co., N. Y., and thence to Bed Rock, 
and in 1817 he became an employe on a railroad. In 1873 Mr. Baker came 
to Smethport, where he bought a planing-mill of Sheridan Gorton, and is still 
engaged in planing and manufacturing moulding, sash, doors and blinds. In 
1854 he married Miss Betsy P. Barnuin, and they have had eight children: 
Charley, Frank S., Fred M., John W., Josie E., George W. and two who 
died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Baker are members of the Methodist Church. 
In politics he is a Republican. 

GEORGE N. BARRETT, farmer, P. O. Smethport, is a son of Gard 
ner and Elizabeth Barrett, was born in Keating Township, McKean Co., Penn., 
in 1819. His father was one of the pioneers of the county, coming here in 
1825, and engaging in farming. He had a family of four children, of whom 
three are living, viz: John C, George N. and Cyrus E. The father died in 
March, 1887; the mother still survives. George N. Barrett attended the 
schools of McKean county, also other educational institutions abroad, and 
after the completion of his studies married, in 1872, Ellmerett, daughter of J. 
W. Stark, of Keating township, after which they located on the farm he now 
owns in that township, and where he has since been engaged in farming. They 
have one child, Frances E. Mr. Barrett is an active and prominent worker for 
the Republican party, having been for three years auditor of the county. He 
has also been supervisor, overseer of the poor, and has filled various political 
positions in his township. He is a member of McKean Lodge, No. 388, 
F. & A. M. ; Arnold Chapter, No. 254, R. A. M. ; Bradford Council, No. 43. 
R. & S. M. , and Trinity Commandery, No. 58, K. T. 

E. M. BELL, merchant, East Smethport, was born in Susquehanna county, 
Penn., in 1846, where he attended school until 1859, when bis parents, 
Worthy and Julianna Bell, removed to Cattaraugus county, N. Y., where 
he completed his education. He then accepted a clerkship with a commercial 
house in Olean, N. Y., remaining there until tbe disastrous fire of 1 805 threw 
him out of employment; then he entered a wholesale dry goods house in New 
York City, remaining till December, 1867, and then became one of the firm 
of Bell Bros, at Limestone, N. Y. , still retaining an interest there. He, 
however, became associated as partner with Messrs. Stickney & Co., the firm 
now being Stickney, Bell & Co., of East Smethport, dealers in general mer- 
chandise, and they are now doing an immense business. He is a member of 
Henry Renner Lodge, No. 780, F. & A. M. He affiliates with the Democratic 
party, and is a member of the Methodist Church. In 1809 he married Nellie 
C. Beardslev, and they have two children: Mav and Carl. 

R. W. BLOODSWORTH, merchant, East Smethport, is a son of John and 
Elizabeth (Pew) Bloodsworth, natives of Hamilton, Canada, who came to Penn- 
sylvania in 1867. He was born in Hamilton, Canada, in August, 1863, and 
came to Erie county with his parents when four years of age. When twelve 
years of age he entered a store in Oil City, Penn., where he remained until 
1881, when he went to Olean, N. Y., and was employed in the store of N. S. 
Butler, dry goods merchant, for one year, at the close of which time he went 
to Philadelphia, and engaged with the dry goods firm of Sharpless & Sons. 



418 iiistokv or .Mckean county. 

Sere he remained for one year, at the close of which time he came to Carlton, 
Penn.. and took charge of a store for Stickney. Bell & Co. In December, L886, 
he came to East Smethport, where he is now employed by Stickney, Bell & 
Co. as overseer. Mr. Bloodsworth married in November, 1883, Miss Minnie, 
daughter of Kufus Page, of Olean, X. Y. and they have two children: Robert 
and Charles. He is a member of Smethport Lodge, No. 389. I. O. 0. F. Mr. 
and Mrs. Bloodsworth are members of the Baptist Church of Smethport. 

ALFRED J. BOXD. farmer and lumberman, P. O. Smethport, is a son 
of James A. and Elizabeth P. Bond, and was born on Marvin creek, Keating 
township. MeKean Co., Penn., in 1860. James A. Bond purchased what is 
known as the Bond coal vein, a tract of land containing about 400 acres, the 
occupation of which necessitated the opening of a railroad. After making the 
purchase, James Bond, grandfather of Alfred J., removed to this locality, and 
they were the means of developing the coal mines here, which have been 
extensive! \ operated. They sold that tract, however, and located on Marvin 
creek on the old Marvin farm, the first settled farm on the creek. Here they 
passed the remainder of their lives engaged in agriculture. The family of 
James A. and Elizabeth P. Bond consisted of two sons and two daughters, viz.: 
Laura A., now Mrs. Harley Sawyer; Emma, now Mrs. Strong Hayden, of 
Wyoming county, X. Y.; Alfred J. and Erastus, the latter attending college 
in Eastern Pennsylvania. Alfred J. Bond completed his education at the 
Sniethport Academy, and in L886 married .Miss Christine, daughter of Casper 
Hafner. of Sergeant township, this county.' After his marriage he located on 
the old homestead, and has since been engaged in farming, and also extensively 
in the lumber business. His father was one of the representative men of this 
portion of the county, liberal in dispensing charity to the needy, and respected 
by all. He died in 1881, having lost his wife. Elizabeth P., about eight years 
previously, and, after remaining a widower about five years, married Miss 
Amy K. Lackey, who still survives. A. J. Bond is a member of MeKean 
Lodge, Xo. 388. F. ifc A. M. He is in politics a Republican, and for two terms 
has been supervisor of his township. 

JOSEPH W. BOUTON, attorney at law. Smethport, son of Enoch E. 
and Mary L. (Crandall) Bouton. was born in Cattaraugus county, N. Y.. in 
1856. When a child of twelve years of age he began life's struggle, and al- 
though young in years, seeing the value of an education, secured the best his 
limited means afforded. He was engaged in the hardware business about two 
years in Port Allegany. MeKean county; then accepted a position as book- 
keeper, which lie held for rive years. He was also deputy clerk of courts ami 
recorder of deeds of MeKean county, during which time he read law with the 
Hon. Judge Morrison, and was admitted to the bar in 1885. He began the 
practice of law in Smethport, and in October. INST, became associated in the 
practice with J. X. Apple, the firm name being Apple & Bouton, and they en- 
jo\ ;i large and remunerative practice. Mr. Bouton was candidate for district 
attorney, but was defeated by a small majority. In 1^77 he married .Julia A., 
daughter of Luther Eastman, of Cere- township, MeKean Co., and they 
have one child. Victor P>.. nine years of age. Mr. Bouton votes with the Dem- 
ocratic party. 

\V. S. BROWNELL, retired merchant. Smethport, was born October 27, 
1818, and L8 a native of Cicero. Onondaga Co. . X. Y.. whence he removed in 
the spring of L857, to Smethport, Penn.. where he became a merchant, and 
carried on business until 1882, having previous to latter year admitted I 
as partners He married, on August 22, 1852, Miss Octavia Howard, born 

October 13, 1822, and became the father of thr •hildren: ( '. R., W. W. and 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 419 

Addie, the last of whom was married to William F. Specht, May 15. 1889. 
Brownell Bros. (G. R. and F. W.) is now the style of the firm, which upon 
the retirement of W. S. Brownell became successor to Brownell & Sons, and 
they are now doing a prosperous business in general merchandise. Of these 
brothers at Smethport, Fred. W. is a member of McKean Lodge. No. 388, F. & 
A. M., of Bradford Chapter, No. 260, R. A. M., and of Trinity Commandery, 
No. 58, K. T. , and has been master of McKean Lodge for three years. He 
was elected burgess of the borough of Smethport in 1888. G. R. Brownell is 
a member of the Select Knights, A. O. U. W. Both brothers are identified 
with the Democratic party. 

JOHN T. BURKHOLDER, general merchant, P. O. Cyclone, was born 
June 19, 1841, and was reared and educated in Lycoming county, Penn. 
He served an apprenticeship of three and one-half years in the Illuminary 
office, one of the oldest papers in the State. On December 20, 1860, 
the day South Carolina passed a secession ordinance, he was married to 
Margaret A. Rook. They located at Hughesville, where he carried on black- 
smithing until he enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Sixth Pennsyl- 
vania Volunteer Infantry. At the close of the war he returned to the same 
place, resumed his former business which he continued until 1878, and 
then removed to Williarusport, same State, where he was in the lumber trade, 
remaining until the close of the Centennial, when he came to State Line, 
McKean county, and was in the employ of the Forest Oil Company. Later 
he became a merchant at Davis City, whence he removed to Kinzua Junction, 
and went into the hotel business. Afterward he was on the ill-fated train 
that burned with such a fearful loss of life. Removing to Simpson, also in 
McKean county, he here commenced his present business as dealer in general 
merchandise. He has suffered severe losses by fire, but has rebuilt, and is still 
in trade. Mr. Burkholder is a member of the I. O. O. F., K. of P., G. A. R., 
A. O. U. W., Order of the Iron Hall, and Knights of St. John and Malta. In 
politics he is an active Democrat. 

JOHN W. BUSH, farmer, P. O. East Smethport. is the third son of 
Elisha and Hannah Bush, and was born on the farm he now owns in Keating 
township, McKean Co., Penn., in 1837. His father was a native of Oneida 
county, N.Y. , where he married, and in 1S2S located on the farm now owned 
by his son, John W. When Elisha Bush settled on his purchase. McKean 
county was an unbroken wilderness. Dense forests of pine, hemlock, cherry, 
maple and almost every species of timber stood in majestic grandeur; slop- 
ing hills and fertile valleys spread out before them, and little streams of pure 
soft water flowed in great abundance through these grand old forests, winding 
their way to the Allegheny river. Land was cheap, and his keen eye fore- 
saw that with industry and economy he could soon possess a comfortable inde- 
pendence, for McKean was soon to develop mines of wealth and stand as one 
of the first counties for health and industries in the State. True, it must be a 
life of toil and privation, with land to clear before he could raise food for him- 
self, wife and little ones; during this time of waiting he must work wherever 
opportunity offered, and has worked all day from sunrise till sunset for the 
small sum of 50 cents, or eight pounds of flour, and was thankful for even 
that. To day you hire a man, and he will work nine hours and charge SI. 50 
or $2. At that time there were no mills where grain could be ground nearer 
than twenty miles, but for the convenience of himself and the little settlement 
where he lived, Mr. Bush invented a small hand-mill for grinding com, and 
this convenience supplied many a want. But if they had privations, they had 
blessings also, and, when want pressed hard, each neighbor felt his friend's 



420 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

trouble was his also. If a family had sickness it was not necessary to ask help. 
for friends or neighbors came miles to assist. There were no schoolhouses 
or churches, but mothers taught their little ones what they could, and the in - 
habitants would assemble in some neighbor's house and unite in prayer, feeling 
even in their rude homes they were sure of the same blessing from their Heav- 
enly lather that they received in the prosperous far-away home they had left. 
The woods abounded in wild game, and if meat were needed it was not neces- 
sary to go far from home to fetch down a fine deer or go to the brook and c itch 
as many speckled trout as might be desired. But there were animals that 
were not so harmless as deer, Eor hears were plenty and often tore down the ripen- 
ing corn or committed depredations on the sheep-fold; and Mrs. Bush states 
that in this lonely place, without a neighbor within a mile of her, she has -t:;\ ed 
alone with her little ones for a week at a time when their necessities kept her 
husband away to work, and all night long; the hoarse bark of the wolf in an ad- 
joining thicket, or the scream of the panther, kept her company. Woman is said 
to !"■ weak and dependent, and in many things it may be true, but in times of 
trial she is strong, and when a man would despair and die. she is hopeful, ever 
assisting, ever cheering him on. so that, difficulties may be overcome. As the 
settlers had not yet cleared land for grazing purposes, their cattle were obliged 
t'i seek food in the forest, and the cows were brought at night and seemed in 
a yard till after they were milked in the morning, when they were driven away 
again. One night Mr. Bush returned home rather late, and hastened in search 
of his cow; having found her and started her homeward, imagine his horror when 
the terrific scream of a panther in a tree near by sounded on his ears. The 
cow did not need farther urging to start at full speed down the irregular foot- 
path for the clearing, and Mr. Bush, preferring the company of the fast fleeing 
cow to that of the panther, seized hold of her tail, and in a remarkably short 
space of time the two arrived at home. In due time his children were able to 
assist him. and at length he got control of the United States mail route from 
Smethport to Wellsborough. a distance of seventy miles, but, carrying the mail 
part way the most of the time, and a Mr. Barnaby carrying the other end of 
the route, the services of his son, John W. Hush, were called into requisition, 
and he ibeing a boy about fourteen years of age) was intrusted with the mail, 
and. there being hardly an apology for a road, he was obliged to carry it on 
horseback, making two trips a week. For nearly six years he performed this 
duty through mud and storm with the utmost promptness and fidelity. He had 
the b, -in 'lit of an academic course at school, and today is an honored citizen of 
McKean county. Mr. and Mrs. Elisha Bush, however, in course of time, re- 
tired from active life, and removed to the town of Smethport. where the mother 
died in lSS:i. and the father followed her November 22, 1885 Their children 

were Hiram oh ased), Charles, John \Y.. Mary (wife of Homer Howe), Silas. 

Andrew, Saloma (wifeoi William Stanton, of Keating). Melinda (wife of Walter 
Evans, of Smethport) ami Wallace (deceased). John W. Bush bought the 
farm adjoining the old homestead, and after his marriage located on his pur 
chase and engaged in farming, until now he is a large land holder, also owning 
the old homestead, to which he removed. April 20, 1875, and which is still his 
residence. He was married iii 1856 to Mary, daughter of John and Maria 
Dexter, of Port Allegany, and they have three children: 0. D., Jane (wife of 
J. L. Smith) and Desdemona (wife of o. B. Cooper). Mrs. Bush is a member 
of the Baptist Church. In politics he is a Republican. 

VV. T. ('ALLAH, druggist. Smethport, son of William and Alvira (Lewis) 
Callar, was born in Sharon township. Potter Co., Penn., in L841. His father 
was a native of England, where he was reared and educated. He e. nigral ed 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 421 

to America and located in Allegany county, N. Y., where he married: soon 
after he went to Potter county, Penn., and from there to what is now the 
count}- seat of Cameron county, where he was engaged in the lumber and mill- 
ing business. He died in 1S-48, and his widow in January, 1885. W. T. Cal- 
lar, their only son, began life as a farmer, but removed to Kane, where he 
started the first drug store, and in 1876 came to Smethport and opened a drug 
store, which he still carries on. He is a thirty-second degree Freemason, and 
a member of the consistory at Bloomsburg; also a member of the I. O. O. F., 
lodge and encampment. Mr. Callar is identified with the Democratic party, 
but is no politician, as he devotes his entire time to business. He and his wife 
are members of the Presbyterian Church. 

J. R. CHADWICK, Smethport, son of Richard Chadwick, was born at 
AVilliamsport, Penn., in 1825. His father, who was a native of Monmouth 
county, N. J., came, with his parents, to what is now Cameron county, and in 
1811 settled at the month of North creek. Richard Chadwick there married 
Prudence Freeman and reared a family of three children: Freeman and Tem- 
perance (both deceased) and J. R. March 9, 1826, his wife died, and the fol- 
lowing year he removed to Smethport, entered the prothonotary office as deputy, 
and afterward taught school; eventually he returned to Cameron county and 
made his home with his daughter, Temperance, until his death in 1866. J. R. 
Chadwick was his father's assistant in the various positions he held. In 1846 
he married Miss Nettie Wright (now deceased), by whom he had two sons. In 
politics he is a Republican, and in 1887 he was elected superintendent of poor. 

HOMER M. CHOATE, deputy register, recorder and clerk of the court of < 
McKean county, with residence at Smethport, was born August 22, 1843, at 
Portage, Genesee Co., N. Y., where his father carried on a lumbering busi- 
ness, saw-mills, etc. The record of the ancestry of Homer M. Choate in 
America is as follows: John Choate, born in 1624, in Groton, Suffolk, England, 
came to Ipswich, Mass., about 1645, and settled in that part of Ipswich which 
is now the town of Essex; Thomas Choate was born in 1670; Francis Choate 
was born in 1701; Isaac Choate was born in 1733; Joshua Choate was born in 
1768; Isaac W. Choate, the father of Homer M. Choate, was born in 1794 at 
Lansingburgh, N. Y. About 1690 John Choate gave his son, Thomas, all his 
land on an island on the coast of Massachusetts, known as "Hog Island." and 
the house that was built there by Francis, son of Thomas, about 1725, is still 
occupied by his descendants. In this house Isaac Choate, Sr. , was born, also 
Isaac's son Joshua. The farm is still in possession of the descendants of John 
Choate, and has never been out of the family, a period of more than 200 
years. Rufus Choate, the lawyer and orator, was born in this house about 
thirty years after Joshua Choate was born. William Choate, who bought 
from Isaac Choate (his brother) his half of the farm in 1770, was the grand- 
father of Rufus, the lawyer. While yet young Homer M. Choate was brought 
by his parents from Portage to Clarence, Erie county, same State, and there he 
attended the common schools and the academy until the outbreak of the Re- 
bellion, when, in 1861, at the age of eighteen years, he enlisted in the Twenty- 
first New York Volunteers for two years, served out his term and was honorably 
discharged. He was then appointed a United States inspector in the custom- 
house at Buffalo, N. Y. , which office he relinquished in the fall of 1865 to 
accept the position of book keeper in the First National Bank of Oil City, 
Penn. Here he remained, part of the time as cashier, till the fall of 1875, 
when he resigned in order to go into business in the Oil Exchange, same city. 
Mr. Choate continued in this and in the brokerage business until 1883, in 
which year he accepted the position of paying teller in the Seaboard Bank, 



422 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

New York, but having the misfortune to shoot and kill a burglar in his wife's room 
at Newark. N. J., on November 10, 1883, the shock to her. which no doubt 
precipitated her early death, was so great that he had to resign his position 
and move his wife and family back to her home in the oil country, where he 
received the appointment to his present position. Mr. Choate was married 
September 11, 1867, to Helen E., daughter of Stephen McCoy, of Ellicottsville, 
Cattaraugus Co.. N. Y. , and niece of Dr. William Y. McCoy, of Smethport, 
Penn. She died January 22, 1886, from cancer of the stomach. Mr. Choate 
is commander of the G. A. II. Post at Smethport. and is a member of the F. & 
A. M. and of the I. O. O. P. 

WILLIAM B. CLARKE, sheriff of McKean county, Smethport. was 
born in Westbrook, Conn., in 1845, and when he was two years of age his 
father moved to New York City. He was educated in the high schools of 
that city, from which he subsequently graduated. When about eighteen 
years of age he entered the employ of Jacob Lorillard, the celebrated tobac 
conist, for whom he worked for four years. The Lorillard establishment 
employed over 600 men at that time, and Mr. Clarke was the principal book 
keeper, having also entire charge of the internal revenue branch of the busi 
ness. There was a heavy tax on tobacco in those war times, and thousands of 
dollars of internal revenue tax was paid monthly by this one establishment. 
Mr. Clarke had the coutidence of his employer to such an extent that very 
few men possess before the age of twenty-one years, and he has in his pos- 
session a letter of recommendation from Jacob Lorillard which he values verj 
highly. In 1866. at the instanceof a brother-in-law, who owned a majority of 
the stock of the Home Petroleum Company, he visited Oil creek, the valley of 
which was then booming as an oil territory. This company owned the Blood 
farm, which was then a tine producing territory, and Mr. Clarke was induced to 
take the position of assistant superintendent, and was given considerable charge 
of the property. He remained in the employ of the company nearly nine years, 
during five of which he lived at Titusville. He came to McKean county in 
1875, locating at Tarport, and for four years had charge of the oil properties 
of Col. A. I. Wilcox. For a long time he was in the employ of his father in- 
law, Frederick Crocker, whose producing interests were very large, and dur- 
ing a portion of the time he superintended the extensive coal business of 
Sheriff Bannon. In January, 188-1, he was appointed the principal deputy 
sheriff under Sheriff Bannon, and in 1NS7 was elected to the office of sheriff, 
proving himself one of the most popular officials of the county. He was 
married in 1876 to Edna Crocker, daughter of Frederick Crocker, and they 
have one son. Mr. Clarke has taken the thirty-second degree in Freemasonry 
and is a member of the consistory at Bloomsburg: is also a member of the 
Knights of Pythias. 

W. J. COLEGROVE, Smethport, was born in what is now Norwich town 
ship, McKean Co., Penn. His father, Jonathan Colegrove, late of McKean 
county, was one of the pioneers of s^iid county, having removed hither from 
Chenango county. N. Y., in 1815. and was one of three brothers (the others 
being Park and Benjamin), all of whom resided for many years in what was 
then Sergeant township, but is now Norwich township. They were born in the 
town of Sterling, Windham Co., Conn. Jonathan Colegrove was educated at 
the district school of his native town, and at Plaintield Academy, Windham 
county, after which he taught at the Catskill Academy. He was married to Miss 
Eliza Gallup, a native of Griswold, Conn., and removed to Chenango county. 
After serving in the army at Sackett's Harbor in the war of 1S12, he lived on 
a farm which he worked summers, and taught school, winters, for some years. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 423 

after which they came to McKeao county, where he followed farming and teach- 
ing, also had charge of the large Eidgway landed property until 1852. He 
was twice county commissioner, being the first at its organization, and when 
it was connected with Potter county; he was also treasurer one term; served one 
term as representative of his district in 1824-25; was the first postmaster of 
Norwich when the mail was carried from Smethport to Lock Haven once in 
two weeks on horseback, the rider carrying a "tin horn" to give warning of 
his approach. The children born of this union were Eliza F. (the late Mrs. 
Daniel Rifle), William W. (who died when five years old), Horace (who 
married Emily Burlingame, and whose death occurred in Norwich township in 
1888), William J., Laura Ann aud Laura Ette (twins). The only survivors of 
these children are William J. and Laura Ann. Mrs. Colegrove died in 1859 in 
her seventy-fourth year. Jonathan Colegrove was respected by all who knew 
him for his sterling integrity and his business qualifications. He was an old- 
line Whig from their organization, and on the dissolution of that party became 
a zealous Republican, and so continued to his death. Through his influence, 
while in the legislature, he obtained an appropriation from the State for the 
Smethport Academy, which was subsequently built and opened to the public. 
He died in 1872 in his ninetieth year. W. J. Colegrove, the subject proper of 
this sketch, was born in 1821, and was educated at the common schools of 
Norwich township, and Smethport Academy, after which he married, in 1841, 
Miss Eunice H. Wright, of Kanona, Steuben Co., N. Y., and they began their 
married life on the old homestead farm in Norwich township, McKean Co. , 
Penn.,he teaching school, winters, for some years. There they remained until 
1880, when they removed to Smethport, he having since 1852 had charge of the 
Ridgway estates, which were located in McKean and Elk counties, embracing two 
tracts of land, each containing 40.000 acres, situated in said counties, and of 
which he had exclusive control, being authorized to sell, collect and make titles 
without restriction. This continued until the decease of the principal, when 
the executor wished Mr. Colegrove to continue as before, which position he 
still occupies. A portion of the estate had been sold when Mr. Colegrove as- 
sumed its management, but he has now disposed of all, except about 16,430 
acres in McKean county. Mr. Colegrove was elected justice of the peace, in 
1842, while residing in Norwich township; has also served two terms as com- 
missioner of McKean county, and was a member of the board during the erec- 
tion of the present fine court house, which was begun and completed during 
his term from 1879 to 1881, inclusive. Mr. Colegrove was instrumental in the 
creating of a new post-office at Colegrove, of which he was postmaster until 
1880; he was also appointed by Gov. W. F. Johnston as sheriff of McKean 
county, in 1851, to fill the unexpired term of E. Bard. He is a prominent and 
active worker in the Republican party, his first vote, however, having been 
cast for Clay and Frelinghuysen, Whigs; but he has voted for every Republi- 
can candidate since the organization of the party, and he was the elector of his 
district at Grant's last election. He is a Prohibitionist in principle, but not a 
third-party man. Mr. and Mrs. Colegrove have four children: Harriet 
Amelia, who married Thomas Saunders, of Westfield, Tioga Co., Penn. ; Alpha 
William, now on the old homestead; Lydia Sophia, widow of the late John S. 
Ross, of Coudersport. Penn., and Clarence Melville. 

DAVID D. COMES, farmer and lumberman, P. O. Smethport, is a son 
of David and Hannah (Marvin) Comes, and was born in Norwich township, 
McKean Co. , Penn., in 1824. His mother was a daughter of Seth Marvin, 
one of the first settlers of McKean county, from whom Marvin creek derived 
its name. David Comes, the father of our subject, was a native of Cheshire 



424 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

county, N. H. , and Hannah, his wife, was a native of New York State. David 
removed to McKean county in 1810, locating at what is now Clermont, Ser- 
geant township, where he purchased and partially cleared a farm, and then 
removed to near the head of Potato creek. They reared a family of nine 
children, viz: Calvin S.,who bore the proud distinction of being the first white 
child born in McKean county; Boxy, the late Mrs. Edward H. Dickinson, of 
Norwich township, same county; David D. ; Lucy, now Mrs. Chauncey Holden. 
of Liberty township, same county: Florilla and Floretta (twins), the former 
Mrs. William Rumsey, of New York, and the latter Mrs. Orlando Gallup, of 
Norwich, McKean county; Jane, the late Mrs. Bishop Lucas; Herrick T., and 
Mary, the late Mrs. Daniel Forsyth. David D. Comes early purchased the 
farm he now owns in Keating township, and has since been extensively en- 
gaged in the lumber business. He built a steam saw-mill on Red Mill brook, 
Norwich township, having a capacity of 30,000 feet of lumber daily. He is 
one of the prominent and self-made men of McKean county, and by good 
financiering and increasing effort, has secured a handsome competency. He 
was married March 11, 1 S4T, to Miss Polly V. Smith, and they have had ten 
children, viz.: Jane, wife of J. B. Kelly; Almina. wife of D. M. Wright: Clin- 
ton D. ; Charles; M. S. ; Hattie: Millie, wife of Amos Smith; Eseck D. ; Har- 
riet and Benjamin F. Mr. Comes is identified with the Democratic party, 
though not an active politician, as he wisely devotes his entire time and 
energy to the supervision of his large business interests. 

ASA H. CORY, farmer and postmaster at Coryville, is a son of Thomas 
R. and Litta (Howe) Cory, and was born in Sullivan, Tioga Co., Perm., in 
IS 14. His father died when he was a boy, and he began his business life at 
Wellsboro, Tioga county, where he published the Phoenix for a period of two 
years, and September 13, 1837, he purchased the McKean county Journal, 
changing its name to the Beacon. He remained its publisher nearly three 
years, and was identified with the McKean county press for many years. He 
eventually removed to his present residence at Coryville. where he purchased 
a farm, and is recognized as one of its most enterprising men. In 1861 he 
raised Company H, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, and became 
its captain, but, becoming disabled through exposure, he returned home in 
1862. Mr. Cory was married in 1838 to Lucy, daughter of the Hon. John 
Holmes, and their children are A. Orson and Ella C. . now Mrs. F. S. Holmes, 
of Keating township. Mr. Cory is a member of the Sons of Temperance. He 
and his wife are members of the United Brethren Church. He has been post- 
master at Coryville since 1872. Politically he is a Prohibitionist. 

ASA R. CORY, lumberman and proprietor of saw-mill, P. O. Farmers 
Valley, is a son of A. B. Cory, and was born inSmethport, McKean Co.. Penn.. 
in L845. His father was a native of Tioga county, Penn., and came to Mc 
Kean county at an early time, locating at Sniethport. but soon removed to Potter 
county, where he married Hannah Maria Rees, and finally removed to Arkansas, 
where he now lives. Their children were Asa 11.. Lytta E. (the late Mrs. 
Lyman Clinton), Benjamin F. and Mary A. (wife of Frank Caldwell I. The 
mother died in 1N7'.». and in Missouri the father married, for his second wife, 
a Mis- West, and to them have been born four children: Lillian (wife of J. J. 
Johnson), Lucy (wife of Alexander Hull), Thomas ML and Azro. Asa R. Cory 
lived with his mother until her death, and he then became associated with the 
Messrs. Pelton in the lumber trade and in operating a steam saw-mill; also 
operated a mill in Keating township, which was burned in L888, but was rebuilt 
the same year, and he is now quite heavily engaged in the lumber trade. In 
lSili lie married Emogene Smith, and they have had three children: E'la M. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 425 

Orlo D. (yet living) and Lytta A. (deceased). Mrs. Cory was the daughter of 
Riley A. and Eliza J. Smith, both of Smethport, Penn. Mr. Smith served in 
the Union army during the Civil war, and died from disease contracted while 
in the army about two years after the close of the war. Mrs. Smith still lives 
in Smethport. Mr. Cory is a member of the I. O. O. F., lodge and encamp- 
ment, and of the A. O. U. W. He has been supervisor and school director, 
and in politics is a Democrat. 

ERASTUS CURTIS, farmer, P. O. East Smethport, was born in Plain- 
field, Mass.. in ISoy. His parents removed from Massachusetts to Tioga county, 
Penn., where they remained until 1814. and then migrated to Madison county. 
N. Y., where he grew to manhood. He remained there until 1847, when he 
removed to Keating township, McKean Co., Penn., where he cleared a farm. 
He is still leading an active life, engaged in agricultural pursuits. He was 
married in 1834 to Miss Mary Ette Starr, and they have had four children, of 
■whom but one is living. Mary E., now Mrs. Frank Richmond, of Smethport. 
Mr. Curtis is identified with the Republican party, and has filled most of the 
township offices. 

JOHN O. DODGE, lumberman, East Smethport. was born in Kennebec 
county, Me., January 14, 1N46, a son of John P. and Rosannah (Richardson) 
Dodge, natives of Maine. He received his education in the common schools, 
and his early boyhood days were spent with his father upon the home farm. He 
enlisted in the United States service in September, 1864, and was assigned to 
Company K, Ninth Maine Regiment of Infantry, but his service was compara- 
tively brief, being discharged the following May on account of disability. 
Returning home, he purchased a farm in Kennebec county, Me., and was mar- 
ried in May, 1868, to Miss Miranda, a daughter of J. M. and Olive Scammon 
Lane, of Penobscot county. Me. , and they are the parents of one child, J ennie, 
wife of F. L. Sherburn, of Mount Alton, Penn. Mr. Dodge sold his farm in 
1869, and went to Old Town, Me., where he began lumbering, remaining there 
two years. He followed the same business in Bartlett. N. H.. until 1ST'.): then 
came to McKean county, Penn., where he is still engaged in the lumber busi- 
ness. In 1888 he purchased the farm where he now resides. He is a member 
of the A. O. U. W. , No. 182. In politics he is a Republican, and in religion 
is a Methodist. 

MICHAEL DUNN, lumberman. Smethport, son of Thomas and Mary 
(Phalin) Dunn, was born in Cuba, Allegany Co., N. Y., in 1849. When he 
was three years of age his parents removed to Ceres township, McKean 
Co., Penn., where they engaged in farming. They had a family of six chil- 
dren, viz. : Michael, John, Mary (Mrs. Henry McMann), James, Anna and 
Patrick, all in this county but John, who lives at Austin. Potter Co., Penn. 
The parents are still living on the old homestead. Michael received his educa- 
tion in the old log schoolhouse. on Newell creek, and afterward engaged in 
farming and lumbering. In 1882 he married Flora A., daughter of Capt. 
Chauncey and Lucy (Comes) Holden, of Port Allegany, McKean county, after 
which they located at Larrabee, remaining until 18S8, when they removed to 
Smethport. He is, and has been for the last eight years, engaged in the lum- 
ber trade. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., lodge and encampment, at 
Smethport. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party. 

JOHN FORREST, attorney at law, Smethport. was boni'in Brooklyn, N. 
Y., February 8, 1851, a son of John and Ann (Wright) Forrest, natives of 
Scotland, who came to Brooklyn, N. Y. , in 1845. They reared a family of 
six children, John being the eldest son. He received a practical business 
education in the schools of Brooklyn, and when sixteen years of age entered 



426 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

the law office of Edwin C. Delevan, where he remained until 1868. He then 
went to Fall Brook. Penn., where he was employed as clerk in the office of the 
Fall Brook Coal Company, until 1875; then he went to Clermont. McKean 
county, as paymaster for the Buffalo Coal Company; after remaining there 
about one year he went to Buffalo, N. Y. , as book- keeper for the same com- 
pany. In January, 1877, he came to Smethport, McKean county, and entered 
the law and land office of B. D. Hamlin. Mr. Forrest married in August. 
L878, Miss Mary, daughter of B. D. and Harriet (Holmes) Hamlin, and to 
them have been born two children: Helen and Ruth. Mr. and Mrs. Forrest 
are members of the Episcopal Church. Mr. Forrest has always been a Demo- 
crat in politics. 

DR. S. D. FREEMAN, Smethport. son of Edmund and Elizabeth (Chad 
wick) Freeman, natives, respectively, of Connecticut and New Jersey, was bora 
in Potter count}', Penn., January 29, 1829; his ancestors came over in the 
"Mayflower'* in 1620 and L623, his father having been a lineal descendant of 
Elder William Brewster, of "Mayflower" fame, and the name Edmund ha- been 
given to the eldest son from generations back. His parents after marriage re- 
m< >ved to Potter county, thence to McKean county in 1832. To them nine chil- 
dren were born, five now living and four deceased. The deceased are Edmund 
Allen (named after Ethan Allen, his grandmother being a niece of the general). 
Sabra Calista, Mary Jeffery, and a son still-born. Those living are William 
Chadwick, Sylvanus Dwelley, Malinda Corbett, Francis Halleck and Mary- 
Elizabeth. The subject of this biography received his early education in Me 
Kean county, eventually graduating from the University of Buffalo in 1856, 
and lirst began the practice of medicine at Smethport. In this he continued 
until the beginning of the Civil war, when he was made surgeon of the Penn 
sylvania Bucktails, and in October, 1862, he was promoted to surgeon of the 
United States Volunteers, a position he retained until after the close of the 
war. when he was breveted lieutenant-colonel and resumed his professional 
practice, continuing therein until the Mexican disturbance of 1876, when he 
proceeded to that country as correspondent for the committee on foreign rela- 
tions. On his return home he again commenced active practice at Smethport. 
On June 1, 1855, the Doctor married Lucretia A. Reisdorph, the union being 
blessed with three children, of whom two are yet living: Kale (now Mrs. 1'. 
N. Taylor) and Ella (now Mrs. H. C. Wells): their second daughter, Bessie 
Kane, is deceased. Dr. Freeman is a prominent member of the G. A. K.. a 
thirty second degree Freemason, and a member of the consistory at Blooming- 
ton: ex-president of the McKean County Medical Society, member of the State 
Medical Society and of the American Medical Association 

MRS. L. A FREEMAN. Smethport. is a daughter of John G. and Marilla 
(Johns) Reisdorph, and was born at Java, Livingston Co., X. Y.. in L836. 
Her parents removed to Ischua, Cattaraugus Co., N. ¥., and thence to Minne 
sota. Her mother died in L838, and her father afterward married Mrs. Mabel 
Adams, widow of a Dr. Adams, and this lady also died, when the subject of 
our sketch was quite young. The father of Mrs. Freeman died in ls.Mi. aged 
eighn eight years. Her mother was a lineal descendant of a family in England 
named Johns, of which family two bach. 'lor brothers, ven wealthy, at one 
time presented the Quaker Society at Philadelphia with $40,000, and died 
leaving an immense estate in Europe to be divided among the heirs. 

P. M. FULLER, commissioner of McKean county. P. O. Smethport. was 
born in Erie county. X. Y.. May 4. 1823, a sou of Chase and Nancy ( lvenyon) 
Fuller. In 1840 his father moved to Cattaraugus county. X. Y.. and the young 
man completed his school days in the common schools of that section and in 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 4*27 

the seminary at Arcade, Wyoming county. In 1843 he left the seminary and 
traveled on foot to the Tuna valley for the purpose of teaching school, where 
the town of Limestone now stands. In 1845 he married Cornelia Kinsman, and 
in 1850, with his family of wife and three children, moved to McKean county, 
where he has since resided. In October, 1861. he enlisted in Company E, Fifty- 
eighth P. V. I., under Capt. John C. Backus, and in 1863 re-enlisted, serving 
until January, 1865, when he was honorably mustered out of the service. He 
was promoted from time to time until he was, in October, 1864, made captain 
of his company, and at one time he was the ranking officer, and for six weeks had 
command of the regiment. He was in several engagements and battles in which 
the regiment participated, commencing with the driving of the forces of the 
rebel Gen. Magruder out of Norfolk, Va. He participated in the battles at 
Blackwater and Suffolk, Va., Sandy Ridge, Gum Swamp and Batchelder's creek, 
N. C, where Col. Jones of the Fifty-eighth was killed. He was with the reg- 
iment while it lay for a long time in front of Petersburg, and participated in 
the battles of Cold Harbor, Chapin's Farm and in the capture of Fort Har- 
rison, south of Richmond. He had command of the regiment when it marched 
into Richmond, which was the day Jefferson Davis vacated his premises in that 
city. After Capt. Fuller's return from the army he was elected to several 
local offices in Bradford township, McKean county, including that of justice of 
the peace, and was subsequently elected an alderman of Bradford. He has 
served live years as associate judge of McKean county, has twice been elected 
county commissioner, the last time in 1887, and is nowservingin that position. 
Capt. Fuller has a very extensive acquaintance in McKean county, and his popu- 
larity is co extensive with his acquaintance. He is a member of Post No. 141. 
G. A. R., of Bradford, and of the Masonic fraternity, lodge, chapter and com- 
mandery. His first wife died in 1868. and he was again married this time, in 
1870, to Mrs. Elizabeth A. (Heyter) Drake, widow of Joshua J. Drake. She 
died in October, 1881, and in 1883 Capt. Fuller was married to his present 
wife, whose maiden name was Anna Sparks. He has three children: Ophelia 
(wife of William Monroe), Emma E. (wife of Webster K. Knye), and Royd E. 
(in Nebraska. ) 

REV. J. J. GALLIGAN, pastor of the Church of St. Elizabeth, Smeth- 
port, is a son of James and Catherine Galligau, and was born in Ireland in 
1848. He received his early education in the parish schools of his native 
county (Cavan), and his training in classics at St. Patrick's College in County 
Cavan, Ireland, from which he graduated June 21, 1871, coming to America 
August 19, 1872. September 1, 1872, he entered Allegany Seminary, on the 
Erie Railroad, west of Olean, N. Y., and was ordained a priest July 6, 1877. 
Father Galligan was first sent to Erie, Penn., thence to Titnsville, same State, 
where he remained three years; then, on November 11, 1880, he came to 
Smethport, and has here since most worthily filled his present incumbency. 

MRS. LAURA ANN GALLUP, Smethport, is a daughter of Jonathan and 
Eliza Colegrove, and was born January 28, 1823, in Norwich township, Mc- 
Kean Co., Penn. Her father was a native of Sterling, Windham Co., Conn., 
but was chiefly reared in Griswold, Conn., and educated at Pentield Academy. 
On completing his studies he married Eliza Gallup, of same place, and removed 
to Norwich, Chenango Co., N. Y., where he followed agricultural pursuits and 
school -teaching until his removal, in 1875, to Sergeant (now Norwich) town- 
ship, McKean Co., Penn., and to what is now known as Colegrove, where he 
was engaged in farming throughout his active life. He, however, was specially 
employed for a considerable time in the Bingham land office. Mr. and Mrs. 
Jonathan Colegrove reared a family of five children: Florida (the late Mrs. 



428 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Daniel Rifle, of Norwich township, McKean county), Horace (who died in Nor- 
wich township January 16, 1 SS V \V. .1. (the present agent for the Ridgway 
estate in Smethport i and Laura Ette and Laura Ann (twins). The mother of 
this family died February 27. 1859, and the father April 11, 1872. Laura Ann 
Gallup, the subject proper of this biographical record, married. Decern her 29, 
1M4. in Norwich township. Philetus Gallup, who was born October 12, L822, 
a son of Cagswell and Dinah (Edwards) Gallup. Philetus located in Keating 
township, McKean Co.. Penn., where he became engaged in farming and lumber- 
ing, and was also owner and proprietor of a saw- mill. Mr. and Mrs. Philetus Gal 
hip had a family of six children: Eliza, Dollie. Ella. J. C. Albert and Lincoln. 
Mr. Gallup died September 30, 1878. He was one of the prominent and represent- 
ative men of this portion of the county. Politically he was a Republican. Mrs. 
Gallup is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

EBEN GALLUP, farmer. P. O. Smethport. son of Nathaniel C. and 
Dinah (Edmunds) Gallup, was born in Norwich township, McKean Co., Penn.. 
in L821. Nathaniel C. Gallup was among the first settlers of the county. 
He was a native of Connecticut, where he married, and where three of his 
children were horn, viz.: Jabez. Andrew (deceased) and Orrin (deceased). He 
located in Norwich township, bought a tract of land and built the first saw- 
and grist-mill on Potato creek. When he came to this county it was in the 
green woods, and the country was infested with wild amimals. At one time, 
when on his way to this part of the country with a load of mill-iron and a 
quantity of pork, he was fiercely attacked by a pack of ravenous wolves. 
Being far from any assistance he was compelled, in self-preservation, to build 
fires around his team to keep the wolves from devouring the whole outfit. 
The children born to Nathaniel C. Gallup in McKean county were Nathaniel 
C. Jr. (deceased), California. Daniel. Eben, Philetus (deceased), Orlando 
(deceased), and Alfred. The mother died, and the father married, for his sec- 
ond wife. Indiana Arnold, by whom he had one child, Arnold. The father 
died in 1833. Eben Gallup was twelve years old when his father died, and he 
made his home with his brother. Jabez, until 1849, when he married Phebe 
Windsor, and located in Keating township, on the farm he now owns. He 
has been engaged all his life in farming, and is one of the successful men of 
the township. Mr. and Mrs. Gallup have two children: Emma (now Mrs. 
\Y arley Gifford) and Carrie (now Mrs. Fred Smith), and two grandchildren: 
Roy and Ethel Gifford. Mr. Gallup, in politics, is a Democrat. He received 
the nomination for county commissioner, though defeated at the polls, but has 
occupied various official positions in his township. Mrs. Gallup is a Seventh- 
Day Baptist, while her daughters are Episcopalians. 

W. D. GALLUP, merchant, Smethport, is a son of Daniel and Lucina 
Gallup, and was bom in Norwich. McKean Co., Penn.. in 1846. His grand 
father. Nathaniel C. Gallup, was a native of Connecticut, and removed to 
Norwich at a very early day. where he lived and died. He reared a family of 
ten children, five of whom still survive: Gabez F. , of Hamlin township. 
McKean county; Daniel, of Norwich; Eben and Alfred D.. of Keating; and 
Mrs. Philetus Corwin, of Foster township. Daniel, father of W. D.. was born 
in Norwich. He has devoted his attention to agriculture, and still lives in his 
native place. His wife died in 1848. Thej had two children: Nathaniel O. 
of Norwich, and W. D. W. D. Gallup began his business life as an employe 
of the Hon. Henry Hamlin, with whom he remained four years, when he ac- 
cepted a position at Emporium, where he also remained four rears; he then 
returned to Smethport, and was with A. N. Taylor until his decease, and con- 
tinued about a vear after with Frank N. Taylor. In 1677 he engaged in husi 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 429 

ness at the old Sartwell store, on Main street, as dealer in general merchan- 
dise, and in 1S81 removed to the one he now occupies. He is a member of 
McKean Lodge, No. 388, F. & A. M. ; Bradford Chapter, No. 260, R. A. M., 
and Trinity Commandeiy, No. 58, K. T. He is a Republican in politics, and 
in the fall of 1877 was elected treasurer of McKean county; in 1885 he was 
elected county commissioner. He married, in 1871, Miss Elizabeth Shepard, 
daughter of David V. Shepard, and their union has been blessed with two 
children — one son and one daughter — Fred D. and Rena May. 

SETH J. GIFFORD, lumber manufacturer, Smethport, son of William 
and Fanney L. (Hackett) Gifford, was born in Keating township, two miles 
east of Smethport, in 1847. His grandfather, Job Gifford, was a native of 
New Jersey, where he married Nancy Woodruff, and then removed to Nor- 
wich township, McKean Co., Penn. Here they reared a family of twelve 
children, namely: Jonathan. David, Sarah, William, Henry, Eliza, Job, Alex- 
ander. Rejoice, Leander, Jane and Alonzo. The parents of these children 
died a few years ago, having lived to a ripe old age. They were among the 
early settlers of the county, and endured all the privations and hardships of 
pioneer life. William, father of Seth J., was born in Norwich township, 
McKean county, in 1820. and eventually married and located in Keating 
township, and became a farmer. He has been a member of the Baptist 
Church for many years. He was the father of six children: ZavaliaD., Seth 
J., Wasley, Leander D.. Jennie E. and Will S. The father has sold the old 
homestead, and is now a resident of Smethport. He has served his township 
in various official capacities. Seth J., his second son, received his educa- 
tion in the public schools of Smethport. He began his business career in 1866, 
when he removed to Corry and became engaged in the construction of a rail- 
road. He next became a contractor and 1 milder at Smethport, and among 
other buildings erected Wright's hotel and the first extract works here. He 
also purchased a saw-mill, and for a couple of years manufactured hemlock 
lumber. He built a new mill, and entered into a contract with H. F. Good- 
year, and in three years sawed 16,000,000 feet of lumber for him; he has since 
made an agreement with the Allegheny Lumber Company, sawing from twelve 
to fifteen million feet annually for them, and has now purchased a property 
of the Allegheny Lumber Company, which gives him the controlling interest 
in the plant at this point. He received the appointment of inspector-general 
of the Pennsylvania Storage Company, but owing to his large interest was 
compelled to resign. He was also urged by his friends to accept the nomina- 
tion of State senator, but business cares prevented his acceptance. He is 
identified with the Democratic party, has been burgess of the borough, school 
director, etc., and also a member of the fire department. Mr. Gifford is one 
of the live business men of Smethport, and is one of the heavy operators in 
hemlock lumber in Northern Pennsylvania. 

I. S. GLEASON, harness maker, Smethport, is a son of Amos and Polly 
(Sias) Gleason, and was born in Livingston county, N. Y., in 1828. His parents 
removed to Warsaw, Wyoming county, same State, where his mother died in 
1843, after which his father made his home with a daughter in Livingston 
county until his death. I S. Gleason received but a limited education, labor- 
ing under difficulties common to many, and in 1844, when but sixteen years of 
age, he became an apprentice in a harness shop in Warsaw, N. Y., where he 
remained until January, 1851. He removed to Smethport January 11, 1851, 
where he was an employe of Steele & Johnson for three years; then went into 
the harness business for himself, and has occupied his present store since 1855. 
He married Emily A. Corwin in 1854. and they have had two children: Dora 



480 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNT 1. 

M. (deceased) and Ralph C. Mr. Gleason is a Republican in politics. He 
appreciates the desirability of affording proper educational advantages to chil- 
dren, and was a member of the school hoard in the borough during the erection 
of its very elegant school building, in which he justly takes great pride. The 
family attend the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

IRA M. GODFREY, Farmers Valley, son of David P. and Amanda M. 
Godfrey, was born at Olean, N. Y., in 1857, where he was reared and educated. 
lb- began his business life at Farmers Valley. McKean Co., Penn., as clerk in 
the employ of F. C. Olds, a dealer in general merchandise at that place, a 
position he still holds. He married in L885 Miss Maud, daughter of Daniel E. 
Williams, of Black Creek, Allegany Co., N. Y., after which they located in 
Farmers Valley, their present residence. They have two children: Mabel and 
Elmer Lee. Mr. Godfrey is a member of the Sons of Temperance, and a Re- 
publican in politics. Mr. D. P. Godfrey, with his wife, was among the early 
settlers of Olean, N. Y. , where he is a prosperous farmer. Mrs. Ira M. God 
frey's father was a soldier in the Civil war. but returned broken down in health, 
and died while his daughter, Maud, was yet a child. Mrs. L. S. William-, 
mother of Mrs. Ira M. Godfrey, still lives at Black Creek, and is highly 
respected by all who know her. 

SHERIDAN GORTON, attorney at law, Smethport, was born at Phillips- 
burg (now known as Belmont), Allegany Co., N. Y., in October. 1848 After 
finishing his studies he taught school in his native county and in Oakland 
county, Mich. He began the study of law with the Hon. Wilkes Angel, of 
Belmont, but about 1870 accepted a position which necessitated his traveling 
for about four years; he afterward completed the study of law with S. M 
Norton, of Friendship, N. Y., and June 5, 1877, was admitted to the bar of 
the State of New York. He became associated in the practice of law with 
I ( Backus. B. A., which continued until the death of Mr. Backus. October 
26, L888, since which time Mr. Gorton has retained the old office, and is 
engaged in business as before. In June. 1878, he married Lucy C. daughter 
of Judson G. Eaton, of Smethport. ami they have three children — boys — now 
ten, eight and one years of age, respectively. Mr. Gorton is a prominent 
member of the A. O. U. W. , and an officer in the grand lodge. Politically he 
is a Republican. His father. Sheridan Gorton, died in May. 1!S4\ and his 
mother afterward married W. D. Renwick, of Allegany county, N. Y.. a 
prominent teacher, who was school commissioner of that county for a period of 
six years, and they now have their home at Friendship. The mother of 
Sheridan Gorton bore the maiden name of Abigail Norton, and was the eldest 
daughter of Joseph B. Norton, one of the pioneers of Allegany county, N. Y.. 
who died in 1SS'_!, at the age of eighty-two years. 

ORLO J. HAMLIN, whose name is identified with the old bar of this dis- 
trict as the pioneer and leading lawyer of that bar in this county, came to 
Smethport in December, L826. He was born at Sharon, Conn., December 2, 
L803, but at the age of eleven years moved to Pennsylvania with his parents, 
where, in Wayne and Bradford counties, he resided until the date of his Bettle 
ment in McKean county. Sometime during the year is_4 he was appointed 
teacher of the pioneer school at Towanda, Bradford county. While holding 
that position, he read law in the office of Simon Kinney, and there was ad- 
mitted to the bar two year- later. In the fall of 1826, determining to seek his 
fortune in a newer country, heset out for Warren. Penh. Fromhis pencil notes 
of this tnp. the description of the country from Galeton to Coudersport, given 
in the local chapters of Potter county, is taken; while his reminiscences of his 
first twenty four hours at Smethport are given in the chapters on the courts 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 431 

and bar, and in the one on Smethport. Shortly after his arrival at Smethport . 
lie was called upon by John King (the agent of the Keatings), Jonathan Cole- 
grove (the agent of the Ridgways) and Solomon Sartwell (the lumberman and 
merchant), who received him cordially, and prevailed upon him to make his 
home among them. He came a little too late to participate in the proceedings 
of the first court (September, 1826), but was in time for the December term, when 
he and John W. Howe were admitted ex gratia members of the bar of McKean 
county. In the summer of 1828 Miss Orra L. Cogswell arrived from Con- 
necticut on a visit to her uncle, Jonathan Colegrove. By this time the young 
lawyer had won the esteem of the pioneers, and it is not a matter for wonder 
to learn that his suit for Miss Cogswell's heart and hand was favorably received 
by the grim old soldier of 1812, who was de facto guardian of the young lady's 
interests during her absence from Connecticut. The marriage of the pioneer 
lawyer and Miss Cogswell was solemnized that year, and for over half a century 
they resided here together, the center of a large circle of friends and of a happy 
family. In 1831 and 1832 Mr. Hamlin wrote the historical sketch published in 
Hazzard's Gazetteer of that year, the first history ever written of any section of 
the district. His political life may be said to have begun in 1828, when he took a 
leading part in the campaign. Four years later he represented his district in the 
legislature, and in the winter of 1832-33 he urged the bill appropriating 
$20,000 for the improvement of the east and west State road through McKean 
county. His speech on this occasion continued for two hours, and won the 
attention of all readers throughout the commonwealth, owing to the excellence 
of the language, style and logical conclusion employed by the speaker. The 
bill, however, failed to receive a majority vote, as did also one for the extension 
of the canal up the north branch of the Susquehanna, which he earnestly 
espoused. ■ Undeterred by the defeat of two such measures, he introduced a 
bill to organize the Eighteenth judicial district — Potter, McKean, Warren and 
Jefferson counties. He placed this measure before the house in such a strong 
light, that a legislature, which opposed everything necessitating further State 
or county taxes, was compelled to coincide with his views, so that, though the 
opposition was strong in numbers and influence, this bill was carried, and the 
perseverance of the young legislator rewarded. In the fall of 1833 he was 
nominated for re-election, but his name not being placed on the legislative 
ticket in Lycoming county, he withdrew, and in 1835 refused a third nomina- 
tion unconditionally. 

In July, 1836, he was admitted to the bar of the supreme court at Sunbury, 
and in 1837 practiced before the United States District Court at Williamsport, 
Penn. , representing the defendant in the ejectment suit for possession of all 
the Trimble lands in McKean county. The constitutional convention of 1836 
and 1838, which framed the constitution of Pennsylvania, claimed him as a 
representative of this northern district, with Hiram Payne, alternate. The 
poor state of Mr. Hamlin' s health compelled him to retire from the convention, 
leaving his views of the subjects he had presented and discussed to Mr. Payne, 
who voted in accordance with them. At this convention his proposition to 
give each county a separate representative was negatived. In 1874 a similar 
proposition was adopted. In 1839 Judge Eldred resigned, and a meeting 
was held to consider the choice of his successor as president judge. Solomon 
Sartwell presided, with J. E. Niles, secretary. This meeting resolved that 
Mr. Hamlin should be appointed, and the resolutions were forwarded to the 
governor, to be presented by Senators S. Hays and A. V. Parsons and Rep 
resentatives W. P. Wilcox and L. B. Cole. Other influences, supported by a 
more persistent candidate, militated against the wish of the people in this 



432 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

instance. In 1841 and 1S42 bis name was prominent among the candidates 
for congressional honors. The Democrat Analyzer, of Troy, in February, 
1842, speaking on the subject of his nomination, quotes John Sergeant, pics 
ident of the constitutional convention, as follows: ''I am very much impresses 
with the force of Mr. Hamlin's arguments, and would take this opportunity i I 
saying that McKean county is ably represented." Writing in 1852, he Btates 
that he tilled the offices of township collector: deputy postmaster; deputy 
prothonotary; recorder and register: treasurer of the township road funds for 
two years; postmaster, three years; deputy United States marshal, to take the 
census of 1830; deputy attorney-general for McKean and Potter counties; 
and. in 1832, member of the legislature. He makes the further statement 
• ' Complaint has never reached my ear of mismanagement in any of the 
offices, and I could have held them longer had I chosen to do so. I have 
learned to consider office rather as a matter of accident and peculiar fortune 
than the result of talent and management, and I have observed that those who 
seem most desirous of office are least fortunate in obtaining it. Consistency 
in politics should never be lost sight of." After resigning his seat in the 
convention in 1837, -Mr. Hamlin partially recovered from the effects of the 
fatigue and study to which he was subjected during his service in that bodj . 
and at intervals gave some attention to political affairs and to his legal busi 
ness. Though physically weak, he was fortunate in the possession of rare 
mental power. An analyst by nature, he was logical in all things, and each 
proposition submitted for his opinion or action was subjected to this process 
of logical dissection, so that when the conclusion was reached it was an 
eminently just and proper one. His successful law practice, up to 1851, is a 
testimonial to his high reasoning powers. In 1849 he engaged in his last 
criminal case, when he aided the district attorney in the trial of Uzza Bobbins, 
who was convicted of murder. He also made the dedicatory address at the 
opening of the old court-house, or second public building, which gave place to 
the present temple of justice. For over twenty years prior to his death, he 
had surrendered all hope of ever again appearing in court. To fill out the 
blank which this involuntary retirement from the courts created, he en- 
tered on new studies, taking up successfully the French and German Ian 
guages, astronomy, geology and zoology, in which studies he was accus- 
tomed to consult and procure the physical assistance of members of his 
family. About 1870, Dr. Keating of Philadelphia, a grandson of John Keat- 
ing, and a life-long friend of the lawyer, was called to his bedside. The 
doctor naturally expected to be interrogated in the matter of the patient's 
condition, but professional surprise may be imagined when Mr. Hamlin 
said: "Well, doctor, I have been reading the Marseillaise Hymn; I know 
von are a French scholar; I have it in the original as well as the trans- 
lation; now I want you to take it in the French and translate it slowly: 
while I compare the translation, to see whether the translator is right or 
whether I am." The doctor assented, and when he came to the verse which 
gave the patient special anxiety, the latter said: " Now please be accurate." 
At the conclusion of the reading, a smile gladdened the invalid's face and he 
said: "I thought I was right, now I've proved it; you can tell me now what 
you can do to make a sick man well." 

In his early years, Mr. Hamlin was somewhat skeptical with regard to the 
immortality of the soul, but in the year 1845 he became a member of the 
Presbyterian Church of Smethport, having received baptism at the hands of 
Rev. B. T. Babbitt of that communion. From that time to the close his faith 
grew stronger and more firm, as will be seen in the following lines written by 
himself, called: 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 433 

Thoughts and Reflections. 

For a sick man whose sands of life are nearly run. when all experiments to regain 
health have failed, when even all possible hope is extinguished and Fate has put on him 
the seal of despair, and there is naught to look to as the future of Earth, of all consola- 
tions the ever busy imagination can unfold, the thought that he knows that God exists, 
that there is a God, and believes in Christ as his Mediator and Savior, and hopes for im- 
mortality, and believes that when life has once begun, we live forever ; that death, in- 
stead of being a cessation of life, is but a change. It may be afanciful one, from mortal 
to immortal, that when we die we shall sleep, not so. but sleep with our fathers; and when 
we awaken from that sleep, be it long or short, we shall awaken to everlasting life, with 
our bodily infirmities, our diseases, our cares, our sorrows, our weaknesses, Doth of body 
and mind, gone, all gone forever, being born again into a new. holy and perfect state of 
being. This is the most glorious, joyful, happy and. to find the fullest expression, most 
grand and sublime thought that can be conceived by mortals, and the one of all others 
that gives me most happiness. 

October 2, 1870. O. J. H. 

Mr. Hamlin's death took place, February, 13, 1880, the result of total 
exhaustion of the physical system. It was the end of an invalid condition 
of almost thirty years' duration, and consequently was painless and peace- 
ful. His widow died April 17, 1881, in her seventy-sixth year, within that 
home in which she dwelt for fifty-three years. The fact of Mr. Hamlin's 
death was presented to the court in February, 1880, by Hon. C. B. Curtis, 
then residing in Erie, but practicing in this court, when the official action, re- 
ported as follows, resulted. Mr. Curtis said: "If the court please, I wish to 
announce to the court and bar that Orlo J. Hamlin breathed his last in this 
town on the 13th day of the present month. The oldest practitioner which I 
know, and one of the oldest members of the bar which I know in Western 
Pennsylvania; I know of but one person now occupying that position. And I 
can not pass over the announcement of this fact, without some reference to the 
character of the deceased. Having been admitted here as early as 1820 — 
almost fifty-four years ago, he must necessarily have formed some character 
for good or for evil in this community, as well as in the surrounding counties, 
where he was well known. And it is but just to his memory to say of the de- 
ceased, that no man ever practiced before this bar, who had a more unimpeach- 
able record than the deceased. There are but few men whose whole life for 
integrity was so unquestioned, so white and pure as Orlo J. Hamlin's. While 
he bore that high character fully among his professional associates, he was 
held in the same high estimation by all classes who had intercourse with him. 
He also had this commendable merit besides: he was a lawyer in the true ac- 
ceptance of the term, high-minded, conciliatory and honorable, not only in 
all of his relations with his professional brethren and the bench, but also in 
his intercourse with all classes of our citizens, who will long remember him 
with the highest respect for his high character as a good lawyer and citizen. 
Orlo J. Hamlin was a thorough student, devoted to his books. As a practitioner, 
there was no member of this bar who came into court more thoroughly pre- 
pared, and master of the subject involved in the controversy than the deceased. 
He was, therefore, always prepared to make an able and learned presentation 
of his cause. Although Mr. Hamlin for many years had retired from the act 
ive labors of his profession, he nevertheless pursued his studies to the last, 
which seemed to relieve him somewhat from his pain and suffering, during so 
many years of sickness. Bright and promising as were his prospects in early 
life, yet they were somewhat clouded by delicate health, which finally settled 
down for a period of nearly thirty years into a sickness, making him a con- 
firmed invalid during all these dreary years, and confined to his house, seeing 
but a few persons and conversing with but a few. But still, with all his afflic- 
tions, he bore them with Christian fortitude and grace, never forgetting the 



434 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

profession to which he belonged, never forgetting to hold aloft the high stand- 
ard of that profession. And so he lived as to make his memory revered, not 
only in the county of McKean, which ought to be proud of his career, but in 
the counties surrounding wherever he was known* and wherever his character 
was known he will be regretted. And while his character may be held up as 
a model for the profession, it may also be alleged that he had a model charac- 
ter as a good citizen. And that is saying a great deal for the deceased. I 
have, in view of the character of Mr. Hamlin, and ihe occasion, drawn a reso 
lution, asking for the appointment of a committee by this court to express the 
sentiments of this court and bar, in relation to the character of Orlo J. Hamlin, 
which I will now present to your honor." 

Judge Williams said: "Your idea. Mr. Curtis, is that this committee' 
should report at a subsequent sitting of the court upon its action." 

Mr. Curtis: "Yes sir; and that the resolutions be filed among the records 
of the court." 

Judge Williams: "Has any other gentleman, at this time, anything to 
urge upon this subject ? " 

Mr. Backus: "Your Honor; I have been a member of the McKean county 
bar some twenty eight or thirty years. I knew O. J. Hamlin for some time 
previous to his being confined in consequence of ill health, and his retirement 
from the bar —probably some two years. I have known of his reputation pretty 
thoroughly; I have known of the man. Although he has been, as it were, 
buried for the last twenty-eight years, yet I have learned from the records of 
this county, from the transactions that have transpired in consequence of his 
connection with the growth and political existence of this county, sufficient to 
enable me to know that he was a man of extraordinary character; that he was 
a man of large ability. He was not only considered one of the first attorneys 
in Western Pennsylvania, but he was trusted also with the keeping and main- 
taining of the honors of the State. He was a member of the legislature; he 
was a member of the constitutional convention of 1S3S, and of whom it has 
been said by very able men that there were none more capable, or none who 
rendered more service in the formation of the constitution, than Orlo J. Ham- 
lin. In the constitutional convention of 1873, one of its most distinguished 
members, ex-Chief- Justice Woodward, in his address to this body on the prop 
osition to give to each county at least one representative in the lower branch 
of the legislature, said of the deceased: 'Mr. President, in the convention of 
1837, there was a young man by the name of Hamlin, who discussed this Mil' 
ject in such a manner as to wring from Mr. Sergeant, the president of the con- 
vention, a very high compliment, and I undertake to say, that from the begin 
ning to the end of the session of that body there was no subject so scientifically 
and thoroughly discussed as this subject of county representation by that 
young man. Since this debate has come up in this body, I have referred to 
the debates of the convention of 1837, and have read his speech, and I wish 
every gentleman here had done so.' The people who have known him for years 
have known him as a man of great ability. They have known him as a man 
cil' great honesty and integrity; one who was at any and at all times, not only 
when in full life, but often he was confined to his room, when he was unable 
to exercise his full powers of thought by reason of suffering and pain, readj to 
adjust differences and quiet law suits between neighbors, he was one who was 
looked up to. He was consulted a- to the settlement of difficulties arising 
among neighbors. He was a man who did honors to the profession, who never 
urged a law suit, but invariably took all trouble and pains possible to make 
neighbors respect each other as men. Therefore, he has stood high in the 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 435 

community. All who spoko of him gave him credit as being a man of worth, 
and a man, who, when he went out of society, was very much missed. His 
departure will be regretted so long as the old citizens of this county remain on 
this side of the dark and turbulent river over which Orlo J. Hamlin has tri- 
umphantly passed." 

Judge Williams said: "It was notour good fortune to have a personal 
acquaintance with Mr. Hamlin. His active connection with the profession had 
closed before our connection with the courts of McKean county began. But 
through all the years of our attendance upon these courts we have heard but 
one opinion expressed of him. Whether he was spoken of as a citizen or as a 
lawyer, it has uniformly been in terms of high praise. From those who knew 
him when in his full strength, and met him in the contests of the courtroom, 
we have gotten the opinion that he was recognized as a lawyer of more than 
ordinary painstaking, and of more than ordinary attainments; while as an 
advocate he was earnest, eloquent, and, before a jury who knew his own char- 
acter, almost irresistible. During the long years of his retirement in a sick 
room he is reputed to have kept up his acquaintance with the literature of the 
age, to have been a careful student of the sciences, and indeed to have watched 
with interest even the recent changes and developments in progress about him. 
His long and successful professional career, his public services, his high 
personal character, and his recognized ability make this motion eminently 
proper, notwithstanding the fact that many years have elapsed since Mr. Ham- 
lin's professional career closed. We entertain it with pleasure, and in compli- 
ance with it appoint the following committee, viz. : Hons. C. B. Curtis, 
A. G. Olmsted, J. C. Backus, W. W. Brown and P. Ford, Esq. And it is further 
ordered that as a mark of respect for the memory of the deceased these courts 
do now adjourn, and that this order be entered at length upon the minutes." 

The committee appointed by the court to prepare resolutions of the sense of 
this bar presents the following resolutions, February 18, 1880, in open court: 

Resohvd, That the Court and Bar of this County sincerely mourn the death of our 
esteemed deceased brother. O. J. Hamlin, a member of this bar for more than fifty years. 

Resolved, That we entertain the profoundest respect for the unsullied character of 
the deceased as a good citizen and a lawyer of sterling integrity, and of more than ordi- 
nary professional learning and ability. 

Resolved, That we tender to the family of the deceased our sincerest condolence in 
their bereavement for their irreparable loss. 

And now. February 19, 1880, it is ordered that the resolutions, reported by the com- 
mittee appointed on the 16th day of February iust., be entered at length upon the minutes 
of this Court as a part of the proceedings of the day. and that the prothonotary make and 
deliver to the committee a copy hereof certified under his official seal for presentation to 
the family of the said O. .1. Hamlin, deceased. 

The eulogies bestowed on the pioneer lawyer on that 18th day of February, 
1880, only five days after he was called to the bar of the Supreme Court of the 
Universe, were not utterances of fashion or custom. The pioneer more than 
deserved this praise, for every act of his, during over half a century's residence 
in McKean county, was one bringing benefits to the community, county or 
district. 

Mr. Hamlin was the father of three children: Henry, John C. and Pauline 
(wife of Robert King), who all live in Smethport. 

BYRON D. HAMLIN. When the average young man of the present day 
is disposed to grumble at the fate that compels him to earn his living, and to 
complain of his "luck," it may be profitable to him to study the lives of the 
older men around him who are enjoying wealth and honorable position. He 
will discover that almost without exception their earlier days were fraught 
with struggling toil, and that their success is the result of earnest and perse- 



t36 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

vering application of the hand and brain, and the prompt improvement of 
every opportunity offered. The gentleman whose name heads this sketch 
holds a most enviable position socially and financially. In the declining years 
of bis life he is surrounded with all the comforts of a competence and the as- 
surance of the respect and honor of his fellows, and the love of a large circle 
of friends and family connections. This is not the result of chance, but the 
reward of patient toil and persevering endeavor. Equal success is in the 
power of any young man. Hon. Byron D. Hamlin, the senior resident -member 
of the McKean county bar, was born on May 7, 18'J4. at Sheshequin. Bradford 
Co., Penn., the youngest of seven children. His father, Dr. Asa Hamlin, was 
of English descent, while his mother, whose maiden name was Delano, came of 
French ancestry. His parents and ancestors had resided for many generations 
in Litchfield county, Conn., his father removing to Pennsylvania in 181<>. Dr. 
Asa Hamlin, who was one of a family of twenty-one children, was bred on a 
farm, and brought up under the old Puritanical regime as practiced by the 
New England Presbyterians. Amusements were rare, and Sunday was a day 
to be dreaded. He had scanty opportunities for education or culture in his 
youth, yet he improved them so well that he secured a profession in which he 
held a respectable rank. In those days, however, doctors' fees were small and 
hard to get. In June, 1833, he removed to Smethport with his wife and two 
younger children — the subject of this sketch and his sister. Jenette and died 
in 1835, leaving his family without financial means for their support. In this 
condition of things young Byron, then but a slight lad of eleven years, set 
about to find some self-supporting employment. The first that offered was an 
opportunity to peel and gather bark from old hemlock trees that had fallen. 
This he sold for fuel at $1 per cord, payable in store trade. In this occupa 
tion he succeeded in maintaining and clothing himself for some time, and even 
h i I sufficient surplus to purchase a handsome cream pitcher as a present to 
his mother. It cost 5 shillings and P> pence, and is still preserved and highly 
prized as a relic of the struggles of his youth. After a time he was offered 
the position of mail-carrier between Smethport and Olean. N. Y.. then the 
principal communication with the outside world, and he accepted it gratefully. 
He had to make two round trips a week, goiug to Olean and returning each 
Sunday, making a ride of fifty six miles, and going Wednesday and returning 
on Thursday. The salary was 75 cents a trip, or $1.50 a week. The Sunday 
trip commenced at 4 a. m., and was generally concluded between 8 and 11 
p. m., in all kinds of weather and at all seasons of the year. Young Byron 
began this occupation when thirteen years old. and continued it two years. 
during which time the mail rarely failed to be >ki time. His mode of convey 
ance was on the back of a mule, and Mr. Hamlin enjoys nothing better than 
to relate the comical, though often unpleasant, experiences of those days. By 
the improvement of odd hours with his books at the fireside, and an occasional 
few weeks at school, he bad gained sufficient education to undertake teaching 
school at the age of sixteen on Marvin creek, about four miles from home, at 
$10 a month and "board around."' The term lasted three months, and from 
the proceeds he was able to purchase a suit of clothes and a few books. 

His sister, Jenette. having married Rev. Mo-,.- Crow, a professor in 
Allegheny College, at Meadville. Penn., he accepted an invitation to make 
bis home with them, and enter the college. After about a year and a half. 
his brother-in-law's health failing, so t hut he was obliged to resign his pro 
Eessorship, young Byron, having no means to pay bis expenses and continue 
his studies, returned to Smethport. He then accepted an offer of partnership 
in a little store owned by bis brother, Orlo J. Hamlin, the whole stock of which 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 437 

would not inventory over 1500. After about a year thus engaged, his brother- 
in-law, who had in the meantime united with the Conference of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, and been stationed at Geneva. N.Y. , again invited him to 
live with him, and attend the college in that beautiful town. The long hoped- 
for opportunity to complete a college course seemed to have arrived, and he 
hastily closed his interest in the store, and prepared to accept the offer. 
His profits in the year's business comprised a respectable wardrobe, and about 
SI no in bills receivable. He had in preparation for his trip a wooden trunk 
made by a carpenter and joiner (which is still preserved in the attic of his 
residence), in which all of his worldly wealth was stowed, when a few days before 
starting he received a letter stating that both Mr. and Mrs. Crow were lying 
at the point of death, from t/yphoid fever. He went there at once, on horse- 
back, but found that his sister was dead and buried, and his brother-in-law 
almost at the point of death, so he was obliged to return to Srnethport with his 
hopes disappointed, and his spirits crushed. By the advice of his brother. 
Orlo J., who was then practicing law in Smethport, he gave up the idea of 
completing a collegiate education, and entered his office as a student and 
clerk. This was in 1843, and in 18-46 he was admitted to the bar of McKean 
county. His brother had the care of a number of landed estates, for various 
owners, and the attention to the details of this part of the business falling 
largely upon the young student, he early acquired a taste for it, and having 
given the subject his principal attention during his long professional career, 
he is an accepted authority upon legal as well as practical business questions 
relating to lands and land titles. In 1 855 he accepted the agency of the lands 
of Keating & Co., then comprising nearly two hundred thousand acres of the 
two hundred and ninety-seven thousand they had purchased from William 
Bingham, in the year 1790, in McKean, Potter, Cameron, Clinton and Clear- 
field counties. He had their care and management to the year 1884, when 
he became the purchaser of what remained of this estate, and interested 
some of his family relatives with himself in its ownership — the business being 
conducted in the names of Byron D. Hamlin, Henry Hamlin and John 
Forrest. 

In politics Mr. Hamlin is a Democrat. When a young man he was active 
and prominent as a local leader, and his party, then largely in the majority in 
the county and district, recognized his abilities and usefulness. In 1848, at 
the age of twenty-four, he was recommended by his county as a candidate for 
the legislature, but declined at the district convention in favor of G. W. 
Scofield, of Warren county, who was elected; in 1850 he was elected treasurer 
of McKean county; in 1852 he was sent to the State senate, in which body, 
although one of the youngest members, he took a leading and prominent 
position, and was elected as its presiding officer at the close of the session 
of 1854. He was re-nominated by the convention of his district at the close 
of his term, in 1855, but was defeated by Henry Souther, of Elk county, the 
candidate of the American and Free- Soil parties. Having a good clientage 
and extensive land estates under his care, he considered it his duty to those 
interests, and to his family, to withdraw from active political life to more con- 
genial and profitable pursuits. He was tendered the nomination (which, in 
that district, was equivalent to an election) for president judge of the counties 
of Clearfield, Clinton and Centre, in 1868, but declined it. Since that time 
he has been urged by the people of his own district, without regard to party, 
to stand as a candidate for judicial honors in it, but adhered to his often 
expressed determination to spend his life in domestic pursuits, without the 
slavery of public office. In 1882, however, he was induced, after repeated 



438 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

solicitations, to allow his name to be presented as the candidate of his party 
for the legislature. Although the county was Republican by a considerable 
majority, and he was opposed by the strongest candidate who could at that 
time have been nominated against him, he was defeated by less than a score of 
votes. In the dark period of our Nation's history (1861-65) Mr. Hamlin stood 
on the ground that the only way to correct the fallacies of those who sought 
to break the bond of union of the States was the physical one; all arguments ap- 
pealing to the patriotism and reasoning faculties having failed. He was ex- 
amined, and pronounced physically unfit for service in the field, but, immediately 
following the news of the first shot on Sumter, he applied himself to the work 
of encouraging and aiding the valorous young men of his region to enlist, for 
the defense of their country and their homes. He rendered efficient aid to 
Gen. Thomas L. Kane, to whom he was much devoted, in selecting the 
valiant fellows who formed the famous Bucktail Regiment, and no compliment 
ever bestowed on him afforded him and his family more gratification than his 
election as an honorary comrade in that regiment, at the re- union of its 
survivors in 1888. Mr. Hamlin is now at the age of sixty-five years, a well- 
preserved gentleman, in the prime of his maturity and usefulness. Although 
his life has been full of toil and business cares, he has always been temperate 
in his habits, and has not wasted his energies or his health. 

In 1846 he married Miss Harriet, daughter of John Holmes, of Smethpori. 
who has by her faithful devotion, constant sympathy and good counsel, con- 
tributed largely to his success. They were blessed with children, one boy 
and two girls. The son, Delano R., died May 30, 1884, leaving a widow and 
two children. The eldest daughter. Jenette, married H. V. Redfield, the 
well-known Washington correspondent of the Cincinnati Commercial, who 
died November 17, 1881, leaving his wife and three lovely children. Mrs. 
Liedfield was next married September 24, 1889, to "William E. McCoy, an en- 
terprising and substantial cotton manufacturer of Augusta. (ja., and with her 
children now resides in that, healthful and attractive Southern citv. The 
youngest daughter. Mary, married John Forrest, who is a lawyer and a part- 
ner with his father-in-law in the law and land business, and the main reliance for 
the details of the business of the firm. Mr. and Mrs. Forrest have two young 
daughters, who are the pride of their parents and grandparents. Mr. Hamlin 
is very domestic in his tastes, and is happiest when surrounded by his family, 
children and grandchildren. He lives in a comfortable mansion in Smethport, 
and enjoys with his family the competence and ease earned by his hand and 
brain throughout a busy and useful life. 

HENRY HAMLIN, eldest son of Orlo J. and Orra L. (Cogswell) Hamlin, 
was born at Smethport, McKean Co., Perm., April 9, 1830. At this time his 
Father, Orlo J. Hamlin, a man of rare scholarly attainments, and. until obliged 
by physical weakness to K' VI ' n l' n ' s profession, the leader of the bar of his dis- 
trict, was an active practitioner, and his son, who had inherited in a marked de- 
gree his father's love of books and research, and whose mind fitted him to fol- 
low in his footsteps, naturally at an early age commenced the study of law. 
Finding, however, that his health demanded a more active life, he concluded 
to lake up the mercantile business, and entered as a clerk the store of O. J. & 
B. D. Hamlin, of which firm, at the age of nineteen, he was admitted as a part 
ner. From this time on until the year l s 7\ when he sold out his interest in 
the business to Mr. Haskill. he was successful in all his ventures; strict in- 
tegrity, close attention to business, and his wonderful faculty of acquiring a 
knowledge of the minutiae of everything he undertook, being the secret of his 
-iw ». and the latter trait has followed liitn through life, not only in busi- 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 430 

ness matters, but even in out-door and other amusements, in which he has 
always taken a lively interest, ever ready to take a hand in them during 
his leisure moments, and never satisfied until he has mastered every feature. 
As a financier Mr. Hamlin has been wonderfully successful, making invest- 
ments only after thorough investigation; and while he has been and is at pres- 
ent largely interested in timber lands in his own and other States, in the pro- 
duction of oil and in other commercial ventures, he rarely makes a mistake or 
suffers a loss, his present banking establishment, known as the banking house 
of Henry Hamlin, being one of the solid institutions of Western Pennsylvania. 
A marked characteristic of Mr, Hamlin's business life has been his leniency 
toward the deserving poor among his debtors, as many a man in McKean 
county can attest, for while he has always worked under strict business rules 
and principles, he has never been an oppressor of the poor. Mr. Hamlin has 
done much for the prosperity of his native town: notably bis connection with 
the present successful water-works system, the erection of his handsome bank 
building, which would be an ornament to a much larger place, his own hand- 
some grounds, and his interest in all matters of public improvement. In 1854 
Mr. Hamlin married Hannah L., daughter of Dr. W. Y. McCoy, a lady who 
by reason of her many virtues has endeared herself to all classes of people. 
They have four children: Laena D. (now Mrs. Robert H. Rose), Emma M. 
(now Mrs. J. H. McCandless), Eugenie M. and Orlo. To Mrs. Henry Hamlin 
and her sister, Mrs. John C. Hamlin, Smethport mainly owes its present Epis- 
copal Church system. Mr. and Mrs. Hamlin and their children are all mem- 
bers of St. Luke's Church, Mr. Hamlin contributing largely toward the erection 
of the church edifice. In politics Mr. Hamlin was formerly identified with the 
Democratic party, but is at present an active Republican, coming into the Re 
publican ranks by his support of Abraham Lincoln. In 1881 he was elected 
associate judge, and he performed the duties of that office with great credit to 
himself and in the interest of his constituents until the abolishment of the office 
by reason of the county becoming a separate judicial district, under the con- 
stitution of 1874, it then having a population of over 40,000. Mr. Hamlin is 
widely known and universally respected, and his career as a business man and as 
a citizen has been such as to be an example to young men, showing what can be 
done by application and a conscientious performance of business and other 
duties. 

JOHN C. HAMLIN, hardware merchant. Smethport, son of Orlo J. Ham- 
lin, was born March 4, 1836, at Smethport, McKean Co., Penn., where he was 
educated and where, in 1865, he opened the first store exclusively for hard- 
ware, a business he is still engaged in. In 1857 he married Charlotte M. , 
daughter of Dr. \V. Y. McCoy, one of the first practicing physicians of 
Smethport, which union was blessed with three children: William O. . C. 
Aline (now Mrs. Dr. Lewis H. Robinson, of Brooklyn, N. Y. ) and Mary E. 
(now Mrs. Charles Bosworth, also of Brooklyn, N. Y. ). William O. married 
Miss Julia Lightbody, and is also a resident of Brooklyn. Mr. Hamlin is a 
member of McKean Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 388; of Bradford Chapter, R. 
A. M. , and Trinity Commandery, K. T. He is a Democrat, but not a politi- 
cian, devoting his time and energies to business cares. He and his family are 
members of St. Luke's Episcopal Church. The foundation and prosperity of 
the church afford an example of the reward of twenty years of untiring labor 
by Mr. and Mrs. Hamlin, who maintained the Sunday-school and church 
affairs in general, from 1857 to about 1880, when St. Luke's had grown to be 
a strong parish, and since then it has become one of the largest and most flour- 
ishing in the county. 



440 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

DELANO R. HAMLIN was born at Smethport, McKean Co., Penn., 
August 10, 1847. He was the only son of Byron D. and Harriet Hamlin, 
and was the eldest of their family of three children. After having attended 
the public schools of his native borough until he was thirteen years old, he 
was sent to a public school at Flushing, L. I., and two years later entered 
Flushing Institute, conducted by that prince of educators. Prof. E. A. Fair- 
child. The damp sea-air at that place disagreeing with his health, he was 
removed to Allegheny College, at Meadville, Penn.. where he made excellent 
studies, and remained until lNtiS, when he returned to his home, and entered 
upon the study of law in his father's office. He was admitted to the bar. and on 
January 1, 1871, became a partner in his father's law and land business, under 
the firm name of Hamlin & Son, and continued as such until his death. In 
1 ST 1 Mr. Hamlin married Miss Eugenia McCoy, a daughter of Dr. William 
Y. McCoy, of Smethport. This union was a happy one, the parties to it being 
congenial, each striving for the welfare and rational enjoyment of the other. 
They were blessed with two promising children: Paul and Jenette, the son 
being now a student in St. Paul's school at Concord, N. H., and the daughter 
at Inline with her mother, who keeps house in the beautiful family mansion 
erected for her by her husband a short time before his death. At an early 
age the subject of this sketch became a victim to attacks of inflammatory 
rheumatism, which continued at intervals, producing hypertrophy of the 
heart, and finally causing his death, which occurred May 30, 1884. His 
remains were buried in Rose Hill Cemetery, at Smethport, the funeral services 
being witnessed by a large concourse of sorrowing friends, assembled from all 
parts of the county. As a young man he started in life with bright prospects 
and high resolves, and, had his health and life been spared, no man in this 
region would have attained a higher station of honor and usefulness. His 
characteristics, habits and ambitions all tended toward the true and the right. 
He had not in his nature an impure, mean or ungenerous impulse. Hi- sym- 
pathies were ever active, and his heart and purse always open to the demands 
of charity and the public good. He was eminently public spirited, and always 
ready to advance every enterprise for the benefit of the community. In poli- 
tics lie was of the Democratic faith, ardent in the support of his views, labor- 
ing earnestly for the candidates of his political party, but never seeking office 
for himself. He was sincerely and actively interested in the prosperity of his 
native borough and county, and his loss was deeply felt and deplored by all. 
He was a faithful member of St. Luke's Protestant Episcopal Church, was a 
member of Trinity Commander v. No. 58. K. T.,of Bradford; Bradford 
Chapter, No. 260, R. V. M. and McKean Lodge. No. 388, A. Y. M.. and an 
honorary member of the Smethport Hose Company. No. 1, many of the mem- 
bers of these organizations being present to sympathize with his bereaved 
family, and aid in the performance of the last sad rites. Following his death, 
action was taken as showu in the following resolutions of respect and condol- 
ence. At a meeting of the McKean county bar. the following resolutions were 
adopted : 

The members of the bar of McKean county desire to express their deep Borrow over 
the death of Brother D. R. Hamlin. His amiable disposition, his gentlemanliness, his 
uniform conduct to all. and his hospitality, won the affections of his brethren of the bar 
as lii- ability, modesty, honesty, and truthfulness won their respect. The members of the 
bar desire further to express their sympathy with the parents and widow of t lie deceased 
in the lo-s of son ami husband s' i richb endowed with qualities which make the relation- 
ship of parents and children one of unalloyed satisfaction, and the association of husband 
and wife uninterrupted happiness: John C. Backus, X 1! Smiley, J. M. McClure, com- 
mittee. It was ordered that t lie resolutions be spread upon the mi mites of the COUrt, and 
■i certified copy be aenl to B I>. Hamlin and family. Appropriate and feeling remarks 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 441 



were made by the following gentlemen: Judge Olmsted, and Messrs. Backus. ( 
Keenan. .Smile} - , Milliken, King. Smith. Cotter, McSweeney. Weil, Chapman. >] 



Gorton. 

MeClure 

and Rose. 

At a regular meeting of the Smethport Hose Company, No. 1, the following 
resolutions were adopted: 

Whereas, The final roll has been called and one whose name appeared at the head 
of our list as the first honoraiy member of our association has courageously and even 
cheerfully answered its imperative summons, whereby we have lost a genial companion, a 
well loved friend, a ready helper, and a generous benefactor; and. Whereas, For the first 
time the darkened chambers of the silent city have been opened to receive one of our 
members, we, the officers and members of the Smethport Hose Company, No. 1, express 
our sincere sorrow for the loss of one whose aid and advice have been invaluable to our 
success, and whose patience and cheerfulness under great affliction were proverbial; and 
we desire hereby to express our heartfelt sympathy with the parents and family of our de- 
ceased brother, "Delano R. Hamlin, in their great bereavement. Resolved, That a copy of 
these resolutions be presented to the widow of the deceased brother, and a copy furnished 
the McKean Miner and the McKean Democrat for publication: F. W. Brownell. S. Gor- 
ton, T. F. Richmond, committee. 

At a regular meeting of McKean Lodge, No. 388, A. Y. M.. the following 
preamble and resolutions were adopted: 

Whereas. It has pleased the Great Master of the universe, who doeth all things well, 
to call from this world of labor, sorrow and pain our beloved Brother, Delano R. Hamlin, 
whose life has ever been an exponent of the beneficent principles taught within the lodge 
and who by the constant exercise of charity, patience and resignation under suffering, and 
the faithful discbarge of every duty, had endeared him to his fellows. Resolved, That 
while we mourn the loss of a friend and brother, we bow submissively to the decree of the 
great and all-wise Master, and tender to the bereaved family of our departed brother our 
deepest sympathy in this their great affliction. Resolved, That these resolutions be eu- 
grossed upon the minutes of the lodge, a copy presented to the family of our deceased 
brother, and that they be published in the Miner and Democrat: H. F. Barbour, L. O. 
Chadwick, G. M. Smith, committee. 

ORREN E. HAVEN, farmer, P. O. Smethport, is a son of Luther and 
Jemima (Colegrove) Haven, and was born in Norwich township, McKean Co. , 
Penn. , December 1, 1820. His father came from Chenango county, N. Y., 
about 1820, and located at Colegrove, where he engaged in farming, remain- 
ing there until 1847, in which year he removed to McHenry county, 111., where 
he died March 1, 1855, and his wife November 11. 1861. Their children were 
Lorinda P., Jasper J., Benjamin C, Orren E., Helen O. , Edson G. and Ed- 
mund F. (twins), and Fidelia C., eight children, all living, the eldest now 
seventy-three years old and the youngest sixty-one. Their father took an 
active interest in educational matters, and during his residence in Norwich 
township paid one-third of the entire sum raised for educational purposes. 
Orren E. Haven made his home with his parents until twenty years of age, and 
having received a practical education became a teacher; for some time was also 
engaged in searing timber. In 1851 he married Eunice, daughter of Henry 
Lasher, of Norwich township, McKean county, and located in Keating town- 
ship, on a farm he had previously purchased and where he has since resided. 
Mr. and Mrs. Haven have three children: D. L.. Clyde P. and Mittie L. 
They are members of the Old Norwich Church. In politics he is a Republi- 
can, has filled nearly all of the local township offices, and was urged to accept 
the nomination for county commissioner, but declined. 

F. S. HOLMES, proprietor of planing-mill, Coryville, was born in Gren- 
eseo, Livingston Co., N. Y., in 1850. He learned the trade of a carpenter 
and joiner, and located at Coryville, Penn.. in 1874, where he had a planing- 
mill, which was destroyed by tire in 1885, after which he built what is known 
as the Iron Mill, of which he is at present proprietor. In 1874 he married 
Ella C. , daughter of A. H. Cory, of Coryville, and they have a family of four 



44'2 HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

children. Mr. Holmes is a member of Eldred Lodge, No. 5, F. & A. M . and 
in politics is identified with the Republican party. He and his wife are mem - 
bers of the United Brethren Church. 

P. D. HOPKINS, merchant. Smethport. son of P. C. and Auice (Franklin) 
Hopkins, was born at Lenox, Susquehanna Co., Penn., in IMS. With his 
parents he removed to Lafayette township, McKean county, where his father 
engaged in farming, and in 1863 the latter proceeded to Michigan, where he 
died in the fall of L887. His widow makes her home with P. D. Their ebil 
dren were Clark P.. Man E. (now Mrs. William Foster), Patience C, Sarah 
L.. Clarissa, Edwin I., Alonzo F.. Caroline A. (now Mrs. Stephen Pattison) 
and P. D. P. D. Hopkins was reared and educated in McKean county, and 
after his school days engaged in business at Smethport as a dealer in general 
merchandise, in the building he still occupies. In ISM he married Annie E., 
daughter of William and Mary Wilkinson, and they have one child. Bessie. 
Mr. Hopkins devotes his entire time to business, and although a stanch sup 
porter of the Republican party is no politician. He and his wife attend the 
-ii \ ices of the Baptist Church. 

OLIVER IRONS, farmer, stock raiser, and proprietor of cheese factory. P. 
O. Smethport, is a son of Gideon and Miami Irons, and was born in Keating 
township, McKean Co., Penn., in 1823. Gideon Irons was a native of Rhode 
Island, and removed to Keating township at a very early day, where he mar- 
ried Miami Stark, and engaged in farming. They wen' the parents of the 
following named children: Oliver, Clark. Otis. William. Stephen. George Olive, 
Sirena and Lydia. Oliver Irons made his home with his parents until 1851, 
when he married Ann Housler, and to them were born six children: Wilbur O. , 
Malissa A., Florence A., George C, Willis W. and Isadore A. He has devoted 
his attention to farming and stock raising, and has also erected a cheese fac 
tory on his farm, with a capacity of four tons annually. The milk is supplied 
from his own cows, and his cheese have more than a local reputation. Mr. 
Irons is a worker in the Democratic party. 

OTIS IRONS, farmer, P. O. Smethport, son of Gideon and Miami Irons, 
was born in Port Allegany, McKean Co. . Penn. . in 1830. Gideon Irons, who was 
a native of Rhode Island, came to McKean county at an early day. and located 
on Potato creek where he engaged in business as a farmer and lumberman, and 
where both he and his wife died. Otis Irons made his home with his parents 
until twenty-two years of age, when he bought the farm he now owns in Keat 
ing township, to which he removed after his marriage, and where he has since 
been engaged in farming. He was married in 1870 to Sarah Hand. In poli- 
tic- he is a Democrat. 

STEPHEN IRONS, farmer, lumberman and oil producer. P. O. Smeth 
port, is a son of Gideon and Miami Irons, and was born in Smethport, McKean 
Co., Penn., in 1834. Gideon Irons was born in Rhode Island and was one of 
the oldest settlers of McKean county, Penn. Stephen made his home with his 
parents until L855, when he married Julia, daughter of Joel Cross, of Chan 
tauqua county, N. Y. The mother of Mrs. Julia Irons, before marriage, was 
Miss Julianna Medberry, a native of Connecticut, born in 1812, and daughter 
of Joseph Medberry. They then located on Marvin creek, and from there 
removed to Minnesota, in lS'U. but on account of the ill health of Mrs. Irons 
returned to Keating township, McKean Co., Penn., and in L868 he pur- 
chased the old homestead in Irons Hollow, where he has since been engaged 
m farming, as well as in the oil and lumber business. Their children are Ku 
gene, Gideon, Jeptha and Mrs. Emma Chadwick. Mr. Iron- has been honored 
in having been supervisor of his township two term-. He is a Democrat in pol 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 443 

itics. Mrs. Irons, although belonging to no church, is a believer in baptism 
and the Church of God. 

JOHN KEATING was born at Adare, near Limerick, Ireland, in 1760. 
The family was of Norman stock, emigrating to Ireland under Henry II. 
They were dispossessed of their lands by Cromwell. John Keating' s grand- 
father, Byron Geoffrey, fought at the battle of Limerick, and was banished 
to France at the capitulation; subsequently he returned and married the daugh- 
ter of Thadeus Quin, the progenitor of the lord of Adare, to whose title was 
afterward added that of Dunraven. When John Keating was five years of 
age, his father moved to France in order to escape religious persecution. 
There he was granted letters patent of nobility by Louis XV in recognition of 
the title held by the family in Ireland, previous to the forfeiture of their 
estates. Of his six sons, five entered the French army, one of whom attained 
the rank of general of division, and died from the effects of imprisonment dur- 
ing the " reign of terror." Geoffrey Keating, the Irish historian, was the 
brother of John Keating's great-great-grandfather. John attained the rank of 
captain in the Irish Brigade, Walsh Serrant Regiment, and was awarded the 
cross of St. Louis in recognition of his meritorious service, a rare distinction. 
After the execution of the king, John, who was stationed in the West Indies, 
in 1795, refused command of the forces stationed in San Domingo, proposed 
by the government, resigned from the French service because of his disap- 
proval of the attrocities of the revolution, and came to this country, bearing 
letters to Washington and others. He was immediately sought after by cap- 
italists abroad to represent their interests here, and became the agent of large 
landed estates in Pennsylvania. The part of his life of especial interest to the 
people of the counties, for whom this volume is compiled, relates to his connec- 
tion with the large body of lands acquired near the close of the last century, 
and known as the lands of John Keating & Company. The entire manage- 
ment of this property devolved on him. This region was then a dense wilder- 
ness, with not a white man dwelling in or near it. Mr. Keating at once set 
out to " settle" it in the interest of the owners, and for the benefit of such as 
he could induce to become pioneers, and come to it with their families to make 
homes. The labor, privation and peril attending such an endeavor are shown 
in other parts of this volume. He came early and frequently on the grounds. 
The trip then cost much more thought and exertion than are now required to 
circumnavigate the globe. The skill exercised to make the settlements he 
founded self-supporting, and at the same time render some revenue to the 
owners of the estate, though of a different sort, was hardly less than that neces- 
sary to conduct a campaign in the wars in which he had been engaged. He 
at once adopted a policy of great generosity; granting land in limited quanti- 
ties to heads of families, without other considerations than its occupancy and 
improvement; giving contracts for sales at low prices and on long terms of 
payment; contributing money to build roads and to establish schools and 
places of religious worship. No settler who desired to remain was ever ejected 
because of his inability to pay for land he had contracted to purchase. Mr. 
Keating was known to many of the settlers as the " Squire," and his coming 
among them was an epoch in their isolated lives, they calling him so for ad- 
vice in all their affairs, both business and domestic. His decisions were regarded 
by them as wise and just, and were generally accepted. He had a sympathetic 
and endearing word for all. These visits were continued for well nigh fifty 
years, and until he saw unmistakable evidence of the comparative comfort of 
the inhabitants he had placed here. When great age came upon him and these 
visits ceased, his people continued to inquire after him in terms of affection. 



444 HISTORY OF MCKEAN CODNTY. 

At the news of his death, some of the old men who knew him as their patron 
saint, and were indebted to him for all they possessed, shed tears. He was 
an intimate, social friend of Horace Binney, John Sergeant and others equally 
eminent in the professions, literature and business, and resided in a handsome 
old style mansion on Fourth street, below Walnut, in the city of Philadelphia, 
this then being the locality of the homes of its most cultured residents. The 
management of such estates, together with the financial and charitable institu- 
tions, with which he became connected in Philadelphia, occupied the balance 
of his days. He died in 1856, at the advanced age of ninety-five years, but 
still in the midst of active work, having scarcely ever known a day's sickness. 
In religion he was a devout lloman Catholic, and left an example of piety and 
good deeds, which his children and children's children cherish as their richest 
inheritance. Mr. Keating married Eulalia Des Chappelles. daughter of a 
rich sugar planter of San Domingo, who was forced to fly from that island 
during the negro uprising, and take refuge in Wilmington, Del. Mr. and 
Mrs. Keating had two sons — John Julius and William H. — who became eminent 
in their chosen professions, were both members of the legislature, but died in 
their early manhood. They had one daughter who married her cousin, Jerome 
Keating, and became the mother of Dr. William V. Keating, the eminent 
physician and surgeon of Philadelphia, who at his grandfather's death, in 
L856, took charge of the landed estates his grandfather had so successfully con 
ducted. Dr. Keating possessed the same noble and generous qualities of his 
grandfather, and while he was distinguished in the medical world, he became 
equally endeared to the people where the lands were situated. Dr. Keating 
has two sons residing in Philadelphia, both of whom have already made a 
mark in their respective professions: John M. Keating (a physician and med- 
ical director of a prominent insurance company in Philadelphia, and lately 
elected president of a society composed of all the principal medical directors 
of the United States) and J. Percy Keating, a lawyer of excellent attain- 
ments. Dr. Keating has four accomplished daughters, two of whom are well 
married, and all reside in Philadelphia. 

E. L. KEENAN. attorney at law, Smethport, son of John and Eliza 
(Lloyd) Keenan, was born in the city of Philadelphia in 1844. There he 
pursued his studies, read law, was admitted to the bar on his twenty -first 
birthday, and first began the practice of law in that city. In 1870 he mar- 
ried Miss Mary S. Feitig. and removed to Venango county, same State, re- 
maining until 1879, when he located at Smethport. McKean Co., Penn., where 
he has built up a good practice. He had always voted the Democratic ticket 
until 1888, when the issue on the tariff compelled him to suspend his connec- 
tion with his old party, and become a supporter of Harrison. In 1884 he was 
delegate to the National Democratic convention held at Chicago, which nom- 
inated Cleveland for president; and in 18S6 was the Democratic candidate for 
member of congress from the Sixteenth Congressional District of Pennsyl- 
vania, but was defeated by the Republican candidate. Henry C. McCormick, 
of Williamsport; in 1877 he was the candidate of the Democratic and Union 
Labor parties for additional law judge for counties of McKean and Potter. 
Mr. Keenan is one of the self-made men of the day. and has won an eminent 
reputation at the bar; by application he has secured a tine property and enjoys 
the respect and confidence of the community in which he lives. Mr. and Mrs. 
Keenan are the parents of three daughters: Mary E., Lulu E. and Dora A'. 
He is a vestryman of St. Luke's Episcopal Church, of which his family are 
also members. 

J. T. KENT, fanner ainl lumberman, P. O. Coryville. is a sou of K. C. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 445 

and Prudence (Wood) Kent, and was born in Allegany county, N. Y., in 
1844. In 1853 R. C. Kent removed from New York State to Liberty town- 
ship. McKean Co., Penn., and thence to Keating township, same county, and 
located on the farm J. T. Kent now owns. He had a family of twelve 
children, sis of whom are living, viz.: Cordelia, wife of Manville Tattle: 
Louise, wife of S. Tuttle; Laura, wife of F. Moody; Alvina, wife of H. R. 
Frisbee; America, wife of Asa Champlin, and J. T. Our subject was reared 
in Keating township, and after his marriage located on the home farm which 
he now owns, and has since been engaged in farming and in the lumber trade. 
He was married in 1866 to Charity Otto, and they have a family of four chil- 
dren: Frank, Winnie, May and Fred. Mr. Kent is a Prohibitionist in politics. 

G. W. KING, farmer, East Smethport, was born in Smethport, Penn., 
August 8, 1844, a son of H. B. and Jerusha (Rice) King, both natives of 
Rhode Island. H. B. King came to Smethport about the year 1818, and here 
met and married Miss Rice, who bore him nine children, of whom G. W. is 
the only one now living. The father died in June, 1880, the mother in June, 
1862. H. B. King was a leading member of the Methodist Episcopal Church 
of Smethport for over half a century, and in his death the church met with a 
great loss. G. W. King, the subject proper of this sketch, received his edu- 
cation in the public schools of Smethport, and in 1861 he enlisted in the 
United States service, in Company E, Fifty-eighth Regiment, P. V. I., served 
five months, and was discharged on account of disability. In December, 1863, 
he married Miss Henrietta, daughter of Andrew and Amelia (Dart) Rifle, of 
Hamlin township, McKean county, who bore him one son, Wilford A. In 
1881 G. W. King embarked in the mercantile business in Mount Jewett, Mc- 
Kean county, and there remained two years, at the end of which time he came 
to Smethport, where he was engaged in the same line of business for a short 
time. In December, 1881, he married Miss Clara E. Hauer, of Pine Grove, 
Schuylkill Co., Penn., and by her has had three children: Horace B., Roxie 
and Lloyd L. Mr. King and family live on the old homestead, which he 
farms. He is a member of Smethport Lodge, No. 389, I. O. O. F. , and has 
held various township offices. In politics he is a Republican. 

MRS. C. A. McCOY, Smethport, daughter of Dr. George and Lavinia 
(Cannon) Darling, was born in Massachusetts in 1813, and with her parents 
removed to Bunker Hill, Penn., or what is now known as Clermont, in 1822, 
where her father engaged in the practice of medicine, which he continued un- 
til his removal to Jefferson county, Penn., where he died November 16, 1869. 
His wife died in 1831. after which he married, for his second wife, Julia 
Clark, and she died in Jefferson county. He was the father of seven children, 
three sons and three daughters by his first marriage, and one daughter by his 
second. Miss C. A. Darling was married to Dr. W. Y. McCoy, December 13, 
1832, and located at Smethport, where she had lived since fourteen years of 
age, and where Dr. McCoy first began the practice of medicine, which he con- 
tinued until failing health necessitated his retirement. By close application 
to his profession, although beginning poor, he acquired a handsome compe- 
tency. He died January 5, 1886. This union was blessed in the birth of ten 
children, six of whom are now living: Hannah L., wife of the Hon. Henry 
Hamlin; Charlotte M., wife of J. C. Hamlin; Ellen M. , wife of Adelbert 
Bishop, an architect of Buffalo; Henry L. , a practicing physician of Smeth- 
port; Alice E., widow of D. R. Hamlin; Edgar B., a druggist of Mount 
Jewett. Mrs. McCoy is still living on the old homestead, where for forty 
years she has resided, and in her declining years is surrounded by her chil- 
dren, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who are never so happy as when 



i4t'i HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

listening to Grandma's interesting recitals of events relating to the long ago. 
Mrs. McCoy had three brothers and two sisters, also a half-sister, the record of 
whom is as follows: Jedediah was at an early day one of the noted practi- 
tioners, and was very prominent in the medical profession, died in 1S71. at 
Smethport; Paul E. was a banker at Brookville. Jefferson Co., Penn. ; George. 
•lane and Mary died comparatively young; Mary, the half-sister, married 
Mi mi i \ (Ira v. a merchant of Brookville, Penn. 

HENRY L. M. COY, M. D., Smethport, son of Dr. William Y. and Char 
lotte A. (Darling) McCoy, was born in Smethport, McKean Co., Penn., in 1846. 
His maternal grandfather, Dr. George Darling, was the first medical practi- 
tioner of McKean county. Henry L. was educated in Smethport, and read 
medicine with his father, who was a noted physician of his day, also with Prof. 
Sauford Eastman, of Buffalo; he then attended two courses of medical lectures, 
and graduated from the University of Buffalo in 1868, commencing the prac- 
tice of medicine in Smethport. In the winter of 1870—71 he attended a course 
of lectures at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City; 
thence returned and resumed practice at Smethport. In September, 1869, he 
married Clara, only child of P. Ford, and to them four children have been 
born: Alice, Grace, Agnes and Charles. Dr. McCov is a member of McKean 
Lodge. No. 388. F. & A. M. ; Bradford Chapter. No. 258, R. A. M., and Trinity 
Commaudery, No. 58, K. T. He is also a member of the I. O. O. F., lodge 
and encampment. He is senior warden of St. Luke's Episcopal Church, of 
which his family are members. In politics the Doctor is a Democrat. 

MRS. LOUISA McCLURE, Smethport, was born in Lockport, N. Y., in 
1846, and was educated at Lockport, Oberlin and Buffalo. She was married 
in 1867 to John Francis McClure, who was employed in the telegraph office at East 
Buffalo (Stock Yards) until the consolidation of the Western Union and Atlantic 
<fc Pacific Telegraph Companies. He then received an appointment at Larra- 
bee, Penn., to which place he removed and there remained four years. On B. 
A. McClure' s removal to Coudersport, John F. McClure became his successor 
at Smethport, a position he occupied until his death, which occurred Septem- 
ber 20, 1887. He was a gentleman possessed of exceptionallj" good abilities, 
of sterling integrity and of moral worth. He was a member of the K. O. T. 
M. Mrs. McClure is a member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church. 

JOSEPH M. McELROY, prothonotary, Smethport, son of William and 
Catharine (Mcdintock) McElroy, was bom in Allegheny county, Penn., in 
1842. He attended the common schools and took part of an academic course, 
but was compelled to leave school before completing his studies. When four 
teen years of age he began supporting himself, and for three years was em- 
ployed as salesman for a mercantile firm in Pittsburgh. When the war broke 
out in 1861 he enlisted in the first call for volunteers for three months, but a 
severe attack of diphtheria prevented his serving. Under the call for three 
years he enlisted in Company A. One Hundred am! Second Pennsylvania Vol- 
unteer Infantry, and joined his regiment at Washington in November. 1861. 
He participated in the battles of Williamsburg. Fair Oaks, the Seven 1 >ays' fight 
in front of Richmond. Malvern Hill. Antietam, Fredericksburg and Chan- 
cellorsville. where he was slightly wounded and was captured; he was con- 
lined at Belle Isle, but was paroled after fourteen days, and being ex- 
changed afterward took part in the Wilderness campaign and in front of 
Petersburg; was also with Sheridan in the valley, when his term of service ex- 
pired. November 'J. 1864, he was honorably discharged from the service, and 
arrived at Pittsburgh in time to cast his first presidential vote for Abraham 
Lincoln. After remaining home a mouth he went to Franklin, Venango Co.. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 447 

Penn. , where be was engaged in the coal business, and upon the opening of the 
Allegheny Valley Railroad in 1869 be went to Oil City, where he lived ten 
years and was prominent in the organization of the city government, was a 
member of the council, and also mayor one term. In March, 1879, be removed 
to Bradford, where he has also been prominent in public affairs and served one 
term as president of the city council. He was in the coal trade in Bradford 
until 1 884, when he was elected prothonotary of the county, which necessitated 
bis removal to Smetbport, and in 1887 he was re-elected. Mr. McElroy is an 
able man, and has taken a lively interest in all that pertains to the county's 
welfare. Although so prominently identified with public affairs, he still finds 
time to attend to an extensive business, and his friends find bim always court 
eous and genial and ready to extend to them the hospitality of his home. Mr. 
McElroy was married in 1868 to Martha J. Woodburn, daughter of John 
Woodburn. and they have had three children, two of whom, Fred and Howard, 
are living. He takes an active interest in Freemasonry, and is a past eminent 
commander of Trinity Commandery, K. T. He is also a past commander of 
Post No. 347, G. A. R. , and is a member of the A. O. U. W. 

BERNARD McKEAN, farmer. P. O. Smetbport, is a son of Patrick and 
Mary (Kiernan) McKean, and was born in County Cavan, Ireland, in 1811. and 
in 1840 emigrated to America, locating in Long Island, where he married, in 
1843, Bridget Graham, a lady of Scotch-Irish descent. He removed from 
there, in 1847, to Franklinville, Cattaraugus Co., N. Y. , and from there to 
Keating township, McKean Co., Penn., in 1849, and purchased a tract of 
wild land which he improved, and engaged in farming, and here he still has his 
residence. Mr. and Mrs. McKean' s children were Thomas and Phcebe 
(twins), the latter the wife of George Garlick; James A., Mary and Willie 
(twins), the latter deceased; Charles; Edward; Mary is now Mrs. Henry Gallup, 
of Smetbport. Mrs. McKean died July 18, 1888. Mr. McKean is a member 
of the Catholic Church, and in politics a Democrat. 

JAMES A. McKEAN, farmer and lumberman. P. O. Smetbport, was born 
at Glen Cove, Long Island, N. Y. , August 11, 1845, a son of Bernard and 
Bridget (Graham) McKean. In 1848 his father moved to McKean county, 
Penn., and located on what is known as the "Bond farm," on Marvin creek. 
This he afterward sold, and then settled on the adjoining farm to the south, 
where he still lives. The mother died in the year 1888. They had a fam- 
ily of seven children: Thomas and Phcebe (twins), James A., Mary A. and 
William (twins), Charles and Edward B. James A. McKean had the advan- 
tage of only a common-school education, but improved every opportunity to 
obtain a knowledge of the English branches. During the summer his services 
were required on the farm, and in the winter months he attended the district 
school, there being but one in a district of ten miles, and a tramp of miles 
through the snow of the valley was necessary each day. But it was this experi- 
ence in his youth that helped to form the character of young McKean, and 
that has made him the successful business man of later years. When eighteen 
years old he entered the employ of James E. Butts, at Buttsville, for whom 
he worked two years, in the meantime having charge of the building of the 
high dam across Three-mile Run. Later, he worked at the carpenter's trade, 
and then went to Kane, where he was employed in the car shops of the Penn- 
sylvania & Erie Railroad, five years. In 1874 he bought the farm where he 
now lives, which adjoins his father's on the south, and since then has been 
extensively engaged in the lumber and bark business, employing during the 
bark and timber season from fifty to one hundred men. Mr. McKean has 
always been a stanch Republican, and cast his first presidential vote for Gen. 



44 8 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Grant, in 1868. He has served two terms as supervisor of his township, and. 
in 1887, was elected a member of the county board of commissioners. In Jan 
uary. 1869, he married Mrs. Julia S. Hubbard, and they have two children: 
William Hubbard and Maggie. Mr. and Mrs. McKean are members of the 
Catholic Church. 

LINN W. MASON, hardware merchant, Smethport. is a son of Lewis J. and 
Nancy Mason, and was born in Franklinville. Cattaraugus Co., N. Y., in 1843, 
and at an early age be removed to Smethport, where he attended the academy, 
after the completion of his studies he learned the hardware trade, and in L859 
became proprietor of a working interest in a wholesale flour and feed store 
at Emporium. He, however, returned to Smethport, and engaged in the 
hardware trade. In 1861 he went into the army with a sutler, remaining two 
years. He then purchased a hardware store of Mr. Nurse, but the Western 
fever had a strong hold upon him, and he is next found at Des Moines. Iowa, 
where he remained two years. He then removed to Tioga county, Penn.. 
where he remained four years in a hardware store, and in 1879 he returned to 
Smethport, where he erected the very fine building he now occupies, and fitted 
it purposely for the hardware trade. Having started six hardware stores, it is 
not to be wondered at that the last was the crowning effort of all, and that his 
place of business is conveniently and elegantly arranged with everything acces 
sible, and that he is enjoying a fine trade. He married Frances, daughter of 
David R. Bennett, and they have two daughters: Mary Louise (now Mrs. 
C. H. Kerns, of Smethport) and Cora. Mr. Mason is an active worker in 
the Democratic party. He and his family are members of St. Luke's Episco 
pal Church. 

MRS. G. R. MOORE, daughter of Mander and Elizabeth A. Farnsworth. 
was born in Erie county, Penn., in 1830, and in 1848 married George R. 
Moore, son of "William and Elmira(Rice) Moore, after which they located in 
Liberty township, McKean Co., Penn., where he was engaged in the lumber 
business, which was his life-work, with the exception of a brief time he was 
engaged in speculating in oil. He was at one time associated with A. M. Ben 
ton, of Port Allegany, this county, and also with E. S. Johnson, and sent the 
largest raft ever run down the Allegheny river. In 1S73, during the coal ex 
citement, when the railroad was built to Clermont, he put up the first mill 
there for the railroad company. It. however, was burned, and having become 
associated with his son, they together erected another on the same site, and 
eventually a second mill, operating both successfully. Mr. Moore was com- 
pelled, however, by ill health to abandon active pursuits, and died October 
24, 1888. Mrs. Elmira Moore, his mother, is still living. His son still con- 
tinues the business at Clermont. Mrs. Moore is residing at their old home in 
Smethport. They had four children, three of whom are living: Jennie E.. 
wife of John Eberspacher, of Texas: Ella E.. wife of Henry Lehman, of Mount 
Jewett, McKean county, and Charles H. Mr. George R. Moore was brought 
up in the Methodist Church, and in politics was a Democrat. 

C. H. MOORE, lumberman, Smethport, is a native of Smethport. McKeai 
Co., Penn., born March 10, 1840. He was reared in his native city, and was edu 
cated there and at Lima. X. Y. In 1876 he went to Clermont, Sergeant township. 
McKean comity, and opened a hotel, which he conducted eighteen months, when 
he moved to Larrabee, same county, and there carried on a hotel until Ma\ 8, 
1882. He then moved to Smethport, where he engaged in the livery business, 
and in lss:i he moved to a farm at Farmers Valley, but in addition to Buper 
intending his farm continued his livery business at Smethport until August. 
1SSI. when he sold out and bought a tract of timber land and a saw-mil', at 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 449 

Clermont, and he now carries on an extensive business, cutting 40,000 feet of 
lumber a day. Mr. Moore was married October 9, 1878, to Miss Mary A. 
Goodwin, daughter of Thomas Goodwin, of Farmers Valley, and they have 
two children: Lloyd M. and Leatha M. Mr. Moore is a member of McKean 
Lodge, No. 388, F. & A. M., Chapter, No. 251, R. A. M., and Smethport Lodge. 
I. O. O. F. 

THOMAS D. NASH, merchant, Smethport, was born in Vermont. He re- 
ceived a practical business education in the schools of his native State, and in 
1863 came to Crawford county, Penn. , where he was engaged as a clerk, and 
also worked in a printing office. In 1880 he came to Smethport, and same 
year married Miss Mary A. Tracy, a daughter of Edward and Bridget (Riley) 
Tracy, of Smethport. Penn. In May, 1883, he went to Harrisburg, Penn., 
under Hon.- J. Simpson Africa, in the office of internal affairs, where he re- 
mained until May, 1887, when he returned to Smethport, and has here since 
remained, engaged in mercantile business. Mr. and Mrs. Nash are members 
of the Catholic Church. 

JOHN E. OLDS, retired, P. O. Farmers Valley, is a son of E. C. and 
Jane (DeGolia) Olds, and was born in Prattsburg, Steuben Co., N. Y. , in 
1828. In 18-40 his parents removed to what is now Bradford, McKean Co., 
Penn., where the father engaged in farming, also starting a tannery and shoe- 
shop. In 1876 the parents came to Keating township, and made their home 
with their son, John E., the balance of their lives; the father's death occurring 
in 1878 and the mother's in March, 1880. Their children were Robert D. ; Sibyl, 
the late Mrs. Edwin Colegrove, of Bradford; Manila T., the wife of William 
McKean, of Nebraska; James, who was married, was a resident of Marshburg, 
in McKean county, and in blasting a well was killed; John E. ; Rachel T. , wife 
of Edwin Storms, of Michigan, and Abel W., of Nebraska, deceased. John E. 
Olds began his business life in the tan-yard and shoe shop of his father. He 
remained in Bradford until 1856, when he removed to Keating township and 
purchased a farm, which he cultivated in connection with his work in the tan- 
yard and shoe shop, for a period of ten or twelve years. In 1 862 he purchased 
the farm where he now resides and erected a new and commodious residence, 
and now, in the evening of his life, is living at leisure, surrounded by his chil- 
dren and in the enjoyment of the results of his earlier labors. Mr. Olds was 
married March 7, 1847, to Elizabeth, daughter of Charles Tubbs, of Farmers 
Valley, and their children were Frederick C. , married to Miranda C. Arnold ; 
Hannah F., wife of Orren W. Godfrey, of Olean, N. Y. ; Abner R. (deceased); 
John A., who married Jennie Heinline, and is now a resident of Olean, N. Y., 
and Charles O, who married L. E. Cooper, also a resident of Olean. N. Y. In 
politics Mr. Olds is a Republican. Part of his family are members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church, and part of the United Brethren Church. 

F. C. OLDS, merchant and lumberman, Farmers Valley, is a son of J. E. 
and Elizabeth Olds, and was born in Bradford, McKean Co., Penn., in 1848. 
J. E. Olds was a native of Steuben county, N. Y., and with his father located 
at Bradford. F. C. Olds removed with his father to Farmers Valley in 1857. 
where he was reared. He purchased a steam saw-mill, and is extensively en- 
gaged in the lumber trade, in addition to which he is a dealer in general mer- 
chandise at Farmers Valley. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and in pol- 
itics is a Republican. He is one of the enterprising men of this portion of 
McKean county, and has been postmaster at Farmers Valley for the past 
twelve years. Mr. Olds was married December 18, 1872, to Miranda C. 
Arnold, of Cuba, N. Y., daughter of Gilbert and M. S. Arnold, and born in 
Stark county, 111. They have one child, Ethel M. , born in November, 1874. 



450 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

FRANK E. ORMSBY. farmer and lumberman. P. O. Smethport. is a son 
of W. F. and Loretta Ormsby, and was born in Smethport, MeKean Co., 
Penn., in 1844. His father, who is a native of Vermont and a blacksmith by 
trade, located at Smethport, Penn.. in October, 1842, where he carried on a 
blacksmith shop, but he is now a resident and farmer of Ormsby Junction, 
which place derives its name from him. His children are Mrs. Ella Newton. 
Mrs. Emma Helsel. Gideon I. and Frank E. The last named, who is the sub- 
ject proper of this sketch, was reared and educated in his native town, ami. in 
L866, married Helen, daughter of Pardon Wright, and they have two children: 
Mrs. Clara Neeley and Mrs. Lottie Lamont. In 1^S7 Mr. Ormsby purchased 
tlic farm he now owns on Marvin creek. Keating township, MeKean county. 
where, in addition to his agricvdtural interests, he is engaged in lumbering. 
In politics he is a Democrat. 

A. H. PIERCE, Jr., hotel keeper, Smethport, was born in Troy, N. Y.. 
June 14. 1S4 1. a son of A. H. and Esther I Oatman) Pierce, the former a native 
of Albany, N. Y., and the latter a native of Vermont. A. H. Pierce, the sub 
ject proper of these lines, left his home at the age of ten \ ears, and worked on 
a farm for $25 a year, clothing himself, until 1801, when he enlisted in Com- 
pany D. Sixth Ohio Cavalry, and served faithfully until 1865, when he re- 
ceived an honorable discharge. In 1809 he married .Miss Rosa A., daughter 
of Johnson and Fannie Glase, of Lymansville, Penn.. and to this union were 
born four children, of whom two are living: A. H. and Hattie G. Mr. Pierce 
located in Coudersport, Penn., in 1807, rented a building and kept a restau- 
rant several years; in 1879 he came to Smethport, where he rented again and 
kept a restaurant two years, when he built for himself his present hotel, which 
he very successfully conducts. Mr. Pierce is a member of Tent No. 9, K. O. 
T. M., and of MeKean Post, No. 347, G. A. R., at Smethport. In politics he 
is a Republican, and his family all attend church. 

T. H. PURTLE, blacksmith, Smethport, was born in Susquehanna county, 
Penn.. in 1854. He made his home with his parents until 1S77. when he re- 
moved to Bradford, MeKean Co., Penn., where he was in the oil business for 
five or six years; then removed to Jamestown, N. Y. , and thence to Smethport. 
where he is now engaged in blacksmithing. In 1879 he married Lizzie Mc- 
Nelly, and they have two children. They are members of the Catholic Church. 
and lie is a member of the Catholic Mutual Benefit Association. In politics he 
is a Democrat. 

WILLIAM RAMER. farmer and stock raiser. P. O. Smethport, was born 
in Schuylkill county, Penn., in 1823. He learned the wagon maker's trade. 
at which he worked in his native county until 1856, when lie removed to 
Smethport. In 1858 he purchased the farm he now owns, in Keating town- 
ship, where he has been engaged in farming and stock raising, selling the pro 
ductions of his dairy in the borough of Smethport. Mr. Ramer married 
Matilda Fry. and they have had six children, four of whom are living: Louis, 
Nathaniel. Samuel and Alice (Mrs. Samuel McClurel. Mr. Ramer is a sup 
porter of the Republican party. 

A. REILLY. Smethport, was born in 1825, in County Cavan. Ireland. 
The Reilly family, consisting of father, mother, four sons (including our sub 
ject) and two daughters, moved from Philadelphia to MeKean county in 1842, 
arriving, after a tedious journey with horses and wagons, in the then wilder- 
ness, locating three miles east of Smethport. Here they built a log-house, and 
began work to make themselves a home in the woods. The following recollec- 
tions of those tine,, as narrated by Air. Reilly, will be found interesting: 

"Deer, which were numerous, would come to browse upon the fallen 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 451 

brush, whei% they were killed for their skins, and a hunter who visited us 
killed seven in one day, taking their skins and leaving their carcasses in the 
woods. I was the first to buy and ship venison to New York and Philadel- 
phia, and one winter, in company with Judge Arnold, I shipped fifteen tons, 
the saddles selling at 4 cents and the rest at 2 cents per pound. In 1842, the 
year we came here, a drove of seven elk was driven past our home by Joseph 
Coleman, and at another time a full-grown elk was captured by two Indians 
and led through the town. A half-grown panther was trapped by Air. Hugh 
Starkweather, bound with withes and taken to Smethport. Wolves and bears 
were so ravenous that the sheep had to be housed at night, at one time six- 
teen in my flock being killed by animals in one night. In the spring pigeons 
would come in immense flocks, at one time the nesting being ten miles long 
and five miles wide, every tree and limb in the forest being covered. Their 
last appearance was in 1870. Many made a business of catching them, and on 
Potato creek there were placed nets about one hundred yards apart for a 
distance of fifteen miles, each net capturing from ten to one hundred dozen 
per day. I was one of the first to buy them for shipping, and have shipped 
twenty to thirty barrels per day, each barrel holding twenty-five dozen, and 
selling at from 25 to 50 cents per dozen, but discontinued shipping when ad- 
vised to do so by the commission men, who would no longer pay freight charges, 
as the market was glutted. In 1843 I walked all the way to Philadelphia, a 
distance of about 300 miles, sixty miles of the distance being through Potter 
county, a wilderness, with but one house in the sixty miles, and returned in 
1*44. also on foot." 

Mr. Reilly was married in Philadelphia to Miss Ann Bryen, and became 
the father of six sons and four daughters: Joseph W., Emmet R.. James M. , 
Andrew R. M., Grattan and John M. , being the sons; the daughters were 
Mary, Ann Celia, Maggie and Emma B. The family belong to the Catholic 
Church, and in politics Mr. Reilly is a Democrat. He was elected county 
commissioner in 1878, and re-elected in 1881. As a contractor and builder 
Mr. Reilly built the county poor buildings, on the cottage plan, a style being 
now largely copied by other counties. He also built the Grand Central Hotel 
at Smethport, at a cost of $30,000, a large brick store and other edifices in 
Smethport, at a cost of $8,000 each. He cleared a farm of 150 acres from the 
wilderness, planting 300 fruit trees, and has always proved himself to In' a 
worthy, industrious and useful citizen. 

F. O. RICHMOND, conductor on the Bradford, Bordell & Kinzua Railroad, 
Smethport, was horn in Smethport, McKean Co., Penn., July 27, 1840, a son 
of Nelson and Amanda (Chapin) Richmond, natives of New York State, who 
came to Smethport about 1812. They were the parents of six children, of 
whom F. O. is the fourth son. His father died in 1846. He has followed va- 
rious occupations, having been in a hotel in Smethport more or less for eleven 
years. He married September 4, 1861, Miss Mary E.. daughter of Erastus 
and Mary (Star) Curtis, of Smethport, Penn. Since the completion of the 
Bradford, Bordell & Kinzua Railroad, at Smethport, he has been employed 
on it for nearly six years, and over four years as conductor. Mr. Richmond 
served at different times under Col. Wilcox as deputy sheriff. 

LUCIUS ROGERS, proprietor of the McKean County Miner, Smeth- 
port borough, was born in Geneseo, Livingston Co., N. Y. When he was less 
than a year old his father moved his family to Jamestown, N. Y., where they 
lived until two or three years after the father's death, which occurred in 
August, 1847. The subject of these lines received a comparatively limited ed- 
ucation, the public schools and Jamestown Academy being the extent of his 



452 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

school training, and at tbe age of sixteen years he entered the Journal office 
at that place to learn the printing business. After serving about two and a 
half years he moved to Warren, Penn. , where he worked in the Mail office for 
about a year; then went to Syracuse, N. Y. . and worked in the Journal office 

of that city about six months. From there he pro ded to New York City. 

where he set type on the New York City directory, and afterward in the book 
and job office of Baker & Goodwin, in the old Tribune building, remaining in 
that city about fifteen months. Subsequently he worked about eighteen months 
in the city of New Haven, and the towns of Litchfield and Waterbury, in ( !on 
necticut, also a few months in Dansville, N. Y. Returning to Warren. Penn.. 
about the year L851, Mr. Rogers soon after entered into partnership with Hon. 
E. Cowan in the publication of the Warren Mail. In the summer of 1854. he 
was nominated by the Whigs as a candidate for county treasurer of Warren 
county, and at the October election was elected by a majority of about 150 At 
the session of the legislature in 1857 he was elected transcribing clerk of the 
senate of Pennsylvania, a position he retained, however, only one session, the 
Democrats having resumed control of that body at the following session. Late 
in that year he entered into negotiations for the purchase of the Citizen, of 
Smethport, which was owned by Prof. F. A. Allen. The purchase was finally 
concluded, and Mr. Rogers took possession of the office February 27. 1858 
•At the session of the legislature in 1860, the county of Cameron was formed 
partly from McKean county, and in the fall of that year he moved the Citizt n 
office to Shippen (now Emporium), which would be the county seat, believing 
that the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad Company would locate their shops there 
when the road was completed at that point. The first number of the paper 
was issued on December 28. 1860, and was the first paper ever published within 
the limits of that county. In a few months the war broke out, and the editor 
and printers shut up the office and enlisted. Under a commission issued by 
Gov. Curtin, Mr. Rogers recruited Company F. of the Fifty eighth Regiment. 
in July, 1861, with which regiment he served until tin 1 spriug of 1863. when 
he returned to this county and purchased the McKean County Miner, winch 
was moved from Bradford to the county seat a year or two before. About the 
year 1870 he sold the paper and in January. L884, repurchased it and returned 
to his first love. In 1864 he was a candidate for representative, and carried 
his own county by a handsome majority, but was defeated by Clinton county, 
which was strongly Democratic. In 1869 he was elected prothonotary, and in 
187 I bo the assembly in the district composed of McKean and Potter counties. 
defeating F. W. Knox, of Potter county. He was a secretary of the State con- 
si nut ional convention of L873, and was several year- secretary of the Republi- 
can State committee. Four years, from 1879 to 1883, be was deputy secretary 
of internal affairs, and for some eleven years was journal and reading clerk of 
the Stale senate. In the summer of 1889 he was nominated for county treas- 
urer by the unanimous vote of the convention, and was elected. Years before 
the discovery of oil in McKean county Mr. Rogers had great faith in the exist 
ence of extensive coal beds in the eastern portion of the county, and spent a 
small fortune in seeking to develop this theory. He was wedded to the belief 
I bat t hero was a great future in store for the county, and was ever ready to de 
vote bis energies in furthering its development in any direction that appeared 
in the least feasible. In the face of repeated discouragements be never lost 
hop,- For a number of years he was president of the school board of Smeth- 
port borough, and it was through his persistency, with the support of other 
members of the board, that the present fine building was erected and the found- 
ing of Smethport's excellent schools laid. He built and operated the first steam 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 453 

saw-mill ever erected in the Potato creek valley, and has been identified with 
every effort for the development of the resources of the county. All earnest, 
aggressive men have their enemies, but though Mr. Rogers is a man very 
much in earnest in all that he undertakes, and has through life been an aggres- 
sive Republican, there is no bitterness in his warfare, and few men have come 
out of so many hard- fought political battles with so few personal enemies. In 
May, 1860, Mr. Rogers married Levia M. Goodwin, of Seneca county, N. Y. ; 
this lady died July 27, 1889, at the age of fifty-two years. The result of that 
union was three daughters and one sou, all of whom are living, excepting the 
first born, a daughter, who died in infancy. The family of Mr. Rogers attend 
the Presbyterian Church, but he is not himself a member of any denomination. 

JOHN F. ROONEY, dealer in meats, fruits, etc., Smethport, was born in 
Portageville, Wyoming Co., N. Y., February 14, 1854, son of James and 
Ann (Lavelle) Rooney, both of whom died when John F. was comparatively 
young. The subject of our sketch received a common-school education in his 
native town, and since commencing life has been engaged in various occupa- 
tions. He first went into partnership in the hotel business, but six months 
later sold his interest in the hotel and opened a grocery, which he earned on 
two years; then sold his grocery business and moved to Bradford, Penn. , where 
the following winter he found employment with the Standard Oil Company, at 
Custer City. When the '"shut-down" came in the succeeding spring, Mr. 
Rooney, with the other new men, was laid off with promise of first vacancy. 
Becoming impatient, however, waiting for an opening, he went to Coleville, 
Penn., where he entered" into a partnership in the meat business, and when 
the oil excitement was over at that place he took an interest in a 500-acre 
lease and wild-cat well, located three miles from Shongo, Allegany Co., 
N.Y., near the Allegany county oil belt. This well proving to be dry, the 
venture reduced Mr. Rooney's capital to $150, with which he came to Smeth- 
port, where he invested §132 in the meat business, which he has since suc- 
cessfully carried on. Mr. Rooney is a member of the Catholic Church, and 
of the C. M. B. A. ; in politics he is a Democrat. 

ROBERT H. ROSE, attorney at law, Smethport borough, was born at Silver 
Lake, Susquehanna county, Penn., December 7, 1847. His grandfather, Dr. 
Robert H. Rose, of Philadelphia, was very prominently identified with the early 
history of Susquehanna county, buying from the Francis estate 100,000 
acres of land, and building a beautiful residence on the banks of Silver Lake, 
where he finally took up his abode, Silver Lake still remaining the property of 
the family. Edward W. Rose, father of the subject of this sketch, moved from 
Silver Lake to Montrose, same county, where he was in the mercantile business 
for years, and here, at the academy, young Robert H. commenced his classical 
education. In 1868 he graduated from Cortland Academy, at Homer, N. Y., 
after which he became a student in the law office of Fitch & Watson, promi- 
nent attorneys of Montrose, Penn., and in ]873, he was admitted to the bar 
in Susquehanna county. In December of that year Mr. Rose came to Mc- 
Kean county, and to Smethport, as attorney and agent for the Bingham estate. 
The Binghams were the original owners of nearly all McKean county, as well 
as Potter and adjoining counties, and the largest owners of oil territory in this 
field. Mr. Rose is still attorney for the Bingham estate and acts for Robert 
C. Simpson, attorney in fact for the trustees. The first law partners of Mr. 
Rose were Hon. David Sterrett, now of Washington, Penn., and Hon. W. W. 
Brown, now of Bradford, Penn., the firm subsequently changing to Sterrett & 
Rose, and now, by the retirement of Mr. Sterrett, after ten years' copartner- 
ship, Mr. Rose is alone, his office being in the Hamlin Bank building. In 



454 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

addition to his other interests, Mr. Rose is attorney for the county commission- 
ers; and in this connection, at the time of his appointment, a local paper paid 
him the following just tribute to his ability as an attorney and his integrity as 
a citizen: ''The Appointees. The new board of commissioners appointed, as 
their legal counsel, Hon. liobert H. Rose. Mr. Rose is one of the younger, 
yet one of the ablest, members of the bar of McKean county. He represented 
this county in the legislature of 1885 with great credit, and as a member of the 
law firm of Sterrett & Rose he has had very considerable legal experience. 
Other attorneys sought the position who were backed by strong friends, but 
the commissioners finally decided in favor of Mr. Rose, and no one can deny 
but that the selection is a singularly meritorious one." Mr. Rose has been 
actively engaged in the oil trade since 1878, and is a member of the Bradford 
Exchange; has operated in the Bradford, Allegany and Washington fields 
largely, and is recognized as a thorough, able and successful business man and 
financier. On September 5, 1877, he was married to Laena D., daughter of 
Hon. Henry Hamlin, and their union, a most happy one. has been blessed in 
the birth of two children: Robert Craig and Marion. Mr. Rose has repre- 
sented his district in the State legislature, where he made an enviable record. 
He takes a just pride in being a thirty-second degree Freemason, a Knight 
Templar, and a member of the consistory at Pittsburgh; as also a member of 
the Mystic Shrine. In his political views Mr. Rust- has always been a Repnb 
lican. His home is one of the tine residences of the borough, and he is rec- 
ognized as one of the leading representative citizens. Mr. Rose is of a re- 
markably genial and kindly nature, and his home *is the center of a refined 
social life, to which his own personality gives much of the zest. Here he has 
also given free scope to his love of the fine arts, notably pictures by modern 
artists, of which he is an enthusiastic admirer and intelligent judge. 

MOSES ROSENFIELD, dealer in clothing and jewelry, Smethport. son 
of S. \. and Sarah Rosenfield, was born in Germany, near the Russian line, 
March 15, lStVJ. and was educated in the Hebrew school in his native country. 
His father, who was a merchant and dealer in produce, employed about 150 
men, and Moses assisted him, making his home with his parents until he emi- 
grated to America. His parents are still living in Germany. Their children 
were Joseph, Rebecca (who died in 1879, at the age of twenty two, having 
been married only eighteen months), Levi, Barney, Jacob and .Moses. The 
first two sons are in Germany, Barney is a merchant at Bradford, l'enn., and 
Jacob is with Moses. Moses came to America in L878, and located in New 
York City, where he remained a little over two years. He began his business 
career as a merchant in a small way, and, as funds increased, enlarged his 
stock, until by hard work, economy and strict attention to business, he has 
secured a sum which enables him to do a trade on a large scale. He located 
at Smethport in the fall of 188(1, and in 1SSS he erected the budding he now 
occupies (having previously purchased the lot I. where he is now extensively 
engaged in the clothing and jewelry trade. Mr. Rosenfield is a member of the 
I. O. 0. F., lodge and encampment. He is a member of the Hebrew Church. 

H. W. RUBIN, merchant tailor and dealer in clothing. Smethport, was 
born in Germany, February 23, 1855. receiving his education in his native 
country. When fourteen years of age he came to Syracuse. X. Y. . and com- 
menced business for himself by selling goods upon the road, coming in 1879 
to Smethport, where he engaged in his present business. He married Sep 
tember 28, 187U, Miss Sarah Rosenson, of Brooklyn. X. Y.. and they are the 
parents of four children: Rachel, Harry, Ida and Estella. Mr. Rubin is now 
one of the largest and most successful business men in Smethport. He is a 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 455 

member of McKean Lodge, No. 388, F. & A. M. ; also of Smethport Lodge. 
No. 389, I. O. O. F., and encampment No. 273. 

ROSWELL SARTWELL, retired, Smethport. The first of the Sartwell 
family in America was Simon Sartwell. who located at Charlestown, N. H. , 
and was killed by the' Indians while he was plowing on his farm. He had two 
sons, Obediah and John. Obediah lived in the town of Langdon, N.H. , and 
had a family of six sons: Solomon, Phineas, Joel, Obediah, Thomas and Ros- 
well. John had a family of nineteen sons and one daughter. Solomon, the 
eldest son of Obediah, was reared in Langdon, N. H., and was there married 
and later settled on Sartwell creek, in Potter county, Penn.. and about 1815 
moved to Farmers Valley, McKean county, where he died. He was twice 
married, and had a family of eight children: Betsey, born May 20, 1794; 
Solomon, January 10, 1796; Joel, April 1(3. 1798; Asa. August 19, 1800; 
Sally. February 13, 1803; Almond, November 14. 1806; Armena, July 11, 
1808, and Cordelia, September 11, 1817. Solomon Sartwell, the eldest son of 
this family, removed when a young man to Rochester, N.Y. , where he worked 
at the carpenter's trade, and thence came to Smethport, Penn., where he 
engaged extensively in the lumber and mercantile businesses. He was a 
prominent man in his day. He was sheriff of the county, was appointed 
associate judge, and at the time of his death was a justice of the peace. 
January 1, 1822, he married Sally, daughter of Isaac and Phoebe King, and 
they had six children: Alfred Mortimer, born December 30, 1822, died June 
12. 1831; Chester King, born May 12, 1824; George Washington, born 
February 22, 1826; Roswell, born November 7, 1827; Mary, born February 
28. 1830, died May 16, 1S60, and Samuel Babcock, born April 8, 1833, died 
June 8, 1882. The father died August 24. 1876, and the mother October 28, 
1877. Of these, Roswell, the fourth son, and whose name heads this sketch. 
enlisted in 1861 in Company H, Fifty-eighth Regiment P. V. I., but was 
discharged after a short service on account of disability. He has been 
extensively engaged in the lumber and mercantile businesses, but is now living 
retired from active life. In 1878 he was elected sheriff of the county, and 
made an efficient officer. Mr. Sartwell married Mary A., daughter of Henry 
Chapin, and they have two sons, T. L. and F. C. T. L. is married and has one 
son, Roswell C. Mr. Roswell Sartwell is a member of the G. A. R. In poli- 
tics he is a Democrat. 

JOHN R. SHOEMAKER, late county treasurer, Smethport, son of Jacob 
Shoemaker, was born in Monroe county, Penn., in 1841, and received his 
education in the common schools. In 1865, for a couple of months, he filled a 
clerkship at Port Jervis, N. Y. , and in May of that year he removed to Man- 
kato, Minn., where he was engaged in a dry goods store, and in the winter of 
1865-66 he had charge of a store at Winnebago City, same State. In May, 
1866, he married Miss Sarah A. Wood, of Mankato, Minn., and returned east 
to Monroe county, Penn., the following winter. In 1867 and 1868 Mr. Shoe- 
maker was engaged in the wholesale notion trade; in 1869 he was a traveling 
salesman for the house of H. C. Leet & Co., of New York City, and in 1870 
he similarly represented the house of Huntington & Darn, wholesale grocers; 
also in 1871, owing to the death of a brother, he took charge of his store in 
Northampton county, Penn., and settled his estate; in 1873-74, he had charge 
of a store for Monroe Howell, at Troy, Morris Co.. N. J., and in October. 
1874. he removed to McKean county, Penn., locating in Clermont in Novem- 
ber, 1875. where he filled a position as book-keeper and cashier for the Buf- 
falo Coal Company for a period of five years. In July, 1880, he became clerk 
in the commissioners' office, of McKean county, where he remained until Jan- 



456 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

nary 1, 1887, when, having at the preceding election been made treasurer of 
the county, he took possession of that responsible office, which, as an affable. 
courteous gentleman, he tilled with honor to the county and credit to himself 
until his retirement, January 1. 1890. Mr. Shoemaker is an active Republi- 
can. He is a member of McKean Lodge, No. 388, F. & A. M. 

CASPAR SMITH, farmer. P. O. Farmers Valley, son of George and 
Katriua Smith, was born in Germany in 1839, being one of a family of seven 
children, viz.: George C, John, Andrew, Margaret E., Dorotha, Lenora and 
Caspar. Caspar Smith immigrated to America in 1849, and located in Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., where he was engaged at his trade as a tailor for a period of 
seven years. In 1852 he married Miss Anna D., daughter of Conrad Dean, of 
that city, and in 1850 came to McKean county, locating at Clermont, where 
he was engaged in farming until 1874, when he removed to Keating township 
to the farm he now owns near Farmers Valley. He erected a grist-mill there 
of three run of stone, of which he is a one-half ow T ner. Mr. and Mrs. Smith 
nave six children, viz. : Margaret (now Mrs. George Boyer), John, Mary, Regina 
(now Mrs. Eugene Day), August and Ella. They are members of the Lutheran 
Church, and Mr. Smith is a member of McKean Lodge, No. 388, F. & A. M.. 
of Smethport. He is a Republican in politics, was elected justice of the peace 
in 1869, and in 1877 was elected commissioner of the county. 

WILLIAM SPECHT, dealer in furniture, Smethport, was born in Han- 
over, Germany, in 1825, son of Eingenhouse and Louisa Specht. After the 
death of Eingenhouse, Louisa Specht was married to Jacob Sasse. and became 
the mother of Carl Sasse, mentioned below. William Specht was educated in 
his native country, immigrated to America in 1851, and the same ye^r located 
at Smethport, where he worked at the cabinet maker's trade. He married, 
December 3, 1854, Elizabeth Heineman (who died February 25, lb81), and 
they had two children: Carrie (who died December 23, 1886), and William 
F. In 1879 he, with Carl Sasse, erected a fine, commodious building in 
Smethport, and engaged in the furniture business, which they still continue. 
He is a member of McKean Lodge, No. 388, F. & A. M. He and his wife are 
members of the Catholic Church, and he is a Republican in politics. 

Carl Sasse, his partner in business, was born in Duderstadt, Hanover. 
Prussia, in 1838, and immigrated to America in 1863. He located in Smeth- 
port, and engaged in cabinet making until he became associated with Mr. 
Specht in business. He married, in 1867, Margaret Koenig, also a native of 
Duderstadt, and they have had five children: Leonard (deceased). Amanda. 
Herman, Rudolph and Waldo. Mr. Sasse is a member of the A. O. U. W. 

DR. M. A. SPRAGUE, merchant, Smethport. son of Parris A. aud 
Elizabeth Sprague, is a native of Erie county, N. Y., born in 1833. He was 
educated at what is now Griffith Institute. He began his professional life as 
a dentist in Erie county, N. Y., and in February. ISfitI, removed to Smeth- 
port, McKean county, where he designed to remain only over night, but, find- 
ing a desirable field here for the practice of dentistry, located here and 
practiced until 1872. He then purchased a half-square, and erected on the 
corner of Main and Fulton streets one of the fir»t brick blocks built in Smeth- 
port, and engaged in the hardware trade, in which he has since done a pleas- 
ant and remunerative business, and where he is still to be found. The Doctor 
lias Keen made the recipient of nearly all the honors the borough can confer 
upon an individual having been its burgess, member of council, school di- 
rector, and having filled all the minor official positions in the borough. In 1866 
he was appointed assessor of internal revenue fur Cameron aud McKean coun- 
ties, a position he held for three years, when he was made deputy prothono- 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 457 

tary, register and recorder of McKean county; upon the resignation of Mr. 
Rogers he was appointed prothonotary, and at the ensuing election was 
elected to that office. In 1882 he was appointed by President Arthur post- 
master at Smethport, and after repeated requests to have a successor appointed, 
and his many refusals to retain the office, he succeeded in June, 18S8, of being 
relieved of the cares of a public trust. He is a member of the Republican 
party, but never was an office seeker, and honors came without an effort on his 
part to secure them. He is a member of Smethport Lodge, No. 388, F. & 
A. M. , and of Trinity (Jommandery of Bradford. In 1862 he married Emma 
J., daughter of Nelson Richmond, one of the prominent citizens of Smeth- 
port, having been judge of the county, and was one of the largest landholders 
in the countv. Dr. and Mrs. Sprague have two children: Carlton R. and Rose A. 

GEORGE A. STICKLES , farmer, P. O. East Smethport, the second son of 
Stephen and Elizabeth (Teal) Stickles, was born in Columbia county, N. Y. , in 
18^7. He moved to Seneca county, N. Y., thence to Yates county, same State. 
and then, in 1841, to McKean county, Penn., remaining with his parents until 
manhood. His grandfather, Adam Stickles, lived on the place he now owns, 
and there he died. George A. Stickles married, in July, 1855, Caroline Grimes, 
daughter of John Grimes, of Liberty township, McKean Co., Penn., and 
their children are: Adelbert, Jay and Ella. Mr. Stickles is a supporter of the 
principles of the Republican party. 

MILLER C. STICKLES, farmer and lumberman, P. O. Smethport. is 
a son of Stephen and Elizabeth Stickles, and was born in Claverack, Colum- 
bia Co., N. Y., on December 22, 1830. In 1836 the family moved to Waterloo, 
Seneca county, and thence, in 1838, to Yates county, N. Y., and, in 1841, to 
Keating township, McKean Co., Penn., where they located on a farm adjoining 
the one now occupied by Miller C. Here the parents reared their family of 
six children, named as follows: Jacob F. , Catherine M. , George A., Miller C. , 
Hiram S. and Lydia E. The father died in August, 1864, and his widow then 
made her residence with our subject until her death, in February, 1880. 
Miller C. returned to Columbia county, N. Y., in 1855, and in May of that year 
married Miss Catherine E., daughter of W. H. Hard. He remained the fol- 
lowing summer in Columbia county, working for his uncle, Jacob Teal, at 
$12 per month, until November 1, when, with his wife, he returned to Mc- 
Kean county, Penn., and settled on the farm he still lives on, and en- 
gaged in lumbering and clearing up his place. His first purchase was a 
contract for twenty-four acres, then in the hands of a third party, with about 
two acres improved. As fast as he acquired means he bought of his neigh- 
bors who wanted to go west, and in this manner secured rive differeut lots, 
which comprise his present homestead. He has now one of the largest 
barns in the county, it being 100x50 feet, with outside posts twenty-four 
feet long; it has forty windows and a mow for hay 100 feet long. In ad- 
dition to the homestead he owns several other farms, some timber land, and 
considerable village property. In politics Mr. Stickles is a Republican, and 
has tilled many official positions in the township, in fact he is one of the most 
substantial and influential citizens. To revert to the pioneer days, a recital 
of the following circumstances may not prove uninteresting: When Stephen 
Stickles arrived in Keating township he had but $2. 50 left, and had but one 
acquaintance in his neighborhood, P. B. Fuller. Work was scarce and wages 
very low, and the father and boys went to making shingles, which brought 
75 cents per thousand, and "store pay" at that; having little or no hay they 
chopped browse for the cow and yearling once a day, and thus worried through 
the winter of 1841-42. In the spring of 1842, the father, having a net. caught 



158 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

thousands of wild pigeons, but, as there was no market for them, he hired him- 
self and his net to his neighbors at $2 per day, capturing 500 to 2,000 per 

di m In 1N44 Miller C. Stickles began carrying the mail for Capt. A. H. 
Cory from Smethport to Great Valley, X. Y., via the Tnnuanguant, a distance 
of thirty sis miles, going on horseback one day and returning the next day; 
for this service he received 25 cents per day. John F. Melvin was the post- 
master at Kendall Creek, and A. K. Johnson, deputy. The next post office 
was at Rice's, two or three miles south of the mouth of Tunuanguant creek, 
but there was no bridge, and the Allegany river had to be forded. The next post- 
office was at Kill Buck, with John Green in charge, and the next office was at 
Great Valley, of which Daniel Farrington was postmaster, and there Mr. Stickles 
passed the night. At times the trip would reach far into the night, as late, \< r\ 
often, as 11 o'clock. This contract, ended in July. IS is. when Mr. Stickles en 
tered into a new one with Lemuel South wick, to carry the mail from Smethport 
to Bellefonte, a distance of 126 miles. At that time the turnpike went over 
Bunker Hill and through Williamsville and .Montmorency to Ridgway; the 
next office was at Hyetts, seven miles from Ridgway; the next at Caledonia, on 
Bennett's Branch; then, from Caledonia through the Twenty-four-Mile woods to 
the Dutch settlement or Karthaus ; thence to Snow Shoe: thence down Four- mile 
Mountain to Milesburg; thence to Bellefonte, the round trip consuming six 
days, and the recompense being 35 cents per day. In 1849 Mr. Stickles carried 
the mail for John G. Young from Smethport to Coudersport ; then from Couders- 
port on to Wellsborough, and then back to Smethport. the trip consuming four 
days, for which he received $1.50 per round trip. Mr. Stickles was one of the 
most successful pigeon trappers in McKean county. In 1854 W. S. Oviatt 
agreed to pay him 31 cents per dozen for all he could catch between April I 
until May 4. Mr. Stickles trapped, April 4, 5 and 6, and in three days earned 
$76.25; he could easily have made $52,000 had he trapped until May 4. but 
after netting during the three days mentioned, the market dropped to In cents 
per dozen. In 1868, however, prices were good, reaching £1 per dozen, and 
Mr. Stickles caught over 1,200 dozens, in one forenoon capturing 105 dozens. 
JAMES H. STULL, proprietor of meat market. East Smethport. is the 
eldest son of John and Phebe Stull, and was born at Eldred. McKean Co., 
Penn., in 1839. John Stull was born in Reading, Steuben Co., X. Y., in 
December. 1808, and his father. Joseph Stull. settled in what is now Eldred 
township, McKean county, in 180S. during the winter, reaching his destination 
by traveling on the ice, Jacob, brother of Joseph, accompanying him. They 
each cleared a ten acre lot, when they discovered they were on a 600-acre 
tract owned by others and were compelled to remove. Joseph came to what 
is now Stull Town, McKean county, cleared a farm, and remained there 
throughout his life, dying at the age of ninety one years and ten months. 
His children were Alma, Abram, John, Abbey, Camilla, Baker, Lorinda, .Mary, 
Jerome, George and Joseph. John, the second son of Joseph Stull. married 
Phebe Windsor, in 1831, located in Pennsylvania, and afterward in New 
York, remaining seventeen years, when he returned to Eldred and worked at 
his trade, that of carpenter and joiner. In 1SS4 he removed to Smethport. and 
has his home with his son, James H. His wife .lied September 17. 1883. 
Their children were James H. , Phebe M.. Almeda, John E. and D. L. James 
H. Stull married, in ISTO, M. E. Keyes. and after their marriage they Located 
on a farm in Eldred township, where they remained until 1NS3, when they 
removed to East Smethport, where Mr. Stull has since been engaged in his 
present business. They have four children : Myrtie, Cora", Grace and Battle. 
Mr. Stull enlisted October 21. 1861, in Company 11. One Hundred and Tenth 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 459 

Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, which was afterward consolidated with the 
Fifty-eighth Regiment, and he was transferred to Company D, Fourth United 
States Light Artillery, in which he served until February, 1867. He is a 
member of the Grand Army of the Republic, Knights of the Maccabees, and 
in politics is a Republican. 

A. N. TAYLOR (deceased) was a native of Madison county, N. Y. , and was 
born June II, 1822, of English descent, and died May 15, 1876, the result of 
a fall, on September 25, 1875. Some time in the last century Robert and 
James Taylor came from England, and April 10, 1785, the first named married 
Sally Bailey, at Groton, Conn., but was lost at sea about six months before his 
son, James, came into the world. Sally Taylor then married John Bailey, 
May 31, 1796, and by him was the mother of several children; again becoming 
a widow, she next intermarried, June 5, 1810, with Daniel Goth. Deacon James 
Taylor, son of Robert and Sally (Bailey) Taylor, was born at New London, 
Conn., December 28, 1788, and January 14, 1811, he married at Franklin. 
Delaware Co., N. Y., Lois Niles, who was born August 28, 1787, at Colchester, 
Conn., and they had a family of seven children, the subject of this sketch being 
the fifth child in order of birth. June 13, 1824, the family moved to McKean 
county, and settled on a backwoods farm. The father, James Taylor, was 
elected the second sheriff of McKean county. A. N. Taylor very early gave 
evidence of the untiring and indomitable energy that was so prominent a char- 
acteristic of his life, and, having a taste for mercantile business, at about the 
age of nineteen he entered, as a clerk, the store of Hawkins, Ford & Taylor, 
his father being one of the partners in the firm. Two years later he formed a 
partnership with his father, and commenced business in the old Astor building. 
A few years later he bought out his father's interest in the business, and built 
a store adjoining the Astor House, which he occupied until it was burned down 
in the fire of March 28, 1868. He afterward moved his store to the Sartwell 
block. When he first commenced business he had but $400 in the world. 
Although it is impossible to give a correct estimate, it is believed by those best 
acquainted With his affairs, that he was worth at the time of his death not less 
than $300,000. March 1, 1849, he became united in marriage with Ann E. , 
daughter of William E. and Betsy A. (Bard) Fuller, and born December 28, 
1828, at Unadilla, Otsego Co., N. Y. Five years after her birth her parents 
moved to Mexico, Oswego county, where her father carried on farming, and 
where he died May 4, 1854; her mother died at the age of twenty-six, Decem- 
ber 28, 1831. Mrs. Ann E. Taylor comes of "Mayflower" ancestry, her great- 
grandfather having been one of the Lutheran ministers who crossed the ocean 
on that historic vessel. Her grandfather, Isaac Fuller, was a lieutenant under 
Washington, and was promoted on the field of Bunker Hill, where he was 
wounded; he was a native of New Hampshire, where he married a German lady, 
their children being William E., father of Mrs. Taylor, and Christopher, for- 
merly a Presbyterian clergyman of Rochester, N. Y. , now deceased. By the 
marriage of William E. Fuller and Betsy A. Bard three children were born, 
viz.: Ann E., Charlotte T. (now deceased, who married the late Hon. L. T. 
Moore, of Emporium, Penn., who in his lifetime had been made the recipient 
of various political honors) and M. C. (of Bedford, Iowa). To the union of 
A. N. Taylor and Ann E. Fuller were born three children: Ada M. (now Mrs. 
D. C. Young), Frank N. and Flora C. (now Mrs. J. J. Newman). A. N. Tay- 
lor was a man of remarkable business capacity, and should be classed among the 
most successful men of our day and time. His entire heart and mind was in 
his business during his earlier days. He was keen and shrewd, quick to detect 
the weakness of an opponent, and improve an opportunity of favorable invest- 



460 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

ment. Many men may have complained that he was a hard man to deal with, 
vet the assertion can lie ventured, without fear of successful contradiction, that 
no man whom he believed to be dealing honestly and fairly by him was ever 
oppressed or wronged by his authority, and that no man in McKean county 
was found to be more sympathetic and tender hearted when approached in a 
proper manner. He was a business man in every sense. He expected men 
to live up to their obligations. He took all manner of chances, and gave accom- 
inod.it ion and time to men whom no other merchants would trust, in hundreds 
of cases, The loss that McKean county, and the borough of Smethport espe- 
cially, sustains in the death of A. N. Taylor can not at once be estimated. When 
a town loses one of its ablest, most energetic, successful and wealthiest busi- 
ness men, the loss is not fully repaired in years. At the time of his fatal fall 
he had in contemplation the useof a portion of his amjjle means for the build 
ing up and improvement of the borough, and had already taken energetic steps 
in that direction. He left a widow and three children, one son and two daughters : 
and though well provided for as to the things of this world, nothing can fully 
compensate the loss of a kind and wisely indulgent father and husband. Mr. 
Taylor, always a Republican in politics from the organization of the party, was 
once elected associate judge by an overwhelming majority. During the days 
of the Civil war he had the fullest faith in the ultimate success of the Union 
arms, aud he had lost since that time none of his love for the principles of his 
party or his zeal for their success. 

EDWARD H. TAYLOR, merchant, Smethport, is a son of John B. and 
Elizabeth (Holcomb) Taylor, and was born in Smethport, McKean Co., Penn.. 
in 1858. His father was a native of Burlington. Otsego Co., N. Y. , and his 
mother of Granby, Conn. They each came to Smethport with their parents. 
and were here married. They had a family of twelve children, seven of whom 
are living: James V., JohnL., Myrtilla E., Mary E., Maria A.. Edward H. 
and Ezra V. Edward H. Taylor was reared and received his education at 
Smethport. and at Randolph, N. Y. After the completion of his studies he en- 
gaged in jobbing, and eventually became one of the merchants of Smethport. 
dealing in boots, shoes and groceries. He married, in 1880, Laura M., daugh- 
ter of H. M. Reynolds, of Mansfield, Tioga Co., Penn., and they have two sons, 
John H. and George R. (latter born April 4, 1889). James Taylor, grand- 
father of Edward H. , was among the pioneers of the county, locating here in 
1824, when the country was a wilderness. Mr. E. H. Taylor is a Republican 
in his political views. 

JAMES M. TRACY, postmaster and merchant, East Smethport, was born 
in Philadelphia, Penn., in April, 1844. a son of Edward and Bridget (Riley I 
Tracy, natives of County Cavan, Ireland. They came to Philadelphia from their 
native land, but, thinking a newer country better adapted to their needs, came 
to Keating township, McKean county, in 1842, and purchased a tract of land 
for a farm. They were the parents of seven children, James M. being the 
third son, who during his youth attended the common schools and worked 
upon the farm. After his marriage, Mr. Tracy remained upon the farm with 
his parents until September, 1876, when he came to East Smethport. where 
lie elected the building he now occupies, and engaged in mercantile business. 
Mr. Tracy married in June, 1863, Miss Ann, daughter of Bernard and Ann 
(Gallagher) Burns, natives of Ireland, who came to Union City, Erie Co., 
Penn.. in 1M">. Five children have blessed this union, viz.: Thomas A.. Mary 
E., l.illie E., Aunie E. and Paid E. In July, L885, Mr. Tracy was appointed 
postmaster at East Smethport. which office he still retains. In politics Mr. 
Tracy is a Democrat, and he and his family belong to the Catholic Church. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 461 

F. E. TULL, merchant, Sniethport, was bom in Bath, N. Y. , August 25, 
1846, the only son of three children born to R. D. and Harriet (Colegrove) 
Tull, natives of New York State, who came to Ceres township, McKean Co., 
Penn., in 1860. He was educated at Portville, N. Y. , and his boyhood clays 
were spent with his parents upon the home farm. He married, in February. 
1873, Miss Almira, daughter of Luther and Sophia (Maxon) Eastman, of Port- 
ville. N. Y., and they are the parents of two children, Herman and Ethel, both 
of whom reside at home. Mr. Tull, in 1875, engaged in mercantile business 
and became postmaster at Myrtle. Penn.. which he continued until June, 1887, 
when he sold his business out to J. C. Burt, and went to Ceres, Penn., en- 
gaging as a drug clerk. From there he moved to Eldred, Penn., where he 
embarked in the clothing trade. Here he remained until March, ]889, when 
he came to Smethport and engaged in his present business. Mr. Tull served 
for six years as justice of the peace in Ceres township, and has held various 
township offices. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. of Eldred, Penn. , and of 
the K. (3. T. M. In politics be is a Republican. 

MANVILLE TUTTLE, farmer and lumberman, P. O. Coryville, a son of 
Daniel and Lucina Tuttle, was born in Freetown, Cortland Co., N. Y. , in 
1815. and with his father removed to Wellsville, N. Y. , in 1837, where the 
father died in 1842, the mother having died in Freetown, N. Y. , in 1828. 
Mauville Tuttle came to Pennsylvania about 1845, locating at Turtle Point, 
McKean county; eventually he purchased the farm he now owns in Keating 
township, McKean county, where he is interested in business as a lumberman 
and farmer. In 1838 he married Cordelia Kent, daughter of R. C. and Pru 
dence Kent, and they have had a family of seven children, of whom but two 
are living: Prudence L. , now Mrs. Orson Cory, and F. S., on a farm opposite 
the old homestead. Mr. Tuttle is a Republican in politics, and is a prominent 
man in this portion of the county. 

JOHN K. WILLIAMS, born August 22, 1822, died April 4, 1880, was the 
first white child born in Smethport. He read law under YV. A. Williams, and 
was admitted to the bar of his native county, June 6, 1846. For two years be- 
fore his admission he was Prothonotary Hamlin's deputy. In the summer of 
1846, he moved to Wisconsin, where he died. He was named by John Keat- 
ing after himself, and received from the great land owner a silver dollar, which 
his mother invested in the purchase of a sheep, and this investment yielded 
$200 by 1846, which sum was forwarded to Wisconsin. 

G. YV. WILLIAMS, merchant, Smethport, was born in Canton. St. Law- 
rence Co., N. Y., August 7, 1842, and began his studies there, completing them 
in Franklin county. He commenced business life as a grocer, in Burlington, 
Vt. , and afterward removed to Franklin county, where he went into the cattle 
business, from that to mercantile business, remaining until 1877, when he went 
to Bradford, Penn. , and engaged in the livery business, and later removed to 
Red Rock, eventually locating in Smethport, where he is now dealing in gro- 
ceries and meats. Mr. Williams married Candace C. Lyon, in 1866, and they 
have two sons: Ezra L. and Joseph G. He is a member of the Select Knights 
of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and North Star Lodge, F. & A. M. , 
of New York. Politically he is a Republican.' 

CLARK WILSON, the present editor and publisher of the McKean Democrat, 
is now a few months over sixty-two years of age, aud has perhaps devoted as 
much time as editor and publisher as any man living in the State. He is of 
Irish descent, his parents having emigrated at an early day from a part of Ire 
land, adjacent to Scotland, his father leaving Ireland when about nineteen 
years old, and his mother at the age of nine. They were strict Presbyterians 



462 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

during all their lives and raised their family in the same faith. Clark 'Wilson 
went as an apprentice to the printing business when twelve years of age, and 
served no less than seven years before he graduated as a journeyman printer. 
A few years after finishing his trade, he commenced business as one of the 
editors and publishers of the Jeffersonian, published at Brookville, Jefferson 
Co., Penn. He afterward established and published for some time the Ma- 
honing Register, at Punxsutawney, same county, then became one of the editors 
and proprietors of the Clearfield Republican, a radical Democratic sheet pub- 
lished in the town of Clearfield, Penn. Next Mr. Wilson appears as editor, 
publisher and proprietor of the Democratic Messenger, a paper which he es- 
tablished and published for over five years, in the town of Indiana, Indiana 
Co., Penn. He then served five years as editor of the Union Herald, a Demo 
cratic paper published in Butler, Butler Co., Penn., after which he was for a 
time editor and publisher of the Democrat and Sentinel, at Ebensburg, Cam- 
bria Co., Penn. He next established and for ten years edited and published, 
as an independent paper, the Oilman's Journal, at Parker's Landing, Arm- 
strong Co. , Penn. Last, and perhaps least, the past ten or eleven years of 
Mr. Wilson's life have been spent in publishing the McKean Democrat, estab 
lished by him at Smethport, McKean Co., Penn., May 20, 1879. He claims 
to have labored under many disadvantages during his career as a journalist 
here, and if favored with life and health will probably make a better showing 
hereafter. Mr. Wilson was married when about twenty-three years of age, to 
Miss Cornelia A. Magee, of Clearfield, Clearfield Co., Penn., and five children 
were born to them, four of whom are still living, one son and three daugh - 
ters. The son, like his father, took to the printing business, and has been for 
some years engaged as editor and publisher of the Public Spirit, an inde- 
pendent Democratic paper, published in the town of Clearfield. Penn. In 
I860 the subject of this notice was appointed deputy marshal, and took the 
census of the northern part, about one-half, of Indiana county. In 1888 he 
was appointed by President Cleveland postmaster at Smethport, Penn.. and 
on June 11, same year, he took charge of the office and continued, assisted by 
two of his daughters, to discharge the duties pertaining thereto up to April, 
1890. His successor, E. M. Kerns, was appointed in July, 1S89. 

CHARLES C. WRIGHT, lumberman. P. O. Coleville, is a son of Rens- 
selaer and Sally (Moore) Wright, and was born at Smethport, McKean Co., 
Penn., in L829. His father came from Delaware county. N. Y.. and located 
at Eldred, Penn.. where he was engaged in farming; was also the proprietor of 
a hotel and quite extensively engaged in the lumber business. His family con- 
sisted of eleven children, six of whom are living, viz. : Charles C, James. Mar 
tha, Sally, Maria and Junius. Mr. Rensselaer Wright was one of the first 
commissioners of McKean county, and in 1 8'29 was elected sheriff of the county. 
During his official career he went to Philadelphia on horseback, and returning 
brought with him funds necessary for the erection of the first court house 
of McKean county. He was emphatically a self-made man, and held a deserv- 
edly high place among the representative men of his day. He died in 1884 
and his wife in L881. Charles C. Wright was reared and educated in Eldred, 
and mi starting in life for himself located on Cole creek, in Keating township, 
on the place he still owns, where he erected a steam saw mill, and is now known 
as one of the extensive lumbermen of McKean county. Mr. Wright married 
Jerusha Dennis, and to them were born six children: Victor C. , J. L!.. William. 
Delbert, Lillie J. and Milton. Mrs. Wright died in 1877. and in 1879 Mr. 
Wright married Mis-. .Madison. Mr. Wright takes an active interest in the 
questions of the day, and is a supporter of the principles of the Republican 
party, of which he is a prominent member. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 463 

B. F. WRIGHT, proprietor of Wright's Hotel, Smethport, was born in 
Madison county, N. Y. , in 1835. He removed to Oneida county, thence to 
Lima, Livingston Co., N. Y., and completed his education at the seminary 
there, after which he visited the West. In 1859 he removed to Smethport, 
and at the beginning of the war enlisted in Company C, First P. R. V. C. He 
was wounded at the battle of South Mountain, Md. , and received a second 
wound at Spottsylvania Court House in 1864. On July 3, 1865, he was mus- 
tered out of the service, and returning to Smethport accepted a position with 
the Lafayette Coal Company at Lafayette. In the fall of 1866 he was elected 
sheriff of McKean county, serving one term of three years. In 1875 he built 
the hotel named after himself, becoming its proprietor, and being one of the 
representative men of the county, social and courteous with his guests, and hav 
ing a large and favorable acquaintance, Wright's Hotel is well and favorably 
known. He is a member of McKean Lodge, F. & A. M. , No. 388, of Lodge 
No. 183, A. O. U. W., and of the G. A. R. He is a worker in the Republi- 
can party. In 1859 he married Miss Catharine L., daughter of O. L. Bennett, 
and they have rive children: F. O. (an only son), Ella, Lena, and Lucy and 
Elida (twins). 

HENRY WRIGHT, farmer, P. O. Smethport, son of Pardon and Clarissa 
Wright, was born in Cattaraugus county, N. Y. , in 1849. With his parents 
he removed to Keating township, McKean Co., Penn.. where -they engaged in 
farming. They had a family of four children, viz. : Helen A., June, Slandana 
and Henry. Pardon Wright died October 23, 1885, and his widow has her 
home with her son, Henry. Henry Wright, in 1875, married Mary, daughter 
of Charles Guenther, formerly of Smethport, and they are the parents of four 
children: Mollie G.. William H, W. Leo and Sarah Alice. Mr Wright is a 
supporter of the principles of the Republican party, and was elected auditor 
in 1889. He owns and operates a farm on Marvin creek, in Keating township. 
Mrs. Mary Wright, for several years before her marriage, was a school-teacher 
of some note. 

D. C. YOUNG, merchant, Smethport, son of Arthur and Laurinda (Stull) 
Young, was born May 5, 1843, at Farmeis Valley, McKean Co., Penn. His 
parents were among the early settlers of that county, and his paternal great- 
grandfather, William Young, was a native of Providence, R. I., where he 
married and became the father of a numerous family of children, and where 
he lived and died. Stephen, a son of William Young, removed to Norwich. 
Chenango Co. , N. Y. . when that county was comparatively in a state of nature, 
and then married Betsy Green, and reared a family of ten children. Remov- 
ing with his family to Norwich township, McKean Co., Penn., he purchased 
lands and followed farming until his decease in 1841, Betsy, his widow, sur- 
viving him until 1858. Their children were as follows: Clinton, Edward, 
Anna, Hannah, Arthur, Betsy, Harriet, Stephen, Malvina and William. The 
parents of Lucinda Stull, mother of D. C. Yoting, were also among the pio- 
neers of McKean county, her father having located in Eldred township in 
1811. Arthur, the third son of Stephen and Betsy Young, was born at Nor- 
wich, Chenango Co., N. Y., in 1813, and with his parents removed to McKean 
county, Norwich township, settling in 1821. When a boy of fourteen years of 
age he engaged in trapping for mink and otter, and after making a sale of his 
furs he found himself in possession of a sufficient sum of money to enable him 
to purchase a gun. Later he became one of the noted hunters of his day, and 
had the reputation of having killed a greater number of deer, bears, panthers 
and wildcats, than any other individual in the county. This gun, his first 
purchase, which he always used in his expeditions in search of game, he be- 



464 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

queathed to his son, D. O, who cherishes it as a most valuable heirloom. 
Educational advantages were not as great then as now, and Arthur Young's 
experience in that connection was of a practical nature. After his marriage 
he engaged in farming, and became one of the successful agriculturists of 
McKean county. He was a member of the Democratic party until 1858, when 
he enlisted in the ranks of the supporters of Fremont, and ever after was iden- 
tified with the Republican party. He never sought political preferment, 
choosing the enjoyment of the borne circle rather than the more exciting field 
of politics. His death occurred in 1879; his widow still has her residence 
upon the old homestead farm. D. C. Young, the subject of these lines, after 
attending the common schools at home, completed his education at Alfred 
University, Alfred Centre, Allegany Co., N. Y., after which he, in 1865, began 
his mercantile career as an employe of A. N. Taylor, at Smethport, Penn., with 
whom he remained three years, when he accepted a similar position with 
Henry Hamlin, of same place, serving him for a like period of time; then, in 
1S71, he became associated with his former employer, A. N. Taylor, as dealers 
in general merchandise. This partnership, however, was dissolved in l^TTi. 
and Mr. Young removed to Larrabee. McKean Co., Penn., where he carried 
on business for six years, and where he also owned (and yet owns) a large 
stock farm. In 1881 he returned to Smethport, where he has since been en- 
gaged in business, and is now one of the representative men and leading sue 
cessful merchants of the place. In 1871 Mr. Young married Ada M., daughter 
of the late Hon. A. N. Taylor, of Smethport, and has three children: Ray- 
mond, Louis and Ada. He is a member of Smethport Lodge, No. 388, F. & 
A. M., Arnold Chapter, No. 254, R. A. M., of Port Allegany, and of Trinity 
Commandery, No. 58, K. T.. of Bradford. In politics he is a Republican. 

H. A. YOUNG, farmer and lumberman, P. O. Farmers Valley, is a son 
of Arthur and Laurinda H. (Stull) Young, and was born in Keating township, 
McKean Co., Penn., in 1845. Here he was reared and educated, and in July, 
1862, he enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and Fiftieth P. V. I. At the 
battle of Gettysburg he received a wound which disabled him, but neverthe- 
less he continued in the service until August, 1S65. After the close of the 
war he was mustered out, returned to his home in Keating township, and in 
1809 married Miss Ocelia N. Howell. The young couple located on the farm 
he dow owns in Keating township, where he has since been extensively en- 
gaged in the lumber trade and in farming. To Mr. and Mrs. Young six 
children have been born: Arthur L., Mettie E., Eunice, Floyd A., Ada E. 
and Clinton B. , all at home. Mr. Young is a member of the G. A. R. For 
three terms he has served as supervisor of the township, a position he now 
holds. He is a supporter of the Republican party, is active in politics, and is a 
prominent and representative man of his township. 

WILLIAM A. YOUNG, farmer and lumberer, P. O. Farmers Valley, is the 
third son of Arthur and Laurinda H. (Stull) Young, and was born in Keating 
township. June 28, 1856, on the farm he now owns. His mother was the 
daughter of Joseph and Delinda (Brewer) Stull. and was born in Stull Town, 
McKean Co., Penn., in April, 1818. Her father was a native of Sussex county. 
N, J., and his parents removed toElmira. N. Y., when he was a child of seven 
years of ago. There he was married, and later he removed to Steuben county. 
N. Y., and thence to Sartwell, McKean Co., Penn., and a little later lo- 
cated in Stull Town. Their children were Alma (who married Lyons Dodge, 
and removed to Ohio, where she died), Abram (who died in Stull Town). John 
(now a resident of East Smethport), Abbey (now a resident of Port Allegany, 
McKean county, and who married Joseph DeLong), Camilla (now Mrs. John 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 465 

L. Darnels, of Scioto county, Ohio), Caleb B. (deceased), Laurinda H., Mary 
(widow of the late John Nolan, of Emporium, Cameron county), Jerome (of 
Keating township), George (deceased) and Joseph (of Stull Town). The ma- 
ternal grandmother of W. A. Young, Delinda Stull, died in 1862, and the 
grandfather, Joseph Stull, died in 1866. Laurinda H. Stull was educated in 
the common schools, and attended the academy at Smethport one term. In 
1842 she was married to Arthur Young, and located on the farm now owned 
by William A. Young, in Keating township, where they reared a family of 
seven children, viz.: Violetta, Flora E.. Alma (deceased), D. C, H. A., Will- 
iam A. and Gardner. Stephen Young, paternal grandfather of William A., 
was born June 25, 1779, and married Betsy Green, July 16, 1803. Their 
children were Clinton, Edward G. , Anna T., Hannah, Arthur, Betsy, Har- 
riet, Stephen D. , Amanda M. and William, of whom Edward G. is the sole 
survivor. Stephen, their father, died July 16, 1840, and Betsy, their mother, 
in March, 1858. William A. Young was reared and educated in his native 
township. October 30, 1878, he married Jane, daughter of Augustus Day, 
formerly of Farmers Valley, Penn., and they located at the old Young home- 
stead, where he has since been extensively engaged in lumbering and farming. 
Mr. and Mrs. Young have five children, viz. : Ella, Edith, Ruth, Frank and 
Lena. Mr. Young is a member of the I. O. O. F., lodge and encampment, at 
Smethport. He is identified with the Republican party, and has been super- 
visor of Keating township for two terms. 



CHAPTER XXIV. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES— FOSTER TOWNSHIP AND 
BOROUGH OF KENDALL. 

PHILO ACKLEY, farmer and oil producer, Kendall Creek, was born in 
Cayuga county, N. Y., in 1821, a son of Ahiel and Clarissa (Olmstead) Ackley, 
natives of Connecticut, and farmers by occupation. At the age of sis years 
Philo was sent to Prattsburg, Steuben Co., N. Y. , to live with his uncle and 
aunt. He remained there three years and attended the district schools. In 
October, 1830, he came to McKean county, Penn., with his uncle, James De- 
Golier. They drove cattle and hogs from Steuben county, and located on 
what is now known as the Jewett farm, in Bradford township. Philo remained 
with them for nearly five years after coming to this county, and then hired to 
his cousin, with whom he worked from March till August, for which he received 
$2.50. With this amount of money he started on foot for Cortland county, 
N. Y. , and arrived there in due course of time. He remained there about eight 
years, and added to his education by attending the winter schools. In 1844 
he started on his return to McKean county, walking from Elmira to Bradford, 
where he obtained his living by day's work for some time. In 1846 he erected 
a blacksmith shop, and conducted a general blacksmithing business until 1879, 
having his shop in Kendall Creek for three years during that time. At the 
breaking out of the oil excitement, he leased 400 acres of land in Toad Hollow 
at $1 per acre for ten years. This lease ran out without being operated on. 
He afterward leased other land and succeeded in getting several good wells. 



466 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

la 1882 he purchased the Hollenbeck farm of 182 acres, at Sawyer City, on 
which he has produced a number of good wells. In 1846 Mr. Ackley was 
united in marriage with Hiss Clarissa, daughter of Alvin Owens, of Smethport. 
Penn., and six children have been born to their union, two of whom are living: 
Charles L.. of Bradford, married to .Miss Alice, daughter of William R. Fisher, 
and has two children, Clara and Maud: and Luella R., married to Charles 
Bailey, who died leaving one child, Lulu, and she afterward married Bradley 
H. Barr, and is now living with her parents. Mr. Ackley has always been an 
active supporter of the Democratic party. In 1869 he was elected justice of 
the peace in Bradford, and served ten years. He also tilled that office in Ken- 
dall Creek ten years, and the office of burgess also ten years. In 1N71 he 
was elected supervisor of Bradford township, serving four terms, and for 
eleven years was constable of Bradford. 

H. H. ARGUE, oil producer. Derrick City, was born near Ottawa, 
province of Ontario. July 22, 1st:', a son of John W. and Esther (Wilson) 
Argue. His father was born in County Cavan. Ireland, and his mother in 
Canada. Her father, Hugh Wilson, served twenty-one years in the English 
army. John W. Argue moved to Canada when sis years of age with his 
parents, and later followed farming as an occupation. He died in that coun- 
try. His widow now resides in Derrick City. Their family consisted of nine 
children, six uf whom are living: H. H., our subject: It. W. , of Derrick 
City; A. G. and Thomas, of Gillmor; Esther Jane, wife of George W. Bet- 
tis, of Buffalo, and Sarah. H. H. Argue was reared in Canada, and there 
remained until 1863, when he came to the United States and first located at 
Portland. He started in life single-handed, and worked at various kinds of 
labor. In 1865 he went to Titusville, Penn.. where he took contracts as a 
well driller, and has since followed the oil business. He and his brother, R. 
W. , now operate under the firm name of the Watson Oil Company. They 
also have a large quantity of gas, and supply Derrick City and Gillmor with 
gas for fuel and light. In 1^71 Mr. Argue married Miss Ellen O, daughter 
of Daniel and Bridget (McCoully) McNeal, of Canada, and they have three 
children: Lizzie, Edwin Harry and Albert J. Mr. Argue is active in politics, 
and is identified with the Republican party. He is a member of the Masonic 
fraternity, in Titusville. He and family attend the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

R. W. ARGUE, oil producer. Derrick City, was born in Ottawa. Canada. 
March 1, 1845. He received a common-school education, and came to the 
United States in 1865, where he began life in Titusville. Penn., as a day 
laborer. He then associated himself with his brother. H. H., as contractor, 
and they have since been in business together. March 16, 1880, he married 
Miss Eva, daughter of Norman Allport, of Shamburg. Penn. They have 
three children: Edith. May and Ethel. Mr. Argue is an active worker ol the 
Republican party. He is a member of Union Lodge. No. 334. of Bradford, 
I' A \. M.. Bradford Chapter, No. 260, R. A. M , and of Trinity Com- 
mandery, No. 58, K. T. 

JON VS ARTLET, proprietor of the American House. Kendall Creel;, was 
bora in Liberty. Tioga Co., Penn.. June 20, L830. His parents, Abraham and 
Elizabeth (Long) Artley, were natives of that county and farmers by occupa- 
tion. Our subject was reared on the homestead, and remained there until 
L859, when he married Miss Sarah E. Shaffer. They then moved to Ly 
coming county. Penn., where they kept a hotel at Linden for six years, 
and also another hutel near there for two years. They then moved to Jersej 
Shore, where they kept hotel for eleven years. In L877 Mr. Artley ci 
Kendall Creek, where he lias since been proprietor of the American House, 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 467 

and has also engaged in oil producing. He is the father of three children: 
Philip (in partnership with his father), Carrie and John. Mr. Artley is a 
member of Labelle Valley Lodge, No. 232, F. & A. M., of the E. A. U., of 
Kendall Creek, and of the Columbia League. He and family attend the Pres- 
byterian Church. 

F. E. BAKER, of the firm of Gillespie & Baker, Summit City, was born 
in Erie. Penn.. January 7, 1856. His father, B. F. Baker, was born in War- 
ren county, N. Y. , and his mother, Sarah A. (Hurst) Baker, was born in Erie 
county, Penn. His father was a ship carpenter by occupation. The family 
are prominent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Five of their 
children are still living: Thomas C, of Foxburg, Penn. ; Estella, wife of W. 
O. Smith, of Oil City; F. E. ; William A., of Washington, Penn., and Wallace 
B. , of Pittsburgh, Penn. The subject of these lines was educated at Erie, 
Penn., and in 1S75 went to Foxburg. where he engaged in refining oil. In 
I 881 ' he came to McKean county, and for three years acted as commercial trav- 
eler, handling petroleum, oil well supplies, etc. April 28, 1887, he engaged 
in his present business. In 1879 he married Miss Naomi, daughter of John 
Gillespie, and they have three children: Charles Floyd, Frank Howard and 
Sarah Hazel. Mr. Baker is a supporter of the Republican party. He belongs 
to Lodge No. 211, E. A. U., of Summit City, Assembly No. 6561, K. of L., 
and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

F. X. BIDAUX, butcher, Kendall Creek, was born in France, October 10, 
1846. a son of P. X. and Mary (Chappin) Bidaux. His mother died in France, 
and the father and his family came to America in 1867, locating at Titusville. 
Penn., where the father is now engaged in the milk business. Our subject 
worked in a foundry for two years, and then engaged in the butcher business, 
which he conducted there for eleven years. In 1880 he came to McKean 
county, and has since conducted a meat market at Kendall Creek. He has also 
carried on a market in Bradford for several years. He was the first man to 
introduce Chicago beef into McKean county. In 1870 he married Miss Felicie 
Gigogne. a native of France, who came to America when five years of age, 
and they have six children: Mary, Louise, Rosa, Sylvin, Goldie and Genevieve. 
Mr. Bidaux is a supporter of the Democratic party, and is a member of the 
borough council. He is a member of the Knights of the Maccabees, and he 
and family are members of the Roman Catholic Church. Mr. Bidaux owns 
several valuable city lots, and a tine farm at Saegerstown, Penn. 

JAMES BISETT (deceased) was born in Dublin, Ireland, his parents, who 
were farm tenants, dying in that country. In 1850 he emigrated to America, 
and married in the same year Miss Mary, daughter of William Clark, also a 
native of Dublin, Ireland. Mr. Bisett was a stone mason by trade, and worked 
in New York a few months, then went to Massachusetts, where he remained 
five years. From there he moved to Ellieottsville. Cattaraugus Co., N. Y. . and 
engaged in farming. In 1857 he first came to McKean county, and in 1862 
located on the present Bisett farm in Foster township. Mr. Bisett started in 
life single handed, and by his own efforts became a successful man. He was 
identified with the Democratic party, and was one of the representative and 
highly respected men of the township. He was a devout Catholic, and one of 
the original builders of the church of that denomination at Bradford. He died 
August 1, 1880. His widow, who still resides on the homestead farm, is a 
devout Christian, and a very hospitable lady. Fourteen of their children grew 
to maturity, twelve of whom are still living: Mary (wife of Joseph Henigan, 
of Olean, N. Y.), Jennie (wife of George Ferris, of Farmers Valley), Richard 
L., Edward W., Christopher C, Thomas J., Charles F., Annie Belle, John J., 



468 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Rose J., James Henry and Walter W. The Bisett Brothers are among the 
representative oil producer- of Foster township. 

RICHARD L. BISETT, oil producer, Dallas City, a son of .lames and 
Mary (Clark) Bisett, was born in Cattaraugus county. N. Y., July 29, 1855. 
He received a common-school education, and for several years followed lum 
berinc and farming. In 1885 he and his brother formed a partnership in pro- 
ducing oil. under the tirm name of R. L. & C. C. Bisett. In 1882 he married 
Miss Mary, daughter of James McHale, of McKean county, and they have one 
child, John H. Mr. Bisett is a supporter of the Democratic party, and i-- a 
member of the Catholic Church. 

A. W. BOYD, oil producer, Sawyer City, is a son of John Boyd, a native 
of Mercer county, Ohio, who came to McKean county when a young man. and 
followed farming and lumbering; he married Miss Annie Hutchinson, a native 
of McKean county, of Irish parentage. Mr. Boyd was a Democrat and a prom 
inent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He died in 1867, his wife 
in 1861. They reared nine children, rive of whom are living: Elizabeth, wife 
of Andrew Swarthart. in Michigan; Martha, wife of Roswell Hale, in Tarport, 
Penn. ; Jane, wife of Jesse Pumphrey, in Kansas; AAV., and William, a farmer, 
in Foster township, McKean county. A. W. Boyd was born in Foster town- 
ship, McKean Co.. Penn., June 2(1 1846, and attended the township schools. 
also Rochester Commercial College. For ten years he engaged in lumber- 
ing, and since 1877 he has been producing oil, controlling from fifty to sixty 
wells. In 1866 he married Miss Amelia, daughter of J. 8. Seaward, of Ken- 
dall Creek, and has five children; Clinton O. , Annie M., Leonard C. , Prank ( i. 
and Clement C. Mr. Boyd is identified with the Republican party. Ho is a 
member of Union Lodge, No. 33-4, F. & A. M., Bradford Chapter, No. 160, 
R, A. M. , and Trinity Commandery, No. 58, K. T. 

JONES BUCHANAN, farmer. P. O. Kendall Creek, a son of Andrew L. 
Buchanan, was born in ^Yarren county, Penn.. March 28. 1811. He received 
a limited education and came to McKean county when seventeen years of age. 
He lias principally been engaged in lumbering, and has made many trips to 
Pittsburgh down the Allegheny river. In 1M1 he was united in marriage 
with Miss Sophronia A. Foster, daughter of L. S. Foster, of Bradford town 
ship, and nine children were born to their union, live of whom arc living: 
Mary Elizabeth, wife of John H. Corll of New York, in Tarport: Rebecca and 
Ella, at home; Thomas Jefferson in Tarport. married to Miss Mary Morse, of 
Jamestown, X. Y.. and has one child. Harry: Russell, in Washington county, 
Penn., married to Miss Annie Brooks, of Philadelphia, and has four children, 
Grace, Estella, Lulu and an infant. Mr. Buchanan voted for Jackson in 1832, 
but since 1852 he has been a Republican, and has tilled various township offices. 

A. W. BUCHANAN, farmer, P. O. Kendall Creek, was born in what is now 
Warren county, Penn.. September 25. 1819. His father, Andrew L. Bnchan 
an, who was a native of Mifflin county, Penn. , was born- August 16. 1T7.~>. married 
February 26, 1801, Miss Rebecca Jones, also a native of Mifflin county, Penn. 

He was a blacksmith by trade, and moved into MeKeai unty. Penn., in 1829, 

locating on the farm now owned by our subject in Foster township. They 
were among the early and representative families of the township. Mr. Bu- 
chanan was a Jeffersonian Democrat, and filled various township offices. He 
was drafted in the war of 1812, but furnished a substitute. Hedied February 
2s. is 11, and his widow in 1861. Their children were Susan, who was born 

December 25. 1801, but is now d ased; Lucinda, born April 3, 1803, died 

October 25, ]s:;:' ; Daniel, born August 9, 1805, also deceased; Robert born 
iber 9, L807, and now dead; Isaiah, born April IS. 1809, died August 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 469 

15, 1834; Jones, born March 28, 1811; Andrew and Rebecca (twins), born 
December 30, 1812; Polly Ann, bora September 26, 1814, and A. W. 

A. W. Buchanan came to McKean county with his parents. He was given 
but limited educational advantages and early engaged in lumbering, and acted 
as pilot on the Allegheny river for many years. For the past twenty-five 
years he has been engaged in farming. The first flowing oil well in the county 
was found upon his farm. In 1847 he married Miss Adeline, daughter of L. 
S. Foster, of Bradford township, and twelve children were born to them, six 
of whom are living: Irene, wife of John Whipple, in Omaha, Neb.; Jeanette. 
wife of T. W. Hunt, in Hyde county, Dak.; Florence, widow of George May; 
Delia, wife of Eugene Holcomb, in Omaha, Neb. ; Minnie and Elwin, at home. 
Mr. Buchanan was a member of the Democratic party from 1840 to 1856, but 
since then has been a supporter of the Republican party. He has filled about 
all of the township offices, and is prominent in school work. 

JOHN T. CALHOUN, druggist, Kendall Creek, is a son of John Calhoun, 
who was born in County Sligo, Ireland, June 21, 1839; there learned the shoe- 
maker's trade, emigrated to America in 1857, and for several years worked at 
his trade in New York City, Jersey City, Scranton, Port Jervis and Middle- 
town. In 1867 he followed the oil excitement to Petroleum Centre, and in 
1875 located at Eldred, McKean county, coming to Kendall Creek in 1876, 
where he first engaged in baling hay. He is now conducting a shoe shop. In 
1865 he married Miss Mary Kenney, who was born in Ireland and brought to 
America when one year of age. They have six children : John T. , Mary M. , 
Margaret, Charles P., Anna E. and George D. John Calhoun has held sev- 
eral public offices, having been three times elected overseer of the poor, three 
times constable, and five times collector of taxes; he is also secretary of the 
Democratic County Committee, and is a member of the A. O. U. W., K. of L., 
and of the Catholic Church. John T. Calhoun was bom August 13, 1866, in 
Forestville, Chautauqua Co., N. Y. , and received a common-school education. 
In 1882 he entered a drug store at Bradford, as clerk, and afterward went to 
Olean, N. Y., where he remained for one year. In 1886 he assumed the man- 
agement of the drug business of McCarty & Calhoun, which our subject con- 
ducted until 1888, when he established his present business, under the firm 
name of John Calhoun & Son. He is a member of the Columbia League, of 
the Catholic Church, and in politics is a Democrat. 

W. B. CORWIN, farmer, postoffice Sawyer City," is a son of P. P. Corwin, 
and a grandson of Edward Corwin, a native of Connecticut and a Revolution- 
ary soldier. He was one of the early settlers of McKean county, taking up 
Government land. P. P. Corwin, who was a native of Madison county, mar- 
ried Miss California Gallup, a native of McKean county, and settled on a farm 
in Foster township, McKean county, now known as Corwin Centre. Mr. Cor- 
win was a member of the Whig and Republican parties and of the Baptist 
Church. He died in 1857; his widow still resides on the homestead. They 
reared a family of nine children, Sight of whom are living: Huldah, wife of 
Bishop Coston, in Missouri; Malvina, wife of Thomas Farns worth; Jestina, 
wife of James Farnsworth, of Sheffield, Warren Co.. Penn. ; Lucina, wife of 
Salmon Keesler, of Corwin; W. B. ; Edwin A. ; Andrew P., and Nancy, wife 
of Harry T. Abby, of Port Allegany, McKean county. W. B. Corwin was 
born in Norwich township, McKean Co., Penn., February 10, 1840. and moved 
to Foster township when four years of age, where he has followed farm- 
ing. In 1868 he married Miss Louisa, daughter of Peter H. Storms, of Foster 
township, and they have three children: Cynthia, wife of Sydney Smith, of 
Butler; Wallace and Elsie. Mr. Corwin is a member of the Democratic party, 



470 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

and has tilled various township offices. He and family are members of the 
Baptist Church. 

A. P. COR WIN, farmer, P. O. Sawyer City, son of P. P. and California 
(Gallup) Corwin, was born in Foster township. McKean Co., Penn., February 
7. 1848. He received a common-school education, and since starting in life 
for himself has followed farming. In 1 SSI he manned Miss Gelia, daughter 
of Albert Burdick, of Cattaraugus county. N. Y.. and by this union they have 
four children: Eubie M., Cordis P., Mira B. and Raymond Earl. -Air Cor 
win is a supporter of the Democratic party and has served as assessor of his 
township. 

JOHN DENMAN, oil producer, P. O. Kendall Creek, was born in Somer- 
setshire, England, July 26, 1848. His parents were John and Harriet (Sharpe > 
Denman. In 1868 Mr. Denman emigrated to America and went direct to 
Pit Hole, Yenango county, where he soon began to produce oil, in which he 
has since been engaged in Ohio and Pennsylvania, having sixty wells in Ohio 
and about thirty in McKean county. In 1 SOT he married Miss Elizabeth 
Eason, a native of England, and they have eight children: Heber (studying 
for a mining engineer at Lehigh). John, Arthur, Edgar, Maud, Clyde. Allen 
and Jessie. Mr. Denman is a member of the Knights of the Maccabees. His 
wife is a member of the Episcopal Church. 

JAMES P. EATON, oil producer, Sawyer City, was born in Enterprise, 
Warren Co., Penn.. March 4, 184SI. a son of Corrydon P. and Caroline 
(Phelps) Eaton, natives of Chautauqua county, N. Y. His grandfather. Eben 
ezer Eaton, who was a native of Madison county. N. Y., took up government 
land on the present site of Laona, in Chautauqua county, erected one of the 
first dwellings in the village of Pomfret, and in 1815 erected a cloth-dressing 
factory, which he operated for many years. He was a soldier in the war of 
L812. Corrydon. the father of our subject, was also a cloth dresser 1>_\ trade. 
and was one of the pioneer oil men of Venango county, drilling the third oil 
well in Oil Creek and the first well at Pleasantville. He was the originator of 
the steel line •"jars," and was the first to use casing to case out the water in drill- 
ing wet holes. He was an ardent Republican. He died in Warren county, 
Penn., December 14, 1884. His widow is still living. Mr. and Airs. Eaton 
reared the children, three of whom are living: Orlando P., at Corry; James 
P.. in Sawyer City, and Callie (wife of Barker Chad wick), at Curry. James 
P. Eaton was taken to Chautauqua county. N. V.. when three years of age, 
and at the age of eighteen years he began in the oil business at Pleasant- 
ville. whence he went to Titusville. where he remained five years. In 1876 
lie came to McKean county, and has since been engaged in producing oil. 
In 1870 he married Miss Ada, daughter of Thomas Paddeu, of Chautauqua 
county, N. Y., and they have two children: Hattie B. and Harry James. Mr. 
Eaton is a member of Forest Lodgf. No. 1 •'>»!, F. & A. M. ..f Chautauqua 
county. N. Y. ; Sawyer City Lodge, No. 215, A. O. C. W.. ami Eureka As- 
sembly. Knights of Labor, No. 9873. • 

DR. R. A. EGBERT. Foster Brook, was born in Mercer county. Penn., 
February I. 1849. His parents, Edwin and Milky (Grace) Egbert, were 
natives of that county, and farmers by occupation. Our subject received a 
common school education, and at the age of twenty two years began the study 
of medicine with Dr. T. W. Egbert, of Oil City, Penn. He graduated from 
tie' University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, in June. |s7~>. and began the prac- 
tice of his profession at Oil City. In l^TS he came to McKean county, where 
he has since had an extensive practice. April 14. 1880, he married Miss Eva- 
line, daughter of the late H. F. Howe. He is a member of the McKean 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 471 

Comity Medical Society, and has held the office of secretary and treasurer of 
the same. He is a member of the United Workmen of Red Rock, the Knights 
of the Maccabees, of Derrick City, and of the Knights of Pythias, of Foster 
Brook. He is identified with the Republican party, and is a member of the 
school board. 

E. D. FOSTER, farmer. P. O. Kendall Creek, is a son of Leonard S. 
and Betsey H. (Hinds) Foster, and was born on his present farm December 3. 
1835. He received an ordinary education at the township schools, and has 
principally been engaged in lumbering and oil producing, now having oil 
interests in Washington county, Penn. In 1!S61 he married Miss Helen, 
daughter of James McMurrav, of Derrick City. Penn., and they have five 
children: Ola, wife of V. H." Ellsworth; Nettie, wife of A. C. Marsh, of 
Washington, Penn. ; Frank Foster, tool dresser, who married Miss May Fer- 
guson, and has two children ( Fred and Clarence) ; Jessie and Effie, at home. 
Mr. Foster is a member of the Republican party, and has filled various town 
ship offices. 

HARRY FOX, farmer and oil producer. Bradford, was born in England, 
April 15. 1849, a son of Thomas and Sarah (Pool) Fox. Our subject immi- 
grated to America in 1872, first locating in Allegany county, N. Y. , and eight 
months later came to McKean county, where he engaged with the lumbering 
firm of Clark & Babcock, and remained two and one-half years. He then 
went to Ellsworth county, Kas. , where he was in the hotel business, thence 
moved to and resided in Michigan and Illinois for two years. In 1876 he 
returned to McKean county, and in 1877 began to operate for oil. He now 
has nineteen wells, and a farm of thirty-five acres under cultivation. In July. 
1877. he married Miss Jane A., daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Tate, of 
Foster township, McKean county, and they have six children: Thomas. Fran- 
cis, Estella, Alice, Howard and Agnes. Mr. Fox is a member of the Royal 
Templars of Temperance; his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. 

C. W. GILLESPIE, merchant, a member of the firm of Gillespie & Baker. 
Summit City, was born in Armstrong county, Penn., November 7, 1858. His 
parents. J. B. and Elizabeth (Hartman) Gillespie, were natives of that county. 
In L865 they moved to Oil City, where our subject received his education. 
He has worked in the oil fields since starting in life for himself, and in 1881 
located in Summit City, McKean county. In 1887 he engaged in his present 
general mercantile business, aoad same year he was united in marriage with 
Miss Bertha, daughter of Daniel Walker, of Erie county, Penn. Mr. Gillespie 
is identified with the Republican party, and is a member of the Knights of the 
Maccabees. Mrs. Gillespie was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
and died October 2, 1889. Mr. Gillespie's mother died in Armstrong county 
in 1804, and his father died in Oil City in 1ST'.). 

M. A. HAGGERTY, hardware merchant, Kendall Creek, was born in 
Sussex county, N. J., September 14, 1844, a son of Alfred and Susan (Harden) 
Haggerty, both natives of that county. The father died in 1854; the mother 
is still living. They reared four children, three of whom are living: M. A.. 
Samuel H. (in Sussex county, N. J.), and George A. (in Clinton county, Penn.) 
M. A. Haggerty was reared in Sussex county, N. J., and received a common- 
school education. At the age of twenty-two he began work for the Philadel- 
phia & Erie Railroad as brakeman, worked up to be engineer, and ran an en- 
gine for eight years. In 1878 he came to McKean county, where he first 
engaged in the livery business at Kendall Creek, and for a number of years 
he has conducted a general hardware store. In 1875 he, married Miss Han- 



472 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

nah M. , daughter of Nicholas and Margaret (Camie) Westcott, of Schoharie 
county, X. Y. 

W. N. HANNA, owner of Hanna's Lumber Yard, Kendall Creek, was born 
in Geneseo, Livingston Co., N. Y., June 4, 1838, a son of George W. and 
Nancy (Wynn) Hanua. George \V. moved from Cortland county to Livingston 
county, N. Y. , before marriage, and still resides there, a widower. W. X. 
Hanna was reared in Livingston county, and received a good education. He 
graduated from the University of Syracuse and also Geneseo College. After 
leaving school he engaged in teaching at Fillmore Academy. Missouri, and 
also taught in the public schools of Texas, being principal of the schools at 
Corpus Christi, and other places in Texas; he also taught at Mayfield, Ky.. and 
Dresden, Tenn. In 1878 he came to McKean county. Penn., and located at 
Tarport, where he has since been engaged in handling hemlock and pine lum- 
ber, and manufacturing wheels, reels, etc., for oil wells. In 1874 he was 
united in marriage with Miss Ellen Clarissa, daughter of Joseph F. Clark, one 
of the early settlers of Bradford, and they have two children: Genevieve and 
Jamius. Mr. Hanna is identified with the Republican party, and has been a 
member of the borough council. He is a member of Lodge No. 133. A. O. U. 
\\\. of Tarport, and a member of the Episcopal Church. 

R. HANNAHS, dealer in junk, rags, etc.. Kendall Creek, was born in Pike 
county, Penn., March 7. 1844. a son of Isaac and Elizabeth (Moore) Hannahs. 
He was given a common school education, followed farming for some years, 
and learned the trade of tinsmith and. copper-wire worker. In 1N83 he came 
in McKean county, and established his present business at Kendall Creek, 
keeping constantly on the road three wagons or carts. In 1871 he married 
Miss Christina, daughter of M. Taylor, of Elmira. N. Y., and they have seven 
children: Delia, Libbie, Hattie, Fannie, William, Isaac and Harry Mr. 
Hannahs is liberal in politics, but usually supports the Republican part v. 

PHILIP HOOKER, farmer, P. O. Tuna Creek, was born in Allegany 
county, N- Y., February '22, 1827. His father, Philand Hooker, a native of 
Vermont, was brought to Allegany county, N. Y. , when a child, and event- 
ually married Margaret Wilson, a native of Ireland. They were farmers by 
occupation, and always lived in Allegany county. Philand Hooker was a Dem- 
ocrat, and tilled various township offices; he and his wife were members of the 
Episcopal Church; he died in 1864. his widow in 1883. They reared seven 
children, five of whom are still living: James, in Allegany county, N. Y. : Har- 
riet, widow of James Wells, in Dunkirk, N. Y. : Calvin T., in Dakota: Philip, 
and Jane Ann. wife of Willard Lyon, in Dunkirk, N. Y. Philip Hooker came 
to McKean county in 1863, ami purchased his present farm. In 1852 he mar- 
ried Miss Deblah S. Lyon, daughter of Allen Lyon, of Allegany county, N. Y. 
She died September 21. 1867, leaving four children: Fred John, who married 
Miss Eva Whittaker, of Carlton, N. Y. , and has three children (Ellen May. 
Benjamin ('. and an infant); Willard H, of Rochester, N. Y. (married to Miss 
Harriet Lynn, of Dunkirk, N. Y.); Charles C, of Foster township (married to 
Miss Etfie Case, and has one child. Harrold G ). ami George W. of Rochester, 
X. Y. (married to Miss Fannie Loudin, of Canada). Mr. Hooker was again 
married, this time in 1868, to Miss Sarah Ann Hazzard. a native of Xew York 
State, who died in October, 1886. His present wife was Mrs. Jennie Brown. 
daughter of John Eastman, of Warren county, Penn. Mr. Hooker is a mem- 
ber uf the Democratic party, and has filled various township office-. 

WILLIAM M. HOWARD, merchant, Derrick City, was burn in Catta- 
raugus county, X. Y. , July 16, 1858, a son of Alexander and Laura (Bacon) 
Howard, natives of thai county, but both dead. Mr. Howard received a com- 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 473 

mon school education, and in 1877 came to McKean county, where he worked 
as a laborer. He then entered a store as clerk, and in 1882 established his 
present general store. September '2(5, 1882, he married Miss Edith Vincent, 
daughter of Hiram and Wealthy Vincent, of Cattaraugus county, N. Y. Mr. 
Howard is a member of the Republican party, and is one of the representative 
merchants of Derrick City. 

MILES S. HOWE, oil producer, P. O. Foster Brook, was born in Frank- 
lin, Venango Co., Penn. , October 4, 1850. He received the benefit of an aca- 
demic education, and has been principally engaged in the oil business. He 
married, January 29, 1889, Miss Bertha A. Washburn, of New York City. 
He is a member of Myrtle Lodge, No. 11(3, F. & A. M. , of Franklin, Penn., 
the Sons of Temperance, the Knights of Labor, and the A. O. U. \\\. and 
also the Producers' Association. Mr. Howe is an enthusiastic worker in the 
Temperance cause, and a supporter of the Prohibition party. His father. 
Henry F. Howe, who was a native of Perry county, Penn., married Miss 
Sophia L. Shaw, of Titusville, Penn. He was a carpenter by trade, and 
built the first derrick erected on Oil creek. He afterward became an exten- 
sive producer on Oil creek and at Pit Hole. In 1865 he sold his interests 
and moved to Yates couuty, N. Y. , where he carried on an extensive farm un- 
til 1874. He then moved to Elmira, where he remained until 1882. He fur- 
nished two substitutes for the war of the Rebellion. He was a supporter of 
the Republican and Prohibition parties, and a prominent member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church, tilling various important offices. He died in 
1883; his widow now resides in Florida. Ten children were born to them, 
eight of whom are living: Lizzie (wife of H. C. Conner), Eva (wife of Dr. R. 
A. Egbert), T. E., W. O, E. E., J. W., Minnie and Miles S. 

CAPTAIN CYRUS E. KNIGHT, druggist, Derrick City, was born in 
Waterford, Oxford Co., Me., Nov. 22, 1833, and is a son of John and Mary 
(Bangs) Knight. John Knight was born in Oxford county. Me., and followed 
farming throughout life. In 1845 he moved into Aroostook county, in the 
northeastern part of the State, then a dense wilderness, and settled in what is 
now the town of Presque Isle, where he died. His widow, now aged eighty- 
six years, still resides on the old farm at Presque Isle. Their family con- 
sisted of seven children, five of whom are living, viz. : Cyrus E. (our subject), 
Betsy J. (wife of Jacob Bridges, residing at Presque Isle), Rachel (wife of 
Almon Bridges, residing at Presque Isle). Mary F. (widow of H. A. Haiues. 
residing at Fort Fairfield, Me.) and Elmira (widow of J. W. Moore, residing 
in Warren, Penn.). Cyrus E. Knight was reared in Aroostook county. Me., 
attending the district school in winter, and working on his father's farm dur- 
ing the summer, till he was twenty-one years of age. after which he attended 
Houlton (Me.) Academy, two years, teaching school during the winter. In 
1859 he entered the law office of H. R. Downes, and there remained until 
August, 1861, when he enlisted in Company F, Fifteenth Regiment (Me. ) 
Volunteer Infantry, in which he served during the war, being mustered out 
July 3, 1866. In April. 1862. his regiment went to Ship Island with the But- 
ler expedition, and it was also at the taking of New Orleans. Mr. Knight 
was with the regiment in every engagement in which it participated; was pro- 
moted from private to lieutenant, and from that rank to captain. He com- 
manded his company in the battles of Sabine Cross Roads, Pleasant Hill. Cane 
Crossing and on "The Plains Mansura, " in the Red River campaign, and 
was with Sheridan in the Shenandoah Valley in 1864. After Lee's surrender 
he was ordered to South Carolina, where he remained until July, 1866. the 
time of his muster out of the service. During his nearly five years' service 



4:74 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Capt. Knight was never absent from his company a day unless by the orders 
of bis commanding officer, nor was he sick, during the entire time, sufficient to 
cause him to be absent. After leaving the army Capt. Knight returned to 
Fort Fairfield. Aroostook county. Me., and engaged in the manufacture of 
lumber for two years. In the summer of 1869 he moved to Titusville, Penu., 
and here followed the oil business nine years. In 1879 he came to Derrick 
City, and embarked in his present drug business, in which he has been success 
fill. In 1873 Capt. Knight married Miss L. -J. Walker, daughter of Benjamin 
and Mary Walker, of Exeter. Penobscot Co., Me., and they have two children: 
Ida Pearl and Allie Eugenia. Capt. Knight is a member of the Masonic fra- 
ternity, the A. O. V. W., K. of P. and of the G. A. K.. in all of which he is 
an earnest worker. In politics he is active, and is identified with the Demo- 
crat party. 

I. ol'is LEOPOLD, oil producer. Derrick City. Perm., was born in Ger 
many, January 15, 1845, and immigrated to America with his parents in 1M 1. 
Hi- was reared in Erie county, Perm . and received an ordinary education. He 
has been associated with his brother Ernest in Venango and Clarion counties, 
and also in producing oil in McKean county. In 1^71 he married Miss Caro- 
line Belses. of Venango county, Penn. and they have three children: G 'ge 

L.. Farah S. and Annie G. In IS'35 he enlisted in Company H, One Hundred 
and Ninety eighth Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, and served un- 
til the close of the war. He is a Republican in politics, and is a member of 
GillmorPost, No. 539, G. A. R. 

ERN EST LE( IPOLD, oil producer. Derrick City, was born in Erie county. 
Penn., October 17. 1851. His parents, Jacob and Barbara Leopold, who were 
natives of Germany, followed farming in Erie county. Penn.. where the\ die I 
They reared nine children, eightof whom are living: Frederick, in Erie countj . 
Penn.; Louis and H. J., in Derrick City. August, in Custer City, McKean 
county; Ernest; John and Jacob, in Erie. Penn., and Caroline, wife of John 
Shelter, also in Erie county. Ernest Leopold was reared in Erie county, 
receiving a common-school education, and followed farming until 1869. when 
he went to Venango county and engaged in drilling wells; he remained there 
four years, and then went to Clarion county, where he stayed three years. In 
1878 be came to McKean county, and has since been engaged in oil producing. 
Iii 1873 he married -Mi--- Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas Stover, of Venango 
county. She died in 1888, leaving one child, Bertha A. Mr. Leopold then 
married Miss Eliza, daughter of Daniel Koon. of Pine Valley. X. Y. He is a 
supporter of the Republican party, and is a member of the K. O. T. M. 

G. W. I, i ROT, merchant, Gillmor, P. O. Derrick City, was born in Jeffer 
son county, X. Y. . December 24, 1839. a son of P. S. and Abigail (Carpenter) 
LeRoy, natives of that county. The father, an ordained minister of the Method 
ist Episcopal Church, died in Oswego county, the mother in Syracuse. X. Y. 
(1. W. LeRoy received a common school education, and moved to Syracuse 
when fifteen years of age. For about five years be was engaged in the j 
business at that place, and also in the manufacture of salt. In isTMiecarne 
to McKean county, and for four years was employed In the United Pipe Line 
Company. In 1882 be established his present business at Gillmor. In 1868 
he married Miss Dora M. . .laughter of Henry Warner, of Syracuse. X. V.. 
and they have seven children: Libbie. Fred. Kale. Ibitlie. Ella, Charles and 

Harris. Mr. LeRoy is a supporter of the Republican party. He i- a member 

of the Knights of Honor and of the Knights of Pythias at Gillmor. His wife 
is a member of the Methodist (''.pi-copal Church. 

W. L. McCULLOUGH, merchant. Derrick City, was born in Canada. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 475 

February 6. 1859. He was reared in Titusville, Perm., and attended the high 
school of that place. He early entered mercantile business as clerk, and in 
1S79 came to McKean county, where he clerked at Red Rock and Knapp's 
creek. In 1886 he established his present business, conducting also a branch 
store at Red Rock. October 7, 1883, he married Miss Marian, daughter of 
John Wiuans of Crawford county, Penn. , and they have three children: Ger- 
trude, William Luther and Rose. Mr. McCullough is identified with the Re- 
publican party, and is a member of the Knights of the Maccabees. His parents, 
James and Catherine (Slavem) McCullough, were natives of Philadelphia, Penn. 
His father was a manufacturer of cotton and woolen goods, but is now retired 
from business and lives at Red Rock, McKean Co. , Penn. 

M. McKAY, merchant, Grillmor, P.O. Derrick City, was born in Monroe coun- 
ty, N. Y., October 31, 1846, a son of Thomas H. and Elizabeth B. (Mead) McKay, 
natives of Scotland. His father died in Cattaraugus county, N. Y. ; his mother 
now resides at Olean, N. Y. Four of their children are now living: Mart, Thomas 
H. , Louisa B. and E. J. M. McKay, the eldest, was educated at the Olean 
Academy, and for some years was engaged in mercantile business at Olean. 
In 1862 he went to Dunkirk, N. Y., where he had charge of a large crockery 
store for some years. In 1877 he came to McKean county, and has since con- • 
ducted his present business at Derrick City and Gillmor. He is also interested 
in oil production. In 1875 he married Miss Adele E. Huntington, of Lime- 
stone, N. Y., and they have three children: Lolah E., Harry G. and Homer T. 
Mr. McKay is a member of the Republican party and of the A. O. U. W. 

ROBERT McMURRAY, Sh., oil producer, P. O. Derrick City, was born 
in Scotland October 5, 1835. His father, James McMurray, was born in 
Scotland in 1809, and in 1834 he married Ellen Johnston, who was born in 
1811. They immigrated to America in 1851. James McMurray, who was a 
stonemason by 'trade, located at Dunkirk, N. Y. , but only remained there 
four months, and then came to McKean county, locating on the Ward farm. 
which he improved, and lived upon several years; thence he removed to Fos- 
ter Brook, to the present farm of our subject, where he died December 26, 
1878. He was a prominent citizen, identified with the Republican party, and 
a member of the Presbyterian Church. His widow still resides on the home- 
stead. Eleven children were born to their union, nine of whom are living: 
Robert; John, in Cattaraugus county, N. Y. ; Ellen, wife of E. D. Foster, in 
Foster township, McKean county; Elizabeth, wife of B. F. McClure, in Gene- 
see county, N. Y. ; Mary, wife of S. T. Hatfield, in Derrick City; Maggie, 
wife of S. T. McManus, in Findlay. Ohio; Samuel W. and James C, in Der- 
rick City, and Andrew, in Olean. N. Y. Robert McMurray was educated in 
Scotland, came to America with his parents, and for several years followed 
lumbering. In 1876 he leased a half interest in fifty acres of oil property, 
later purchased the whole interest, and now operates fourteen wells. In 
1854 he married Miss Margaret Morrison, a native of Scotland, and they have 
reared six children: Robert, driller and oil producer, of Derrick City; 
Andrew, driller, of Bradford: James, producer and driller, of Tarpoit: 
Jeanette, at home; Helen, wife of M. W. Kiernan, of Ellicottsville, N. Y. ; 
and Jane, wife of C. S. McKenna, veterinary surgeon, of Mount Morris, N. Y. 
Mr McMurray is a Republican, and is now serving as supervisor of Foster 
township, and is also a member of the school board. He is a member of 
Union Lodge, No. 334, F. & A. M., of Bradford, Olean Chapter, No. 150, R. 
A. M. , St. John's Commandery, No. 24, K. T. , of Olean, N. Y. , and is com- 
mander of the K. O. T. M. , of Derrick City. 

S. W. McMURRAY, oil producer. Derrick City, son of James and Ellen 



476 HISTOliV OF -MCKEAN COUNTY. 

(Johnston) McMurray, was born at Tarport (now Kendall Creek), McKean Co.. 
IVnn.. January 21, 1852. He attended the township schools, and Chamber- 
lain Institute, at Randolph. N. Y., and has, since leaving school, been engaged 
in lumbering and oil producing. In 1884 he married Miss Nora, daughter of 
Roger McDermont, of Cattaraugus county. N. Y.. and they have two chil- 
dren: Roger James and John. Mr. McMurray is a member of Union Lodge, 
No. 334, V. & A. M., of Bradford Chapter. No. 260, R. A. M., and of Trin- 
ity Commandery, No. 58. K. T. Politically, he is identified with the Repub- 
lican party. 

J. C. McMURRAY, oil producer. Derrick City, son of- James and Ellen 
(Johnston) McMurray. was born in Tarport (now Kendall Creek), McKean Co., 
Penn., November. "Jii. 1S53. He received a common school education, for a 
number of years followed farming, lumbering, etc., and since 1877 has been 
engaged in producing oil. In June, 1884, he married Mi-s Annie, daughter of 
William Smith, of Derrick City, and they have one child, Olive Ellen. Mr 
McMurray is identified with the Republican party. He is a member of the 
Knights of the Maccabees, and of the Bradford Presbyterian Church. 

J. K. MITCHELL, of the firm of Mitchell Brothers, merchants and 
producers, Kendall Creek, was born in Chautauqua county. N. ¥., April ], 
1852. His parents, H. G. and Lucy (Kidder) Mitchell, were natives of that 
county, and for a number of years engaged in farming, the father also op- 
erating a grist- and saw-mill. In 1876 they moved to McKean county, Penn.. 
and located at Kendall Creek, where the wife and mother died in June. 1^77 
H. G. Mitchell engaged in the grocery business, on the presenl site of the 
American House, and associated his sons with him, under the firm name of 
H. G. Mitchell & Sons. Their trade increased from $5 to 8500 per day in 
side of two years. He is a member of the Baptist Church, and an active 
worker in the Republican party. He was appointed the first postmaster of 
Kendall Creek, in May, 187(5, and served until 1S8H. In 1887 he moved 
to Richburgh, N. Y., where he is now engaged in mercantile business. Three 
children were born to Mr. and Mrs. H. G. Mitchell: J. K. , G. W. and Minnie. 
Our subject was reared in Chautauqua county, N. Y., and educated at the 
Jamestown Union School and Collegiate Institute. Since the retirement, of his 
father, he and his brother, G. W., have conducted their general mercantile 
business under the firm name of Mitchell Brothers. They also operate several 
oil wells. In 1N7H J. K. Mitchell married Miss Cora, daughter of J. C. Smith, 
formerly of Chautauqua county, N. Y., now a merchant of Kendall Creek, and 
they have one child, Jeanie. Mr. Mitchell is identified with the Republican 
party: is a member of Union Lodge, No. 334. F. & A. M., of Bradford, and 
the E. A. U. He and his family attend the Presbyterian Church. 

R. YV. MONROE, farmer and oil producer, Sawyer City, is a son of G. W. 
Monroe, a native of Erie county. N. Y.. and Mary (Hutchinson) Monroe, a 
native of England. About 1840 the father came fco McKean county and pur- 
chased a farm in Foster township, where he lived until 1885, when he moved 
to Randolph, N. Y.. where he now resides. He is a prominent member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church, and has been class leader and steward for many 

years. He has thr< hildren: H. S..of Prentiss Yale. McKean county: Al- 

vina. wife of Nathaniel Etheridge, of Foster township, and R, W. R. \\ 
Monroe was born on his present farm in McKean county. Penn., April 21, 1S54. 
He was educated at the township Bchools, also Rochester Commercial College, 
and has always lived on the farm on which he was bom. He also operates foui 
oil wells. In 1881 he married Miss Margaret E. , daughter of James Freeman, 
of Meadville, Penn . and thej have two children: Rhoda and Lottie. Mr. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 477 

Monroe is a member of Union Lodge, No. 334. F. & A. M. , of Bradford, also 
of the Producers' Association, of Sawyer City. In politics he casts his suf- 
frage with the Republican party. 

MOSHER BROTHERS, oil producers, Derrick City. Elijah L. Mosher 
was born in Wayne county, Penn., October 4, 1854. His parents, James and 
Elizabeth (Startwart) Mosher, were natives of Putnam county, N. Y., and are 
now living in Wayne county, Penn. Mr. Mosher married, in 1884, Miss Libbie. 
daughter of Charles Myers, of Mercer county, Penn., and has two children. 
Lillie and Rose. He is a member of the Knights of the Maccabees. In poli- 
tics he votes with the Republican party. 

Jesse E. Mosher was born in Wayne county, Penn., in 1857. In 1882 he 
married Miss Emma, daughter of Martin Wasson, of Erie county, N. Y. He 
is a supporter of the Republican party. The Mosher Brothers came to McKean 
county in 1877, and first began business here by drilling oil wells. In 1881 
they commenced to produce oil for themselves, and they now operate thirty 
five wells. 

JASPER NEATH, oil producer, Foster Brook, was born in Staffordshire, 
England, November 17, 1838, a son of Jasper and Mary Ann (Bailey) Neatb. 
His father died in that country, and his mother again married and emigrated 
to America. Our subject came to America in 1 862, but revisited England the 
same year. In 1806 he returned to America, and went direct to Oil City, Ve- 
nango Co., Penn., where he procured work as a driller. In 1876 he came to 
McKean county, locating at his present home in Foster township, and has 
since been engaged in producing oil, operating sixteen wells. He married, in 
England, Miss Martha Vaughn, and they have four children: Arthur W. (an 
oil producer in Foster township, McKean county), Emeline, Jasper, Jr., and 
Annie. Mr. Neath and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

W. H. NEILL (deceased) was born in Venango county, Penn., January 13, 
1837. His father, Isaac Neill, was a native of Centre county, Penn., and his 
mother, Mary (McCasline) Neill, was a native of Westmoreland county, Penn. 
They were farmers, and among the early settlers of Venango county. Mr. 
Neill received an academic education, and remained at home until the oil ex- 
citement, in LS60, when he engaged in drilling for oil and became one of the 
pioneer oil men of Venango county. May 2, 1879, he began operations on his 
farm in McKean county, and operated eight wells. In 1866 he married Miss 
Hannah Newlon, of Clarion county, Penn., and they had two children: Edna 
and Mattie. Mr. Neill was a supporter of the Democratic party and a mem- 
ber of the Knights of the Maccabees. His wife is a member of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church. Mr. Neill died of pneumonia May 16, 1889, after an 
illness of one week, and his remains were conveyed to Neilltown, the little 
town where he was born and reared, and were there interred. About two years 
before his death he became a stanch Prohibitionist, and used every effort in his 
power during the last campaign to further the success of that party. He held 
a life insurance policy in the order of the Knights of the Maccabees for $2,000, 
of which $1,000 was in favor of his wife and $500 in favor of each of his two 
daughters. The community in which he had lived sincerely mourn the loss of 
one who was the promoter of all that was true and noble, and his family still 
more deeply grieve for the kind and indulgent father. 

E. E. NORTHRUP, proprietor of machine shops, Rew, was born in St. 
Lawrence county, N. Y. , September 10, 1849. His father, Bushrod North- 
rup, also a native of that county, married Miss Sarah Darling, a native of Ver- 
mont. In 1864 they moved to Venango county, Penn., where the father en- 
gaged in refining oil thence went to Butler county, and in 1882 they came to 



4(8 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

McCalmont, McKean county, where the} now reside. They have six children: 
Alice, Emma (wife of John \Y. Mates, in McCalmont), E. E., D. D. (in Wash 

ington county, Penn.), Eliza (wife of William Cochran, in Bradford), and J. D. 
{in Butler, Penn.) E. E. Northrup left St. Lawrence county when fourteen 
years of age. He learned the machinist's trade, and came to McKean county 
in 1878, locating at Summit City, and in 1880 he moved to Rew City, where 
he has since conducted his present business in connection with oil-producing. 
In 1882 he married Miss Lizzie, daughter of Allen Cochran, of Bradford, and 
they have two children: Thomas A. and John E. Mr. Northrup is identified 
with the Republican party, and is a member of the K. O. T. M. 

■J. H. NORTON, superintendent of the Hazelwood Oil Company, Foster 
Brook, was born in Fayette county, Penn., October 15, 1855, a son of Philo 
and Martha H. (Herbert) Norton, also natives of that county, former of whom 
was a farmer and coal operator. They reared a family of eight children, six 
of whom are living: Margaret C. (at home), Carlos A. I book keeper for 
the Hazelwood Oil Company in Bradford, Penn.), J. H.. Abraham 15. (a jeweler 
in Altoona, Penn.), Clarence L. (with the Hazelwood Oil Company) and Eu- 
gene T. (assistant cashier in the First National Bank of Counellsville, Penn. ). 
J. H. Norton remained at home until 1877. when he went into the oil fields, 
and began work for his present company in Butler county. In 1881 he came 
to McKean county, and has since held his present position. He is also one of 
the firm of Norton & Neath, oil producers. August 6, 1878, he married .Miss 
Mary H, daughter of Lewis P. Boothe, of Petrolia. Butler Co., Penn.. and 
they have four children: Edna M., Blanche M. H, Florence B. and Lewi- B 
Mr. Norton was formerly a member of the Democratic party, but is now a sup- 
porter of the Prohibitionists. He was a member of the Foster township school 
board from June, 18815, to June, 1889. In February, 1887, he was appointed 
postmaster at Foster Brook, and still holds that position. He also conducts a 
general store at Red Rock. Mr. Norton belongs to the A. O. U. W. and K. 
< ). T. M. , the Sons of Temperance and the Producers' Protective Association. 
He and his wife are members of the Christian Church. 

•I AMES NUGENT, oil producer. Sawyer City, was born in Chautauqua 
county. N. Y., October 18, 1847. His father. Nicholas Nugent, a native of Ire- 
land, emigrated to America in 1830. and settled in Chautauqua county. N. Y., 
where he married Miss Charlotte Wicking. a native of England. They were (arm 
ers, and members of the Roman Catholic Church. The father died in that county, 
the mother still resides there. Nine children were born to then], five of whom 
are living: Elizabeth Iwife of A. J. Rice, of Bolivar, N. Y. ), Sarah Ann. Belle. 
James and Albert. James Nugent remained on the homestead until nineteen 
years of age, and in 1866 went to Triumph, Warren Co., Penn., and has 
since been engaged in the oil business, producing in Scrub Grass and Butler 
county. Penn. In 1880 became to McKean county, and now operates ten wells. 
In 1876 he married Miss MyraM., daughter of George W. Crandall. of Alle- 
gany county. X. Y. He was formerly a member of the Greenback party, but 
since L880 has been a Prohibitionist. He is a member of the A. O. U. W., 
the Equitable Aid Union. Knights of Labor. Sons of Temperance, and the 
Producers' Protective Association. His wife is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. 

GEORGE H. OTIS, merchant. Sawyer City, was born in Randolph. Cal 
taraugus Co., N. Y.. July 31, 1857. His parents. Marion G. and Eli/a (Heath) 
Otis, were natives of Wyoming county, N. Y., and farmers by occupation. His 
Eather was a major in the war of the Rebellion. Our subject received hit id 
ucatioo at the Chamberlain Institute, and in 1878 came to McKean county, 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 479 

where he established at Sawyer City his present business, under the firm name 
of J. C. Hurd & Co. Under the able management of Mr. Otis the firm does 
an extensive trade in groceries, dry goods, etc. 

GEORGE POTTS, oil producer, Sawyer City, was born in Ireland, June 
27, 1849, and immigrated to America in 1868. He engaged in the coal busi 
ness in the State of Maryland for three years, and then went to Washington 
county. Penn. . where he worked at mining coal for five years. He then began 
[ He H luring oil in Armstrong county, and about 1879 came to McKean count v. 
where he now operates fifty wells, in connection with his brother, James Potts. 
under the firm name of Potts Brothers. Mr. Potts is a member of the Method 
ist Episcopal Church, and in politics supports the Prohibition party. 

■TAMES POTTS was born in England in 1S58, and came to America in 
1S7U. He married Miss Louise, daughter of George Robinson, of Summit 
City, and they have two children: Annie Laura and George Frederick. Mr. 
and Mrs. Potts are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He gives his 
suffrage to the Prohibition party. 

D. L. ROSS, proprietor of the Ross House, and oil producer. Derrick City, 
was born in Cattaraugus county, N. Y. . June 5, 1831. His father, Ahimon 
Ross, was born near Rochester, Genesee Co., N. ¥. , and his mother, Emeline 
(Town) Ross, was born in Ogden, N. Y. They are farmers by occupation, and 
are now living in Cattaraugus county, N. Y. They reared a family of nine 
children: Foster (who was a member of Company B, One Hundred and Sixty- 
fourth New York Volunteer Infantry, and died from the effects of wounds re- 
ceived in the service), Reuben (who was a member of Company K, One Hun- 
dred and Sixty-fourth New York Volunteer Infantry, and died at Fortress 
Monroe), those living being D. L. (our subject). Philander (with his parents), 
Sarah (wife of William Murdock, of Cattaraugus county, N. Y.), Lydia E. 
(wife of Amos Keyser, of Cherry Vale, Montgomery Co., Kas.). Rebecca (wife 
of N. D. Williams). Mercy Amelia (wife of John F. Mosher, both of Catta- 
raugus county, N. Y. ) and Ahimon J. (of Derrick City). D. L. Ross learned 
the shoemaker's trade, which he followed for seventeen years, and then engaged 
in farming until 1869, when he moved to Little Valley and kept hotel for two 
years: thence went to Randolph, and kept hotel there for six years. In 1877 
he came to McKean county, and was proprietor of the Derrick City House 
for ten months. He then built his present hotel, of which he has since been the 
genial and popular landlord. He also operates several oil wells. In 1857 he 
married Miss Mary R., daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (Hubbard) Shannon. 
Mr. Ross has always been identified with the Republican party. 

E. B. SAGE, oil producer, Foster Brook P. O., Red Rock, Penn., was born 
in Windsor, Broome Co., N. Y., a son of Capt. W. N. and Edith (Brainerd) 
Sage, now residents of Red Rock. Mr. Sage was reared in Broome county, 
and received an ordinary education, after which he learned the carpenter's 
trade, which he followed until April, 1876, when he came to McKean county, 
and worked at building oil rigs, or derricks, also at tool dressing and drilling. 
For three or four years he was employed as brakeman on the Erie Railroad. 
In 1881 he moved to Red Rock, and has since been producing oil, operating 
twenty four wells. In 1886 he married Miss Josephine E., daughter of John 
Harrington, of Bradford, and they have one child, Josephine Edith. Mr. Sage 
is a Republican in politics, and has served as township auditor three terms. 
He is a member of Cuba Lodge, No. 306, F. & A. M. ; Valley Point Chapter, 
No. 232, R. A. M. ; St. John's Commandery, No. 24. K. T., of Olean, N. Y. : 
Bradford Council, R. & S. M. ; Syria Temple, of Pittsburgh, Penn. , and of 
Rochester Consistory. 



iMI HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

A. A. SEAMANS, merchant and oil producer, Bell's Camp, was horn in 
Oswego county, X. Y . January 21, 1849 a son of Irving and Nancy (Garber) 
Seamans, natives of New York State. The father was a prominent merchant 

in Auiboy, and there A. A. Seamans was reared. He was educated at Whiles 
town Seminary. N. Y.. and afterward engaged in teaching. He learned the 
carpenter's trade, which he followed for some time. In ISTS he came to Mc- 
Kean county, locating at Bell's Camp, and first worked at rig building. In 
ISM he established hi- present general store at Bell's Camp, and since |ssi 
has been a memher of the firm of Hughes, Seamans. Syphers & Co.. oil pro- 
ducers. In 1870 he married Miss Susan, daughter of Valentine Worthy, of 
Oswego county. X. \ r ., and they have two children: Neva and Josie. Mr. 
Seamans is identified with the Democratic party. He is a memberof the A. O. 
U. W., of Derrick City, and of the Knights of the Maccabees, of State Line. 
His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

.!< >SEPH S. SEAWARD, farmer, P.O. Kendall Creek, was born in Almond, 
Allegany Co.. X. Y. , August /, ISIS. His father, Euos Seaward, was born in 
Massachusetts, and moved with his parents to Luzerne county, Penn., when 
about twelve years of age; his father was a soldier iu the war of 1756, and 
also iu the Revolutionary war. Euos. the father of our subject, went to 
Allegany county, N. Y., and purchased a farm. He married Miss Lydia. 
daughter of Joseph Stevens, an early settler of Steuben county, N. Y. Enos 
died in 1841, his wife in 1852. Their family consisted of four sons anil two 
daughters, viz.: Enos, of Wisconsin; Orrin, of Steuben county, N. Y. ; Naomi, 
wife of George M. Glason, of California: Joseph S. : Amos, also of Steuben 
county; and Sarah, wife of Clement Curtis, of Hornellsville, X. Y. J. S. 
Seaward was reared in Allegany county, N. Y., where he received a fair educa 
tion, and afterward he taught school in New York and Pennsylvania. In 1839 
he came to McKeau county, and engaged in lumbering for a number of years. 
He then purchased his present farm, where he has since resided. He has 
Beveral oil wells on his farm, in which he has a one eighth interest. In 1M1 
he married Miss Dalpha Dorleska. daughter of Isaac and Ponthy (Clark) Fair, 
natives of Vermont, and early settlers of McKean county. Mrs. Seaward died 
in February, 1878. Twelve children were born to their union, nine of whom 
are living: Levi, a farmer in Foster township. McKean county : Adeline Amelia. 
wile of A. W. Boyd, in Sawyer City, Foster township; William H, living at 
home: Melvin. in Kendall Creek; Clementine, wife of H. E. Allen, also in 
Kendall Creek; Fvaline, wife of N. H. Hastings, in Potter county. Penn.; 
Sydney W., in Foster township; Albert J. and Fremont, living at home. Mi-. 
Seaward ha- always been an active worker in the Republican party, and has 
served the township as collector. For twelve years he has been a member of 
the school board, and has served as president and treasurer of the same. He 
was reared in the Presbyterian Church, but now attends the Methodist EpisCO 
pa! ( Shurch. 

CHATJNCE'X SHARPE, oil producer. Derrick City, was born in Wyoming 
county. \. Y.. April 19, 1845. His parent-. ( '. W. and Lois (Mush) Sharpe, 
who were natives of that county, afterward moved to Cattaraugus county, N. 

Y . where they died. They reared a family of four children: Clara, wife of 

Martin White; Susan, wife of C. \\ . Bosworth; John and Chauncey, the three 
first named being resident- of bed House, X. Y. Chaunce) Sharpe received a 
common school education in Livingston county, N. Y He engaged in the lum- 
ber business in Cattaraugus county. X. Y.. and became an extensive operator, 
owning mills and manufacturing lumber, shingles and lath. In ISTd he came 
to McKean county, and here tirst engaged iu the hotel business at Gillmor. 



BIOGBAPHICAL SKETCHES. 481 

Since 1880 he has been producing oil on a large scale. In July. 1868, he 
married Miss Helen, daughter of Lyman Giles, who was born in Herkimer 
county, N. Y., and married Miss Lucina Fuller, of Oneida county, N. Y. They 
moved to Cattaraugus county, where Mr. Giles engaged in mercantile business 
and lumbering. Mr. and Mrs. Sharpe have three children: May Belle, Gene- 
vieve and Chauncey Warren. 

EDWARD R. SHERMAN, merchant, Kendall Creek, was born in Saratoga 
county, N. Y., March 28, 1840. His father, Edmond J., was a native of that 
county, and his mother, Susan (Wilcox) Sherman, was a native of Warren 
county. N. Y. They were farmers by occupation, and died in Saratoga county. 
N. Y. Edmond J. Sherman was an influential member of the Abolition party 
and a strong advocate of temperance, also a prominent member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. They reared a family of fourteen children. The living 
ones are Harry, in Canada; Lydia, wife of W. H. Kilby, ex-member of the 
Maine legislature, anil now agent for the International line of steamers running 
between Boston and St. John, New Brunswick; J. W., in Warren, Penn., owner 
of the famous "Sherman well,'" on Oil creek, in the early days of the oil ex- 
citement; Sarah, wife of George H. Davis, in Fort Edward, N. Y., and E. R. 
The subject of these lines was reared in Saratoga county, N. Y. , received a 
common-school education, and graduated from Eastman's Business College. 
April 13, 1S61, he enlisted in Company F, Twenty-second New York Volunteer 
Infantry, in which he served over two years. He was recommended for a com 
mission, but, being wounded, never received it. He then went to Washington 
D. C. , and applied for a position in a colored regiment under Gen. Casey 
He received the appointment of first lieutenant by President Lincoln, and was 
ordered to report to Col. Woodward, of the One Hundred and Sixteenth United 
States Colored Troops, at Lexington, Ky. Before reporting, however, he 
had to pass a very severe physical examination, and, owing to a shortness in 
one limb, he was disqualified, but was appointed to a clerkship in the provost 
marshal's office at Washington. In the spring of 1865 he came to Pennsylva- 
nia, where he began operating in oil, and has been a producer at Pit Hole, 
Titusville and Pleasantville. In 1880 he came to McKean county and located 
at Tarport, where he has since resided, and has been engaged in producing oil. 
In 1 889 he purchased his pi'esent business. In 1868 he was united in mar- 
riage with Miss Martha, daughter of David E. and Susan (White) Norton, of 
New York State, and they have three children: Winifred L., Charles N. and 
Susan. Mr. Sherman was commander of Bradford Post, No. 141, G. A. R., is 
a member of the Knights of the Maccabees, of Kendall Creek, of the Knights 
and Ladies of Honor and of the Royal Templars of Temperance, Bradford, also 
of the Protective Home Circle. He has always taken an active part in the 
interests of the Republican party, and was secretary of the Republican county 
committee in 1888. He was a member of the school board, and has served as 
secretary and treasurer of the same. He and family attend the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, of which Mr. Sherman is a member of the board of trus- 
tees. His wife is president of the Ladies' Aid Society of Kendall Creek. 

W. F. SINCLAIR, merchant and oil producer, Rew City, was born in 
the State of Maine, January 4, 1855. His parents, Richard and Lucy (Shay) 
Sinclair, were native.--, of that State. Five of their children are still living: 
Richard (of Lima, Ohio), W. F., Ernest E., Gertrude and Geraldine (in Maine). 
Out subject, at the age of twenty-one, engaged as steward on the steamer 
"City of Frederickton, " plying on St. John river, between Frederickton and 
Grand Falls. He then went to New York City, where for one year he drove a 
Broadway stage. For one season he acted as property-man for P. T. Barnum's 



482 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

circus, and for two years drove a Btage from Boston to Charlestown, and also 
was a street car driver in Boston. In 1S79 became to McKean county, locat- 
ing at Gillmor, and worked at tool dressing. He then embarked in the oyster 
and fruit business, finally moving bis business to Rew City, and he now has a 
general store, and also owns nine oil wells at Duke Centre. He is an active 
member of the Republican party, and lias served as postmaster al Rew Citj 
since L881. 

O.F.SPENCER, merchant, Kendall Creek, was born in Steuben county, 
X. V.. October 8, 1844. • His father. Allen Spencer, was a native of the East 
em States, and his mother, Elizabeth ( Strickland) Spencer, was of English de- 
scent. They were farmers by occupation, and prominent members of thi 
tist Church, in which Mr. Spencer was a deacon for many years. The father 
died June !■'•. 1SS2, and the mother June 1:!. 1885. Six of their children 
grew i" maturity. Daniel, the eldest, died in Rock county. Wis. The living 
are A.doniram (residing on the homestead). Hannah (wife of Isaac Squires, of 
Woodhull, Steuben Co., N. Y.), Mary (wife of George Miller, also of Woi d 
hull). Charlotte (wife of Simon Hardy, of Jasper, Steuben Co., X. Y. i and 0. 
P. The subject of this sketch was reared in Steuben county. X. Y.. and re- 
ceived a common-school education. He remained on the homestead until 
twenty- five years of age, and then went to iddison, where he learned the tra 
of door and sash maker. He then moved to Montgomery, sixteen miles below 
Williamsport, Penn.. where he took charge of a shop. In 1873 he engaged 
in genera] mercantile business at Williamsport, and remained there until 1876. 
In 1879 ho came to Kendall Creek, McKean county, and has since conducted 
his produce and confectionery business, being also engaged in producing oil. 
In 1ST I he married Miss Catherine, daughter of John and Lydia (Parwell) 
Tucker, of Boston. Mass., and they have two children: Mabel and Howard. 
Mr. Spencer is a member of Lodge No. L33, A. 0. U. YV.. of Kendall Creek. 
His wife is a member of the First Baptist Church of Bradford. Mr. Spen 
eei- is an active Republican. He has been a member of the borough conn 
oil, and of the school board for five years, acting as president of the latter for 
two years. 

E. H. STOEVER, oil producer, Sawyer City, was born in Lebanon County, 
Penn., July 7. 1842, a son of John and Elizabeth (Young) Stoever, al-" 
natives of that county, former of whom, a farmer and lumberman In occu 
pation, now lives in Lebanon City, latter died in 1845. Two of their children 
are living: Susan (wife of C. Brandt, in Lebanon, Penn.) and E. H. Our 
subject was reared in his native county, and in 1865 moved to Franklin. Ve 
nango county, where he first engaged in the coal business and afterward in oil 
producing. In 1880 he came to McKean county, ami has since operated oil 
wells. In 1870 lie married Miss Annie Dodds, of Butler county, Penn., and 
the\ have six children: Carrie. Joletta, Dillie, Guy, John and Humphrey H. 
[n 1861 Mr. Stoever enlisted in Company ('. Forty-eighth P. V. I., and 
served three months. He is a supporter of the Republican party, and has 
tilled the offices of school director, a-sessor and collector, for his township. 
Hi. is a. member of Fraternal Lodge, No. 183, F. \ A. M.. of Rouseville, Penn., 
and also Lodge No 7. A. < ). D. W.. Petroleum Centre. Mrs. Stoever is a 
member of the Presbyterian Church. John Stoever. the grandfather of our 
subject, was born in Philadelphia, and was a soldier in the war of 1812. 
He was among the early settler- of Lei. anon county. Penn. His father. John 
Stoever. was born in Germany, and was a Lutheran preacher. 

S. A. WHIPPLE, oil produce]-. Kendall Creek, was born in Sawyer City, 
McKean Co., Penn., November "20. 1853. His father, Alfred Whipple, wh 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 483 

was a native of Vermont, was married to Esther A. Lilly, a native of Steuben 
county, N. Y. Alfred Whipple came to McKean county, in 1840, with his 
father, John Whipple, and located at Sawyer City, where he engaged in lum- 
bering. In 1877 he moved to Friendship, Allegany Co., N. Y. , where he 
still resides. He was a prominent Republican, was county commissioner, and 
filled various township offices. S. A. Whipple engaged in the production of 
oil in 1876, and is now among the prominent producers of Foster township. 
In 1880 he married Miss Minnie D., daughter of William Upright, of Wayne 
county, Penn. He is a member of the A. O. TJ. W., of Kendall Creek. 

M. R. WILLIAMS, oil producer, P. O. Derrick City, is a son of John 
Wesley Williams, a native of Tompkins county, N. Y. , and Aurilla (Ran- 
dall) Williams, a native of Wyoming county, same State. His father, who 
was a millwright and mechanic by occupation, moved his family to Aurora. Erie 
Co., N. Y. in 1834. There his first wife died in 1845, and he then married 
Mrs. Sarah Warren, daughter of Erasmus Adams, and widow of William War- 
ren, of Erie county. Three children are living by Mr. Williams' first union, 
viz.: Clarinda, wife of Capt. W. H. Mayo, in Springville, N. Y. ; John R., in 
Kansas City, Mo., and M. R. The children by his second marriage yet living 
are Charles H, in Kansas City, Mo.; B. F., in Derrick City; Silas W., in 
Aurora, N. Y. ; Jennie L. , wife of Dewitt C. Page, in Brockport, N. Y. ; and 
S. A., in Aurora, N. Y. M. R. Williams was born at Aurora. Erie Co., N. Y., 
November 10, 1844. He was reared in his native county, and received a com- 
mon-school ediication. In 1865 he went to Oil Creek, where he was among 
the pioneer operators, and has since passed through the oil excitement at Pit 
Hole, Tidioute and Clarion. In 1880 he came to McKean county, and has 
since lived near Bell's Camp. He now operates thirty wells. In 1871 Mr. 
Williams was united in marriage with Miss Mary F. , daughter of James M. 
Paine, of Aurora, Erie Co., N. Y. , and they have three children: Alice May, 
Arthur N. and Emma Augusta. Mr. Williams became a charter member of 
Pleasantville (Penn.) Council, R. A., in 1878; he is a member of Henry 
Reemer Lodge, No. 780, F. & A. M., of Limestone, N. Y. ; of Salamanca 
Chapter, No. '266, R. A. M. ; of Olean Council, No. 33, and of St. John's Com- 
mandery, No. 24, K. T. , of Olean, N. Y. He is a supporter of the Democratic 
party, and was one of the county committee in the campaign of 1888. He and 
family attend the Presbyterian Church. 

B. F. WILLIAMS, oil producer, Derrick City, was born at East Aurora, 
Erie Co., N. Y., February 24, 1848, a son of John Wesley and Sally B. 
Williams. Mr. Williams was reared in Erie county, and educated in the 
public schools. He learned the carpenter's trade, and in 1868 went to Sham- 
burg. Penn., where he engaged in building oil rigs. In 1879 he came to Mc- 
Kean county, and has since been engaged in oil producing. In 1875 he mar- 
ried Miss Ida J., daughter of Norman Airport, of Shamburg. They have three 
children: Harry, Maud and Silas. 

WILLIAM" WILLIAMSON, oil producer, P. O. Derrick City, was born in 
St. Louis, Mo., June 12, 1858. His father, John Williamson, was a native of 
Ireland, and his mother, Cordelia ( Wheeler) Williamson, was a native of 
England. Our subject was reared at Brady's Bend, Penn., received a 
common- school education, and graduated at Iron City College. In 1880 he 
came to McKean county, where he has since acted as superintendent for John 
Bird, of Bradford, and is also interested in several producing wells, being a 
member of the firm of Hughes and Williamson. April 13, 1886, he married 
Miss Aida, daughter of Joseph and Mary Garvan, of Derrick city, and they 
have one child, George, born April 4, 1887. Mr. Williamson is a member of 
the A. O. U W. . of Derrick Citv. 



484 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

DR. F. W. WINGER, Rew, was born in Venango county, Penn.. June 23, 
1855. His parents, David and Catherine (Smith) Winger, were natives of 
Westmoreland county. Penn. His father was a mechanic by occupation, and 
died in Oil City in 1862. His mother died at Rew in 1888. Their family 
consisted of eleven children, seven of whom are living: Jane, wife of Samuel 
Winger, of Oil City; William, of Warren, Penn.; Henry, of Bradford, Penn.: 
Joseph, of Grand Valley, Warren Co.. Penn.; Matilda, widow of S. B. 
Dewey, of Rew; Samuel E., a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 
and member of Erie Conference, and F. \V. The subject of these lines 
was educated at the high schools of Oil City. He read medicine with Dr. 
G. W. Rae. of Bradford, and graduated from Bellevue Hospital Medical Col 
lege. New York City, March 15, 1886, and has since practiced in Rew and 
vicinity. In 1 SSS he married Miss Nellie, daughter of Robert and Mary 
Dean, of Keating township. McKean county. He is a member of the McKeau 
County Medical Society, the Knights of the Maccabees, and was a membe< of 
the Ninth International Medical Congress which convened at Washington. D. 
C in September. 1887. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church. Politically he is a Republican, with Prohibition proclivities. 



CHAPTER XXV. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES— ELDRED TOWNSHIP AND 
BOROFGH OF ELDRED— OTTO TOWNSHIP. 

ELDRED TOWNSHIP AND BOROUGH OF ELDRED. 

BYRON ALFORD, oil producer and manufacturer of explosives. Eldred, 
was bom in Ridgeville township. Lorain Co.. Ohio, March 25, L842, a son of 
Milo C. and Emily (Lathrop) Alford. When he was three years of age his 
parents settled in Crawford county, Penu.. where they lived for six years; 
then removed to Allegany county, N. Y.. where he was reared and ieoeive,l a 
common-school education. He started in life for himself when sixteen years 
of age as a stationary engineer, which he followed seven years. He then fol- 
lowed the business of a sawyer for one year, and afterward, in L865, started 
as a jobber in manufacturing lumber by the thousand feet, at which he con- 
tinued three years. In the fall of 1866 he located at State Line Mills, Mc- 
Kean Co., Penn., and was postmaster while there. From the spring of L867 
to the fall of L869 he operated the State Line Lumber-Mill for Calvin T. 
Chamberliu, of Cuba. N. Y.. with credit to himself ami to the satisfaction of 
his employer. In the fall of 1869 he bought a lumber-mill in Eldred town 
ship, and began the manufacture of lumber on his own account. The follow- 
ing year he erected another mill within forty rods of the first. In 1^71 lie 
formed a partnership with E. F. Johnson, of Oramel, N. Y.. which included 
the above business, and which existed until the fall of 1ST 1. In the fall of 
l^ii he embarked in the oil business as a producer in the Bradford field, with 
which he has since been connected; has been interested in twenty producing 
wells in the Bradford tield. and is now sole owner of seven producing wells. 
Late in the fall of L879 he began the construction of a large saw-mill at Bar 
num. Cattaraugus Co., N. Y., on a contract with Weston Bio-., of Weston's 
Mills. Cattaraugus Co.. N. F., and subsequently entered into partnership with 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 485 

A. U. Curtiss, under the firm name of Alford & Curtiss, and conducted an ex- 
tensive lumber and mercantile business for about three years. In 1883 he 
engaged in the manufacture of explosives used for all kinds of blasting pur- 
poses, with J. W. Dean, under the firm name of Alford & Dean, which part- 
nership existed until July, 1888, when Mr. Alford purchased his partner's 
interest, and is still conducting a successful business in that line. Mr. Alford 
is a prominent and representative citizen of Eldred. He is a member of the 
Masonic fraternity, lodge, chapter, council and commandery, and of the A. A. 
0. , Nobles of the Mystic Shrine of Ismailia Temple, Buffalo, N. Y. Politic- 
ally he is a Republican. He has been married twice. First, in 1863. to 
Nancy M., daughter of Peter and Annis (Wilson) Mcintosh, of near Oramel, 
N. Y. She died in April, 1882, and in June, 1884, he married Mary E. Irish, 
daughter of George Irish, of the town of Genesee, N. Y. Her father was a 
surveyor and an early settler on Dodge's creek, Allegany county, N. Y. 

MATTHEW C. ARNOT, lumberman, P. O. Eldred, was born in South - 
port. Chemung Co., N. Y., June 19, 1841, and is a son of James H. and lane 
(Longwell) Arnot. He was reared and educated in his native county, and on 
attaining his majority he engaged in lumbering as foreman and superintend- 
ent of lumber mills and lumber contracts. He located in Eldred in 1876, 
where he has been employed as superintendent and foreman of Benton's Mills, 
which were operated under the direction of the late E. C. "VVolcott after L886. 
Mr. Arnot married, December 25, 1865, Sarah, daughter of Jacob and Serena 
(Stark) Lehman, of Roulette township. Potter Co., Penn. , and has four chil- 
dren: George, Jennie, La Moyne and Sadie. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. 
and of the K. O. T. M. , and in politics is a Democrat. 

LEWIS BALFOUR, physician, Eldred, was born in Colinton, near Edin- 
burgh, Scotland, July 1, 1850, a son of John and Josephine M. (Smith) Bal- 
four. John Balfour was in the Hon. East India Company's service, and for 
twenty-five years was in constant and active service, from which he retired 
in 1863, with rank of inspector general. He served all through the Bur- 
mese war of 1851-53, and the Indian mutiny in 1857, rendering valuable 
assistance at the siege of Delhi; was also at Lucknow and Cawnpore, where 
he served in the capacity of surgeon. Lewis Balfour was reared in Edin- 
burgh, and educated in the academy and high school of that city. He entered 
the medical class of 1866-67, in the University of Edinburgh, and was there 
graduated. He was appointed surgeon on the ship " Ravenscraig, " which 
sailed from Dundee (Scotland) on a nine months' cruise in the Arctic regions. 
In 1871 he immigrated to America and settled in Emporium. Penn., where he 
practiced his profession nearly three years, and in 1874 he came to Eldred, 
where he has since been in the active practice. Dr. Balfour was married in 
October, 1879, to Elizabeth Josephine, daughter of John Hunt, of Angelica, 
N. Y. Mr. Hunt was killed in battle during the war of the Rebellion. Mr. 
and Mrs. Balfour have been blessed with two bright and promising children: 
John and Josephine M. The Doctor is a member of the Episcopal Church, of 
the F. & A. M. and of the I. O. O. F. Politically he is a Democrat. 

A. T. BARDEN. dealer in general merchandise, Eldred borough, was born 
in Broome county, N. Y. . April 16. 1826, a son of Dr. Ebenezer and Deborah 
(Dean) Barden. and is of old Puritan stock. Ebenezer Barden was a botanical 
physician, and is said to have been the first physiciau to locate in Eldred town- 
ship, where he settled January 16. 1837. practicing his profession there until 
his death, which occurred September 25. 1885, being then in his eighty-sixth 
year. His family consisted of eight children, viz. : Alexander, Ruth (Mrs. 
Reuben Dennis), Abram T.. Jason A., Abigail (Mrs. Charles Wolcott), Solo- 



486 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

inon, Amanda (Mrs. Asher Hinds) and Andrew J. A. T. Barden was eleven 
years old when his parents located in Eldred township, and here he received a 
limited education in the common schools, after which he was. for a number of 
years, engaged in the Lumber business. In 1853 he embarked in general mer- 
chandise business, which lie successfully conducted uutil February. 1SS3. when 
liis eldest son. Ernest A . was admitted as a partner, since which time the busi 
ni'ss lias been carried on under the firm name of A. T. Barden & Son. Mr. 
Barden was united in marriage, September 3, L859, with Miss Mary E . daugh- 
ter of Milo and Rosetta (Wright) Baldwin, of Allegany county. X. Y. Mr. 
and Mrs. Barden have been blessed with three children: Ernest A.. Fred E. 
and Herbert E. Mr. Barden is the oldest established merchant now doing 
business in Eldred. He was postmaster at Allegany Bridge (now Eldred I from 
1872 to 1882; served as associate judge of McKean county one term; was 
I justice of the peace two terms, resigning during his second term to 
assume the duties of associate judge, and has also held many of the minor 
offices of his township. Mr. Barden is a prominent and worthy citizen. In 
politics he is a stanch Republican. 

THOMAS BARKAS, farmer. P. (). Eldred. was born in Newcastl i-Tyne, 

England, March is. L827, a son of Gabriel and Mary (Lawson) Barkas. He 
was reared in the Parish of St. John. Northumberland, and in June, 1847, 
married Jane, daughter of Thomas and Hannah Loan, of Haltwhistle, Eng 
land, by whom he had eleven children, four of whom are living: William. 
Hannah (Mrs. David Wood), Thomas and Jane (Mrs. Frank Elliott). Mr. 
Barkas, with his family, came to America in 1853, locating in Erie county. X. 
V.. and remained in the vicinity of Buffalo four years, working at anything 
he could get to do. In February. 1S.j7, he settled in Eldred. this county, and 
purchased LOO acres of land (to which he has since added twenty five acres by 
purchases), eighty acres of which he has cleared and improved himself, and 
where he has since resided. He was in the war of the Rebellion, enlisting, in 
ISM. in Company K. Seventh New York Heavy Artillery, and was honorably 

discharged from the service in June, L865. Mr. Barkas ma\ b isidered 

one of the pioneer farmers of Eldred. as well as a respected citizen. Polit- 
ically he is a Republican. 

CHARLES BELL, farmer, posi office Eldred, is a native of Ulster county. 
N. Y., and a sou of Peter and Maria (Kimball) Bell. He was reared in his 
native county, and came to McKean county, Penn., in ISiiT. settling in Eldred 
township, where he is the owner of a farm of 1 10 acre-, seventy live of which 
he has cleared and improved from the wilderness in which he Located. He 
Vi been twice married. His tirst wife was Mariam. daughter of Uriah X. 
and Yrminda (Barringer) Avery, of Ulster county. X. Y . by whom he ha I sis 
children: Orvell l'>.. Alvina (Mrs. Eugene Prosser), Armiuda (Mrs. Leslie 
Humphrey), Annis B., Frank and Charles. Mrs. Mariam Bell died January 
7. L882, and May LO, L884, Mr. Bell married Mrs. Annie (Kewley) Bradshaw. 
Mr. Bell is a prominent farmer of Eldred township. He is a member of the 
Knights of the Maccabees; in polities he is a Demo, -rat. 

REV. T. s. BENNETT Earmer and oil producer, Eldred. was born near 
Knoxville, Tioga Co., Penn., March 28, L826, a son of Joseph and Lncinda 

(Bonney) Bennett. He was reared near Whitesville. X*. Y.. until sixteen \ ears 

of age, and received a common school education In L842 he located in 

: I. Penn., and after attaining his majority embarked in the lumber 

business, which he continued fifteen years. He then followed farming: after 

1876, sold his farm : poses, ii being the firsl farm iii Brad 

I on that account. The same year he locate 1 in Eldred, and purchased 



BIOGBAPHICAL SKETCHES. 487 

a farm he still owns, and where oil was found in considerable quantities in 
L887, on which are now three producing wells, and two more derricks in oper- 
ation. In 1868 Mr. Bennett united with the United Brethren Church, and in 
1N71 was ordained a minister, since when he has preached in McKean and ad 
joining counties up to the present time. He has been twice married. His 
first wife was Huldah, daughter of Nathaniel and Dully (Ingalls) Edson, of 
Bradford, by whom he had five children: Walter A.. Eveline V. (Mrs. S. Tur- 
ner). Wellman G., Dolly (Mrs. McClellan Olmsted) and Lowell. His second 
wife was Mrs. Mary F. "(Allen) Hudson, of Wales, Erie Co., N. Y. Mr. Ben- 
nett is. to quite an extent, interested in real estate in Eldred and vicinity, and 
has erected a large number of dwellings. Politically he was formerly a Re- 
publican, but is now a stanch advocate of Prohibition. 

FRANCIS N. BURNHAM (deceased) was born in Eldred township, McKean 
Co.. Penn., November 14, 1838. a son of Josiah C. and Phebe (Moses) Burn- 
ham. He was reared in his native township, and cleared and improved the 
farm now occupied by his widow, where he died July 20, 1881. He was in 
the Civil war. enlisting in Company H, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers; 
was promoted to second lieutenant August 22. 1862, and to first lieutenant 
November 25, 1862; lie was in command of his company seventeen months, 
owing to his captain having been made prisoner, and was honorably discharged 
at the expiration of his term of service, December 28, 1864. Mr. Burnham 
married, December 2, 1868. Eunice A., daughter of Samuel S. and Lucetta 
{Taylor) Moses, of Cuba, N. Y. , and by her had three children: Cecil, Reuben 
and George. Mr. Burnham was a prominent and representative citizen of 
Eldred. In politics he was a Republican, and was elected associate judge of 
McKean county in 1877, holding the office nearly five years, up to the time 
of his death. He was a member of the G. A. R. 

DW T IGHT H. BURNHAM, farmer, P. O. Portville, N. Y., was born in 
Eldred township, McKean Co., Penn., January 19, 1841. a son of Josiah Clark 
and Phebe (Moses) Burnham, early settlers of Eldred township, who cleared 
and improved the farm now occupied by Dwight H., as well as the one adjoin- 
ing. Their children were Henry C., Francis N, Dwight H. and Helen M. (Mrs. 
Emory Skiver). D. H. Burnham was reared in Eldred township, where he has 
always resided, now owning and occupying the old homestead. He married. 
October 10, 1867, Cordelia, daughter of Joseph and SallieA. (Hulbert) Magee, 
of Olean, N. Y., by whom he has two children: Fannie and Frank. Mr. Burn- 
ham is a Master Mason. He has held the offices of supervisor and collector of 
the township, and was superintendent of the county poor-farm for three years. 
In politics he is a Republican. 

WILLIAM G. BUTLER, farmer and carpenter, P. O. Eldred, was born 
in Broome county, N. Y. , June 4, 1836, and is a son of Elijah and Patty 
(Foote) Butler, natives of Massachusetts. His mother married, for her second 
husband, Caleb Caufield, and settled in Eldred in 1840. on the farm now owned 
by William Wilmarth. William G. Butler was reared and educated in the 
township of Eldred, and after attaining his majority, located in Warren county. 
l J ci in., where he resided twelve year's, engaged in lumbering. In 1865 he re- 
turned to Eldred township, and settled on the farm he now occupies, which he 
cleared and improved, and where he has since resided; up to 1883 he fol- 
lowed the carpenter's trade. In 1870 he married Eliza, daughter of Lyman 
Harris, of Eldred township, and they have one son, Childrick. During the 
Civil war Mr. Butler was eighteen months in the employ of the United States 
government as a carpenter, at Nashville, Tenn. He is a well-known and re- 
spected citizen. In politics he is a Republican. 



488 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

JAMES CAMPBELL, farmer. P. (). Indian Creek, was born iu Eldred 
township, McKean Co.. Penn., in May. L820, a son of Jotham and Cjm 
thia (Hooker) Campbell, pioneers of that township. The subject of these lines 
has always lived in what is now Eldred township, locating in 1850 on the farm 
lie dow owns ami occupies, and most of which he cleared and improved. He 
married Olive Booker, daughter of Rudolphus Hooker, of Jamestown, N. Y.. 
and they have three children: Mortimer W., Monsier B. and Laura (Mrs. C. 

B. Rounds). Mr. Campbell is a representative farmer and citizen of Eldred 
township. In politics he is a Democrat. 

OZRO S. CARPENTER, farmer. P. O. Eldred, was born in Chenango 
county-. X. Y., town of Coventry. September 8, 1825, a son of Timothy and 
Betbenia (Trumbull) Carpenter, who settled in Eldred township. McKean I n 
Penn., in L830, locating on the land now owned by Ozro S., which thej 
cleared and improved, and here resided until their death. The father died 
June 28, 1865, and the mother January IT. 1882. Their children were Orlin 
(deceased), Louisa (deceased), Alruira (Mrs. Almon Rice), Oscar (deceased), 
Thompson T. (deceased), Abiah Lovira T. (deceased), Almon (deceased), 
Ozro S., Cynthia L. (Mrs. Benjamin Lamphier), Oliver T. S., Marj (Mrs. 
Dr. W. L. Chrisman) and Daniel. O. S. Carpenter was reared in Eldred 
township from live years of age, has always been a farmer, and has followed 
lumbering to some extent. June 6, 1852, he married Celestina R., daugh- 
ter of Luther and Elizabeth (Broas) Davis, of Lafayette township, this county. 
and they have four children: Emma M. (Mrs. T. C. Wainman), Frank. Grant 
and Tinia E. Mr. Carpenter is one of the few old residents left in Eldred 
township. Politically he is a Republican. 

EDY\'AKI> S. CARPENTER, justice of the peace, Larral was born in 

Eldred township July 8, 1846, a son of Oscar and Mary E. (Lamphier) Car 
penter. His paternal grandfather was Timothy Carpenter, formerlj of Che 
nango county, N. Y'.. who settled in Eldred township, about L829, and was a 
farmer by occupation; he reared the following named children: Orlin. Louisa, 
Almira (Mrs. Almon Rice). Oscar. Abiah (Mrs. Joseph Rork), Ozro. Almon. 
Thompson T.. Cynthia (Mrs. Benjamin Lamphier). Lovira. Seymore T . Marj 

C. (Mrs. Dr. W. L. Chrisman) and Daniel E. His maternal grandfather was 
William Lamphier, who settled in Eldred township in 1835, son of Benjamin 
Lamphier, who settled there in ls:'>T. Oscar Carpenter was a carpenter i> 
trade, and also carried on a small farm, and was justice of the peace of Eldred 
twenty-nine years Be had five children : Edward S. , Calista B., William O., 
Zenas B. and Jessie E. Edward S. Carpenter was reared and educated in El 
dred township, where he has always resided. He married. March IT. 1872, 
Adeline Y., daughter of Benjamin ami Lucinda (Giles) Scott, and they have 
four children: Ida M. (married to Edwin A. Hibbard, August 24, 1889), Edith 
L.. < Irace A. and Charles 0. Mr. Carpenter has held several of the minor ofti- 
ces of the township, and has been justice of the peace since 1886. Politically 
he is a Republican. 

W. L. CHRISMAN, M. D.. Eldred. was born in Warwick town-hip. 
Chester Co.. Penn.. December 9, 1834, a son of John and Sarah (Evans) 
Chrisman. He was reared in his native county, and educated at the Tremont 
Academy, Chester county, and at the Morgantown \eademy. Berks county, 
Penn., and in L854 began the studj of medicine with Drs. Robert and Benja- 
min Bunn, of Churchtown, Lancaster Co., Penn. He entered Jefferson 
Medical College, Philadelphia, in the fall of 1855, and \\;i- graduated in the 
spring of ls.">T. He then began the practice of his prof.'— ion in Virginia, 
and in 1860 located in Eldred. this county, where he was in active practice 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 489 

until 1876. He then embarked in the oil business as an owner of oil lands 
and royalty, and in 1884 as a producer, in which he is still largely interested. 
He is also engaged in farming, and is a breeder of Jersey and Shorthorn 
stock, registered in the A. J. C. C. and Canadian stock herd books. He built 
the first silo in McKean county, and is denominated one of the leading and 
most progressive farmers in the county. Dr. Chrisman married, in L863, 
Mary, daughter of Timothy and Bethenia (Trumbull) Carpenter, of Eldred 
township, and they have one daiighter, Mary E. Dr. Chrisman has been iden- 
tified with the Eldred Bank since its organization, and is now its vice-president. 
He was a surgeon in the United States service at Washington, D. C. , during 
the war of the Rebellion. Politically he is a stanch advocate of prohibition. 

CHARLES M. COLEMAN, proprietor of the European Hotel, Eldred, was 
born in Penn Yan, N. Y. , November 18, 1833. He was reared and educated 
in his native town, and after reaching maturity started in life as a farmer, an 
occupation he followed for two years. He then, in 1854, located at Driftwood, 
Cameron Co., Penn., and there carried on the lumbering, mercantile and hotel 
business for several years; he also held the office of justice of the peace seven 
years. In 1877 he located at Gillmor, Penn., and erected the first hotel in 
that place. This he conducted four months, then removed to Eldred, where 
he has been engaged, more or less, in the hotel business, and has conducted 
his present house since April, 1883. His hotel is well and favorably known 
for its cuisine, and "to stop there once is to stop again." Mr. Coleman is a 
member of the I. O. O. F. , Columbia League and the K. O. T. M. ; politically 
he is a Democrat. 

CHARLES COLLINS, oil producer, Eldred, is a native of Caribou. Me., 
where he was reared and educated. In 1868 he removed to Wisconsin, and 
worked in the lumber woods of that State in the winter of 1868-69. In 
the latter year he came to Pennsylvania, locating at Chambersburg, where 
he worked at drilling wells; soon afterward he removed to the Armstrong field, 
where he acted in the same capacity, and later he was connected with the But- 
ler and Clarion fields as a producer and contractor. In 1878 he located in the 
Bradford field, and has been a resident of Eldred since 1884. He is at pres- 
ent interested in seventy producing wells in Warren and Butler counties, this 
State, and in Lima, Ohio. Mr. Collins has been a director in the Eldred bank 
since 1885. He is a Knight Templar; politically, a Republican. 

V. H. COOK, oil producer, Eldred, was born in Eldred township, McKean 
Co.. Penn., October 29, 1855, a son of John J., Jr., and Martha J. (Bowen) 
Cook. His paternal grandfather was John J. Cook, a native of Luzerne county, 
Penn. , and among the pioneer lumbermen of Eldred township, who took up a 
large tract of land, remaining thereuntil his death. His maternal grandfather 
was Valentine Bowen, formerly of Oswego county, N. Y., and also a pioneer of 
Eldred, having removed here about the year 1833. John J. Cook. Jr.. has re- 
sided in Eldred nearly all his life, and since attaining manhood has followed lum- 
bering as a business. His children were Lucy A. , V. Herbert, Lilly M. M. , 
Ella M. (Mrs. C. F. McVagh) and Nellie F. V. H. and Ella M. are the only 
ones living. V. H. Cook was reared and educated in Eldred and began life 
as a lumberman, and since 1881 has been engaged in business as an oil pro 
ducer. In October, 1887, he married Ida L., daughter of William and Ella 
D. (Mowatt) Petrie, and they have one child, Edna M. Mr. Cook has held the 
office of school director, and is at present auditor and town clerk of Eldred. 
He is a member of the Masonic fraternity; in politics he is a Republican. 

H. J. CORELL, photographer, Eldred, is a native of Athens township, Craw- 
ford Co.. Penn. He was born in 1847, was reared in his native town and be- 



490 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

gaD the study of photography in Sherman. N. Y.. and later studied in James- 
town, where he finished bis trade. He embarked in business for himself in 
1 ST 1 at Ripley, N. V.. located at Eldred in 1880, and opened a photograph 

gallery and ari studio, where he has since done a large and successful busii 

He is a first class artist and has the reputation of doing as fine work as can be 
obtained anywhere in his line. 

BENJAMIN 1". CORY, merchant and lumberman, Eldred, was born in 
Keating township, McKean Co.. Penn., and is a son of Azro B. and Hannah 
M. (Reesi Cory. His maternal grandparents were among the pioneers of Pot- 
ter county. Penn. His father was a native of Vermont, and an early set I lei- of 
Keating township, where he taught school and for a number of years edited a 
paper at Smethport. He reared a family of four children: Asa R., Lytta E. 
(Mrs. Lyman Clinton). Benjamin F. and Mary A. (Mrs. Frank Caldwell). 
Benjamin F. Cory was reared in Potter county, and began life as a farmer. 
In L870 lie located in Coryville, this county, where he farmed one year, then 
for three years taught school, after which he again engaged in farming, and 
in IsTs located at Eldred. He has been more or less engaged in lumbering 
-inc.' 1881, lias bad a store at Eldred since 1882, and is now conducting a 
mill and store at Frisbee station. He married, March 26, 1872, A la L . 
daughter of Augustus and Judith (Otto) Day, of Keating township, and they 
have had live children: Dudley A. (deceased), Celia M., Lillie M., Elizabeth 
D. and Myra A. Mr. and Mrs. Cory are members of the United Brethren 
Church He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and in politics he i-, a 
Republican. 

P. R. COTTER, attorney at law. Ebbed, is a native of County Cork, 
Ireland, where he was reared and educated. In 1855 he came to America. 
locating in Troy, N. Y., afterward in Philadelphia. Penn. Mr. Cotter, en- 
listed in October. 1862, in the Fifth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, serving 
until the close of the war. when he was honorably discharged. In 1^71 be 
located in Tioga county, Penn.. where he began the study of law under -lames 
B. Leach. He was admitted to the bar in 1N74. and the same year settled in 
McKean county. Penn. In 1875 Mr. Cotter was elected district attorney of 
McKean county. 

JOHN S. COTTON, farmer and carpenter, P. O. Eldred. was born in 
Tompkins county, N. Y., April 17. 1888, a son of Simeon and Mary (Snyder) 
Cotton. His paternal grandfather was Samuel Cotton, a native of England, by 
occupation formerly a sea captain, and later a farmer of Tompkins county. N. Y. 
Tic maternal grandfather of John S. was William Snyder, of German descent, 
and a pioneer fanner of Tompkins county. N. Y. Both grandfathers were in 
the war of 1812, William Snyder being a captain. Our subject was reared and 
educated in his native county, and learned the carpenter's trade with his 
He was a participant in the war of the Rebellion, enlisting December 30, L863, 
l'.an\ M. Fiftieth New York Engineers, and was honorably discharged 
from the service, Ma\ 13, L865. In the fall of l s| i'i he settled in Eldred town 
ship, this county, where he has since resided, and been engaged in farming 
and working to some extent at his trade. At present he has a contract for 
erecting a scl . at a cost of $10,000, which he will have completed in 

a few days. In April. 1867, be married Mary, daughter of Daniel J. and At 
in ina (Potter) Keyes, of Eldred. and they have two children : Minnie and Mary. 
Mr. Cotton lias held the office of assessor and councilman of Eldred. He is a 
member of the G. A. P., and in politics is a Republican. 

WILLA.RD CUMMINGS, farmer and lumberman. I'. O. Eldred. was born 
in New York, November :], 1838, a son of Allen and Lydia ( Farrington I Cum 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 491 

mings, who settled in Eldred township, McKean Co., Penn. , in 1840. His 
father, who was a farmer and lumberman by occupation, cleared several farms 
in Eldred township, where he died. His children who grew to maturity were: 
Almira (Mrs. William Pendleton). George. Willard, Chester and Albion. Wil- 
lard Cummings was reared in Eldred township, where be has resided since 
infancy; and after attaining his majority followed farming and lumbering as 
an occupation. He has cleared two farms in Eldred township, one of which he 
now occupies. He was in the war of the Rebellion, enlisting August 18, 1862, 
in Company G, One Hundred and Fiftieth P. V. I. ; was captured at Gettys- 
burg, and was confined in Libby and Belle Isle prisons thirty-three days; was 
honorably discharged from the service June 25, L865. He married, in 1874. 
Mrs. Mary J. (Payne) Wright, daughter of Isaac Payne, of Eldred. Mr. Cum- 
mings is a member of the G. A. R. ; politically he is a Republican. 

GEORGE T. DENNIS, proprietor of botanical laboratory, and manufact- 
urer of botanical remedies, Eldred, Penn., was born in Masonville, Delaware 
Co., N. Y., September 22, IN 19, a son of Nathan and Tirzah (Knapp) Dennis, 
who settled in this township (then Ceres) in 1822. George T. Dennis was reared 
and educated in Eldred, and at eighteen years of age taught school, during the 
succeeding winter term, and followed that business summer and winter more or 
less after he bad finished his education at Smeth port Academy in 1840, under the 
tuition of Martin V. Adkins. March 13, 1844. he married Mary Ann, daughter of 
Matthew M. and Prudence (Maxon) Crandall, of Ceres, N. Y. She was born at 
Truxton, Cortland Co.. N. Y.. May 12. 1821, and became the mother of seven 
children: Mason Gh, Matthew N., Clark W., William B., Joseph B., Rosa P. 
(Mrs. H. J. Doolittle) and Matie (Mrs. William Boone). After his marriage 
Mr. Dennis settled, cleared and improved a farm in the wilderness of Eldred 
township which he still owns. He was in the Rebellion, enlisting in the fall 
of 1864, in Company A, Eighty-fifth New York Volunteer Infantry, partici- 
pated in the battle of Wise Forks, N. C, and was honorably discharged at El- 
mira, N. Y., in July, 1865. In his twentieth year Mr. Dennis united with the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1846 he went to Iowa, where he resided three 
years; taught school and received a license to preach, and is now an ordained, 
licensed, local preacher, residing at Eldred, where he has lived since 1886. Mr. 
Dennis began the manufacture of his botanical remedies in a small way in 
1874. and since 1879 he has given his sole attention to the business, and as his 
remedies have the rare merit of being all they claim to be, he has succeeded 
in building up a lucrative business that is increasing daily. August 16, 1889, 
Mrs. Mary A. Dennis passed from earth, and January 1, 1890, Mr. Dennis 
married Mrs. H. Eliza Barrett, of Eldred. at the home of the bride on Edson 
street, the ceremony being performed by Rev. T. J. Bissell, presiding elder of 
Glean District. General Conference, N. Y. For a number of years Mr. Dennis 
was connected with the reportorial staff of the Bradford daily Era, as well as 
being correspondent for several leading papers of this count}' and section. He 
is an active member of the Grand Army of the Republic, and in politics is a 
temperance Republican. 

REUBEN DENNIS, proprietor of the " Central House," Eldred, was burn 
in Eldred. McKean Co., Penn., August 27, 1S26, a son of Nathan and Theresa 
(Knapp) Dennis. His paternal grandfather, James Dennis, was a soldier in 
the Revolution. He was captured by the Indians, but in three months' time 
effected his escape, the opportunity of doing so being given him by the Indians 
holding a pow-wow, and indulging too freely in "fire-water.'" thus forgetting 
all about their prisoner, who, taking with him about a quart of pop-corn, 
silently stole away in the darkness, and started on his long and tedious jour 



192 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

ney homeward. During his three months' tramp homeward he had nothing 
to subsist on hut the pop-corn he had taken from the Indians, and such roots 
and herbs as he could lind. He suffered so severely from wounds received at 
the hands of the English, and from want of food, that he lived but a short 
time after his arrival home. Jacob Kuapp. who was one of the three original 
settlers of Eldred township, came from Delaware county. X. Y. . with a team of 
horses, winch he turned out to browse the following muter, but the snovi be 
coming too deep, he had to take the straw out of his bed ticks wherewith to 
feed them and keep them from starving; but his efforts to save his horses were 
in vain, for both perished. He cleared and improved a farm in Eldred town- 
ship, on which he lived until his death. He was the father of twenty children, 
all but one of win mi grew to maturity, and of whom Jacob Knapp, Jr.. was one 
of the most renowned Baptist revival preachers of his day. Nathan Dennis was 
a soldier in the war of 1812, and settled in Eldred township in 1822, where he 
cleared and improved two farms; was also engaged in the mercantile and hotel 
businesses, and was postmaster at Allegany Bridge (now Eldred) for thirty 
yean He came from Delaware county, N. Y. . to Eldred, with his family. 
team and household goods, and the last night of their journey they stopped 
with a family consisting of husband and two wives in Potter county. Penn.. 
who. having but one bed, gave that up to their guests, while they made them- 
selves as comfortable as they could on the floor. Nathan Dennis was the fa- 
ther of eleven children: George T., Lucinda (Mrs. M. G. Knapp), Susan (Mrs. 
Daniel Crandall), James N., Reuben, Lewis L., Jerusha (Mrs. C. C. Wright), 
Jane (Mrs. Daniel Blanchard), Washington. Martha (Mrs. Thaddeus Royce) 
and Virtue Dennis (deceased at six years). Reuben Dennis was reared on his 
father's farm, in Eldred township, and began life as a farmer and lumberman. 
He has been married three times, his first wife having been Ruth, daughter of 
Ebenezer and Deborah (Dean) Barden, of Eldred. by whom he had four chil- 
dren, twoof whom are living: May (Mrs David A. Parsells)and James F. His 
second wife was Helen Beardsley, by whom he had one daughter, still living, 
Helen (Mrs. D. Hastings), and one son, deceased. His present wife, Emma .1.. 
is a daughter of Eleazer Belknap, of Havana, N. Y. This last marriage has 
been blessed with two children: Charles R. and Lulu E. (Mrs. D. T. Horton). 
Mr. Dennis has been in the hotel business twelve years. In 1879 he erected 
the "Central Hotel." of which he has since been the successful and popular 
landlord. He served one term as commissioner of McKean county. Polit- 
ically he was a Democrat until the election of James Buchanan, when lie voted 
with the Republican party, and continued with same until I ss i, since which 
time he has been a strong advocate of the Prohibition party. 

MICHAEL DOYLE, merchant, lumberman and postmaster, Sartwell. was 
born in County Cork, Ireland, October 28, 1835, a son of Cornelius and Ellen 
(Callaghan) Doyle, who settled in what is now Aimin township. McKean 
Co., Penn., in 1846, where hi-- father cleared and improved a farm, on 
winch he lived and died. They had seven children: Michael, Ellen (Mrs. 
•lames Mahoney), James. Margaret (Mrs. Thomas McMann), Hannah (Mrs, 
John Rice), Rose A. (Mrs. Robert Magner) and William. The subject of tins 
sketch was reared in McKean county from eleven years of age, began life as a 
fanner, and cleared and improved the farm in Eldred township lie now owns 
and occupies. He has been engaged in mercantile business at Sartwell twelve 
years, and fourteen years in lumbering. His wife was II. 'leu. daughter of 
Dennis and Mary (Dunn) Keel", of Steuben county, V Y. Tie \ ii 
children: John. William, .Minnie. Augustin, Arthur and Leonard. Mr. Doyle 
is a prominent and representative citizen of Eldred. He is a member of St. 



BIOGKAPHICAL SKETCHES. 493 

Mary's Catholic Church; has held the office of school director two terms, and 
has been postmaster at Sartwell fourteen years. Politically he is a Democrat. 

WILLIAM DUNBAR, lumberman, Larrabee, was born in Keating town- 
ship, this county, January 24, 183'2, a son of Jonathan D. and Catherine 
(Potter) Dunbar (formerly of near Utica, Tompkins Co., N. Y.), who set- 
tled in Farmers Valley, Keating township, in 1819. His father, who was one 
of the pioneer lumbermen of McKean county, followed lumbering nearly all 
his life. Amos Dunbar, the paternal grandfather of the subject of these lines, 
a native of New York State, and of Scotch parentage, built at Farmers Val- 
ley, along with his son, Jonathan D. , the first gristmill erected in McKean 
county. Amos Dunbar had seven children: Israel. David, Jonathan D., Bet- 
sey (Mrs. Joseph Dunbar), Peggy (Mrs. Henry Kingsley), Anna (Mrs. William 
Cornelius) and Sally (deceased). Of these Jonathan D. carried on the lumber 
business at Farmers Valley for many years. His children were Sally (Mrs. 
Hiram Ault), William and Catherine (Mrs. John R. Hall). By his second wife, 
nee Alfa Hatch, he had one son, Amos. William Dunbar was reared in his na- 
tive town and educated in the common schools. He began life as a lumberman 
when fifteen years of age, and was a partner with his father as lumberman and 
contractor up to 1857, from which time up to 1880 he was in business alone. 
He then engaged with J. J. Newman, of Buffalo, as contractor and superin- 
tendent of his milling business in McKean county. Mr. Dunbar is one of the 
oldest lumbermen in the district, having been in the business forty-two years, 
and has done more than any other to systematize the manufacture of lumber. 
by his invention of the "Dunbar Automatic Lumber Trimmer," for equalizing 
lengths of lumber, the first of the kind ever introduced into the Pennsylvania 
lumber districts. Mr. Dunbar has resided in Larrabee since 1880, and was 
postmaster three years, 188*5-87-88. He is a member of the F. & A. M. 
and I. O. O. F. ; in politics he is a Democrat. He was married July 10, 1856, 
to Olive M., daughter of Elisha and Fanny (Potter) Bishop, of Ceres town- 
ship, McKean Co., Penn. , and they have had two children: Florence (de- 
ceased) and George F. 

A. R. FOWLER, farmer, P. O. Eldred, was born in Cortland county, N. 
Y., July 16, 1828, a son of Jefferson and Maryette (Rice) Fowler. They settled 
in Eldred township about the year 1837, locating on the land now occupied by 
A R. Fowler, where, after a few years, the father died, leaving a family of six 
children: A. R., Clara (now Mrs. George W. Lowe), Mary J. (Mrs. Thomas K. 
Wilcox), William P. (who died of wounds received at Point of Rocks, in the Re- 
bellion), Harriet E. (Mrs. A. K. Riant) and Angelina A. (deceased.) A. R. 
Fowler was reared in Eldred from nine years of age, and after the death of his 
father became the main support of the family. His mother married, for her 
second husband, C. P. Humphrey, by whom she had four children: Corel P. 
(who died of disease contracted in the Civil war). Edwin D., Eveline J. (Mrs 
S Welland) and Thomas H. Mr. Fowler cleared and improved the farm he 
now occupies, and for many years was in the employ of Buffalo people as agent 
and buyer of lumber and timber lands. In April, 1859. he married Sarah A., 
daughter of Smith and Jerusha (Aldrich) Beers, who settled in Farmers Valley, 
this county, in 1848, and to this union were born three children: Rosabel J. 
(deceased), Rice J. and Maud E. (Mrs. Pelton Crosby.) For seven years Mr. 
Fowler worked in the interest of McKean county by inducing Buffalo capitalists 
to build the Western New York & Pennsylvania Railroad. He is an active 
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church; politically he is a Democrat. 

JOHN M. GEUDER, farmer, P. O. Eldred, was born in Bavaria, Ger- 
many, September 29, 1825, a son of George M. and Margaret (Eberline) 



I'.U ' HISTORl OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Geuder. He was reared in his native land, and came to America in 1847, lo 
eating in Mercer county, Penn., where he worked in the coal mine- two years 
In L85] he revisited Germany, remaining one year, then returned to America, 
in 1852, and settled in Eldred township, on the farm he now owns ami occu- 
omprising 181 acres, about eighty of which he cleared and improved. 
Mr Geuder married, in 1849, in the State of Ohio, Mary, daughter of Jacob 
and Katrina (Wagner) Miller, of Bavaria. Germany, who came to America 

with J. M. Geuder in 1852, and died in Eldred in 1866 and 1868, res] tively. 

The issue of Mr. Geuder's marriage was twelve children: Elizabeth (Mrs. 
John Koeblin), Margaret (Mrs. Hem \ Cordes), Caroline, Maria (dece 
George, John, Mary B. (Mrs. Dan Miller), Jacob M., Catherine (Mrs. Gotl 
hi!, Reitz), Godfried G., Anna and Michael C. Of the sons, George, John and 
Jacob M..are married, and they, with their live married sisters, reside in 
Olean, X. Y., and have among them twenty four children. During ihe lirst 
ten years of his residence in Eldred township, Mr. Geuder was the onl\ I rei 
man living there. Mr. (lender has had all his children educated to read and 
write both the English and German languages. He is a progressive farmer, 
and enterprising citizen. He is a member of the German Lutheran Church 
of Olean, N. Y., and in politics a Democrat. Mr. Geuder was elected road 
commissioner once, and supervisor twice. Being a musician he has had a 
melodeon, since the year 1861, in the house. It was the only one in Eldred 
township for ten years. 

A. D. GOULD, editor and proprietor of the Eldred Eagle, was born at 
Utica, X. Y., -Inly 1."., 1856, a son of C. B. and Mary (Scranton) Gould. His 
maternal grandfather, Lyman Scranton. was a native of Utica. an architect 
and builder, and with John Devereaux built the original St. Bonaventure Col 
lege in Allegany. Cattaraugas Co.. N. Y. A. D. Gould was reared in Utica, 
Homer and Linghamton. N. Y.. and Emporium. Penn.. and was educated at 
the academies of Homer and Franklinville. N. Y. In the spring of 1876 be 
began the study of law with Newton & Green, of Emporium, Penn., at which 
he continued until the fall of 1ST7. Prior to that he learned the printer's 
trade with his father, and on account of the latter being burned out he was 
compelled to resume the printing business. He started a job office in Tarporl 
in the spring of 1S78. The same year Eldred came into | rominenee as an oil 
center, and in the summer of that year he removed to that point, and estab 
lished the Eldred Eagle, which he has since successfully conducted. He mar- 
ried. September 1. 1 SNo". Emma, daughter of John D. Schwab, of Utica. N". 
Y., and they have one son. Carl D. Mr. Could is a member of the Masonic 
fraternity and Knights of Pythias. Politically he is a Republican. 

DANIEL J. K.EYES, farmer, lumberman and oil producer. Eldred. was 
born in Eagle township, Allegany (now Wyoming) county, N. Y.. January 1 «. 
1821, a son of Peter and Abigail i Beede) Keyes, natives of Vermont, and pio- 
neers of Allegany county, N. Y. His rather, who died in Eldred township, 
reared a family named as follows: Adeline (Mrs. Piatt Gage), Peter, Abigail 
(Mr-. George Stevens), Jane (Mrs. William Foster), Betsey (Mrs. Calvin 
Combs). Daniel J.. Aurilla (Mrs. George Stevens), Rhoda and Augustus E. 
Daniel J. Keyes was reared in Allegany county. N. Y.. and settled in Eldred 
town-hip. McKean Co.. Penn., in L847, locating on the farm he now occupies, 

most of which he cleared. He has also been extensively engaged in the lum 
her business, and has worn out two -aw mill- on his premises. He has also 

I ii in the oil producing business, and now has six producing wells on his 

farm. In February, 1842, he married Almina. daughter of Huldah (Steele) 
Potter, of Allegany county, X. Y.. and to them were born four children: Mar 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 495 

tha (Mrs. A. B. Loop), Mary (Mrs. John S. Cotton), Alrnina (deceased), and 
Eva (Mrs. J. B. Dennis). Mr. Keyes was elected twice to the office of county 
commissioner of McKean county, and during his second term enlisted in the 
war of the Rebellion in the fall of 1862, was mustered into the service as first - 
lieutenant in the One Hundred and Fiftieth Pennsylvania (Bucktails), and 
was honorably discharged on account of disability in June, 1863. He has 
served as justice of the peace of Eldred township several terms. Politically 
he is a Republican. 

BENJAMIN H. ' LAMPHIER, farmer, P. O. Eldred, was born in 
Chenango county, N. Y. , November 18, 1819, a son of William and Calista 
(Hazen) Lamphier. His paternal grandfather, Benjamin Lamphier, was a 
native of New England, and a pioneer of Chenango county, N. Y., and of 
Eldred, this county, settling at the latter place in 1837, where he resided until 
his death. He was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. He was the father of 
two children: Maneuia (Mrs. Liberty White) and William. The latter with 
his family settled in Eldred in February, 1835, and improved the farm now 
known as the Lamphier estate, and died there. In the early days of Che 
nango county, N. Y., he was a captain of a rifle company belonging to the 
New York State Militia. His children were six in number: Benjamin, Lucy 
(Mrs. G. B. Booth), William, Mary (Mrs. Oscar Carpenter), Calista (Mrs. R. 
A. Rice) and Sylvester G. B. H. Lamphier was reared in Chenango county. 
N. Y. , until fifteen years and three months of age, when he removed to Eldred 
with his parents. He began life as a lumberman, which he has always more 
or less followed. October 11, 1845, he married Cynthia L., daughter of Tim- 
othy and Bethenia (Trumbull) Carpenter, of Eldred, by whom he has seven 
children: Egbert R., Albert, Daniel, Lucy E. , Edward H. , A. Timothy and 
Mary B. (Mrs. John Robson.) Mr. Lamphier has served one term of three 
years as auditor of McKean county, and has held several local offices in Eldred. 
He is a Republican in politics, and is a member of the Masonic fraternity. 

RANSOM LARRABEE, hotel keeper,, Larrabee, was born in Eldred town- 
ship. McKean Co., Penn., March 28. 1822, and is a son of Ebenezer and Lu- 
cinda (Knapp) Larrabee. the latter a daughter of Jacob Knapp, who had been 
twice married and was the father of twenty-one children. Ebenezer Larrabee 
was a native of Vermont, of French descent, who settled in Eldred in 1819, 
where he followed farming for a time. In 1859 he removed to Wisconsin, 
where he died. His children were Ebenezer, William, Ransom, Jacob, Abijah. 
Chester, Edward, Asa, Jackson, Jane, Addelia and Milliasa. The maternal 
grandfather of our subject was Jacob Knapp, one of the three original settlers 
of Eldred township. Ransom Larrabee was reared in Eldred, where he has 
always resided, and has been more or less engaged in farming, lumbering and 
hotel keeping. His wife, Clarissa, was a daughter of Robert Barten, a pioneer 
<jf Eldred. They have one daughter, Anna Vernett Larrabee (wife of Erven 
Carpenter); also had one son, Alreck Ransom Larrabee (son of Ransom and 
Clarissa Larrabee, died at the age of twenty-three years). Mr. Larrabee is one 
of the oldest native-born citizens of the county. He was postmaster of the 
office now known as Larrabee, twenty years. In politics he is a Democrat. 

FRANCIS LOOP, farmer, P. O. Eldred, was born in Eldred July 13, 1856, a 
son of Lewis and Nancy (Cook) Loop. His paternal grandfather, John Loop, for- 
merly of Chautauqua county, N. Y., settled in Eldred prior to 1840, and cleared 
and improved a farm on which he resided until his death, which occurred in 
1887. Mr. Loop's maternal grandparents, John J. and Mary (Hamilton) Cook, 
settled in Eldred prior to 1850, and Mr. Cook gave the name ' ' Indian Creek ' ' 
to the stream which bears that name. Lewis Loop was a farmer and lumberman 



.496 HISTOBY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

cm Indian creek, and reared a family of four children: Frank (now dec. 
Francis, Warren M. and Ezra B. Francis Loop was reared and educated in 
Eldred township, where he has always resided. He married, in August. 1880, 
Harriet M., daughter of John Bradt, of Haldemand county, Canada, by whom 
he has three children: Edith M.. Etollie and Luverna. 

E. BENJAMIN LOOP was born May 25, 1862, at Indian Creek, McKean 
Co.-, Penn., a son of Lewis and Nancy Loop, both Yankees, former of whom 
was born July 4, 1S25, and died December 23, l^ s ">. latter born November 15, 
L824. The subject of these lines was educated at Ten Brook's Academy. 
Franklinville, Cattaraugus Co., N. Y., from which he graduated in 1ST'. 
took a course at Westbrook's Business College, Mansfield, Tioga Co.. Penn., 
graduating from same in 18S3. Mr. Loop was married October 31, 1884, 
Cora D. Earnest, of Wayne. Steuben Co.. N. Y. . born December 25, 1866, 
daughter of Clinton D. and Isabella W. Earnest, both Yankees by birth, for- 
mer born June 12, 1843, latter October 20, same year. Mr. and Mrs. Loop 
have no children. Mr. Loop kept the Grand Central Hotel at Mansfield, 
Tioga Co., Penn., taking possession October 20, 1886. This hotel burned 
March 10, 1889, since which time Mr. Loop has been out of business. He 
and his wife attend the Baptist Church; in politics he is a Democrat. 

ELISHA J. MOODY, farmer and lumberman, P. O. Coryville, was born 
in Broome county, N. Y., August- 31, 1825, a son of Xohemiab and Nancj 
(Rockwell) Moody, who came to Keating township, McKean Co.. Penn.. in 
1839, four years later locating on the farm now occupied by Capt. Cory, and 
in 1855 settling in Eldred township, where the father died in 1ST."); the mother 
still survives at the age of eighty years. E. J. Moody was in his fourteenth 
year when he came with his parents to McKean county. He took up the farm 
he now occupies, in 1847, on which he settled in 1855, all of which he 
cleared and improved. In early life he embarked in the lumber business, 
which he has since followed. For thirty-nine years he rafted and ran lumber 
— thirty live years as a pilot — on the Allegheny and Ohio rivers. In 1852 hi 
married Jane, daughter of Ebenezer and Lucinda (Knapp) Larrabee, of El- 
dred township, McKean Co., Penn., and they have seven children: Chester. 
Fred. Deborah (Mrs. William Lilly), Wilbur, Frank (deceased I. Oscar and 
Brad. Mr. Moody is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church; politically 
he is a stanch Prohibitionist. 

GILBERT MOODY, farmer. P. O. Coryville. was born in Keating town 
ship, McKean Co., PeDn. . November 29, 1M1, a son of Nehemiah and Nancy 
(Rockwell) Moody, formerly of Vermont, later of Broome county. N. Y., who 
settled in Keating township in 1838. The father, who was a farmer and lum 
bermun by occupation, removed to Eldred township, where he cleared and im 
proved a farm, on which lie lived until his decease. His children were Elisha. 
Frank. Angeline (Mrs. Barclay Bray), Laura (Mrs. Waterbury Miller), Amelia 
(Mrs. Philip Frisbie), Elizabeth (Mrs. L. J. Wright), Deborah (Mrs. L. F. 
Windsor i. Gilbert, Oscar (wounded at Gettysburg in the Rebellion, was captured 
and died in Libbj prison), Grace (Mrs. J. J. Campbell) and Matilda (Mrs. C. 
M. Slack). Gilbert Moody was reared in Keating and Eldred townships, Mc- 
Kean county, received a common school education, has always been a fanner. 
and now occupies the old homestead. He was in i 1m- war of the Rebellion, 
enlisting March -1. 1864, in Company I). Fourth United States Artillery He 
served three years, during which term of service 1m- was never absent from his 
company over night, nor on sick report, aid was honorably discharged. Mr. 
Mn il\ was married Augusl 30, 1868, to Cynthia, daughter of C. B. and Caro 
line (Voorhees) Stnll, of Eldred township, and they havc> three children: 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



497 



Georo-e An^ie and Edith. At a reunion of the Moody family, May 29, 1889, 
the eightieth birthday of Mrs. Nancy Moody, ten children, forty-five grand 
children and fifteen great-grandchildren, weir present; seven grandchildren 
and twenty-seven great-grandchildren being absent, making one hundred and 
four of Mrs. Nancy Moody's descendants living at that time. Mr. Moody is a 
leading citizen of Eldred township, and is a stanch advocate of prohibition. 

°C MOSES, one of the oldest citizens of Eldred. was born in Lima, 
Ontario Co N. Y., February 11, 1816, a son of Reuben and Lucinda 
(Stevens) Moses, natives of Vermont and Massachusetts, respectively, who were 
among the pioneers of Ontario county, N. Y., and in 1821 settled in Cuba, N. 

Y where they resided until their death. Our subject was reared in Cuba, N. 

Y ' from five years of age, and his education, which was limited, was received 
in the common schools. He first came to Eldred in 1834, where he was in the 
employ of John Forbes for two years. In 1836 he located at Olean, N. Y, 
and in 1840 returned to Eldred, where he has since been a permanent resident. 
For many years he was engaged in lumbering, and also in farming to some 
extent. In 1861, with Capt. Cory, of Coryville, this county, he raised Company 
H Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, and enlisted in September of 
same vear loein^ mustered in the service as first lieutenant of above company. 
and was promoted to the captaincy in the fall of 1862. He was taken prisoner 
at Little Washington, N. O, and was for ten months in Libby prison; was also 
in the prisons at Macon, Ga., Savannah, Charleston and Columbia; was paroled 
after twenty months' imprisonment, rejoining the Union army at Wilmington, 
and from there was sent to the parole camp at Annapolis, Md. , where he was 
exchanged and sent to Washington, at which place he received an honorable 
discharge from the service May 1, 1865. In 1839 he married Emily A., a 
daughter of Joshua Haight, of Richmond, Crawford Co., Penn. (formerly of 
Montreal, Canada), by whom he had eight children: William E., C. Joshua, 
Harriet (Mrs. Calvin H. Moses), Albert R., Emily A. (Mrs. A. J. Barden), 
Lucinda (Mrs. C. J. Wolcott), Elizabeth, and Myrtle E. (Mrs. William ^ artz). 
Squire Moses, as he is familiarly termed, is one of the best known citizens of 
Eldred He has served the township as justice of the peace twenty years. 
He is a member of the F. & A. M. and the G. A. R., and in politics he is a 
stanch Republican. . 

RICHARD A. RICE, lumberman, Eldred, was born in Eldred township. 
McKean Co., Penn., December 3, 1830, and is a son of Justus and Polly 
(Barnard) Rice, the former a native of Connecticut, and the latter of Crown 
Point, Essex Co., N. Y. They came from Canada to Eldred in 1818, 
cleared and improved the farm now owned by Justus Rice, Jr. , and lived and 
died in the township. The father, who was a Methodist Episcopal clergyman, 
reared a large family, viz.: Almon. Hyde B., Justus, James B., Joseph, 
Richard A.. Emeline (Mrs. Curtis C. White). Jerusha (Mrs. Horace King), 
Adeline and Mary (Mrs. T. T. Carpenter). Richard A. Rice was reared in 
Eldred township, where he has always resided. He was in the war of the Re- 
bellion, enlisting May 18. 1861, in Company I, First Pennsylvania Rifles. De 
cember 13. 1862, he was taken prisoner at- Fredericksburg, Va., and exchanged 
the following May, when he was commissioned second lieutenant of his com- 
pany; was wounded at Laurel Hill in 1864 and honorably discharged June 11, 
1864. The same year he returned to Eldred, where he has since cleared and 
improved the farm he now occupies. March 3, 1863, he married Calista, 
daughter of Capt. William and Calista (Hazen) Lamphier, of Eldred, and they 
have five children: Luman F., Byron B., Allen E., William O. and Adda. 
Besides attending to his farm Mr. Rice does a large lumber business. He has 



498 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

served one term as commissioner of McKean county and held several of the 
local offices of the township of Eldred. He is a Knight Templar and a mem 
ber "f the Grand Army of the Republic. In politics he is a Republican. 

BEVERLY W. RICE, proprietor of the St. Elmo Hotel. Eldred, was born 
in Eldred township. McKean (Jo.. Penn. , November 12, 1853, a son of Almon 
and Almira (Carpenter) Rice, the former a native of Whitehall, X. Y. Justus 
Rice, paternal grandfather of the subject of our sketch, a Methodist Episco 
pal clergyman, settled in Eldred about the year 1825. Almon Rice cleared 
and improved the farm in Eldred township now occupied by his widow. They 
were the parents of seven children: Hyde C, Bruce B., Orlin T., Mary A. 
(Mrs. N. T. Albee), Harriet E. (Mrs. John Learn). Heurick M. and Beverly 
W. Of these Bruce B., the second son, was a lieutenant in Company I, iirst 
Pennsylvania Bucktails, during the war of the Rebellion, and died of 
wounds received in the battles of Drainesville and Cross Keys. Beverly VV. 
Rice was reared in Eldred township and educated in the common schools of 
Eldred and Jamestown Collegiate Institute, Jamestown, N. Y. In 1871 he en- 
gaged in the manufacture of staves with Shaver Brothers, of Jamestown, N. Y., 
remaining there in business eight years. In 1879 he returned to Eldred and 
opened a meat market, which he conducted three years. In 1882 he purchased 
the Dolan House, which he conducted two years, when it was destroyed by fire. 
In the spring of 1885 he erected on the old Dolan House site the present St 
Elmo Hotel, of which he has since been the successful and popular proprietor. 
Mr. Rice was married in 1882 to Florence E., daughter of William and Emma 
(Tuffing) Langdon, of Eldred, and they have two children: Florence E. and 
Nena M. Mr. Rice is a member of the I. O. 0. F. and Columbia League. In 
politics he is a Republican. 

D. L. ROBBINS, merchant, Eldred, was born in Broome county, N. Y.. 
July 14, 1S48. and is a son of Allen and Hannah (Rockwell) Bobbins. He 
was reared in his native county, educated in the common schools and the Acad- 
emy tit Whitney's Point, N. Y. He began life as a farm laborer, and in 
1877 located at Larrabee, this county, where he taught school one winter. In 
1S7S he went to Bradford, where he was employed in the oil fields until 1879. 
Returning to Larrabee he worked at the wagon maker's trade and other 
mechanical pursuits up to 1882, when he became the confidential book-keeper 
of J. J. Newman, in whose employ he remained until February, 1888, in 
which year he embarked in the boot and shoe business in Eldred. in which he 
has since successfully continued. January 22, 1884, Mr. Robbins married 
Mrs. Jennie (McMann) Tyler, of Larrabee. He is a wide-awake, enterprising 
merchant and citizen. He has been auditor of Eldred township sis years: is 
a member of the I. O. O. F.. and in politics is a Republican. 

H. E. ROCKWELL, merchant tailor and clothier. Eldred, was born in 
Hermitage, Wyoming Co., N. Y., December 10, 1863, a son of Seth and 
Polly (Hibbard) Rockwell, both natives of New York, who located in Eldred, 
Penn., in the spring of 1873, where they now reside. He was reared in 
Eldre 1 from ten years of age, and was educated in the public schools of the 
borough He began life as a clerk in the clothing store of Joseph & Dorn 
berg, in Eldred. and later was with Isaac Dornberg. successor to above firm, 
remaining their nearly nine years. March 1, 1889, he purchased the business 
of Mr. Dornberg, which he has since successfully conducted, and has the 
largest and most complete store of the kind in this section of McKean county 
He married, February 8, 1886, Ella, daughter of Robert and Sarah (Hamilton) 
Scholes, of Eldred. and they have one son, Arthur. Mr. Rockwell is a popu- 
lar young business man of the borough. He is a member of Eldred Hook 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 499 

and Ladder Company, and is serving the first term of three years as auditor 
of the borough. Politically he is a Democrat. 

ROGERS & FRANKLIN, dry goods merchants, Eldred. E. S. Rogers is 
a native of Holland, N. Y., where he was reared and received his early school 
training. His commercial education was obtained at Bryant & Stratton's 
Business College. Buffalo, N. Y. He began his business life as a clerk in a 
general store in his native town, and later was employed in a wholesale house 
in Buffalo, N. Y. In 1885 he embarked in his present business in Eldred, in 
which he has since continued. 

C. W. Franklin was born in Tiffin, Ohio, was reared in Jackson, Miss., 
where he received an academic education, and took a commercial course at 
Bryant & Stratton's Business College in Buffalo, N. Y. He began his busi- 
ness career as a clerk in a general store in Salamanca, N. Y. , and later was 
engaged in the same capacity at Corfu, same State. In 1885 he located at 
Eldred, and here formed a partnership with E. S. Rogers in the dry goods 
business, which they have since successfully continued. They are wideawake, 
enterprising young men, and have built up a lucrative trade as proprietors of 
the only exclusive dry goods store of that place. Mr. Franklin married 
in June, 1886, Miss Carrie L. Chadeayne, of Corfu, N. Y. He is a member 
of the Episcopal Church, of the F. & A. M. and Knights of Pythias; is one 
of the auditors of the borough of Eldred. In politics he is a Republican, and 
is inspector of election. 

THOMAS L. SARTWELL, druggist, Eldred, was born in Smethport, 
McKean Co., Penn., May 21, 1852, a son of Roswell and Mary A. (Chapiu) 
Sartwell. He was reared and educated in Smethport, and for a time was 
engaged as a drug clerk at Port Allegany, Penn. In 1878 he embarked in the 
drug business at Eldred, but his store was soon after destroyed by fire. He 
again began the same business, however, in 1879, with Dr. Shaw as a part- 
ner, and the same year was appointed deputy sheriff under his father, Roswell 
Sartwell (then sheriff of McKean county ). serving three years — 1879-81. Mr. 
Sartwell moved to Smethport to take charge of his office, remaining there 
until his return to Eldred in 1882. in which year he purchased his partner's 
interest in the drug business, which he has since successfully conducted alone. 
Thomas L. Sartwell was married in December, 1881, to Clara R., daughter of 
R. A. and Hannah A. (Farnsworth) Corbett, of Jamestown, N. Y., and they 
have une son, Roswell C. Mr. Sartwell is a prominent and influential citizen 
and business man; is a member of the F. & A. M. and of the I. O. O. F. 
He is a Democrat, and has held many official positions in the borough of 
Eldred. 

SIMON & DOERR, bottlers, Eldred. came to Eldred from Buffalo, N. 
Y. . in 1886, and embarked in business as bottlers of ale, lager and soft drinks, 
succeeding Snyder & Joseph in the business, which was established in Sep- 
tember, 1878, by J. Kump, who sold to M. G. Batten, who in turn was suc- 
ceeded by the firm of Barten & Snyder. Messrs. Simon & Doerr, though 
young men, are well experienced in their business, and have built up a flour- 
ishing trade extending throughout McKean, Potter and Cameron counties; 
they also have a large business connection in New York State. 

C. M. SLACK, justice of the peace, Eldred, was born in Broome county, 
N. Y. , March 17, 1842. and is a son of William R. and Nancy (Counselman) 
Slack. William R. Slack, who settled in Eldred township in 1844, was a 
farmer and lumberman by occupation, and during the war of the Rebellion 
he served as a soldier in the Fifty-eighth P. V. I., sixteen months; he died in 
Eldred township. C. M. Slack located in that township in 1851, and here 



500 HIKTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

received a limited common-school education. October 11. 1S61, he enlisted 
in Company H, Fifty-eighth P. V. I., and after serving thirteen months in 
same was transferred to Company D, Fourth United States Light Artillery. 
After serving two and one-half years in this, he re-enlisted for three years, and 
was honorablj discharged March 28, 1867, after five and one-half years' faith- 
ful service; after his return from the army he engaged in farming in Eldred 
township. Mr. Slack was married October 5, 1867, to -Matilda, daughter of 
Neheiniah and Nancy (Rockwell) Moody, of Broome county, N. Y. Mr. and 
Mrs. Slack have been blessed with nine children: Mildred M. I Mrs. George 
Dunbar), Oscar N., Charles W., Hiram \V.. Ethel A.. Stella A.. Robert A.. 
David A. and Raymond E. Mi'. Slack has served as constable of Eldred, ten 
years: collector, four years, and is now serving his first term as justice of the 
peace. He is a member of the G. A. R. and of the Sons of Veterans. In 
politics he is a stanch Republican. 

JOSEPH STILL, farmer. P. O. Larrabee, was born in Eldred township, 
McKean Co.. Perm.. April 21, lv_'(S, a son of Joseph and Delinda (Brewer) 
Stall. Joseph, Sr. , was a native of New Jersey, and settled in what is now 
Eldred township, McKean county, in 1812; cleared and improved the farm 
now owned by Henry Plummer, and died in the township at the ripe old age 
of eighty-nine years, ten months and fourteen days. He had eleven children: 
Alma i Mis. Lynda Dodge), Abraham B.. John, Abigail (Mrs. Joseph Delong), 
Camilla (Mrs. John L. Daniels), Caleb B.. Laurinda H. (Mrs. Arthur Young), 
Mary D. (Mrs. John Nolan), Jerome K., George R. and Joseph. Joseph St nil. 
Jr., was reared in Eldred, where he has always resided, and since 1So7 lias 
lived on his present farm, most of which he cleared and improved. He married 
twice. His first wife was Lueinda, daughter of Daniel and Nancy Southard, 
of Eldred township, and to them were born two children: Favoretta (Mrs. 
George L. Robinson) and Cameron H. His second wife was Adaline E. Payne, 
of Eldred. In politics Mr. Stull is a Republican. He is a member of the Free 
Methodist Church. 

THOMAS C. WAINMAN, lumberman. Eldred, is a native of Ossian, Liv- 
ing-!. >u Co., X. V.. and s. >ii of Thomas and Hannah (Dent) Wainman, natives 
of England, who came to America about 1828, and settled m Grove, Alleganj 
(now Livingston) Co.. X. Y.. and later removed to Ossian. residing there until 
their death. Our subject was reared in Livingston county. X. Y. where he 
1 a limited education in the common schools. He began life as a farmer 
in his native county, and afterward followed boating for rive years on tic Erie 
and I renesee valley canals. In 1863 he settled in Eldred, where he has since 
resided and is doing an extensive business in lumbering. In 1859 he married 
Cordelia L.. daughter of Hiram and Cordelia Foster, of Livingston county, 
X Y.. and by her had eight children who grew to maturity: Mary I Mrs. Eph 
ram, G Piper), Ella (deceased), Ida (Mrs. E. A. Barden, deceased), Fannie. 

Horatio (deceased baby I. Carrie (deceased I. Floyd and Edith. Mrs. Cordelia 

L. Wainman departed this life July 15, 1885, and in 1887 Mr. Wainman mar 
ried Emma M.. daughter of Ozro and Celestine Carpenter, of Eldred. Mr. 
Wainman is a prominent citizen and representative business man of Eldred. 
Politically he was formerly a Republican, but is now a stanch advocate of 
pn iliilut ion, 

•I. C. WELCH, druggist, Eldred. was born in Ceres township. McKean 

Co., I'enn.. February 16, l s ~'7. and Is a son of Martin and Bridget (Biggins! 

Wei,:,, natives of County Mayo, Ireland, and pioneers i if Ceres township, where 

inproved a farm. The father is now deceased, but the mi ther 

survives. Hi- paternal grandfather was Patrick Welcl pioneer of Ceres 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



501 



township. Martin Welch reared the following named children: James E 
John C., Mary A. (Mrs. John Shea), Maggie E., Alice and Thomas. Our sub- 
ieot was reared in his native township, and educated at Por ville NY. ) High 
School and Olean (N. Y.) Academy. He began life as c erk in the drug store 
of Drs. Follett & Barllett, and later with Dr. Cone, of Olean NY. where he 
was employed four years. In 1881 he located in Eldred and embarked in the 
drug business, which he has since continued, and been very successful. 
In PsSl he married Clara M., daughter of Bernard and Mary Ball of Olean 
N. Y., and they have one son, Louis J. Mr. Welch is now serving his second 
term as councilman of Eldred borough. He is a member of the Catholic 
Mutual Benefit Association and Catholic Church; politically he is a Democrat. 
C Y WHITE postmaster, Eldred, was bom in Coudersport, Penn., July 
15 1849, a son of Miles and Adeline (Crittenden) White. His paternal grand- 
father, Austin White, a native of Vermont, who was reared m Albany. JS. X., 
was a pioneer physician of Harrison township. Potter Co., Penn where he 
practiced his profession for many years; he died at Keating Summit in Keat 
in- township, Potter county; his children were DeWitt O, Esther (Mrs. 
Stathan). Fanny (Mrs. Henrv Nelson), Miles and Harriet (Mrs. George Lewis). 
The maternal grandfather of the subject of this sketch was Harry Crittenden a 
pioneer lumberman and farmer of Potter county, and a very active man up to the 
time of his death, which occurred when he was over eighty years of age. Miles 
White was reared in Potter county, followed farming to some extent, and was 
for vears engaged in the hotel business at Keating Summit and Coudersport 
dying at the latter place in May. 1887. He was twice married, and by his first 
wife there was one son, C. Y. By his second wife, nee Margaret Hackett. he 
had three children: Carrie M.. Mylert and Mackey. C. Y. White was reared 
in Coudersport and vicinity until fifteen years of age. He then ocated in 
Cameron county, where he resided until 1879, when he removed to Eldred, and 
here embarked in the grocery business, which he continued in four years, alter 
which he engaged in the oil business as a producer. He was appointed post- 
master at Eldred in May, 1888, which office he now holds. Mr. White mar- 
ried Lowaty, daughter of Matthew and Hannah (Burt) McDowell, of Potter 
county, and thev have three children: Harry L., A. G. and Margery. Our 
subject is a member of the Masonic fraternity; politically he is a Democrat. 

WILLIAM A. WILMARTH. farmer, P. O. Eldred, was born m Eldred 
township, McKean Co., Penn., February 24, 1838, a son of Nelson and Matilda 
(Morris) Wilmarth. His maternal grandfather. John Morris, was among the 
pioneers of Eldred township. The subject of this sketch was reared in the 
family of William Lamphier. of Eldred township, and his educational advan- 
tages were limited to a few terms in the common school. In October, 1861, 
he° enlisted in Company H, Fiftyeighth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, 
served three years, and was honorably discharged from the s_ervice in Janu- 
arv, 1865. He then returned to Eldred township, and in 186/ purchased the 
farm he now occupies, a part of which he cleared, erecting his present resi- 
dence. April 11, 1869, he married Lillian, daughter of T. Thompson and 
Mary (Rice) Carpenter, of Eldred township, and they have three children: 
Eva." Mabel and Bertha. Mr. Wilmarth is a member of the Grand Army ot 
the Republic; politically he is a Republican, and cast his first presidential vote 
for Abraham Lincoln in 1861. 

W E WINDSOR farmer, P. O. Larrabee, was born in Cattaraugus county, 
N. Y.. September 29, 1832, a son of Samuel and Phebe (Wright) Windsor. 
His maternal grandfather was Rensselaer Wright, a pioneer of Eldred town- 
ship, and the first sheriff of McKean county. W. E. Windsor removed with 



502 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

his mother to Eldred in 1837, and was reared in that town and in Portville. 
In 1860 he settled in Eldred township, where he has since resided, and cleared 
and improved the farm he now occupies. December 31, 1853, he married Fan- 
nie E., daughter of Daniel and Hannah (Ferrington) Childs, of Eldred, and 
they have had five children: Frank A.. Charles A. (deceased). William E. Ma, 
Walter W. and Ada T. R. Mr. Windsor is one of Eldred township's substan- 
tial farmers and citizens. He has held the office of constable and collector five 
years in succession, and politically he is a Democrat. 

LEWIS WINDSOR, farmer, P. O. Coryville, was born in Franklinville, 
N. Y., March 28, 1834, a son of Samuel and Phebe (Wright) Windsor, who 
were among the pioneers of Eldred township, McKean Co., Penn. His 
maternal grandfather was Rensselaer Wright, the first sheriff of McKean 
county. Lewis Windsor was reared in Eldred from three years of age, where 
he has since resided. October 15, 1857, he married Deborah, daughter of 
Nehemiah and Nancy (Rockwell) Moody, of Eldred township, and they have 
four children: Lewis E. , Drew, Amulette and Phebe. In 1858 Mr. Windsor 
settled on the farm he now occupies in Eldred township, all of which he 
cleared and improved. He was in the war of the Rebellion, enlisting March 
'27, 1SI34, in Company D, Fourth United States Artillery, participated in sev- 
eral engagements, and was honorably discharged in 18(37, after three years' 
service. He is a representative citizen; politically he is an advocate of pro- 
hibition. 

EDGAR C. WOLCOTT (deceased) was born in Eldred, Penn., March 6, 
1843, a son of John and Rhoda (Brainard) Wolcott. John Wolcott was a 
native of Massachusetts, of Puritan stock, and was among the first pioneer 
lumbermen to locate in Eldred township, where he cleared and improved a 
farm. He reared a family of seven children: Lydia (Mrs. Ashley Calhoun), 
Charles. Aaron, Betsey (Mrs. Myron Barton), Ruth (Mrs. Horace Merriman), 
Edgar C. and Lottie (Mrs. E. Middaugh), John Wolcott died in 1851. Edgar 
C. was reared and educated in Eldred, where he has always resided, and for 
twenty years was engaged extensively in the lumber business; he also con- 
ducted a large general merchandise business in Eldred for fifteen years, to 
which A. N. Squires was admitted as a partner in October, 1885, siDce which 
time the business has been conducted under the firm name of E. C. Wolcott & 
Co. September 2, 1888, Mr. Wolcott was taken ill with Bright' s disease, and 
was a great sufferer for the remaining fourteen months of his life. He died 
November 2, INS 1 .), at the age of forty-six years and eight months, after a life 
of uprightness and industry. Together with his large business interests Mr. 
Wolcott owned at the time of his decease a large farm in Eldred township, of 
which he was himself overseer. During the war of the Rebellion he enlisted, 
October 10, 1861, in Company H, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infan- 
try, and was honorably discharged from the service February 12. 1864. Mr. 
Wolcott was married March 21. L866, to Celestia, daughter of Alonzo and Jane 
(Dimmick) Shaw, of Eldred, Penn., and they became the parents of five chil- 
dren: Myrtie, Jennie, Nellie, Bertha and Edgar C. Mr. Wolcott was a prom- 
inent and influential business man, and a leading citizen of Eldred. He was a 
member of the Grand Army of the Republic, and in politics he was a stanch 
Republican. 

LEWIS J. WRIGHT, farmer, Eldred, was born in Eldred, McKean Co., 
Penn., October 25, 1833, a son of Rensselaer and Sally (Moore) Wright. 
His paternal grandfather, James Wright, who was among the first settlers of 
Eldred, cleared and improved a farm within the present limits of the borough, 
and died a few years after his arrival. His children were Rensselaer, William 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



503 



and McCague. The father of our subject and his family were the eighth 
family to settle in McKean county, removing here from Delaware county. N. 
Y.. and clearing the farm now occupied by John Cotton and Lewis J. \\ right. 
He was the first sheriff of McKean county, served as county commissioner 
several terms, and for many years was a justice of the peace in Eldred. His 
children were eleven in number: Phebe (who married Samuel Windsor, and 
for her second husband John Stull). Patty (Mrs. Edick Wright), John. James, 
Maria (Mrs. Russell Miller), Phelps, Sally (Mrs. Nathan Palmer), Nelson, 
Carroll. George and Lewis J. Lewis J. Wright was reared on the old home 
I. where he has always resided. He married Elizabeth, daughter of 
Nehemiah and Nancy (Rockwell) Moody, of Eldred. and they have two chil- 
dren living: Genevieve (Mrs. Dr. R, J. Sharp) and E. Milton. Mr. Wright 
is a leading farmer and citizen of Eldred. In politics he is a Republican. 

EDICK J. WRIGHT, farmer. P. O. Eldred, was bom in Eldred town 
ship. McKean Co., Perm., April 22, 1844, a son of John M. and Editha H. 
(Moses) Wright. His paternal grandfather was Rensselaer Wright, a pioneer 
of Eldred township, and first sheriff of McKean county, a son of James 
Wright, also a pioneer of Eldred. John M. Wright was a fanner and lum- 
berman by occupation. He reared a family of four children: William. Edick 
J., Nelson (deceased) and John M. Edick J. Wright was reared on the old 
homestead where he was born, and which he now owns and occupies. He 
received a common-school education, and after attaining manhood engaged in 
farming and lumbering, which he has since successfully followed. In Febru- 
ary. 1S*V>. he married Lucinda Willard, a daughter of Dr. Willard. of Friend- 
ship. N. Y.. and they have three children: Nelson B., John E. and Nellie I, 
Mr. Wright is a representative farmer and citizen of Eldred. He is a membei 
of the Knights of Labor, and politically he is a Republican. 

W. A. YOUNG, of the firm of Young & Grove, dealers in hardware and 
house furnishing goods, Eldred. is a native of Genesee, Alleganj Co, N. Y.. 
where he was reared and educated. Mr. Young came to McKean county. Penn., 
in 1868. locating in Smethport. In ISiO he removed to Eldred, where he was 
en^ao-ed for one year as a clerk in the store of the Hon. A. T. Barden, with 
whom he formed a partnership which lasted five years. In 1876 Mr. Young 
embarked in his present business, which he successfully conducted alone until 
March, L888, when W. W. Grove became associated with him as a partner, 
the firm name being Young & Grove. Mr. Young is a wide-awake, enterpris- 
ing business man and influential citizen, and has served one term as commis- 
sioner of McKean county, taking an active interest in all local affairs. In 
politics he is a Democrat. 

G. B. YOUNG, physician, Eldred, was born in Farmers Valley. McKean 
Co., Penn., December" 21. 1859, a son of Arthur and Lorinda (Stull) Young. 
Mr. Young was reared and educated in the common schools of his native 
conntv ami at Alfred University, Aided Centre, Allegany Co., N. Y In 
1882 he began the study of medicine, and in the fall of 1883 entered Bellevue 
Medical College, New York City, where he was graduated in the spring of 
L886. In May, 1886, he located in Eldred, where he has built up a large and 
successful practice. The Doctor is a member of the McKean County Medical 
Society, and of the Masonic fraternity. In politics he is a Republican. 

OTTO TCWSSHIP. 

C. C. AMALONG, oil producer, Duke Centre, was born in Fayette county, 
Penn., February 15, 1847. son of Christopher and Mary Amalong, Pennsyl- 
vania Germans. " He was reared and educated in his native county, and at the 



504: HISTOBY OF MCKEAN 'COUNTY. 

age. of sixteen started out in life as a farm laborer. In October, 1863, lie 
■enlisted in Company M, Eighteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and participated 
in the battles of Winchester, Sailor Creek and in other engagements, and was 
honorably discharged from the service in June, 1865. He then located at 
Petroleum Centre, Penn., and worked as a driller for the Columbia Oil Com- 
pany. He soon after went to Chauibersburg, and later to Butler county. In 
1878 he located in Duke Centre, where he was in the employ of the Columbia 
Oil Company eight years. He has been a producer on his own account, and is 
now the owner of three producing wells. He is a representative citizen of 
Duke Centre, and is a' collector of taxes for Otto township. He is a member 
of the Odd Fellows order, and of the Select Knights, A. O. U. W. Politically 
he is a Republican. Mr. Amalong was married, December 24, 1868, to Miss 
Kate Henry, and they have two children: Jennie and Anna. 

JOHN E. BALDWIN, oil producer, Duke Centre, was born in Augusta, 
Me., May 5, 1837, a son of Cyrus and Sylvia (Philbrick) Baldwin. His 
father settled in Otto township, May 5, 1855, locating on the farm now occu- 
pied by the subject of this sketch, which, with the assistance of his sons, he 
cleared and improved. He also engaged in lumbering, to some extent, until 
his death. His family consisted of ten children: Dorothea M., David K. , Car- 
oline M., Samuel, James, Mary (Mrs. F. W. Sprague), all deceased, and Cyrus 
Jr., John E. , William P. and Amanda (Mrs. Benjamin Prescott), living. Of 
these, four sons were in the Civil war: James, Cyrus, John E. and William P. 
All but John E. served in the Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers. James 
was wounded at Fort Harrison and died at Fortress Monroe in 1864; Cyrus lost 
a leg at Cold Harbor, June 3, 1863; William P. served three years. John E. 
enlisted in the fall of 1864 in Company H, One Hundred and Ninety ninth 
Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served ten months. He came to Otto township 
in 1855, and after attaining his majority embarked in the lumber business, 
which he followed until 1878. He then engaged in the oil business as an op- 
erator and producer; he has nineteen producing wells on his own farm, and 
is proprietor of several leases in the township. December 31, 1863, he married 
Josephine A., daughter of Charles H. and Mary White, of Taunton, Mass., 
and they have six children living: Minnie E. (Mrs. J. C. Gault), Frank E. , 
Arthur E., Eva, Mary and Lillian J. A. Mr. Baldwin has held most of the 
civil offices of Otto township. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. 
Equitable Aid Union and Grand Army of the Republic; in politics he is a 
Republican. 

JAMES M. BALDWIN, lumberman, Seattle, Wash., was born in Spring- 
held, Penobscot Co., Me., January 9, 1844, a son of James M. and Ellen 
(Small) Baldwin, of Puritan stock, who settled in Otto township in November, 
L849, being the fourth family to settle there. His father, who was a farmer, 
cleared and improved what is now known as the Gridley farm, on which he re- 
Bided until L869, when he returned to Maine, where he died. He had six chil- 
dren: Melville, Arvilla (Mrs. Charles Baldwin), Greeley, James M. , Edwin and 
Ellen, James M. and Edwin being the only ones living. All of the boys served 
the Union during the war of the Rebellion. Melville was taken prisoner at 
Gettysburg, and died in Belle Isle prison. Greeley died of disease contracted in 
the army, twelve days after reaching home. Edwin served four years and four 
months in the Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers; was honorably discharged 
and now resides in Oceana county, Mich. James M. enlisted August 18, 1862, 
in Company G, One Hundred and Fiftieth Pennsylvania Bucktails; was wounded 
in the right wrist at Gettysburg and taken prisoner; was paroled on the battle- 
field, exchanged, and was honorably discharged September 23, 1863. He then 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH IS. 



505 



returned to Otto township whore he owned the land on which Duke Centre 
now stands, and engaged in the lumber business and farming to some extent, 
which he continued until 1874, when he sold out and moved to Oceana county, 
Mich where he was engaged in the lumber business until the spring ol 1889, 
at which time he removed to Seattle, Wash., where he now resides, engaged 
in the lumber business. He has been twice married, his first wife being Mel- 
vina daughter of Hubbard Champney, of Cooksville, Rock Co., Wis., and by 
her he had two children: Ellen (.Mrs. John Joyce) and Arthur L. His second 
wife is Margaret, daughter of H. K. Barton, of Otto township, this county, and 
they have seven children : Gertrude, Greeley, Naomi, Roy, Ray, Evangeline and 
Merritt. Mr. Baldwin is a member of Hie (i. A. R., and is a Republican. 

H. T. BREESE, oil producer, Rixford, is a native of Chemung county, 
N Y.. where he was reared until twelve yearsof age. He then went to Illinois 
and Michigan, and in September, 1861, enlisted in the Fourteenth Missouri 
Western Sharpshooters (afterward changed to the Sixty sixth Illinois Volun- 
teers) served three years, and was honorably discharged at East Point , Ga., 
September 17, 1864. In 1865 he located in the Venango oil region, became 
interested in the oil business and operated in that vicinity until 1876, when he 
began operations in the Bradford Held, being interested with different c 
panic. He is now connected with the firm of Emery, Biyer \- Co.. who are 
operating fifty-three producing wells in this field. Mr. Breese is a worthy 
citizen of Rixford. He is a member of the Oil Producers' Association, the 
Grand Army of the Republic, and of the Union Veteran Legion. Politically, 
he is a stanch advocate of Prohibition. 

JOHN V. BROWN, proprietor of the Duke House, Duke Centre, was born 
in Penn Yau, N. Y., February 15, L835, a son of Ezra and Maretta (Downing) 
Brown. His father was a canal contractor, and built the Genesee canal from 
Scottsville to Rochester, N. V. He died in Potter county, Penn.. in 1867. 
John V. Brown was reared in Penn Yau and Tiffin, Ohio, and at the age of 
nineteen located in Bingham township. Potter Co.. Penn., where he was 
engaged in a lumber-mill as fireman and engineer, four years. He then 
removed to Oconto, Wis., and worked in the pineries one year. In L85i he 
returned to Penn Yan, N. Y.. and ran a canal boat one season as captain, and 
for nearly two years thereafter worked in a distillery. In 1859 he again 
removed to Biugham township, Potter Co., Penn.. where he engaged in farm 
ing until August 16, 1862, when he enlisted in Company K. One Hundred and 
Forty-ninth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was promoted to corporal 
February 21, 1863, and to sergeant April 1, 1803; was wounded at Petersburg, 
Va., June 19, 1864; promoted to first sergeant July 1, 1864; was commis- 
sioned second lieutenant May 16, 1865 (not mustered); had command of a 
company twenty months prior to commission, and was mustered out of the 
service June 24, 1865. He then located in Sweden township, Potter Co., 
Penn., where he engaged in farming four years, after which he bought and 
ran the Oswayo House, at Oswayo, as a tavern for four years, and then farmed 
in Sharon township, four years. Iu March, 1878. he purchased the Empire 
House at Duke Centre, which he successfully conducted eight years, and in 
1886 rented the Duke House, of which he lias sine.- been the popular landlord. 
He has also been an oil producer for eight years. In 1855 he man 
Rebecca, daughter of John B. and Abigail (Brown) Harris, of Jerusalem, 
Yates Co., N. Y., and they have two children: Minnie A. and Charles H. 
Mr. Brown is a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity, has passed 
through all chairs of First Lodge of Masonry, and belongs to Council Chapter. 
Commandery and Mystic Shrine; also of the Odd Fellows order, Grand Army 
of the Republic and Knights of Pvthias. Politically he is a Republican. 



506 HISTOEY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

R. M. BROWN, oil producer, Duke Centre, is a native of Morgan county. 
Ohio, and was reared in Ohio and Pennsylvania, where he received a common 
school education. He tirst engaged in the oil business as a producer in 1874, 
at Millerstown, Butler Co., Penn., where he remained until 1878; then located 
at Duke Centre, where he has since resided and been actively engaged as an 
operator. He is a representative citizen of Duke Centre, a member of the 
Masonic fraternity, and in politics is a Republican. 

V. PERRY CARTER, Duke Centre, was born in Victor, Ontario Co., N. 
Y., May 16, 1822, a son of Samuel S. and Lydia (Perry) Carter, both natives, 
of Stockbridge, Berkshire Co., Mass., pioneers of Ontario county, N. Y.. and 
in 1824 they removed to Friendship, Allegany Co., N. Y., where the father, 
who was a clothier by trade, established himself in business, and resided 
until his death. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. V. Perry Carter was 
reared and educated in Friendship, N. Y. , and in February, 1840, settled in 
Ceres township, McKean county, where he was in the mercantile business three 
years. He then removed to Richburg, N. Y. , where he was in business seven 
years, and three years thereafter was connected with a wholesale house in New 
York City. In 1852 he returned to Ceres, and embarked in mercantile trade 
and the lumber business, which he continued until 1S79. when he moved to 
Duke Centre and engaged in the gas business, and here he has since remained. 
He piped Duke Centre for the supply of fuel and light from natural gas. the 
second town piped in the State, and has also piped several other towns in the 
vicinity for that purpose. Mr. Carter was twice married. His first wife was 
Almina, daughter of John and Lucy (Mott) Smith, early settlers of Ceres 
township, and to them were born three children: Frances E. (Mrs. Frank 
Commerford) Henry W. and Ella (Mrs. John J. Robarts). His present wife is 
Lottie K., daughter of Cyrus and Charlotte G. Kimball, of Cincinnati, Ohio, 
formerly of Concord, N. H. To them has been born one son, Roy M. Mr. 
Carter is a prominent and representative citizen of McKean county, and has 
always taken an active part in public affairs. He was postmaster at Ceres 
and Richburg, N. Y., over thirty years; has served McKean county two terms 
as county auditor, and one term as county treasurer. He is a Republican. 

GEORGE H. DANA, manufacturer of torpedoes and nitroglycerine, 
Duke Centre, Penn., is a native of Buffalo, N. Y., born December 31, 1845, 
a son of George and Mary E. Dana, natives of Baden, Germany, who came 
to this country about 1830, and were reared and educated in Buffalo. He was 
reared and educated in Hamburg, Erie Co., N. Y., where he learned the tin- 
smith's trade, which he followed sixteen years in Hamburg and Collins, N. Y., 
and in Titusville, Penn. In 1877 he located at St. Petersburg, Penn., where he 
was superintendent and foreman of the torpedo works of Almar & Co. , two 
years. In 1879 he came to Duke Centre, where he acted in the same capacity 
for the Producers' Torpedo Company, one year. He then, with his brother- 
in-law, George A. Piatt, erected torpedo works, which they conducted under 
the firm name of Dana & Co., three years, when George fl. Dana purchased 
his partner's interest, and has since conducted the business successfully alone. 
February 3, 1885, the factory blew up, killing two men, F. Sining and C. 
Thomson. Mr. Dana immediately rebuilt, and had the works again in opera- 
tion within two months. Mr. Dana has been in the oil business as a producer 
since 1885, is the owner of five wells, and is interested in eighteen others. He 
is a popular and leading citizen of Duke Centre, and served three years as 
school director of the borough, and was elected to serve Otto township in the 
same capacity in the spring of 1889. He has been chief of the fire depari 
ment of Duke Centre since 1886; is a member of the A. O. U. W., Selecl 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 507 

Knights, and of the Masonic fraternity. In politics he is a Democrat. Mr. 
Dana was married June 3, 1868. His wife, Louise Dana, was born in Ham- 
burg, N. Y. , -July 30, 1S4S; she has borne her husband four children — one 
daughter, Louise H., and three sons, A. G., F. W. and E. N. 

MASON G. DENNIS, farmer, P. O. Rixford, was bora in Eldred town 
ship, McKean Co., Peun. , August 28, 1845, a son of George T. and Alary 
A. (Crandall) Dennis. His paternal grandfather was Nathan Dennis, who sei 
tied in Eldred in 1822. Mason G. Dennis was reared in Eldred, and was in 
the Civil war. enlisting September 5, 1864, in Company C, Two Hundred and 
Eleventh Pennsylvania Regiment, and was in the battle of Pent Stedman, 
also in front of Petersburg, and was honorably discharged June 8, 1865. 
After the war Mr. Dennis resided in Burt county, Neb., four year-, going first 
in October, 1867, returning in December, 1868, to wed January 1. 1869, Jen- 
nie H., youngest daughter of William and Ann Janett Rixford, returning to 
Nebraska, and residing there until December, 1871, when they came hack to 
Otto township, and settled down on the farm where they now reside. Mr. 
Dennis paid for his farm (ninety-three acres), in L872, $800, and in 1878, tin- 
time of the oil excitement, he sold his oil and mineral right in said farm for 
$7,000. He has been in the oil business since 1879, and is still a producer. 
Mr. and Mrs. Dennis have three living children: Burdette (aged sixteen), Ann 
J. (aged eight) and Fred (aged four years). Their oldest boy, Willie, died 
October 11, 1881, aged eleven years. Mr. Dennis is a member of the Grand 
Army of the Republic and Equitable Aid Union; has been school director for 
five years, and secretary of the school board, two years. Politically he is a 
Republican. 

JOHN DUKE, the subject of this sketch, was the second of ten children 
of William and Elizabeth (Cokayne) Duke, true English people, of Derbyshire, 
England, but who, after marriage, and about the year 1829, removed to Amer- 
ica, settling in Broome county, X. Y.. where they lived until 1841, when they 
removed to Scio, Allegany Co., N. Y., on what is known as Knight's creek, 
where the father died in 1848. After the father's death Mr. Duke remained 
at home with his mother until his majority, when ho entered the world as a 
millwright, which occupation, interspersed with a little fanning and lumbering, 
he followed for twenty years. He lived at Scio until about 1868, when, with 
his two brothers, Thomas and Charles, he removed to McKean county, Penn., 
and settled on what is now called (and was named in their honor) Duke Centre. 
He engaged in his old occupation until 1878, when oil was discovered there. 
Owning some land, he commenced operations by sinking two wells, which are 
producing at this writing. He still owns these, and the oil right in 104 acres 
of land at the same place. Mr. Duke's house at Duke Centre was burned, 
and he lost heavily in the noted Tram Hollow fire in 1880, which doubtless 
influenced his removal in the following year to Olean, N. Y., where he built 
himself a beautiful home and now resides. Mr. Duke soon became interested 
in Olean' s industries, and built, among others, the beautiful brick structure 
known as the Duke Block. The Young Men's Christian Association has a tine 
suite of rooms in this building, which it has occupied ever since its organization. 
He has also been interested in real-estate deals. While fortune has smiled on 
Mr. Duke, and he has had his share of this world's store, yet he has always 
been mindful of his duty to his God, and, being of a religious turn of mind, 
caily in life identified himself with the Wesleyan Methodist Church at Scio. 
Later he cast his lot with the people known as the Disciples of Christ, and 
during his sojourn at Duke Centre, donated the ground and the principal part 
of the funds for the erecting of the building occupied by what was incorporated 



508 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

as the Firsl Church of Christ, at Duke Centre. 11" also planned and laid oul 
the Duke Centre Cemetery. Mr. Duke was bom at Corbettsville, in the town 
in, Broome Co., NY., on April 11. L832. He is a man five feel eight 
inches in height, weighs about 190 pounds, lias dark hair and eyes, and 
features; a man of the best of morals, good business tact, and is highly respected 
by all who know him. He is untiring in his efforts, positive, yet not aggressive 
in bis manner, honest to the last, and generous to a fault. He is now a promi 
in m and enterprising citizen of Olean, where he is a member of the Masonic 
fraternity, and one of the leading Prohibitionists. Mr. Duke married Nanci 
J., daughter of Joseph Morgan, of Scio, N. Y., who during their married life 
has fittingly taken her place beside him, and borne her share of life' 
They had do children, but adopted William Carr, -who took their name — Will 
iam ('. Duke, now a farmer of Duke Centre. 

CHARLES D"UKE, banker. Duke Centre, is a native of Broome county, 
N. Y..a sun of William and Elizabeth (Cokayne) Duke, natives of England and 
pioneers of Allegany county, N. Y. Charles was reared in Scio. N. Y.. where 
he i erei\ed a common-school education. He began life as a lumberman, and 
bas always been interested in that business in Allegany county, N Y.. andMc- 
Kean county, Penn. He located in Otto township in 1868, in what is now Duke 
Centre I named in his honor), where he was engaged in lumbering four years. 
He then went to Wellsville, N. Y., and engaged in the same business, in wl, ch 
he is si ill interested. In 1876 he returned to Duke Centre and re-embarked in 
the lumber business, purchasing his former mill, which he is still conducting. 
The oil excitement started in Duke Centre in L877-78, and the preseni town 
was laid out in lots by Mr. Duke. He took an active part in developing this 
territory, opened a general store, and was twice burned out. In 1878 he 
built the Duke House, the principal hostelry of the place. In March. 1883, he 

buc< tied to the banker's business established by a Mr. Bobbins. He is a 

member of the drug firm of Duke & Mills, and is a representative and prom 
inent citizen. Politically he is a Republican. In 1869 he married Lydia E 
Taylor, of Friendship, Allegany Co., N. Y. They have three children, named 
respectively Charles A.. Jr.. Darwin T. and Marj Alice Duke. 

GEORGE FISCHER, grocer. Duke Centre, is a native of Wyoming count} . 
N. Y., and a son of Bernard and Abby (Koscher) Fischer, natives of Alsace, 
Germany. They immigrated to America in L847 and located in Wyoming county, 
N. Y r . ; later removing to Erie county, same State, where George was reared 
and educated. In 1878 he came to Duke Centre and embarked in thegrocerj 
business, winch he still successfully conducts. Mr. Fischer has been en 
in the oil business, three years, and is now the owner of nine producing well- 
in Foster township, this county. Politically he is a Democrat, and served two 
terms as member of the council when Duke Centre was a borough. 

F. C. GILFILLAN. oil driller and manufacturer of the Gas Regulator 
and Low Water Alarm. Duke Centre, was born in Troy, N. Y.. where he 
was reared until fifteen years of age. In 1865 In- removed with his par 
cuts to Venango county. Penn., where he engaged in the drilling of oil wells, 
and learned all the rudiments of (lie business. He afterward worked in 
iioii district, and in 1879 came to Duke Centre, where he followed the 

occupation of a driller until June, 1887. rn ] 879 he invented and patented 
i he Gas Regulator and Low Mater Alarm (patented again in l s ^t>). which, dur 
ing his residence in Duke Centre, he has manufactured and sold. In 1881 
I,,- opened a shop <>f his own. and has already built up a lucrative business. 
Mr. Gilfillan is a pushing and energetic business man. and one of DukeCei 
tre's mo>t worthy, representative citizens. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 509 

PHINEAS L. GOLDEN, Duke Centre, of tbe firms of Carlin Bros. & 
Golden, and Carlin & Golden, oil producers, was born in Sardinia, Erie Co., 
N. Y., October 18, 1845, a son of Phineas L. and Mary (Strong) Golden. 
former a native of Dutchess county, N. Y. , born in 1804, and tbe latter of Fort 
Herkimer, N. Y. Tbe paternal grandparents of our subject were of English and 
Scotch descent, respectively, while bis maternal grandfather was an Englishman, 
his maternal grandmother being of German descent. The subject of these 
lines was reared and educated in bis native town, and in 1865 he moved to the 
oil regions, to Tidioute, Penn., where be remained four years, during which 
time he became thoroughly experienced in all tbe details of tbe oil business, 
and from 1867 to 1869, he was a producer in that territory. In the latter year 
he went to Sbamburg, Venango Co., Penn., where be carried on a hotel and 
livery stable, under tbe firm name of Carlin & Golden, and where they were 
also in the oil producing business from 1872 till 1874, in which latter year he 
located at Petrolia, Butler Co. , Penn. Here at this time was formed the firm 
of Carlin Bros. & Golden, who developed several wells, being also engaged in a 
livery and in a drug business.. Tbe firm commenced operations at Duke Centre 
in 1878, in which field they have drilled twenty-nine wells, all but one of 
which are producers. The firm of Carlin & Golden are interested as pro 
ducers in tbe Allegany county (N.Y.) fields, and tbe Lima and Maxbury dis- 
tricts of Ohio. Mr. Golden has been a permanent resident of Duke Centre 
since 1879, and was its efficient postmaster from January 1, 1886, to August 
13, 1889. Politically he is a Democrat. 

JOHN GRIDLEY, lumberman, Duke Centre, is a native of Schoharie 
county, N. Y. He settled in Allegany county, N. Y., in 1849, where he was 
engaged in teaming until 1S74. when he located in Eldred, McKean Co., Penn. 
Here be followed farming, one year; then settled in Otto township, and soon 
after, with bis sons, embarked in the lumber business at Gridley Station, where 
they have since carried on an extensive trade, manufacturing about three mill- 
ion feet of lumber per annum. Mr. Gridley is one of the most prominent cit 
izens and lumbermen of Otto township. 

OWEN W. GRIDLEY, of the firm of John Gridley & Son, lumbermen, 
Duke Centre, was born in Irwin Centre, Steuben Co., N. Y., Sejitember 3, 
1S43. a son of John and Susan (Colgrove) Gridley, natives of Steuben county. 
N. Y. He was reared in Steuben and Allegany counties, educated in the 
common schools and Union school at Wellsville, same State, and began life as 
a teamster in the woods. He was also engaged as a mover of buildings in 
Wellsville, for five years. In 1875 he located on tbe old Dennis farm in 
Eldred, where be carried on farming one year; then removed to Otto township, 
and with his father purchased a farm of 300 acres of A. N. Taylor, whicli they 
conducted two years. When the oil excitement struck that locality they sold 
100 acres for oil purposes, and still own tbe balance. In 1878 they erected a 
saw-mill at what is now Gridley Station, and have since done a large and suc- 
cessful lumber business, manufacturing about three million feet of lumber 
annually. Mr. Gridley married, in 1861, Sarah, daughter of William Ocker- 
man, of Steuhen county, N. Y., and they have three children living: George 
W., Susie and Arthur. Mr. Gridley was in the Civil war, enlisting August 
13. 1863, in the First Brigade Band, Harding's Division, Twenty second Army 
Cor] is. served two years, and was honorably discharged at Washington. D. C. 
He is a member of the G. A. R. Politically he is a Democrat. In addition 
to their lumber business Messrs. Gridley & Son have been operating in oil for 
the past six years, and now have three producing wells on the farm, and are 
continually developing more of their oil property. 



510 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

MARION HENSHAW. oil producer, Duke Centre, is a native of Butler 
county, Penn., where he was reared and educated. He began life in the oil 
fields of Venango county, and there learned all the rudiments of the oil busi- 
ness. In 1871 he located at Petersburg, Clarion county, where bis business 
was principally putting down wells by contract, and where he was also a pro 
ducer to some extent. In 1877 he came to Custer City, McEean Co.. Penn., 
where, with Col. Vera, he engaged in the production of oil. and was assoei- 
ated with him for three years. Since 1880 he has been located at Duke Centre, 
operating on his own account, and now has twenty-eight producing wells in 
McKean county, besides having been interested in seventy-five wells in the en- 
tire oil fields. Mr. Henshaw is one of the pioneers in the oil business at Duke 
Centre, and one of the few who still remain in the field. He is a member of 
the Masonic fraternity: in politics a democrat. 

O. P. IRVINE, machinist, Duke Centre, is a native of Montreal, Canada. 
Ik L853 he located at Lawrence, Mass., where he served an apprenticeship of 
over three years at the machinist's trade, after which he worked as a journey 
man in the cities of Boston, Mass., Rochester and Dunkirk. N. Y.. Titusville, 
Penn., and other points. In 1864 he was in the employ of the United States 
government at Nashville, Tenn. In 1878 he located at Duke Centre, where 
he opened a blacksmith and machine shop with Sidney Morgan, under the firm 
name of Irvine & Morgan; they have built up a successful business in the 
manufacture of oil drilling and fishing tools, and all kinds of machine ant re 
pair work necessary in the oil district. For five years the firm had a branch 
shop at Bolivar, N. Y., and they are also large oil producers in the field of Mc- 
Kean county, Penn., and Allegany county, N. Y. Mr. Irvine is one of Duke 
Centre's prominent and representative citizens. He is a member of the Ma- 
sonic fraternity. Politically, he is independent, William Irvine, grandfather 
of the subject of these lines, came from Glasgow, Scotland, and landed in 
Quebec in L802, His son, 'William, father of O. P. Irvine, was born in the 
same year in Quebec, and married Miss Matilda Lebare. of Montreal, about the 
year 1824. O. P. Irvine was married in Dunkirk, N. Y., to Miss Mary Y'oung, 
a resident of that place, but a native of Schenectady, N. Y., and of Scotch 
parentage. To this latter union have been born children as follows: William 
Andrew (born April 14, 1860, in Dunkirk, died March 13, 1881 1. Addio E. 
(born September 16, 1861, at Dunkirk), Fred G. (born at the same place Feb- 
ruaiv 28, 1864), Mary Ellen (born also at the same place in 1866. died De- 
cember 25, 1870), Albert (born February 1, 1871, also at Dunkirk). Man (bom 
at Dunkirk February 5, 1875, died at Duke Centre, Penn.. March 21, L881 I. 
and Isabella (born in Duke Centre, August 7, 1879). 

C. F. KEIM, is a native of Cattaraugus county. X Y., where he was 
reared and educated. He was brought up on a farm, and at the age of sis- 
teen rented a farm, which he successfully conducted six years, alter which he 
operated a cheese factory in Erie county, N. Y., one year; was then engaged in 
the sale of agricultural implements in Cattaraugus county, N. Y'.. two years. 
In January, 1885, he located at Duke Centre, and embarked in the grocery 
business. Mr. Keim has an interest in fourteen producing oil wells at Allentown, 
Allegany Co., N. Y. He is a member of the K. 0. T. M. and K. of L. ; is a 
Democrat in politics, and served as a member of the council one term while 
Duke Centre was a borough. 

L. J. LILLY, dealer in boot- and shoes, clothing and gents' furnishing 
goods, Duke Centre, was born in Bloomfield township. Crawford Co., Penn., 
October I, 1845, son of Orrin and Olive (Hancock) Lilly, formerly of Massa 
chusetts, who settled in Crawford county about 1843. L. J. Lilly was reared 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 511 

in his native township until sixteen years of age, when he was apprenticed to 
the shoemaker's trade in Union Oity, Penn., where he worked two years. 
March 29, 1864, he enlisted in Battery L, Second Pennsylvania Heavy Artil- 
lery, One Hundred and Twelfth Regiment. The regiment was immediately 
divided, and he was assigned to the provisional Second Pennsylvania Artillery. 
He participated in the battles of the Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Bethesda 
Church, Petersburg, Cold Harbor, Chapin's Farm, and other engagements, 
and was honorably discharged February 8. 1866. He then returned to Craw- 
ford county, and worked at his trade in Riceville until 1872; then located at 
Antwerp, Clarion Co. . Penn. , where he opened a shoe store, which he conducted 
one and one-half years; then removed to Turkey City, where he was engaged 
in business until 1879, when he located at Duke Centre and embarked in his 
present business, which he has conducted with marked success. Mr. Lilly 
married, March 24, 1868, Sarah B. , daughter of Capt. Samuel and Nancy 
(Laughlin) Johnson, of Crawford county, and they have three children: Ellis 
O. , Arthur L. and Lynn M. Mr. Lilly is one of the leading and prominent 
merchants of Duke Centre, and while it was a borough served as member of 
council and school director. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and 
of the Grand Army of the Republic. Politically he is a Republican. 

WILLIAM F. LOVEJOY, farmer, P. O. Prentiss Vale, was born in 
"Washington county, Me., August 21, 1837, a son of William and Ruth T. 
(Treworgy) Lovejoy, who settled in Farmers Valley, McKean Co.. Penn.. in 
1847, and in 1848 in Otto township, on the farm now occupied by William F., 
a part of which they cleared, and where they resided until their death. They 
had four children: William F., Willard T.", Susan M. (Mrs. Charles C. Bel- 
knap) and Arthur P. William F. Lovejoy was reared in Otto township from 
eleven years of age. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company G, One Hun- 
dred and Fiftieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, served three years, and was 
honorably discharged in July, 1865. After the war he carried on lumbering 
in Otto township for one year. He then removed to Minnesota and engaged in 
farming and lumbering there, with the exception of one year, until 1877, when 
he returned to Otto and has since resided on the old homestead, a part of 
which he cleared and improved. He is a representative citizen of Otto town- 
ship, and has held various local offices. In politics he is a Republican. 

J. C. LOOKER, oil producer, P. O. Summit City, was born in Crawford 
county, Penn., in 1855, a son of Henry and Louisa (Hatch) Looker, who now 
reside with him. Mr. Looker is a carpenter by trade, and worked in Warren 

county, Penn.. previous to coming to McKean county, in 1878. He has 1 n 

engaged in producing oil since 1880, and now owns and operates eighty-six 
wells. In 1876 he married Miss Sarah E. Putnam, of Crawford county, Penn. , 
and they have five children: Ralph, Louise, Myrtle, James and Ida. Mr. 
Looker is identified with the Republican party, and is a member of the Knights 
of the Maccabi-es. 

JOHN C. MILLS, of the firm of Duke & Mills, druggists, Duke Centre, 
was born in Sharon, Mercer Co., Penn., December 22, 1857. He was reared 
in Venango county, Penn., and educated in the Venango Normal school. In 
1870, when thirteen years of age, he engaged as a clerk with the drug firm of 
Chamberlin & Tyler, of Rouseville, Penn., with whom he remained for seven 
years. From Rouseville he went to Colorado, where he was employed as a sur- 
veyor for the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad Company for one year. 
In November, 1879, he located in Duke Centre, where he was engaged in the 
tank business six months, after which he was clerk in a drug store until 1882. 
He theu, with Charles Duke, purchased the drug business of C. H. Collins, 



512 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

and they have since conducted a successful business under the firm name of 
Duke & Mills. In L886 they purchased the copyright, trade-mark, and sole 
proprietorship of galvanic oil, which they have since manufactured, a remedy 
that has been before the public for fifteen years, and lias a world-wide repu- 
tation as a liniment and counter irritant, used internally or externally, for man 
or beast, having an extensive sale in the United States. Canada and Great 
Britain. Mr. Mills is a wideawake and enterprising business man. He is a 
member of the Knights of Pythias, Equitable Aid Union, and of the Penns] ! 
vania Pharmaceutical Association. 

SIDNEY MORGAN, blacksmith, Duke Centre, was born in Newport, 
England, in 1849. At the age of twelve years he was sent to London and 
apprenticed to the' blacksmith's trade, serving until 1869, when he came to 
America and located at Erie. Penn., where he worked as a journeyman six 
months. From there he went to Dunkirk, N. Y. , where he remained until 
1876, when he went to Titusville, Penn., and in 1878 located at Duke 
Centre, where, with O. P. Irvine, he opened a machine shop, which they 
have since successfully conducted under the firm name of Irvine cV Mor 
gan. Mr. Morgan is also a producer of oil in the Bradford and Allegany dis 
triets. He is a leading citizen of Duke Centre, is a member of the Masonic 
fraternity, and in politics is a Republican. 

FRANK J. NEWTON, merchant, Rixford, was born in Sharon township. 
Potter Co., Penn. , August 81, 1859, and is a son of Alonzo and Angeline (War 
net) Newton. His father was a native of Bainbridge, Chenango Co.. N. Y. 
ami among the pioneer farmers and lumbermen of Sharon township, where 
he now resides. His maternal grandfather. O. C. Warner, formerly of Ver- 
mont, was one of the first settlers of Sharon township, and a farmer and lum- 
berman by occupation. Frank J. Newton was reared and educated in his native 
township, and located at Rixford. McKean county, in 1879, where he opened 
a general store in company with George W. Dodge, and they have since con- 
ducted a successful business under the firm name of Dodge & Newton. Mr. 
Newton married. February 10, 1881, Ruth Russell, of Buffalo, N. Y., and 
they have four children: Nellie, George. Esther and Nelson. Mr. Newton is 
a leading merchant and citizen of Rixford. He is a Royal Arch Mason and a 
member of Council No. 43, Bradford. Penn. Politically he is a Republican. 

W. G. NOBLE, a prominent merchant of Duke Centre, is a native of Amity. 
Allegany Co.. N. Y., was reared on a farm and educated in the common and 
grade schools. He located at Duke Centre in 1878, ami with I. C. Show 
errnan opened a dry goods, glassware and crockery store, which partnership 
existed three years under the firm name of Showerman & Noble. Mr. Nol I 
then purchased the business interest of his partner, and conducted the busin< ss 
alone until September. 1887, when C. H. Brown purchased an interest in the 
1 i 1 1 ss, which has since been conducted under the firm name of C. H. Brown 
& Co. Mr. Noble has been, since 1886, engaged in business as an oil pro- 
ducer, ami owns a controlling interest in twenty producing wells. He is 
also a lover of horse flesh, and is a breeder of blooded stock, which are regis 
tered in Wallace'- American Stud Book. When Duke Centre was a borough 
Mr. Noble served as a member of the council. Though a young man. he i- 
the pioneer merchants of Duke Centre, and one of its leading citi- 
zens and business men. Politically he is a Republican. The father of our 
subject was a pioneer to Allegany county. N. Y., from Whitehall, N. Y. , liav 
ing moved there when a small boy. At that time it was necessary to go ten 
miles to mill and carry a sack of corn on their shoulders through the forest 
path, there being no roads. The elder Noble is now sixty-nine years old, and 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 513 

hardly gray. He reached Allegany county in 1815, being five years old at the 
time. His wife was born in the same county, and is sixty years old. W. < r. 
Noble is the eldest of their family of six children, and was born in 1854. His 
father is a cousin of O. Noble, of Erie, Penn., of the old Noble oil-well fame. 

ARTHUR PRENTISS, farmer, Prentiss Vale, was born in Paris, Oxford 
Co., Me., February 1. 1808, a son of Caleb and Mary (Morgan) Prentiss. He 
was reared in his native county, and labored on his father's farm until twenty- 
one years of age, at which time (in 1829) he emigrated to Penobscot county, 
same State, and on July 4, 1831, he opened a variety store at the town of Lee. 
twelve miles from any other store, and where he sold no intoxicants. Here he 
resided until his removal in 1847 to Pennsylvania. "While a resident of Lee 
himself' and brother, Addison, now of Worcester, Mass., were mainly instru- 
mental in the establishment of an academy there, called the Lee Normal School 
(with a grant of half a township of State timber land), which is still in a 
prosperous condition. In December, 1845, Mr. Prentiss first came to Penn- 
sylvania, and was induced by an old Maine acquaintance, Hermon Strong (who 
came here in 1842), to visit Otto township, with a view to purchasing the pine 
timber land and the locating of a colony of Eastern farmers and lumbermen, an 
interesting account of which, and the settlement of the township, from the pen 
of Mr. Prentiss himself, will be found in the history of Otto township in this 
book. In the spring of 1846 he a second time visited this region, and again 
in the fall of the same year, when he succeeded in concluding arrangements 
for all the land wanted. All the contracts were made to George M. Prentiss, a 
brother, then of Worcester, Mass., who furnished all the capital required. In 
April , 1847, Mr. Arthur Prentiss moved his family to Farmers Valley, and they 
occupied the old Sartwell (now Goodwin) farm two years, while he was locating 
land, etc., preparatory to building a mill, etc. In the spring of 1849 he 
moved into a log house in the valley, and began the erection of a saw-mill, 
which was put in operation in the fall of the same year. 

Mr. Prentiss married, October 27, 1832, Litcinda, daughter of Stephen and 
Abigail (Morse) Blaisdell, of Cumberland county. Me. , and they have had 
three children: Horatio K., who died in 1857; Ellen L. (Mrs. Joseph G. 
Spiller, now at Cheboygan, Mich.) and William A. (now at Prentiss Vale). 
Mr. Prentiss has been postmaster at Prentiss Vale nearly forty years. Po- 
litically he is a Republican and an advocate of prohibition, having long 
been a teetotaler. Maine Law Prohibitionist and anti-slavery man, and, in his 
own words, he is thankful that he has never made drunkards, but has done 
some little to benefit humanity. Mr. Prentiss was active in forming a Con- 
gregational Church at Prentiss Vale, which at one time had more than thirty 
members, but which is now nearly extinct, owing to deaths, removals and 
other causes. 

THOMAS D. ROSS, M. D., Duke Centre, is a native of Chautauqua 
county, N. Y. , where he was reared and educated. He began the study of 
medicine, in 1871, with Dr. Wilson, and later with Dr. A. Ross, of Chautauqua 
county, N. Y. He entered the medical department of the University of Woos- 
ter, Cleveland, Ohio, in 1875, and was graduated in 1878. The same year he 
began the practice of his profession in Duke Centre, where he has since been 
located, and has built up a large and successful practice. He is a member of 
the McKean County Medical Society, and of the F. & A. M. Politically he is 
a Democrat. 

ROBERT SHAFER, hardware merchant, Duke Centre, is a native of 
Mercer county, Penn., but was reared and educated in Lawrence county. In 
August, 1862, he enlisted in Company B. One Hundred and Thirty first Penn- 



.114 HISTORY OF MCKEAN' COUNTY. 

sylvania Volunteers; participated in the battles of Fredericksburg ami Chan- 
cellorsville, and was honorably discharged from the service in May. 1863. He 
then located in the oil district, and has been engaged, more or less, as a pro- 
ducer in the fields of Butler, Venango, Clarion and Bradford. He located at 
Duke Centre in 1880, and here embarked in the hardware trade in 1887. He 
is a member of the G. A. R , and of the A. O. U. W., Select Knights. Mr. 
Shafer served as burgess of Duke Centre one term, and as councilman one 
term, during its incorporation. Politically he is a Democrat. 

FRANCIS W. SPRAGrUE, oil producer, Duke Centre, was burn in Path. 
Me., October Hi, 1825, a son of Peleg and Charlotte W. (Owen) Sprague. 
His ancestors came from England to America ah rat 163 ' He was reared in 
his native town, and when eighteen years of age removed to Taunton. Mass., 
where he learned the machinist's trade, and resided for twelve years. In 
January, 1856, he settled in Otto township, McKean county, where he has 
since resided, and cleared and improved the farm he now occupies. He was 
in the lumber business in Otto township, the first eight years of his residence, 
and for a number of years worked at his trade in Olean, X. Y. Since 1878 he 
has been a producer of oil, and has twelve producing wells on his farm, -even 
of which he opened. Mr. Sprague married, in 1847, Mary, daughter of Cyrus 
and Sylvia (Philbrick) Baldwin, who settled in Otto township in 1855. and 
who were formerly of Maine. The issue of this marriage was ten children: 
William F., Everett E., Mary E. (Mrs. M. Fisher), Emma L. (Mrs. Edward 
Bryant), Sarah J.. MerrittB., Cyrus W.. Mertie A. (Mrs. D. E. Jones), Annie 
L. and Fred W. (deceased). Mrs. Sprague died March 4. 1881. Mr. Sprague 
has always taken an active part in local politics, and from 1870 to 1874 held 
the office" of county auditor. Politically, he was originally a Whig, and cast 
his first presidential vote for Zachary Taylor in 1848. He has been a sup 
porter of the Republican party since its organization; he is a member of the 
Masonic fraternity, and of the Congregational Church. 

WILLIAM F. SPRAGUE. farmer, P. O. Duke Centre, was born in Mans 
field, Mass., October 1, 1848, a son of Francis W. and Mary I Baldwin) Sprague. 
He was reared in Otto township from eight years of age. and was educated 
in the common schools. He began life as a lumberman, which occupation he 
followed from sixteen years of age until 1876. when he engaged in farming. 

which he has since carried on, and since 1885 has to some extent I n 

engaged in the oil business as a producer. January 1. 1S74. he married 
Ellen, daughter of H. B. and Electa (Covert) Baker, of Otto township, and 
they have three children living: Francis H. Eugene and Walter. Mr. 
Sprague is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and of the Knights of Pythias. 
Politically he is a Republican, and has held many of the local offices of the 
township, being at present township assessor. 

EVERETT E. SPRAGUE. oil producer, Duke Centre, was born in Mans 
field, Mass.. July HI. 1850, a son of Francis W. and Mary (Baldwin) Sprague. 
He was reared from six years of age in Otto township, where he received a 
common-school education, and began life working in a saw-mill. Afterward, 
in 1878, he located on the farm he now occupies, which he cleared and im- 
proved, and on which he has since resided. He has been interested in pro- 
ducing oil since the first excitement at Duke Centre in 1S7S. and is now 
operating nine producing wells. He married, January I. 1S74, Eva. daughter 
of Benjamin and Hannah (Judkins) Bunker, of Otto township, and the\ have 

tin- bildren: Eva. Eugene and Willie. Mr. Sprague has taken thirty two 

degrees in Freemasonry, and is a member of Lodge, chapter, council, cm 
mandery and consistory. In politics he is a Republican. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 515 

G. A. WILLIAMS, oil producer and proprietor of a meat market, Duke 
Centre, is a native of Toronto, Canada, where he was reared and educated. 
He came to the United States in 1808, and located in Pleasant ville, Venango 
Co , Penn., where he conducted a meat market four years; he afterward 
had a market in Edenburgh, Clarion Co.. Penn. In 1879 Mr. Williams 
located in Duke Centre, where he has since carried on the leading meat market 
of the place. He has been identified with the oil industry since October, 
1887, and is at present the owner of six producing wells in the Allegany 
county (N. Y.) field. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and of the A. O. TJ. 
W., Select Knights. In politics he is a Republican. 



CHAPTER XXYI. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES—LIBERTY TOWNSHIP AND BOROUGH 
OF PORT ALLEGANY— ANNIN AND CERES TOWNSHIPS. 

LIBERTY TOWNSHIP AND BOROUGH OF PORT ALLEGANY. 

F. H. ARNOLD. Port Allegany, son of the Hon. A. S. Arnold, was bom 
at Smethport, McKean Co., Penn., in April, 1S34. He attended Smethport 
and Coudersport academies, and completed his education at Addison, Steuben 
Co.. N. Y. His father, who was a native of Chenango county, N. Y., where he 
married Ellen M. Medbury, came to Smethport, McKean county, about 1832, 
where he was engaged in business, as a dealer in general merchandise until 
his removal to Port Allegany in 1836. He was one of the prominent and able 
men of McKean county, and his business career was one of uninterrupted 
success. He was honored by being made a member of the legislature, and 
was also associate judge of the county, and to him the citizens of Port Allegany 
are largely indebted for the proud position it occupies among its sister 
boroughs of the county. His death occurred in April, 1874. and Ellen M., 
his widow, still has her residence in Port Allegany. Judge Arnold, at the time 
of his decease, was the wealthiest man in Poit Allegany. He was generous to 
the poor, charitable to the worthy, his aim being, in helping himself, to be of 
benefit to others, and his death was regretted by all. He was one of the verj 
small number of men of whom it can be said: "Their works never die." The 
children of Judge and Mrs. Arnold were F. H. and V. A., the latter of whom 
died when twelve years of age. 

F. H. Arnold, subject of our sketch, when a young man became associated 
with his father in his large business interests, the firm name being A. S. 
Arnold & Co., which continued until the death of the father. By the thorough 
business training received during the father's lifetime, the son was pre-emi- 
nently qualified to continue successfully the large enterprises his father had 
inaugurated. F. H. Arnold and E. B. Dolley, gentlemen now well known to 
the business men of McKean county, formed a partnership, purchasing the 
lumber and mercantile interests of A. S. Arnold & Co., and are still extensively 
engaged in business, affording employment to many men. 

Mr. Arnold has been prominently identified with all local improvements 
looking to the permanent prosperity of the borough, and upon the incorpora- 
tion of the First National Bank. May 2, 1888, he became its first presidi ut, 



516 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

a position be --till holds. He was largely instrumental in the organization 
nf the Port Allegany water-works, becoming the first president of that 
company; is also a stockholder in the Coudersporl & Port Allegany Bail- 
road, an organization free from all indebtedness, and of which no stock is 
on the market. Mr. Arnold has. with others, three gas wells, and entertains 
designs to put down in the near future enough to afford a supply for the 
entire borongh. It is almost superfluous to add that his influence and aid 
are cheerfully extended to any [impose having for its object the welfare and 
prosperity of Port Allegany. Mr. Arnold is a supporter of the Democratic 
part;. : is a member of Liberty Lodge, No. 505, P. A: A. M., of Arnold 
Chapter. R. A. M., and of St. John's Commandery, K. T. He married 
(January 1. 1857) Justina P., daughter of Levi Coates, formerly of McKean 
eounty, Penn., and they have one child, Kate 1).. now Mrs. E. P. Dalrymple. 

ASHBELF. BARD, Port Allegany, son of Robert and Marion (Freeman) 
Bard, was born at Farmersville, Cattaraugus Co.. N. Y., in 181 1. His parents 
were among the pioneers of that county, and for twenty-rive years his father was 
proprietor of a hotel. His mother died about 1861. and his father about 1865. 
I'h y had four children: A. F.. Abigail (deceased), Margaret and Samuel P. 
Ashbel F. made his home with his parents until he became a merchant at 
Frauklinville; afterward removed to Wisconsin, where he remained three 
years. He then returned to New York and engaged in farming, and in < >cto 
her. 1870, located at Port Allegany, where he embarked in the hardware trade. 
He married Julia A., daughter of William Waring, of Frauklinville. and they 
have live children: Robert C. . William H. Nathan R. . Julia A. (Mrs. M. A. 
Lillibridge) and Carlton R. Mr. Bard has associated with him two sons. Rob 
ert C. and Nathan R., the firm name being A. F. Bard & Co. Robert 0. was 
a soldier during the war of the Rebellion. A. F. Bard is a Democrat in his 
political views. 

Nathan B. Bard, Port Allegany, third son of A. F. and Julia A. Bard, 
was born in Frauklinville, Cattaraugus Co., N. Y.. in 1848. He made his 
home with his parents until fifteen years of age, when he learned the tinner's 
trade, and in 1870, removed to St. Paul. Minn. In \^~i'l he married Mary F . 
daughter of Samuel Stevens, of Concord. N. H. and soon after returned to 
Port Ulegany, where he became associated in the hardware trade with his 
father. In 1883, with Hon. A. M. Benton, he went into the lumber business 
at Roulette, the firm name being A. M. Benton & Co., Judge Olmsted, of Cou- 
dersport, being one of the firm. In 1SSS his interest was purchased, and he 
retired: A. M. Benton's interest has now been bought, and the firm will be 
come X. R. Bard & Co. Mr. Bard is a member of Liberty Lodge, No. 505, 
F. .V A. M., and a charter member of Arnold Chapter. R. A. M. He was the 
I burgess of the borough, andhas been one of the leading citizens. In 
politics he is a Dero tcrat. Mr. Bard is an enterprising, public spirited man. and 
is prominently identified with the business mi irestsof Port Allegany. 

SOLOMON H. BARRETT, Port Allegany, son of Nathaniel and Lydia 
Barrett, was born in Bethlehem, N. H. (near Mmnt Washington), in L809. 
Willi his parents he removed to Paris, Oneida Co., X. Y.. remaining there un 
til his removal to Smethport. Penn.. in 1831. He was both a miller and mill- 
wright, and speedily found employment at Smethport, where he remained -ev 
era] years. In November. 1 S4'_*. he removed to l'ort Allegany, where he built 
a grist mill for Sartwell A: Arnold, and operated it four years: this mill was 
taken down in 1849, during which year Mr, Barrett erected the grist mill now 
owned by Arnold & Policy, and of which he was for thirty three years the pro 
prietor In L836 he married Mary A. , daughter of Charles Manning, formerly 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 517 

of Lisle, Broome Co., N. Y., and to them were born six children: Charles N., 
George C, Clarence G., H. Jay (deceased), Lettie (Mrs. F. L. Rhodes, in Da- 
kota,) and Nellie A. (Mrs. J. W. Kershner, in Port Allegany). George C. and 
Clarence G. are also in Dakota, married, and engaged in farming. Mr. Bar- 
rett is one of McKean county's oldest pioneers. When he first came to Port 
Allegany there were but three buildings in the place, with no residences be- 
tween that town and Smethport, and the county was a comparative wilderness. 
He is a member of the Democratic party, and held the office of postmaster sev- 
eral years. 

C. N. BARRETT, contractor, Port Allegany, is a son of Solomon H. Bar 
rett. and was born in Olean, N. Y.. in 1838. His parents eventually removed 
to Port Allegany, with whom he made his home until August, 1861, when 
he enlisted in Company H, Forty-sixth Regiment, P. V. I., as private. 
and was afterward promoted to second lieutenant. He was wounded at 
the battle of Chancellorsville, and again at Cassville, Ga., during Sherman's 
campaign. He served nearly four years, and was mustered out of the service 
in July, 1865. Returning to Port Allegany, he built the planing-mill property 
he recently sold to C. E. Grover, and operated it up to that time, and was also 
engaged as contractor and builder. He has been a leading citizen of Port Al- 
legany, being prominently identified with its organization as a borough, and is 
recognized as a stirring and enterprising man who works for the interest of the 
town. He and C. A. Larrabee were instrumental in the establishment of 
Henry Metcalf Post, G. A. R.. at Port Allegany, in which he is an active 
worker. Mr. Barrett was married in October, 1862, to Caroline J., daughter 
of Jacob Wiederich, of Roulette, Potter Co. , Penn. , and to this union one son. 
Arthur, was born in 1873. 

A. M. BENTON, Port Allegany, son of Noah S. and Nancy (Lampkin) 
Benton, was born in Livingston county, N. Y. , in October, 1816, his parents being 
among the pioneers of that county. They were in Canada at the beginning of 
the war of 1812, but returned to the States, locating in New York State, where 
their last two children were born, two having been previously born in Can- 
ada and six in Vermont, ten in all, of whom but two are living: Tallman, 
a resident of California, and A. M. Noah S., father of A. M., died in Living- 
ston county, N. Y., in 1S29, after which his widow made her home with A. M. 
until her decease, which occurred in J anuary, 1874, when she was aged ninety- 
nine years, nine months and four days. A. M. remained at home until his 
father's decease, and, although at that time only thirteen years of age, it became 
necessary for him to engage in some occupation. From then until 1838, he 
pursued various vocations, and during that year he located at Mill Grove, N. 
Y.. on the Allegheny river; five years later he removed to Potter county, Penn., 
and in 1845 settled at Port Allegany, McKean Co., Penn., where he engaged 
in business as a lumberman. Then he purchased a mill, and, being successful, 
within two years he erected two others, and for a period of twenty-six years 
was extensively engaged in the pine lumber trade in Liberty township, and 
in 1870 built in Eldred. In November, 1845, he purchased his first bill of 
goods for a general store, and became a merchant. Mr. Benton is one of that 
class of men who are indebted only to themselves for the successes they have 
achieved. Beginning his career as a poor boy, by his own efforts he secured a 
handsome competency, and, although deprived of the advantages of a liberal 
education, was a close observer of men, and found much of value in what many 
would have passed unheeded; in fact, in many spheres of life his success can 
be attributed to his habit of close observation, indomitable energy and honesty 
of purpose, united with abundant natural abilities. Among other things he 



■"I s HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

was largely interested in the organization of the Buffalo & Washington Bail- 
road, now known as the Western New York & Philadelphia, and was a director 
during the first three year- of its existence, obtaining its first charter and per- 
fecting its organization. Being the only director outside of Buffalo, he re- 
signed to make room for one from that city, who could devote more time to 
its interests, and be more acceptable. He was also a director in the Coudersporl 
& Port Allegany Railroad. In 1859 he received the nomination to and was 
elected a member of the legislature, serving during the winter of 1859- 60; he 
again received the nomination in I860, but was defeated by a small majority, 
that being the year of Lincoln's election to the presidency. In 1863 he was 
bed by a large majority from the same district, embracing five counties: 
Clearfield, Elk. McKean, Jefferson and Forest. In 1855 he was elected 
commissioner of the county, serving four years, and has frequently had the 
honor of representing his constituency as delegate to State conventions. A.s an 
illustration of his intuitive knowledge, a little incident is related in connection 
with his official life as a member of the legislature. It appears a railroad 
measure was about to be acted upon, the lobbyists wen' in force, and Mr. Ben- 
ton was approached by one of the distinguished members from Philadelphia. 
who. extending the usual courtesies, asked Mr. Benton how be stood upon the 
Onion Railroad bill. The bluntness of his reply is characteristic of the man: 
"I haven't stood upon it. sir." adding an adjective to make his meaning more 
emphatic, and continuing, said that the " morning papers could contain no article 
from a reporter stating that the member from the Wildcat district ofPennsylva- 
nia had been sold out," adding emphasis with more adjectives. But now, in the 
evening of his years, possessed of an abundance of this world's goods, on ac- 
count of disea-e he is compelled to forsake and abandon the honors most men 
prize, and to retire from active business life, having made a disposition of his 
large interests to afford relief from all business cares. In March. 1845, he 
married Beulah Gr., daughter of Freeman Hill, of Friendship, Alleganj Co., 
N. Y. To them were born three children: Volney H.. who was a resident of, 
and engaged in the coal business in. Ohio, but who. while in Michigan on busi 
nessin .March. 1888, dropped dead; Frances, now Mrs. H. L. Chapman, of -lack 
son. Ohio, and Kittle, now Mrs. .1. F. House, of Buffalo The mother died De- 
cember '3. 1886. Mr. Benton has always been an active supporter of the 
Democratic party. 

CHARLES W. BURR, farmer and lumberman, P. O. I 'or' Allegany, is 
a sou of Edgar W. and Jane (Hardest Burr, and was born in the county of 
Kent. England, in 1840. His parents married there, and came to America in 
L848, where thej located on a farm on Portage creek, Liberty township, Mc 
Kean Co., Penn., in 1854, and in 1856 removed to the place Mr. Burr now 
own.-- on Lillibridge creek, and which he cleared. To them were born three 
sous and six daughters: Charles W., Edgar, -lane. Ellen, Charlotte. Orsavillia. 
John, Viola and Rose. The mother died in 1888, and the father now makes 
his home with his son, Charles \Y. Charles W. Burr remained at home until 
1862, when he married Eliza M., daughter of William Grigsby, of Liberty 
township; then in 1868 located on the farm he now owns iii Liberty township, 
which he cleared and improved, ami he is now one of the successful farmers 
ami lumbermen of the township. Mr. and Mrs. Burr have five children: 
Willie L.. Elmon, Mart, Freddie and Grace. Mr. Burr in politics is a Demo 
crat; has been supervisor, school director, and has held various other official 
p isitions. 

\1 UILON JOSEPH COLCOliD, attorney at law. Port Allegany, was born 
in Eulalia township, Potter Co., Penn.. July 4. 1853, a son of David D. Col- 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 519 

cord. He attended the district school during the winter season till sixteen 
years of age, and then moving with his parents to First Fork, Cameron county. 
same State, he worked at farming and lumbering until twenty-one years of age. 
Mr. Colcord then attended the academy at Coudersport, a part of two tetms, and 
began teaching, in which work he rose to some prominence in Potter and 
Cameron counties. In 1S79 he attended the Central State Normal School at 
Lock Haven, Penn. , where he graduated at the head of his class the following 
year. After teaching two years more, he began the study of law with Snyder 
& Dornan, at Port Allegany; was admitted to the bar June 1. 1883. and at 
once became a partner in the office of his preceptors. In 1886 Mr. Colcord 
married Edith Haskell, of Coudersport, eldest daughter of Edwin Haskell 
(editor of the Potter County Journal), and a graduate of the Central State 
Normal School. Starting in life with no other capital than good parentage, 
wholesome early training, and a good stock of pluck, Mr. Colcord has won his 
way to success by diligence, integrity, and an ambition to excel in what he 
undertakes. Unassuming always, but determined, and true to his convictions 
of the right, he is an excellent example of a self-made man. He has a lucrative 
and increasing law practice, being always reliable, and faithful to the interests 
of his clients. Mr. Colcord is a member of Liberty Lodge, F. & A. M. , of 
Port Allegany, and of Amos D. Colcord Camp, S. of V.,.of Coudersport. 

J. B. COLCORD, physician and surgeon, Port Allegany, was born in 
Thurston, Steuben Co.-, N. Y., August 12, 1862, a son of Albert and Eliza- 
beth (Shearer) Colcord, who settled in Eulalia, Potter Co.. Penn., in 1868, 
where the father, a blacksmith by trade, still resides. J. B. Colcord was reared 
in Potter county from six years of age, and was educated in the graded 
schools of Coudersport. In 1882 he began the study of medicine with Dr. E. 
S. Mattison, of Coudersport. entered the College of Physicians, of Baltimore. 
Md., in the fall of 1882, and was graduated in the spring of 1885. He be- 
wail the practice of his profession in Coudersport in the same year, where 
he remained until August, 1886, when he located at Turtle Point, where he 
had an active practice, but April 1, 1889, he moved to Port Allegany, where 
he is now permanently located. He is a member of the Sons of Veterans, and 
in politics is a Republican. 

HORACE COLEMAN, farmer, P. O.Port Allegany, a son of Dr. Horace 
and Sally (Cone) Coleman, was born in 1821 on the farm he now owns in Lib- 
erty township, McKean Co., Penn. His father was of English descent, his 
mother a native of Connecticut. They were married in Pittsfield, Alass.. 
and located in Otsego county, N. Y. ; then removed to Liberty township. Mc- 
Kean Co., Penn., January 18, 1817, when this county was a wilderness. Here 
Dr. Coleman built a log house and engaged in farming, being also associ 
ated with Capt. Dwight for a number of years in the lumber business. The 
Doctor was one of the first practitioners in McKean county, and was the first 
postmaster in Liberty township, having the office at his residence for about 
twenty years. He and his wife reared a family of ten children: Joseph, 
Margaret (the late Mrs. Willis Barrett), Sarah (Mrs. David S. Hall, of Kane), 
Horace, Dwight (deceased), Julia A. (Mrs. John Crozier). William H. , Caro- 
line (Mrs. John Brewer), Orlando D. and Hannah H. The Doctor died Au 
gust 20, 1859, his wife having preceded him January 19, 1857. He had 
suffered many of the privations incident to pioneer life. He packed and 
transported provisions on horseback from Jersey Shore, eighty miles distant, 
to his home in Liberty township. Horace Coleman was reared and educated 
in Liberty township, and has always lived on the old homestead. He is a 
member of the Democratic party, and has been road commissioner, supervisor 
fifteen or twenty years, and has held various other official positions. 



520 HISTOID OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

W.M. H COLEMAN, farmer. P. 0. Port Allegany, son of Dr. Horace 
Coleman, was born in Liberty township, McKean Co., Penn., in 1827, and was 
reared and educated in his native township, which has always been his home. In 
1852 he married Sarah A., daughter of Andrew Fortner, after which event he 
located on the farm he now owns, and lias since been engaged in farming and 
in the lumber trade. Mr. and Mrs. Coleman have four children: Thomas G., 
Andrew II.. May A. (Mrs. Elden McDowell) and Willie P. Mr. Coleman is 
a Republican in politics. He is a prominent and influential citizen, and has 
occupied several official positions in the township. 

\V . J. DAVIS, postmaster at Port Allegany, is a son of Urian and Louise 
Davis, and was born in Otsego county. X. V.. in 1814. He made his home 
with his parents until 1835 I they having removed to Allegany county. N. Y.. 
in L833), and began his business life as a clerk, eventually becoming a mer- 
chant until his removal in 1844 to Partners Valley, McKean county, where he 
continued his former business, and also was engaged in the lumber trade. In 
1847 he removed to Smethport, where he was engaged in the mercantile busi- 
ness; in 1850 he came to Port Allegany, engaging in mercantile business and 
dealing extensively in lumber. February 21, 1N4S. he married Helen M., 
daughter of Joel Sartwell, and they have had two children, one of whom is liv- 
ing, Marion. Mr. Davis was elected a member of the legislature in lSt'»S. Ben 
ing one term; was also elected county commissioner, ami has served as justice 
of thr [ieace. He received the appointment as postmaster May 26, 1885, and 
Port Allegany was made a third-class postomce August 10, 1888. Mr. Davis' 
father was in the war of 1812. He lived until ninety-three years of age. and 
died in Allegany county, N. Y., in INS 4. 

E. B. DOLLEY, Port Allegany, son of Daniel Dolley, was born in Oxford 
county, Me., in 1826, where he was reared and educated, remaining there 
until L845, when he took a trip around the world on a whaling vessel. In 1849 
he located at Port Allegany, where he was engaged in the hotel business, hav- 
ing also a tannery and general store. In 1868, with F. H. Arnold, he pur 
chased the lumber and mercantile interests of -V. S. Arnold & Co. . and the 
two have since been constantly associated in business. He and Mr. Arnold 
were instrumental in the establishment of the Port Allegany waterworks, and 
they are and have been heavy operators in the oil fields of Pennsylvania, having 
had twenty wells in the Rixford field, a portion of which was destroyed by tire, 
and a par! has been sold. He also, with Mr. Arnold, started the gas-works 

here, having six wells, and ultimately design to supply the n ssities of the 

borough in that direction. Mr. Dolley is one of tie' wealthy and prominent 
men of McKean county, and was elected treasurer of the county in L868. Po- 
litically he is a Democrat. He is a member of Liberty Lodge, No. 505, F, >\ 
A. M., Arnold Chapter, K. A. M., and St. .John's Commandery, K. T. Mr. 
Dolley married Louisa M.. daughter of Isaac Vinar, of Massachusetts: and to 
them were born two children, of whom but our is living: Mina l now Mrs. C. 
R, Bard, of Port Allegany, to whom one child has been born, 1'. F., now a boy 
i 'I' i'lo\ en j ears of age. 

(II \KLKS A. DOLLEY, Port Allegany, sou of Daniel and Sarah (Fos 
ter) Dolley. was born in the town of Wells, Me., in L840, and. with his par- 
ents, came to McKean county in 1849, locating on Lillibridge creek. Liberty 
township, where they engaged in clearing land, it being a wilderness at that 
time, with but tew buildings in the township. Eis father devoted the balance 
of his life to fanning, and was also a lumberman. Their family consisted of 
thirteen children. ten of whom are living (the youngest being now forty-live \ eSTS 
of age), and for forty five years remained unbroken. The children are named 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 521 

as follows: Christina (wife of J. C. Coding). Judith (wife of Alonzo Thomson), 
Fannie (wife of Joel Stinchfield), Enoch B. , Leonard H. (deceased). Elijah. 
Oris. Izates, Charles A., O. P.. Linas, Otis and Edward Payson. Charles A. 
made his home with his parents until 1859, when he went to California, where 
he remained three and one-half years. He then returned to Port Allegany and 
commenced business as a farmer, merchant and lumberman, in which he is still 
engaged. He is a Prohibitionist and a member of the Sons of Temperance. 
He was married, in 1865, to Martha J. Grigsby, and they have four children: 
Ida, Dora, Chester and Alsa. Mr. Dolley has held various official positions in 
the borough and township, and is one of the representative citizens. He is 
well to do and is public spirited, using his means liberally for the promotion 
of all worthy enterprises. 

MANLEY C. FIELD, superintendent, Port Allegany. The extensive tan- 
ning establishment of Root & Keating, located at Port Allegany, has for the 
past twelve years been under the superintendency of Mr. Manley C. Field. 
This gentleman was born in Rushford, N. Y. , May 16, 1846, attended the 
common schools of the place, and Olean and Franklinville academies, and after- 
ward taught school twelve terms, when he entered the service of Jewett & 
Keating, of Buffalo, iu their leather store. He spent several years there, and 
about a year before the firm became Root & Keating he moved to Port Alle- 
gany, where he became their superintendent Mr. Field was married, in 186S. 
to Miry E. Covell, of Allegany, N. Y. . and they have had five children, four 
of whom are living: Stewart L., J. M.. Zua C. and Howard. Their eldest 
chihl. Bessie, died in infancy. Mr. Field has served the town as school 
director and auditor, and has been one of the borough council. For about 
twenty -five years he was a member of the Christian Church, but is now serving 
as Sunday-school superintendent, trustee and treasurer of the First Methodist 
Episcopal Church of Port Allegany. He has been prominently identified with 
temperance work for many years, and is a thorough-going member of the Pro- 
hibition party. 

EPHRAIM FITCH, farmer and lumberer, P. O Port Allegany, is a son of 
Ephraim and Athalia (Smith) Fitch, and was born at Ellicottsville, Cattaraugus 
Co., N\ Y. , in 1817, and was the first white child bora in that town. His 
father was a native of Oxford, Chenango County, N. Y., and his mother of 
Butternut, same county. They located in Cattaraugus county in 1816. and 
reared a family of ten children: Ephraim, Caroline (the late Mrs. Burlingame), 
James L., Ophelia (the late Mrs. Smith), Hannah (the late Mrs. Chamberlain). 
John O., O. B., Mrs. Lydia Diltz, Charles D. (who died in the army) and Mrs. 
Harriet Laten. Ephraim remained with his parents in Cattaraugus county 
until 1836, when he removed to Port Allegany, and was employed by Harry 
Bryan, a lumberman, in the erection of a mill. In 1839 he married Cornelia 
A . daughter of Daniel Wright, and located in Liberty township, where he 
purchased a farm, and has since been engaged in business as farmer and lum- 
berman. For thirty-seven years Mr. Fitch rafted down the Allegheny and Ohio 
rivers, but, there being no railroads in the earlier days, he was compelled to 
find his way back from Pittsburgh on foot, the round trip occupying about 
two weeks. From 1836 to 1845 there was but one road in Liberty township, 
in which Mr. Fitch now resides, and up to 1840 groceries and provisions 
were very high, as well as scarce, although wild game was quite plentiful. Mr. 
Fitch having killed hundreds of deer and bears and any amount of small game. 
Sartwell & Arnold, the lumbermen of Port Allegany at that day, were in tin' 
habit of sending a four ox team to Jersey Shore every year for a load of corn, 
which, on reaching the home market, was worth $'2 per bushel, the distance 



522 HISTOBY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

traveled being over oue hundred miles, and the time consumed in making the 
trip from ten to twelve days Mr. and Mrs. Fitch, who have now been mar- 
ried over fifty years, and are still in good health, have had six children: 
Albert, A. M., Ophelia (Mrs. W. ('. Medbury), George B., Ellen A. (Mrs. 
Nqlson Cole), and Frank A. Willie (the last named deceased). Mr. Fitch affil 
iates with the Democratic party, and has held all the township offices. He 
been for twenty-five years justice of the peace 

L. J. GALLUP, farmer and lumberer, P. O. Port Allegany, is a son of 
Orrin W. and Nancy EL (Corwin) Gallup, and was born in Norwich township. 
McKean Co., Penn., in 1836. His paternal grandfather, Nathaniel Gallup, 
who was one of the pioneers of the county, located in Norwich township, and 
reared a family of eleven children: J. F., Andrew. Orrin. Nathaniel, Daniel, 
Ebben, Orlando, Alfred. Philetns, Arnold and Calphurnia. Of these, J. 1 . 
Daniel, Alfred and Ebben are still living. Edward Corwin, maternal grand 
father of L. J. Gallup, was also one of the early settlers of McKean county, 
and a resident of Norwich township. He had a family of eleven children. 
three of whom are living: John. Esther and Eliza: Benjamin, Bister. Gordis, 
Philetus, Edward, Nancy. Diana ami Olive an' deceased. Orrin W. Gallup, 
father of L. J., was born in Connecticut, and came here with his parents, 
where he was reared, and was married to Nancy H, daughter of Edward and 
( Hive ( lorwin, after which event he located in Norwich township, and engaged 
in farming. Their children were Clarissa (deceased), L. J., Olive (deceased), 
Viletta, Dorton, Alba (deceased), Esther, Florence, Charlotte, L. C.,Delos, and 
Dora (deceased). They eventually removed to Smethport, where thej passed the 
remainder of their lives. L. J. Gallup was reared and educated in Norwich 
township, and married, in 1861, Polly A., daughter of C. R. Burdick, after 
which they located on a farm, where he has Bince been engaged in farming, 
and is also interested in the lumber business. To Mr. and Mrs Gallup have 
lorn four children: Purdie A.. Clayton E., Glennie, and P^lla (who died 
when five years of age). Mrs. Gallup is a member of the Baptist Church. 
Mr. Gallup is a Democrat, has held most of the township offices, and has 
served on the Democratic County Committee. Mrs. Gallup's father. (.'. R. Bur 
dick, who is still a resident of Norwich township, is a son of Rowland Burdick, 
also a pioneer of McKean county. Her mother was burned to death by the 
in of a kerosene lamp. They had a family of six children: Charley, 
Elmer, Alvira, Ellen, Alice and Polly A.. Ellen and Alice being now deceased. 

II II. GARTHWAIT, Port Allegany, son of John S. Garthwait. was born 
in Borodino, Onondaga Co., N. ¥., in L839. His parents removed to Bolivar, 
Allegany county, where they still live. Their children were Harriet H. (not* 
\ii H W. Eaton), H. H. and John J. H. H. Garthwait lived with his parents 
inilil L866, when he married Sophia S. Mead, and he and his wife made their 
home at Bolivar until l^TM. when they moved to Olean, and from there to 
Porl Allegany. He was engaged in milling and in the lumber trade' until 
L883, when he built the store he now owns bo I'll Allegany, and commenced 
in the furniture trade and general undertaking. The main building is 28x60 
Eeet, over which is a hall, where nearly all public entertainments in the borough 
are held, and which has a -eating capacity of about 250. Mr. and Mrs. 
Garthwait have one child. Cora. Mr. Garthwait is a member of the Knights 
of Labor. In politic-- he affiliates with the Republican party. 

('. E. GROVER, proprietor of planing mill, contractor and builder. Port 
Allegany, is a sou of Converse and s. A. (Clark) < trover, and was horn in Liberty 
township, McKean Co., Penn., in L847. His father was a native of < treat Bend 
on the Hudson river, in New York, and his mother of Tioga county, Penn. After 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 523 

their marriage they located at Ulysses, Potter Co., Perm. Converse Grrover was 
one of the pioneers of Potter county, where he was engaged in building, and 
followed coopering. In 1847 he removed to Liberty township, McKean county, 
where he purchased and cleared a tract of land. Their children were Mrs. 
Catherine Acre, C. E. , William I. , Mrs. Dweilly Falk and Oren W. C. E. Grover 
was reared in Liberty township, where he received his education. While he 
was yet a boy his father died, and he made a home for the others until they 
arrived at maturity. Being a millwright by trade, he bought, in 1885, of 
C. N. Barrett his planing-mill at Port Allegany, which was destroyed by fire 
in l^sT. and which he at once rebuilt. In addition to superintending his mill, 
he does a good business at contracting and building. In 1879 Mr. Grover 
married Alice, daughter of John K. Burt, who was the first male child born in 
Potter county. Mr. and Mrs. Grover have four children: Orrilla, Letha. and 
Martin and Mabel (twins). Mr. Grover is a member of Liberty Lodge, No. 
51 15, F. & A. M. 

H. P. HAGAR, farmer and lumberer, P. O. Portage Creek, is a son of Richard 
Hagar, and was born in Vermont. February 10, 183(1. His parents removed to 
Bradford county, Penn., in 1834. engaged in farming, and there lived and died. 
Their children were H. P., Sarah (deceased), Jane, Richard (deceased) and 
Joseph (deceased). H. P. Hagar. at the age of nine years, on account of the death 
of his mother, found it necessary to find some employment to relieve his father 
of the burden of his care, and from that time became the arbiter of his own 
destiny. In 1852 he married Phebe M. , daughter of D. S. White, of Norwich, 
McKean Co., Penn., and located in Liberty township. Afterward he lived 
for a brief period in Norwich, but returned to Liberty township and purchased 
the farm he now owns, which he cleared. He has since been engaged in 
farming, and also quite extensively in the lumber business. Mr. and Mrs. 
Hagar have had six children, three of whom are yet living: David, Eleanor and 
Belle; Rosella, George and William are deceased. Mr. Hagar is a supporter of 
the Democratic party, and has held several official positions in Norwich town- 
ship. D. S. White, father of Mrs. Hagar, was one of the poineers of Norwich 
township, and was the father of six children: J. O.. Clark, Phebe M., Edwin 
(who was killed while at work in the woods, when thirty years of age), George 
(deceased) and one that died in infancy. The parents of these children are 
both deceased. 

CHARLES W. HOOKER, merchant, Port Allegany, son of William M. 
Hooker, was born in Mill Grove. Cattaraugus Co., N. Y., March 10, 1838, and 
soon after his father moved to West Genesee, Allegany county, located on 
Dodge's creek and engaged in farming, also lumbering; here he died in the 
fall of 1884. His children were Anna, widow of Henry Wright, of Portville: 
Fannie, wife of Abner Tubbs, of Farmers Valley; William; Charles W., and 
Lafayette, who died of typhoid fever at the age of twenty-one years. Amy, 
in consideration of the care and services given to her parents in their later 
years, inherited the estate, and is now a resident gi the old homestead. 
Charles W. was educated in Allegany county. N. Y.. and married, October 12, 
1865. Sarah L., daughter of C. G. McKay, of Allegany, Cattaraugus Co., 
N. Y. He located at Olean, where he was engaged in running a gang mill; 
thence removed to Portville, becoming proprietor of the Portville House, and 
two years later he accepted a position offered him by Miller Bros., at Bay 
City, Mich., as foreman, and remained with them eight years. He then came 
to Port Allegany in 1877, and became associated with his brother, William, in 
the boot and shoe and grocery trades, the firm name being Hooker Brothers. 
Mr. Hooker is a member of Libertv Lodge, No. 505. F. & A. M. , of which he 



•Y_!4 HIKTOHY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

has been secretary for the last seven years. Politically he is identified with 
the Union Labor party. William, his brother, also a native of Mill Grove, 
I n «iii in L836, made his home with his parents until 1868, when he removed to 

Forest county, where he remai I -even and one half years. Corning to Port 

Allegany in L874, he here embarked in business as dealer in boots and 
He married, in L868, Lwy L., daughter of Henry Champlin, of Genesee. Alle- 
gany Co., N. Y., and has two children: Nettie A. and Bessie E. 

ARTHUR J. HUGHES, Port Allegany, son of Joab B. and Lucy (King) 
Hughes, was born in Belfast. Allegany Co., N. Y. , August 27, 1845. The 
father died in L855, leaving two children: A. J. and Florence, the latter of 
whom died October 7, 1889. A. J. Hughes was educated at Friendship 
Academy and Genesee Vallej Seminary at Belfast, and being obliged to rely 
largely on his own resources he taught school, clerked in a store, and was 
otherwise employed to ohtain the money to defraj his expenses. He began 
newspaper work with George W. Dickinson, on the Allegany County Reporti r, 
then published at Belmont, X. Y., as collector and traveling correspondent, 
continuing with him five years, first working on the Reporter and later on the 
Olean Times. May 27, 1874, he established t lie Port Allegany Reporter, and 
has been its editor and proprietor ever since. In 1SS7 Mr. Hughes also estab 
lished the Autograph at Austin, Potter Co., Penn., but after publishing the 
paper a year he sold it. In 1878 Mr. Hughes represented McKean, Tioga and 
Potter counties on the Democratic State Committee. In 1879 he was the 
choice of Potter county for the same position, and in 1880 was selected by 
Tioga county to represent the district. For the past five years he has repre- 
sented McKean county on the same committee. During the presidential cam- 
paign in 1880 he was one of the secretaries of the Democratic State committee. 
He received the nomination of his party for State senator in lsso, and. al- 
though defeated, ran ahead of his ticket, the vote in his district for Hancock 
being 7.1 18, his being 7.840. He has been a delegate to State, congressional, 
senatorial and county conventions many times, but has only once, in L880, 
been a candidate for a salaried office. In 1NN4. in company with E. P. Dal- 
rymple and C. R. Bard, he built the largest opera house in the county, which 
was burned in December, 1887. He was one of the organizers of the First 
National Bank in 1888, and is one of its directors. Mr. Hughes was married 
in August. |S7<~>. to Alice, daughter of Johnson Higgins, of Friendship, N. Y., 
and they have two children: Mary, wife of Frank R. Utter, of Friendship, 
N. Y.. ami Julia, wife of William C. Carter, of Renovo, Penn. Mr. Hughes 
is a member of Liberty Lodge, No. 505, F. & A. M. 

B. KERSHNER, foreman, Port Allegany, son of Conrad Kershner, was 
born in Hersfeld, Hessen-Cassel, Germany, in 1822, where he was reared and 
educated, and where his parents died. Their family consisted of six children: 
George, Mrs. Lenora Mains, John, Mrs. Doretha Hetler, Justina (deceased), 
and the subject of our sketch, who came to America in 1852, locating in \Va\ ne 
county, Penn., where ^e was employed in a tannery. He removed to Newark 
Valley, Tioga Co. , N. Y.. where hi' was foreman in a tannery for a period of 
twenty two years, and in 1^77 accepted a position as ft. reman of Boot & Keat- 
ing's tannery, at Port Allegany, where he is >till engaged. In 1So4 he rnai ried 
Caroline Henderson, and they have four children: George H. J. W., Tilda and 
(i. K. .Mr. Kershner is a member of Liberty Lodge, No. 505, F. & A. M. 
Both he and his wife are members of the Methodisl Episcopal Church, and he 
is serving as steward and trustee of the same. Ho i- a Democrat in politics. 

('. A. LARRABEE, jeweler. Port Allegany, son of Willett and Rosasna 
iSinithi Larrabee, was horn in Almond, Allegany Co.. N. Y., in 1844. His 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 525 

parents removed to Whitesville, N. Y., and he made that his home until the 
commencement of the Civil war, when he enlisted in CornpaDy H, Eighty-fifth 
N. Y. V. I. He was captured April 19, 1864, at Plymouth, N. C, and was 
held prisoner for a period of eight months, being confined at Andersonville, 
Charleston and Florence, where he incurred disabilities from which he never 
can recover. He was exchanged December 13, 1864, and mustered out of the 
service July 6, 1865. Returning to Whitesville, he here married, July 15. 
1866, Eugenia E., daughter of Rev. Joseph W. Selden. They made Whites 
ville their residence until March, 1S70, when they removed to Port Allegany, 
where he engaged in the jewelry trade, and has a very pleasant and remunera- 
tive business. In 1871 he was appointed postmaster, a position he held until 
July, 1885. Mr. and Mrs. Larrabee have five children: Pauline, Effie, Allie, 
Florence and Lawrence. Mr. Larrabee is a member of Liberty Lodge, No. 
505, F. & A. M. , and of Arnold Chapter, R. A. M. ; he is a member of Star 
Hose Company No. 1, of Port Allegany. Mr. Larrabee is a supporter of the 
Republican party, and has been a member of the county committee several 
times; he has held various official positions in the borough, and at present is a 
member of the council and justice of the peace. With C. N. Barrett, he was 
instrumental in organizing Henry Metcalf Post, G. A. R., at Port Allegany. 

ALVA N. LILLIBRIDGE, Port Allegany, son of Lodowick and Anna 
C. (Stanton) Lillibridge, was born August 19, 1823, in what is now Port Alle- 
gany, McKean Co., Penn., on the place he now owns. His maternal grand- 
father, Samuel Stanton, was born at Mount Pleasant, Wayne Co., Penn.. and 
was afterward judge of that county, and one of its able and prominent men, 
extensively engaged in various enterprises. There he married Martha Morse, 
and they came to McKean county, at a very early day, where they purchased 
1,700 acres of land on Marvin creek, in what is now Hamlin township, and a 
tract of 300 or 400 acres now owned by W. J. Davis, in Liberty township. 
At the latter place he erected a store and log houses, having plans made for 
many buildings. He returned to bring his family to Port Allegany, but, on 
arrival at Jersey Shore, found seven of his children prostrated with typhoid 
fever. He had previously been to Philadelphia, and made plans to bring a 
colony of '200 families to Port Allegany, the purpose being to make that the 
county seat of McKean county; but before his plans were fully executed he 
discovered that the county was losing large sums of money appropriated for 
road purposes. He proceeded to Bellefonte to have justice done, accomplished 
his design, was taken with croup and died there. The colonists, having lost 
their chief, proceeded to Ashtabula county, Ohio, and located there. The 
widow of Snrnuel Stanton went to McKean county, where she remained until 
her decease. Their children were Samuel, Polly, Anna C, Lucy, Rebecca, 
Lydia, Daniel, Abel and Hannah, of whom Samuel, Abel, Anna C. and Han- 
nah became permanent residents of McKean county, all of whom are de- 
ceased but Hannah. Anna C. Stanton married Lodowick Lillibridge, and 
located in what is now Port Allegany, where they were, among the first settlers, 
engaging in most anything to make a living. They reared a family of eight 
children: Elias, Samuel, Alva N., Phebe A. (Mrs. Rennselaer Vanderhule), Han- 
nah (Mrs. Terrance Green), Amy (Mrs. Hiram Baker), Lucy (Mrs. G. M. 
Hall, of Oliphant, Lackawanna Co., Penn.) and Lowell L. Lillibridge. Alva 
N., the third son, made his home with his parents until his marriage, June 
24, 1847, to Leoria S., daughter of Isaac Viner, of Port Allegany. They 
located on the place he now owns, where, with the exception of three years, 
they have since resided. He is engaged as farmer and lumberman, and has 
been prosperous in his pursuits. In 1863 he was elected sheriff, which 



526 HISTOBY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

necessitated his removal to Smethport for the term of three years. To Mr. 
and Mrs. Lillibridge have been born two children. Mason A. and Ora, now 
Mrs. O. L. Snyder, of Buffalo. Mr. and Mrs. Lillibridge are members of fche 
Baptist Church: in politics he is a Republican. 

S. C. SARTWELL, proprietor of the Sartwell House. Port Allegany, is 
a son of Joel and Elizabeth (Otto) Sartwell. and was born at Farmers Valley. 
McKean Co., Penn., in 1840. Solomon Sartwell, his grandfather, who was a 
native of New Hampshire, where he married, removed to McKean county, 
Penn., at a very early time, and located at Farmer-. Valley, where both he and 
his wife resided until their decease. Joel, son of Solomon, and father of S. C. 
Sartwell, was also a native of New Hampshire, and removed with his parents 
to Farmers Valley, where he married Miss Elizabeth Otto, after which they 
located at Farmers Valley, where he was engaged in the lumber trade, and 
where they raised a family of ten children, of whom but six are known to be 
living: Helen (who married the Hon. \Y. J. Davis), Joseph, Sylvia (now Mrs. 
J. L. Behn), S. C. , Henry and Lucy (now Mrs. Dean Cheadle). Wilbur, who 
was born before these, went to California in 1857. and is probably deceased, 
as no tidings have been received from him. S. C. Sartwell was reared and ed 
ucated in McKean county, and in 1865 married Rose Thomson, after which 
they located at Portville. where he was engaged in business. He afterward 
purchased a farm near Port Allegany, which he sold in 1 "S 7 4 . and then re- 
moved into the borough where he became the owner and proprietor of the 
Sartwell House, a hostelry noted for the excellency of its management, and 
which has the exclusive patronage of the traveling public. Mr. and Blrs 
Sartwell have two children living. Grace and Stephen (twins); two children. 
Willett and Winifred, are deceased. Mr. Sartwell is a member of the Demo- 
cratic party, and one of the able and representative citizens of Port Allegany. 

F. P. SHANER, formerly of Port Allegany, son of Matthias and Margaret 
•I. i Stew ait ) Slianer. was born in Freedom, Venango Co., Penn., in 1859, where 
he remained until fifteen years of age, when, with his parents, he removed to 
Clarion county, same State. His father's family consisted of eight children. 
viz.: John L.. David G., Emma I Mrs. William U. Over). Daniel C. Horace O. 
Ella (Mrs. .Jerry Meter), F. P. and Ambrose C. F. P. Snaner began his edu 
cational course in the schools of Venango and Clarion counties, and after at- 
tending school several terms at the academy in Rimersburg and West 
Freedom, he taught school for four years, and in L883 accepted the position 
as book-keeper for Root & Keating in their tannery at Port Allegany: hi' is a 
member of the Knights of the Maccabees, Tent No. 11. of Port Allegany. He 
is an active worker in the ranks of the Republican party, and has served a- a 
member of the county committee, and of the borough council. He is also a 
member of the Methodist Church. He was married June 12, 1889, to Miss 
Jennie F. Simar. He has now moved to Olean, N. V.. where he has accepted 
a position as superintendent of Root & Heating's tannery. 

WILLIAM J. TEMPLETON, merchant. Port Allegany, is ason of James 
and Sarah Templeton, and was born in the County Tyrone, Ireland, in 1837. 
When thirteen years of age he came to America, and located at Buff alo, N. Y. ; 
afterward he was employed as manager of A. Rumsey's farm for several 
years. In 1 s7:'» he married Agnes S. Mills, and located at Colton, N. Y., 
where he owned a farm and also carried on the lumber trade. Removing to 
Bleating Summit, he here engaged in business as lumberman, and in 1887 
I at Port Allegany, where he became a dealer in general merchandise. 
Mr. and Mrs. Templeton have four children: George D., James F.. Charles S. 
and Edward Kay. Mr. Templeton is a member of Erie Lodge, No. 161, F. & 
\ M . of Buffalo. In politics be rotes with fche Union Labor party. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 527 

V. R. VANDERHULE, farmer and lumberer, Port Allegany, son of Ger- 
sham and Lavina (Mead) Vanderhule, was born in Bainbridge, Chenango Co., 
N. Y. , in 1831 . His father was born and reared in Dutchess county, N. Y. , near 
what is now Poughkeepsie. Gersham Vanderhule' s father helped to gain our 
independence, having served as a soldier four years in the Revolutionary war; he 
was in many hard-fought battles, and one of them was the great battle of Bunker 
Hill. He was once taken prisoner by the British, and died soon after the war 
closed, through the effects of a wound received in battle. V. R. Vanderhule's 
mother was born and reared near Albany, N. Y. The famous Gen. Meade, 
who commanded a portion of the Union forces in the late Civil war was a 
relative of hers. Mr. and Mrs. Vanderhule reared a family of twelve children, 
six of whom are deceased; those living are Samuel, Elisha, V. R. , Robert, 
Mrs. Adelia Penrith and George. V. R. Vanderhule was reared and educated 
in Chenango county, N. Y. , and made his home with his parents until 1 S4< >, 
when he was employed in Susquehanna county, Penn., remaining there until 
1852, when he removed to McKean county, Penn. , and was employed by Jacob 
Coss, a lumberman, until 1856, and then went into lumbering and other 
branches of business for himself, and in 1865 purchased a farm in what is now 
the borough of Port Allegany, and has since been engaged in farming and lum- 
bering. In 1856 he married Phebe A., daughter of Lodowick and Anna C. 
(Stanton) Lillibridge; they became the parents of three children: Alice, who 
died at the age of fifteen years; George and Rose. Mr. Vanderhule is em- 
phatically a self made man. Beginning his business life under adverse cir- 
cumstances, he has by his own exertion secured a competency and is now one 
of McKean county's representative men. He is an active member of the Re- 
publican party, and cast his first vote in Port Allegany, then called Canoe 
Place, and when there were only seven Republican votes cast beside his own 
in the whole township. 

IRA WEIR, P. O. Portage Creek, son of John and Sally Weir, was born 
in Kanesville, Wyoming Co., N. Y. , in 1837, and was reared in his native 
county, remaining there until manhood. He came to McKean county, Penn. , 
in 1863, and located at Liberty, being engaged as farmer and lumberman, and 
a year later his parents followed him. Mr. Weir was married, in 1861, to Ad- 
eline Johnson, and they have had two children: Alva M. and Charles E. Alva 
M. married William Moore, a farmer near Tallmage's mill, Liberty township. 
Mrs. Weir dying, Mr. Weir married, for his second wife, Miss Hattie B. Fer- 
guson, and by this marriage has two children: Walter and Ernest. When Mr. 
Weir located in Liberty, being a natural mechanic, his services were sought in 
all directions, and for a time he was the general blacksmith, carpenter, wagon 
maker and sleigh maker. He has been an enterprising man, and merits the 
success he has had. He is public spirited, and a liberal supporter of all worthy 
enterprises. 

Charles E. Weir, son of the above, was married October 1, 1884, to Adelia 
Elliott, of Portville, N. Y. He located at Liberty, and in May, 1888, became 
owner and proprietor of the store, and has since been successfully engaged as 
a dealer in general merchandise. Both he and his father are supporters of the 
Republican party. 

ANNIX TOWNSHIP. 

FREDERICK F. BISHOP, farmer, P. O. Turtle Point, was born in 
Le Roy, N. Y., September 6, 1822, a son of Elisha and Fanny (Piper) Bishop, 
natives of New Hampshire, who settled in Annin township in 1841, clearing 
and improving a farm on Newell creek, on which they lived and died. Elisha 



528 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Bishop was a tanner and currier by trade and operated a tannery on Newell 
creek for many years. The timber cut on his farm was the first felled in that 
part of the township. He had six children: Frederick F.. Levi, George. 
Henry, Olive I.Mrs. William Dunbar) and Charles. Frederick F. Bishop 
lived in Massachusetts until fifteen years of age. He first came to Annin town- 
ship in 1N40, where he settled permanently in 1844, clearing and improving a 
farm adjoining that of his father, on Newell creek, where he resided until 
1864, when he removed to the farm he now occupies, most of which he also 
cleared and improved. October 21, 1844, he married Lydia L., daughter of 
Emery and Lydia (Locke) Whitney, of Watertown, Mass., and they have had 
five children: Le Boy E., Wilder (deceased). Maria iMrs. B. E. Simar), 
Emily L. (Mrs. Martin Simar) and Fanny (deceased). Mr. Bishop has held 
the office of school director of Annin township many years. He is a member 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church; politically he is a Republican. 

Le Roy E. Bishop was born in Annin township November 19, 1846, and 
lives on the old homestead. He married, October 10, 1878, Bosa, daughter of 
George and Hannah (Winship) Blowers, of Steuben county, N. Y. , and thej 
have four children: Florence, George, Delia and Winnie. Mr. Bishop has 
been school director five years; politically he is a Bepublican. 

THEBON COOFEB.'lumberman and farmer. P. O. Turtle Point, was born 
iu Dartmouth, N. Y. , August 23, 1813, a son of Samuel and Mary (Russell) 
Cooper, who settled in Annin township, McKean Co., Penn., in 1838. Theron 
Cooper came at the same time and took up the land which he now owns and 
occupies, which he cleared and improved, and where he has resided most of 
the time since, being for many years interested in the lumber business. In 
June, 1840, he married Sophia A., daughter of John and Catherine Mead, of 
Bolivar, N. Y. , by whom he had six children who grew to maturity, viz. : Silas 
E., Albertus, Joel A., Elwin, John S. and Jane (Mrs. Myron Smith). Mr. 
Cooper is a prominent and respected citizen of Annin township, and is a mem 
ber of the Baptist Church. He has held several of the local offices of the 
township, and politically he is a Republican. 

MARSHALL J. HADLEY, surveyor, P. O. Port Allegany, was born in 
Jasper, Steuben Co.. N. Y., November 14. 1836, a --on of Benjamin F. and 
Lydia (Prentice) Hadley. His father was a physician by profession and settled 
in Annin township in 1856, where he practiced two years; he then located at 
Olean, N. Y. , residing there until his death. He was a native of New Hamp- 
shire. Marshall J. Hadley was reared in his native town and educated at 
Bath (X. Y.) High School. He read law one year at Wellsville. X. Y, and 
settled permanently in Annin township in 1858. October 16, 1861, he enlisted 
in Company F, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was wounded at 
Fort Harrison. In 1862 he went in the Ordnance Department of the Eight- 
eenth Army Corps, where, with the exception of three months that he was 
on Government survey, he served until his discharge. He was promoted t" 
sergeant in December, 1861, and commissioned first lieutenant (not mastered) 
in L864, and was honorably discharged from the service in February. 1866. 
lb' then returned to Annin township, where for some time he was engaged in 
operating a planing mill. Since 1868 he has been engaged in various other 
enterprises, and has done more or less business as a surveyor and conveyancer. 
He is one of the enterprising citizens of the township, and was elected justice 
of the peace in the spring of 1888. In politics he is a Republican, and was 
elected county surveyor in the fall of 1889 by a majority of 1,818 — 854 ahead 
of his ticket. He is also a member of the G. A. R. 

JOSEPH HODGES, farmer, P. O. Annin creek, was born in Somerset. Yt.. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



529 



February 19, 1806, and is a son of Ephraim and Catherine (Johnson) Hodges 
early settlers of Broome county. N. Y., where Joseph was reared Our subject 
settled in what is now Annin township in 1839. locating on the farm where he 
now resides, all of which he cleared and improved, and where he has lived for 
fifty years. August 18, 1823, when but seventeen years of age, he married 
NancV, daughter of Ittair and Betsy (Page) Elliott of Broome county, NY., 
and to them were born ten children: Sally (Mrs. John P. Evans), Nancy (Mrs. 
Simmons Foote), Marv (Mrs. Nathan Foote), Raymond, Lorenzo, Julius, Caroline 
(Mrs Henry Wilcox), Olive A. (Mrs. Wilson Tubbs), Jerome and Joseph Mr. 
Hodges is a remarkably well-preserved man for his years, and is one of the few 
pioneers left in Annin township, of which he is the oldest resident He has 
been a member of the Baptist Church for sixty years. Politically he is a 
Republican, and has filled all the offices within the gift of the township, with 
the exception of justice of the peace. . „ ... 

ERASTUS H NICHOLS, farmer, P. O. Turtle Point, was born in Halitax, 
Windham Co., Vt., October 14, 1822, and is a son of Samuel and Abigail 
(Chase) Nichols, who settled in Eldred, McKean Co., Penn., m 1830 Samuel 
Nichols, who was a farmer by occupation, cleared and improved the farm now 
occupied by his son Dana B. , and died there. He had the following named ten 
children: Lenora, Huldah (Mrs. Edson Warner), Erastus H, Lucma Mrs. 
Charles Calkins), Edwin, Wilbur. Adelia (Mrs. George Colvin), Permelia (Mrs. 
Frederick McClure), Nathaniel and Dana B. Erastus H. Nichols was reared in 
Eldred from eight years of age, and after reaching his majority worked by the 
month until he was twenty-six years old. He then engaged in farming in 
Eldred and in 1861 removed to Annin township, where he cleared and im- 
proved' the farm he now occupies. In November, 1861 , he enlisted in Company 
H Fifty-eighth Regiment, P. V. I., was wounded at Drury Bluff, and honor- 
ably discharged from the service in December, 1864. He was twice married; 
his first wife was Lucinda P., daughter of Anson G. and Mary A (Bowen) 
Moses, of Olean, N. Y., and by her had two children: George S. and Lillian. 
His second wife was Mrs. Amelia M. (Cooley) Smith, of Cuba. N. 1. Mr. 
Nichols is one of Annin township's most prominent citizens. He is a member 
of the G. A. R. ; politically a Republican. 

VERY REVEREND P. J. PATTERSON, V. F., was a native of Raffeny, 
Parish of Mullagh, County Cavan, Ireland. His classical education was 
received at Cavan Seminary, and in this country he studied philosophy at St. 
Mary's Seminary. Cleveland, Ohio, and theology at St Vincent e Seminary, 
Westmoreland county, Penn. He was ordained to the priesthood in 18b8, and 
was appointed pastor of St. Mary's Church at Sartwell, where he was located 
up to his death. He also had charge of the following named parishes: St. 
Gabriel's Church, Port Allegany; St. Raphael's Church. Eldred; St. John s, 
Duke Centre; St. Paul's. Costello, Potter county, and the Austin Mission, Aus- 
tin, Potter county. He was a hard worker, and by his efforts in 18 70, the land 
was secured in Bradford upon which the elegant church and convent of bt 
Bernard now stands. He also secured the property at Smethport and built 
St. Elizabeth's Church, where it now stands, and to his efforts much ot 
the growth and prosperity of the church in this vicinity is due. He died 
December 21, 1889, and the burial services took place at Newell creek. 
December 27, following. Bishop Mullin presided, assisted by the Rev^l athers 
DeLaroque, of Warren; Coonan, Bradford; Hamel, Olean; Meagher, Ridgway; 
Winter Meadville; Brennan, Driftwood; Galligan, Smethport; Brennan, 
Sharon, and Lynch, of Sartwell. About 10 o'clock a. m., a_reqmem mass was 
commenced by Rev. M. A. DeLaroque as celebrant, Rev. J. J. Hamel, deacon, 



530 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Rev. William Goonan, sub-deacon, and Very Rev. Francis Winter, master of 
ceremonies. The Smethport Catholic choir did the singing. The Rt. -Rev. 
Bishop preached, and during his very appropriate remarks paid a deserved 
tribute to the memory of the deceased. The services in the church being over, 
the remains were viewed by hundreds of sorrowing people, after which the 
body was borne to the grave by six laymen, nameh : Eugene Mullin, James 
Cremin, James McGavis, James Hooly, James McKean and T. D. Nash. 
Arriving at the grave, the last absolution was pronounced by the Rt.-Rev. 
Bishop, when all that was mortal of the gifted priest and pastor, kind brother 
and friend, was consigned to the silent tomb. 

WILLIAM H. TAYLOR, retired. Turtle Point, was born in Georgetown, 
Madison Co., N. Y., April 26, 1815, a son of Reuben and Achsah (Alderman I 
Taylor, who settled in Allegany county. N. Y., in ISIS. In 1834 they moved 
with their family to Ceres township, this county, and to Annin township in 
1N44. later to Potter county, same State, where they died. They had four 
children: William H.. Norman, Riley (killed in the Mexican war) and Jane 
(Mrs. Harrison Ruby). William H. Taylor, the subject of this sketch, came 
to Ceres township in 1834, where he bought a farm on Bell's run. six miles 
in the woods. Here he built a log house covered with stakes, with floors made 
of split timber, a coverlet hung up for a dour, and greased newspapers tacked 
up for windows. In those early days, deer, bears, wolves, and all kinds of game 
were plentiful; and Mr. Taylor having a good rifle, and being a keen sportsman 
and a crack shot, enjoyed many a day's good sport. So there was always 
plenty of meat in the cabin, but flour was 110 per barrel, corn $1.T>0 per 
bushel, potatoes $1, calico and shirting each twenty-five cents per yard, aDd 
other things in proportion. Mr. Taylor cleared here a fine farm, which, how- 
ever, he sold and then moved into Annin township where he bought the Annin 
farm, once owned by William Annin (after whom the creek and township were 
named), who was murdered near Pittsburgh for his money. Mr. Taylor 
cut a road through the bush, and moved in on an ox sled. This farm was 
located on the Allegheny rivei - , and there was no road, neither up nor down 
the river, nor was there any neighbor within five miles. Mr. Taylor at once 
set t<> work to clear his farm, and immediately put up the necessary buildings. 
Deer was plentiful, and he says he has killed as many as six in one day. and 
on one occasion he killed two deer and a bear pretty good sport! He erected 
the first saw mill, and put in the first shingle machine ever used in McKean 
county. He was the first to discover bituminous coal in this region, and 
ined the vein in Liberty township, his interest in which he sold for 
$2,500. He also built two saw-mills, one hotel, two dry goods stores and 
fifteen other buildings for renting purposes; in tact, there is not a man living 
who has contributed more toward the advancement of his township and county. 
There was a time when he knew every man in the county, and every man 
knew him, anil his reminiscences of olden times are most interesting. Speak 
ing of the county generally, he says land was £1 per acre when he came into 
it: timber was pine in abundance, hemlock and hardwood ; the smaller streams 
were filled with trout, and the Allegheny river with shad, suckers, bass, and 
pike weighing twenty-eight pounds each. The firsl murder was committed, 
in 1845, by I'zza Bobbins, two miles above Port Allegany, for which he was 
1 at Smethport; the third night after his burial his body was dug up 
and his head cut off by young Burrows. The next murder was the deed com- 
mitted by "Old Aunt Betty." who cut her brother's head off and then put 
him under the bed, but the jury returned a verdict of "not guilty." Next 
followed August I, 1ST4. the murder at Porl Ulegany of Calvin H. Hobar by 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 531 

one Crow, for which crime the murderer got one year in the State prison. The 
next was the shooting of Miss Riley by her cousin, for which he was executed; 
then came the murder of John Yohe by a man named Thompson, in 1886, for 
which he got twelve years in the State prison, and then, in 1889, came the 
killing of Henry Robertson or Robinson by Anson or Anderson. Many more 
interesting events Mr. Taylor could narrate. 

Mr. Taylor was married in 1835 to Martha, daughter of John and Jane 
(Gibson) Rountree, of County Cavan, Ireland, and they have reared eight 
children — six boys and two girls, viz. : George W.. Benjamin, William H., 
Nathan, Charles, James. Harriet (Mrs. George Helmig) and Mary J. (Mrs. 
George Campbell). The six sons are model men, using neither whisky nor 
tobacco, and never allowing profane language to cross their lips. They are 
well to do, and own farms with good buildings within sight of Turtle Point. 
George W. , the eldest, carries on a dry goods store at Turtle Point, along 
with his brother Nathan. The parents are yet living — the father in his seventy- 
fifth year and the mother in her seventy-eighth — both highly respected. In 
politics Mr. Taylor is a Republican. 

CEKES TOWNSHIP. 

POTTER BENSON, P. O. Ceres, N. Y.. was born in Cinciunatus, Cortland 
Co., N. Y., February 18, 1814, a son of Didymns and Elizabeth (Fish) Ben- 
son. He settled in Ceres township. McKean Co.. Penn.. in 1832, and for a 
number of years was engaged in lumbering in Ceres township, and in Sharon. 
Potter county. He has lived on his present farm in Ceres township for the 
past twenty -five years. He married June 4, 1836, Henrietta C, daughter of 
Robert and Mary (Ben) Gilbert, of Ceres, by whom he had the following named 
children: Statira C. (Mrs. Justus Rice). Gulielma M. (Mrs. F. G. Fuller), 
Mary (Mrs. G. W. Lewis), John (killed at the battle of Gettysburg), Eliza- 
beth (Mrs. R. R. Bell), Harriet (Mrs. Alvah Hall). Brice B. and Rebecca. 
Mrs. Benson's maternal grandmother, Mary Law, was born in England and 
married, for her first husband. Thomas Bee, and for her second husband, John 
Bell, and with her second husband came to America, about 1800. bringing 
her five children. Thomas. Mary and John Bee, and William and John Bell, 
and were among the first settlers of Ceres township. Thomas Bee and his 
brother John, uncles of Mrs. Benson, and natives of England, were also pioneers 
of Ceres, John paying for the homestead and caring for his mother and step 
father while they lived. 

Brice B. Benson, son of Potter and Henrietta C. (Gilbert) Benson, was 
born in Ceres, June 11, 1851, and resides on the homestead with his parents. 
In 1883 he married Eva, daughter of David and Ida (Holmes) Finch, of Port- 
age. N. Y., and they have two children: Anna and Glenn. 

JAMES BIGGINS, farmer. P. O. Eldred. was born in the Parish of Ro 
ban. County Mayo, Ireland, in June, 1834, a son of Patrick and Mary (Maloy) 
Biggins. He was reared in his native county until sixteen years of age. In 
the spring of 1851 he came to America and located in Livingston county. N. 
Y. . where he worked as a farm hand for three years and eight months. In 
1854 he settled in Ceres township, McKean Co., Penn.. on the farm where 
he now resides, which he cleared, and also made all improvements in build- 
ings, etc. Besides attending to his farm interests, he has to some extent been 
engaged in lumbering, and has been a successful man. March 29, 1864. he 
enlisted in Company C, Second United States Sharpshooters, and participated 
in the battles of the Wilderness, Laurel Hill, Spottsylvania, North Ann River, 
Cold Harbor and Petersburg; was wounded in the right wrist in the latter en 



532 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

gagement, and was honorably discharged June 20, I860. In 186S he mar- 
ried Ellen, daughter of Patrick Welch, of Ceres township, and they have five 
children: Mary A., Ella E.. John. Patrick and James. Mr. Biggins is a mem- 
ber of the Catholic Church, and of the G. A. R. He has served his township 
as overseer of poor three years, school director six years, and six years as over 
seer of roads and tax collector. Politically he is a Republican. 

OLIVER P. COON, farmer, of Ceres township, McKean Co., Penn..P. O. 
Ceres, X. Y., was born in Allegany county. X. V.. December 1. 1835, a son 
of Daniel B. and Nancy (Burdick) Coon. They settled in Ceres township in 
L837, where our subject was reared from two years of age, and after attaining 
his majority, worked as a lumberman for a number of years, but has spent a 

g 1 share of his life in farming. In 1 8S2 he embarked in the drug business 

at Ceres, at which hecontinued six years. He has been married twice. His 
first wife was Cynthia Adams, of Linden. Cattaraugus Co.. X. Y.. and his 
second wife, Lucinda, daughter of Dr. Peter and Elizabeth (Woodring) Scholl, 
of Saegerstown, Penn. . by whom he has one daughter. Lizzie. Mr. Coon has 
held several offices in Ceres township; was constable nine years in succession; 
served one term as jury commissioner of McKean county, and is at present 
holding the office of justice of the peace. He is a member of the K. O. T. M. 
and of the E. A. U. In politics he is a Democrat. 

JOHN H. COON, carpenter. P. O. Ceres. X. Y., was born in Ceres town 
ship, McKean Co., Penn., June Hit. L842, a son of Daniel li. and Nancy 1 Bur- 
dick) Coon, the former a native of Rhode Island and his wife of Rensselaer 
county, N. Y. They settled in Ceres township in 1S37, and engaged in farm- 
ing, clearing and improving the farm now occupied by Mrs. A. Austin, and 
here they died. They reared a family of five children: Oliver P., Lorenzo O., 
John H, Orson L. and Jennie (Mrs. Prof. S. L. Maxon). John H. Coon was 
reared in Ceres, where, with the exception of three years that he lived in Wis- 
consin, he has always resided. He has followed the carpenter's trade twenty- 
five years, and was proprietor of the Grand Central Hotel at Ceres one and 
half years, ami engaged in the livery business two years. In 1^7-1 he mar- 
ried Maria, daughter of Fred and Mary (Maloy) Manning, of County Mayo, 
Ireland, and they have five children: Fred BL, J. Leslie, Lee M., Arthur P. 
and J. Ralph. Mr. Coon is a leading representative citizen of Cere.-: ha- held 
the office of justice of the peace fifteen year-, and several minor offices; politically 
he 1- a Republican. 

JAMES It. GROW, farmer, 1'. O. Myrtle, Penn., was horn in Almond, 
X. Y.. February 21, lvj ( , a son of George W. ami Ruth (Cornell) Grow, who 
settled in Ceres township, McKean Co., Penn.. in 1837, locating on the farm 
n 'w owned and occupied by James R. Grow, a pari of which they cleared and 
improved. They had six children who grew to maturity: Martin C, Hannah 
M. (Mrs. Peter North), Sally (Mrs. X T . Lanphere), Angeline (Mrs. Almond 
Haskins), James K. and Celania T. (Mrs. Charles Fuller. 1 James R. Grow 
red in Ceres from ten years of age: he purchased the homestead of his 
father in L853, cleared a good share of the farm and erected the present build- 
ings. He married, in L850, Martha A., daughter of Dwelley and Minerva 
(Fuller) Fuller, of Ceres township, and they have two children: Hattie M. 
(Mrs. C. B. Robartsi ant Jennie A. (Mrs Alton W. Maxon.) Mr. Grow is a 
prominent and representative farmer of Ceres. He is a member of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church, and Sons of Temperance; has held the office of com- 
missioner and supervisor of his township seven years, aiul school director sev- 
eral pears. In politics h i is a Republican. 

GEORGE N SACKETT, fanner. P. O. Glenn, was born in Oxford. Che- 



BIOGBAPHICAL SKETCHES. 533 

nango Co., N. Y., May 2, 1828, a son of George and Mercy (Hall) Hackett. 
He was reared in his native county, where he received a common-school educa- 
tion and learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed as a journeyman for 
three years. In 1847 he located in Ceres township, McKean Co., Penn., and 
in 1852 purchased the land he now occupies, all of which he cleared and im- 
proved, and where he has since resided. He was twice married. His first wife 
was H. Charlotte, daughter of William J. and Anna (Edwards) Hornblower, 
natives of England and early settlers of Ceres township. To them were born 
seven children, two of whom are living: George W. and Henry N. His sec- 
ond wife was Hannah E., daughter of John and Jane (King) Bell, of Little 
Genesee, N. Y. Mr. Hackett is a prominent and representative farmer. He 
has held the offices of supervisor, poormaster and school director, each nine 
years, and is at present township auditor; in politics he is a Republican. 

GEORGE W. HACKETT, druggist, P. O. Ceres, N. Y., was born in 
Ceres township, McKean Co., Penn., October 8, 1863, a son of George N. 
and Charlotte (Hornblower) Hackett. He was reared on the old homestead in 
Ceres township, where he remained until twenty-one years of age. When he 
was eighteen years old he taught school during the winter months for three 
seasons, and at the same time studied medicine with Dr. H. A. Place, of Ceres. 
In 1885 he was clerk in a drug store for sis months, after which he became ;< 
partner with C. D. Voorhees in the drug business at Shinglehouse, Potter Co., 
Penn., which partnership existed until February 27, 1888, when he purchased 
a drug store in Ceres, which he has since successfully conducted. He was 
married June 16, 1887, to Mae, daughter of George J. and Maggie (Scholl) 
Odenheimer, of Saegerstown. Penn.. and they have one son, James N. Mr. 
Hackett is a member of the K. O. T. M. ; politically he is a Republican. 

NIMROD LANPHERE, farmer, P. O. Myrtle, was born in Almond, N. Y. , 
April 21, 1817, a son of George W. and Hannah (Haskins) Lanphere. both natives 
of New England, who settled in Ceres township in 1835, on the farm now 
owned by William Worden, where they made some improvements and resided 
until their death. They had five children who grew to maturity: John, Lois 
(Mrs. John Chapman). "Nimrod. Esther (Mrs. Clark Wells) and Martha (Mrs. 
Joseph Trumbull). Nimrod Lanphere was eighteen years of age when he 
removed to Ceres with his parents. He cleared and improved the farm he now 
occupies. He was married in 184(1 to Sally, daughter of George W. and Ruth 
(Cornell) Grow, of Ceres township, and they have the following named chil- 
dren: George, Albert, Rosa A. (Mrs. Oscar Cooper). Winfield, Frank and 
Nellie (Mrs. Milo Eckert). The two eldest sons, George and Albert, were in 
the war of the Rebellion. George enlisted in a New York regiment, was 
wounded at Roanoke. Va. . and was discharged on account of disability after 
one year's service; he re-enlisted in 1864. and served until the close of the 
war. Albert went out with the Pennsylvania Bucktails. was wounded at Get- 
tysburg, and discharged after three years' service. Mr. Lanphere is a leading 
citizen of Ceres, and has held the offices of supervisor, judge of election, asses- 
sor and school director of the township. He is a member of the Seventh-Day 
Baptist Church; in politics he is a Republican. 

THOMAS LYNCH, farmer, P. O. Ceres, was born in the town of Askelow, 
in County Limerick, Ireland, December 25, 1827, a son of Thomas and 
Mary (Reagan) Lynch, who emigrated to America in 1848, and settled in 
Washington, D. O, where they resided until their death. They had eight 
children, seven of whom came to America: Thomas, Margaret (Mrs Thomas 
McMann), Bridget (Mrs. Thomas Mulqueen). Johanna (Mrs. John Scanlon), 
Ellen (Mrs. John McCarty), William and Patrick. All are now deceased ex- 



534 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

cept Patrick, who resides in Washington, D. C. , and Thomas, the subject of 
this sketch, who was reared and educated in his native country, and came to 
America in 1847, remaining at Quebec, Canada, one year. He then went to 
Vermont, where he remained two years, and in 1850 settled in Ceres township. 
McKean county, and resided in Ceres village rive years, working in the lumber 
mills of that place. In 1855 he settled on the farm he now owns and occupies, 
where he has since resided, and which he cleared and improved. He was 
married in 1855 to Mary A., daughter of John and Johanna (Powers) Kennedy, 
of County Limerick, Ireland, and they have four children living: John. William. 
Edward and Margaret. Mr. Lynch is a member of St. Mary's Church. Sart- 
well; in politics he is a Republican. 

JUDSON RILEY, farmer, P. O. Sartwell, was born in Ceres township. 
McKean Co.. Penn., August 13, 1865, and is a son of Jeremiah and Bridget 
(Lundrigan) Riley. His paternal grandfather was Jeremiah Riley, a native 
of County Cork, Ireland, who came to America in 1840, and settled in Ceres 
township, McKean Co. , Penn. His maternal grandfather, James Lundrigan. 
was also a native of County Cork, Ireland, and was a pioneer of Annin town- 
ship. .McKean county. The father of the subjectof this sketch was a native of 
County Cork, Ireland, and Judson's mother was born in Waddington, St. Law- 
rence Co., N. Y. Judson's father cleared and improved the farm in (ties 
township now occupied by his widow and heirs, and there it was that he died. 
His children were eleven in number: Elizabeth (Mrs. Delou Beernanl, Henry. 
Hannah (Mrs. John Bly), Ellen (Mrs. Thomas Foley), Kate, James and Judson 
(twins). Anna, John, Joseph and Winifred. Mr. Judson Riley was reared on 
the old homestead, and with his brothers. John and Joseph, conducts the farm. 
He is a member of the Catholic Church, and in politics is a Democrat. 

JOHN J. ROBARTS, of the firm of Robarts Bros., dealers in general 
merchandise, Ceres, P. O. Ceres, N. Y., was born in Westfield. Tioga Co., 
Penn., April 16, 1S44, a son of John J. and Phebe (Trowbridge) Robarts, 
natives of Luzerne county, Penn., and Painted Post. X. Y. . respectively. His 
paternal grandfather was Josiah Robarts. a native of Connecticut, of Welsh 
and Scotch descent, a pioneer of Luzerne county, Penn., and his maternal 
grandfather was Henry B. Trowbridge, a native of Vermont, who, with his 
parents, settled in Tioga county. Penn., in an early day. and was a prominent 
business man of his time in Westfield, that count)'. The parents of John J. 
Robarts settled in Pleasant Valley, Potter Co. . Penn.. in 1853, where his father 
cleared and improved a farm, and resided there until 1866, when he removed 
to Annin (now Ceres) township, this county, locating on the farm now owned 
by his sou C. B. Robarts, which he also cleared and improved, and resided 
there until his death, in 1878, at the age of sixty -i\ years. His children were 
Daniel P., Henry B.. Jemima L. (Mrs. Lewis K. Palmer), Phebe S. Mrs. 
E. B. Westi. Sarah E. (Mrs. .1. S. Butters), John .1.. Martha E. (Mrs. 11. S. 
Gleason), Polly M. (Mrs E. Clark), Caleb 1?.. Mary L. (Mrs. Henry Ter 
rette) and William Gr. Of these, two were in the war of the Rebellion. 
Daniel P. enlisted in the Pennsylvania " Bucktails, " was afterward trans- 
ferred to the Invalid Corps, served three years, and was honorably discharged. 
Eenrj B. enlisted in 1864, in Company A. Eighty-fifth New York Volunteers, 
and was honorably discharged July 17. 1865. John J. Robarts was reared in 
Potter county, anil received a limited education in the common schools. 
After leaving the farm he engaged as a clerk in a store at Port Allegany, and 
followed that occupation until 1868, including three years at Ceres [n 
March, 1868, he embarked in business for himself at Cere-, with Y. Perry 
Carter, under the firm name of Carter & Robarts. dealers in general merchan- 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 535 

dise; and in 1873 he purchased his partner's interest, conducting the business 
alone until 1875, when he sold out. In 1883 he again resumed business in 
Ceres, and since 1S87 the business has been conducted in the name of Robarts 
Bros., 0. B. Robarts being his partner. Mr. Robarts was twice married; 
first, in June, 1871, to Ella A., daughter of V.. Perry and Almira (Smith) Car- 
ter, of Ceres, by whom he had one daughter, Grace A. Mrs. Robarts died, 
and September 17, 1878, he married Minnie C, daughter of A. C. and Belle C. 
(Smith) Hovey, of Ceres, by whom he has two children: Jay E. and H. Ross. 
Mr. Robarts served as auditor of McKean county in 1878-80-81, and was deputy 
sheriff in 1882-83. He is a member of the Masonic order and K. O. T. M. ; 
in politics he is a Republican. 

CALEB B. ROBARTS, of Robarts Bros., Ceres, was born in Westfield, 
Tioga Co., Penn., March 9, 1850, a son of John J. and Phebe (Trowbridge) 
Robarts. He was reared and edrtcated in Pleasant Valley, Potter Co.. Penn. 
He served an apprenticeship of four years at the mason's trade in Corry.Penn., 
after which he worked as a journeyman for two years. He then engaged in 
farming on Bell's run, Ceres township, McKean Co.. Penn.. at which he con- 
tinued for fifteen years, on the farm he now owns, settled by his father, and 
during that period was also engaged in lumbering. In 1886 he embarked in 
mercantile business in Ceres, and in 1887 formed a partnership with his brother 
John J. under the firm name of Robarts Bros. Mr. Robarts married, in 1871, 
Hattie M., daughter of James R. and Martha (Fuller) Grow, of Ceres township, 
and they have two children: Ray R. and Daisy. Mr. Robarts is a representa- 
tive merchant and citizen of Ceres. He and his wife are members of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Republican. He is a member of 
the Masonic fraternity, the A. O. U. W., the S. of T. and the K. O. T. M. 

FRANCIS M. VAN WORMER, lumberman, P. O. Ceres, N. Y., was born 
in Cohocton, Steuben Co., N. Y., February 18, 1836, a son of Henry and Han 
nah A. (Elliott) Van Woriner. His paternal grandfather, Lawrence Van- 
Vormer, was born near Kinderhook. N. Y., and was of the old Dutch Knicker- 
bocker stock. He settled in Cohocton, N. Y.. in 1816, with a family of four- 
teen children, as well as a number of negroes, remnants of slavery days, who 
remained with the family. He was a farmer by occupation and a large land- 
holder. The maternal grandfather of Francis M. was Jonathan Elliott, also a 
pioneer of Steuben county. N. Y.. formerly of Otsego county, N. Y. Henry 
Van Wormer was a large real estate dealer and speculator in Steuben county, 
N. Y. Francis M. Van Wormer was reared in his native county, and educated 
in the common schools and Macomb Street Academy, Monroe, Mich. He set- 
tled in Ceres, McKean Co., Penn., in 1858, where he worked in a lumber-mill 
until the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion. April 15, 1861, he enlisted 
in Company A, Twenty-third New York Volunteers, and participated in the- 
battle of second Bull Run, Chantilly, Fredericksburg, Cedar Mountain, and 
other engagements, and was honorably discharged in June, 1863, at the expira- 
tion of his term of service. He then returned to Ceres, and, with L. P. White, 
purchased the grist-mill and lumber business of Eleazer Harmon, the business 
being conducted under the firm name of Van Wormer & White up to 1882, 
when Mr. Van Wormer purchased his partner's interest, and has since success- 
fully conducted the business alone. Mr. Van Wormer married, in 186J, Eliz- 
abeth O, daughter of Rev. David B. and Alice H. (Pusey) Brown, of Couders- 
port, Penn., and they have three children living: A. Castella, Edith M. and 
Henry B. Mr. Van Wormer is a self-made and successful business man, and a 
prominent and respected citizen. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, 
and politically he is a Republican. 



536 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES — NORWICH, HAMLIN, LAFAYETTE 
AND SERGEANT TOWNSHIPS. 

NORWICH TOWNSHIP. 

C. A. ANDERSON, merchant, Colegrove, was born in Warberg, Sweden, 
March 5, 1860, a son of Andrew and Iuga Anderson. He attended school in 
his native country, when, his father having moved to the United States, he was 
anxious to come and find him, but having no money he borrowed enough of a 
friend to pay his passage to New York City. From New York he went to New 
Jersey, where he was employed two months in carrying water to a company of 
men working on a railroad. Having earned a little money, he determined to come 
to McKean county. He landed at Ridgway. a small boy without friends or 
money, and unable to speak the English language. Here a gentleman gave 
him money enough to take him to Wilcox, thirteen miles away, and from there 
he walked to Clermont, where he found some of his own country people, to 
whom he told his story. They furnished him with food and money enough to 
take him to his father in Smethport. He found his father, who was not able, 
however, to support him, and a Mrs. Rifle furnished him with a room and a 
bed, and he worked at anything he could find to do to obtain his food. After 
spending a week in Smethport he accompanied his father to Colegrove. where 
the latter was employed by W. J. Colegrove, and he worked for his board. His 
father left Mr. Colegrove in about two months, but he continued in his employ. 
remaining on his farm until 1881, when he was employed as clerk in the gen- 
eral store of W. J. Colegrove & Son at Colegrove. This partnership was dis- 
solved, and C. M. Colegrove carried on the business until July 19, 1883, when 
he sold out to Mr. Anderson, who, after a few months, admitted M. J. Gallup 
as partner in the business, and they continued together until April 1, 1886, 
when Mr. Anderson bought Mr. Gallup' s interest and has since continued the 
business alone. Mr. Anderson has been a successful business man, and is 
highly esteemed in the town of Colegrove. He has held various township offices 
and August 1, 1883, was appointed postmaster. He was married April 25, 1S87, 
to Miss Annie, daughter of Conrad and Lena Bayer, of Norwich township. Mr. 
Anderson is a member of Norwich Lodge, No. 538, E. A. U., and McKean 
Lodge, No. : '' ss . I''. iV A. M. He and his wife are members of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. 

\. P. BREWER, farmer, P. O. Norwich, is a son of William and Polly 
(Curtis) Brewer, natives of Connecticut, who came to McKean county, Penu.. 
in 1815, and settled upon the farm where A. P. Brewer now resides. They 
reared a family of seven children, the subject of this sketch being the second 
--on. and the only one now living. He was born October 2 1, lv_M. and received 

his education in the public schools of the township where he now reside-, and 
has always lived upon the farm which his father settled. In September, 1M1. 
In' married .Miss Helen, a daughter of Luther and Jemima (Colegrove) Haven. 
of Norwich township. The Havens were among the first settlers of that 
township, and reared a family of eight children, all of whom are living. Mr. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 537 

and Mrs. Brewer are the parents of four children, viz.: W. W. (proprietor of 
a hotel at Mount Jewett. Penn. ), Milton A. , Melvin F. , and Nellie Alcena (de- 
ceased). Mr. Brewer served six years in the capacity of county commissioner, 
also six years as county auditor, and has been identified with various township 
offices. Mr. and Mrs. Brewer are members of the Baptist Church. In poli- 
tics he is a Republican. 

G. W. BURDICK, farmer, P. O. Norwich, a son of Rowland and Alvira 
(Webb) Burdick, natives of New York State, was born in Norwich township, 
McKean Co., Penn., April 17, 1820. He spent his boyhood days on the farm 
with his parents, and August 3, 1S42, he married Miss Sarah H. , a daughter of 
G. W. and Elizabeth (Rose) Griswold, natives of Vermont, who were among 
the early settlers of Smethport, Penn. Mr. Burdick has been identified 
among the many lumbermen of McKean county, is also an enterprising farmer, 
and was postmaster under President Tyler. His son, W. P. Burdick. was 
born November 27, 1859, and is now a practicing physician in DuBois, Clear- 
field Co., Penn. G. W. Burdick' s grandfather was a Baptist minister. His 
father and mother and six brothers and one sister belonged to the Baptist 
Church, and one sister joined the Methodist Church. Six brothers and one 
sister are still living. 

G. A. BURDICK, farmer, P. O. Norwich, was born in Norwich township, 
McKean Co., Penn., November 1, 1830, the youngest of eight children born to 
Rowland and Alvira (Webb) Burdick, natives of New York, who came to Nor- 
wich township in 1815. Mr. Burdick has always resided on the old homestead, 
and been engaged in farming. He married, August 12, 1855, Miss Viletta, a 
daughter of Orin and Nancy (Corwin) Gallup, and they are the parents of six 
children, viz.: Clarence A., Elbert C, Orlo J., Wellington L. , Alice E. and 
Ina V. Mr. Burdick has been actively identified with the interests of the 
township, and has held various township offices. 

JONATHAN COLEGROVE, farmer, P. O. Colegrove, was born in Nor- 
wich township, McKean Co., Penn., November 22, 1844, a son of Horace and 
Emily (Burlingame) Colegrove, both also natives of Norwich township. He 
was in the Civil war, enlisting in 1861 in Company F, Fifty-seventh Pennsyl- 
vania Volunteers, and served three years. He was in the siege of Yorktown, 
and was taken prisoner on the peninsula near Savage Station, in 18fi2, was 
prisoner two and a half months on Belle Isle, afterward joined his regiment 
near Falmouth, Va., was in the Gettysburg fight, and on the second day was 
wounded through the neck and windpipe, and also through the left shoulder. 
He was taken to Baltimore, Md. , to Patterson Park hospital, which hospital 
was under the charge of Dr. S. D. Freeman. He was not expected to live, for 
several days; for twenty -two months he never spoke a loud word. He served 
the rest of the time in the medical purveyor's department, Baltimore, Md. He 
was married January 1, 1867, to Miss Hattie P., daughter of Sheffield and 
Mary E. (Baldwin) Purple, of Troy, Penu., and they are the parents of two 
children, viz. : Samuel (deceased) and Albert L. (living at home). He also has 
an adopted daughter, Mary P. Mr. Colegrove is a member of McKean Lodge, 
No. 128. F. & A. M. ; Bradford Chapter, No. 160, and Sir Knights, No. 58. 

C. D. COMES, lumberman, P. O. Digel, a son of D. D. and Polly V. 
(Smith) Comes, natives of Pennsylvania, was born in Keating township. Mc- 
Kean Co., Penn., June 13, 1855. He has always lived with his parents, and 
at the present time has control of a mill in company with his father. They 
are sawing 4,000,000 feet of lumber per year, and peeling 2,500 cords of hem- 
lock bark. 

C. W. DICKINSON, farmer. P. O. Norwich, is a sou of Edward H. and 



538 HISTORY. OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Roxie (Comes) Dickinson, the former a native of New Jersey, and the latter of 
Norwich township, McKean Co., Penn. The father came to McKean county 
in L833, and engaged in hunting and trapping, at one time killing fifty-seven 
twenty five days; he also killed three elks and twenty bears in McKean 
county. C. W. Dickinson is the second son of eight children. He was born 
in Norwich township, November 10, 1842, and received his education in the 
common schools of Norwich. July 9, 1861, lie entered the United States serv- 
ice, enlisting in Company I, Forty-second Regiment Pennsylvania "Buck- 
tails."' and was discharged on account of disability, returningto Norwich Sep 
fcember 28 of the same year. He married, November 18, L873, Miss Estella, 
P. Denison, a daughter of William and Otteline (Carter) Denison. natives of 
thi State of New York, who came to Norwich township in 1841. Mr. and 
Mrs. Dickinson are the parents of four children, viz.: Charlie B., Lena i. , 
Carrie A. and Louis H. Mr. Dickinson is one of the wide-awake men of the 
township, and has been identified with various local offices. He has taken a 
great interest in the public schools of the township, and. like his father, has a 
disposition to hunt and trap, having killed about three hundred deer, nine 
bears, eighteen wolves, and about twenty wildcats, and caught too much small 
game to mention here. 

J. C. DOYLE, lumberman, Crosby, P. O. Newerf, is a native of McKean 
county. Penn., born in Sartwell. May 111, 1860. He was reared and educated 
in his native county, and when but a boy began to work in his father's mill, 
and finally was appointed its superintendent, and on reaching his majority was 
admitted as a partner, the firm name then being M. Doyle \- Son. Mr. Doyle 
was married October 16, L884, to Miss Katie C. Butler, of Sartwell. ami they 
have two children: Helen B. and Clayton P. Michael Doyle, father of J. 
C came to this country with his parents from County Cork. Ireland, when 
but nine years of age. At twenty three he married Ellen Keefe. a native of 
Canandaigua, N. Y. Michael Doyle died September 17. ISM', at Sartwell. 
Penn., surrounded by his family and a few intimate friends: the firm name 
was then changed to that of J. C. Doyle & Bro.. who will in future carry 
on the business on the same system as before. Mrs. Katie C. (Butler) Doyle 
is a daughter of James Butler, the eldest of seven children, and who came to 
this country from County Kilkenny, Ireland, about the year I Soil, and wits 
married one year later at Cuba. N. Y. to Bridget Phelan, a native of Ireland. 

MICHAEL ERHART. postmaster and merchant, Newerf. was born it: 
St. Mary's. Elk Co., Penn.. March 25, 1854, a -on of John an. I Margaret Er 
hart, natives of Germany, who came to St. Mary's in L853. Mr. Erhart n 
his education in the common schools of Keating town-hip. and in April. L884, 
he purchased a farm of I'll acres in Norwich township. He was married, it. 
August. 1886, to Miss Laura, a daughter of Samuel and Matilda (Cochran) Lay 
ton. natives of New Fork State, who came to McKean county in 1880. Mr. and 
Mrs. Erhart have one child. Essie, born October 9, L888 In May Mr. Erhart 
engaged in mercantile business in Newerf. since which time he has also acted 
in the capacity of postmaster. 

W. ( ). GALLUP, farmer. P. (). Norwich, was born in Norwich 1'ownship. 
McKean Co.. Penn., June 28, 1851, the elder of two -,111- born to Nathaniel C. 
and Alcena (Derby) Gallup, natives of Pennsylvania, born in 1M I. ami who 
settled upon tlie farm now owned by their son. lb ll. Gallup. W. O. Gallup 
received his education in the common schools of hi- native township, and has 
always been engaged in fanning. He was married, in February, I^To. to Miss 

Ella (irigsby.born in December, I 851,8 daughter of Samuel and Mary I I'.vendon 1 

Grigsby, natives of England. Mr. and Mr-. Gallup are the parents of foui 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 539 

children, viz. : Cora A., Bertha M. , Milford H. and Susan R. Mr. Gallup 
takes an active interest in the affairs of the township, and has held various 
local offices. 

N. W. HEINEMANN, lumberman, Colegrove, was born in Duderstadt, 
Germany, November 25, 1848, a son of Christopher Heinemann. When he 
was three years old his parents came to the United Slates and settled in Nor- 
wich township, McKean Co., Penn., where, in 1865, his father built what is 
called an up-and-down saw-mill. He was reared in McKean county, working 
on the farm and in the mill until manhood, and finally bought the homestead 
and mill of his father. He has rebuilt the mill, and has furnished it with the 
latest approved machinery, and is now cutting 30,000 feet of lumber a day. 
Mr. Heinemann was married, October, 1, 1S74, to Miss Annie Bell Waffle, of Elm 
"Valley, Allegany Co., N. Y. She is a daughter of George and Bessie (Knight) 
Waffle, the former of whom was born in Cortland, N. Y., July 8, 1808, and the 
latter in Vermont, April 20, 1820. Mr. and Mrs. Heinemann are the parents 
of two children: Bessie W. and Theressa. 

J. B. OVIATT, Jb., farmer, P. O. Norwich, was born in Smethport, Mc- 
Kean Co., Penn., December 22, 1850, the third son of eleven children born to 
J. B. and Catherine M. (Stickles) Oviatt, natives of New York State, who came 
to McKean county in 1837, and settled in Keating township. Mr. Oviatt 
remained upon the home farm with his parents until he was twenty-one years 
of age, when he went to Roulette, Penn. , where he was employed by the late 
Leroy Lyman in hunting, and working upon the farm. From Roulette he 
went to Alfred Centre, N. Y. , where he finished his education, after which he 
came to Norwich township and engaged as a laborer. He married, in October, 
1875, Miss Hattie K., daughter of J. B. and Mary B. (Gallup) Kimball, who 
came to Norwich township in 1855. Mr. and Mrs. Oviatt are the parents of 
three children, named as follows: Jessie F., Milo and Frank, all of whom 
reside at home. Mr. Oviatt, after his marriage purchased the farm which he 
now owns, and upon which he has erected a handsome residence. Mr. Oviatt 
has been a very successful hunter, and has caught or killed, since 1875, the 
following wild animals: 170 deer and 10 bears, which netted $1,146.91; and 111 
foxes, 112 raccoons, 8 otters, 35 minks, 8 wildcats, 30 martins, 56 skunks, and 
120 muskrats, netting $403.86. He has held various township offices, and is 
highly respected by all who know him. The family are members of the Meth 
odist Episcopal Church, of Colegrove. 

N. fl. PABKEB, lumberman, P. O. Gardeau, is a son of George and Polly 
Parker. George Parker was born in the city of Albany, N. Y. , in 1 784, but when 
eight years of age was taken by his father to the Cownaisque valley, where the 
family settled. In this same valley Polly Parker was born in 1792, and at the 
age of fifteen years was married to George Parker. Here also, N. H. Parker 
was born in 1812. In 1828 the family moved into the Genesee Valley, and 
bought the farm formerly owned by Shongo, the head chief of the Seneca 
Indians, Six Nations, and who then lived on the farm and continued to do so 
for over a year, George Parker afterward giving him the privilege of spending 
the remainder of his days there if he chose. But a majority of the other In - 
dians had gone to the Buffalo, Cattaraugus and other tribes, and after about a 
year and a half he said he must go to console and advise those who looked to 
him for counsel. He was a man of much intelligence, was a great warrior in 
the Revolutionary war, and had participated in the massacre in the valley of 
the Wyoming. He was also very skillful in the medical profession, and prac- 
ticed much among the whites in the early history of the county with marked 
success. Among the Indians at that time was one named Johny Hacks, who 



54U HISTOHY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

was a great hunter. George Parker asked him where there were some good 
"licks." He answered by saying, " Way off yonder great much lick, much 
deer, much elk. much salt and much medicine water." He could noi tell 
where, or how far, hut could point directly toward the present site <>f Norwich, 
Penn. In his annual hunting trips Mr. Parker, with his son, commenced 
going in this direction, and in June. 1838, reached what is now McKean county. 
to hunt elk. and found the place spoken of !>\ Johny Hacks. At that time no 
place ever seen on the American continent would reward the hunter's pursuit 
as well as this. There was plenty of elk. immense quantities of deer, black 
and wolves very plenty, also panthers and all kinds of small game. 
George and N. H. Parker continued to hunt hen' each year, and in the winter 
of 1844 the father and son bought a tract at this point for the purpose of hunt 
ing. and N. H. Parker owns it still, although the game, like the red man, has 
all gone toward the setting sun. About the year IMMI one Capt. Thomas, 
said to have been a sea pirate, abandoned his ship on the coast of Florida to 
avoid being captured by a Spanish man-of-war, and followed the coast all the 
way to the Susquehanna river, thence up to this place, and eventually put a 
well down here on the site of the great Elk lick of the world, and made salt 
here until the Parkers bought of him in 1844. In 1865 N. H. Parker put 
down a well here near the old one, 640 feet deep, from which flows 
santly the strongest mineral water in the world, which has no equal in curing 
all chronic cases of disease. For all time to come thousands will receive ben- 
efit from its wonderful healing properties. This well is now famous, and is 
known as '•Parker's Mineral Spring." George Parker commenced hunting 
when very young, and soon became very skillful in the capture of game. Hav- 
ing hunted the Alleghany mountain ranee all over, in L850, George and N. H. 
went to Lake Superior, caught 125 beaver, killed several hears and wolves, and 
before returning hunted around the Lake of the Woods and a great part of the 
northwest territory. In March, 1851, George Parker surveyed a road from 
the mouth of the Ontonagan River, at Lake Superior, through an entire wilder- 
ness to Wisconsin river, where no human foot had ever trod before. In 1852 
the two went to California, across the plains, for the sole purpose of hun'ting, 
killing large numbers of deer, elk, antelope and buffalo. In California they 
killed several grizzly bears, on one occasion bringing down a verj large one at 
the first shot, with a repeating rifle made for Mr. Parker by William Billing 
hurst, of Rochester, N. Y. at a cost of §150. Returning from California by 
steamer the same year. George Parker also hunted in the Adirondack:-, in 
northern New York, killing many moose. He continued to hunt up to the time 
of his death, which occurred in L868, having killed in his lifetime over 3,000 
deer, about 200 black bears, and nearlj twenty elks, besides a large number 
of wolves and all other kinds of wild animals on this continent. N. II I'.u 
married, January 6, L846, to Hannah, daughter of Jesse Bullock, at 
that time sheriff of Allegany county. X. Y., and to this union have been born 
two children, George B. and Polly. 

WILLIAM H. RIFLE, farmer. V. O. Norwich, was born in Norwich 
township. McKean Co.. Perm., -Inly 31, 1842, a -on of Daniel and Eliza M. 
i \e| Rifle, who were among the early settlers of McKean county. 
The\ were the parents of six children. William H. being the third son. Il> 
spent hi- boyhood days with his parents on the farm, and in August. L861, 
enlisted in the service of his country, and was assigned to Company I. Fortj 
second Regiment, Pennsylvania "Bucktails," and served until November, 
1862, when he returned home and bought the farm he now owns. He 
married, November 18, 1869, Miss Emma A., a daughter of Timothy and 



BIOGKAPHICAL SKETCHES. 541 

Esther (Hill) Sawyer, natives of New Hampshire, and they have four children, 
viz.: Ada E., Julia F., Candace S. and William V. Mrs. Rifle is a member 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

H. SNOW, engineer, Colegrove, a son of Robert and Rebecca (Bangs) 
Snow, natives of Massachusetts, was born in that State February 13, 1817. 
When seventeen years old, he entered a blacksmith shop as an apprentice, and 
served four years. He married, December 24, 1841, Miss Eliza Crosby, of 
Orleans, Mass., where she died January 7, 1842, only living fourteen days 
after their marriage. June 1, 1844, he married Mrs. Caroline Cole, daughter 
of Jonathan and Betsy (Rogers) Kendrick, of Orleans, Mass. He worked at 
his trade until 1872, when he went to Brooklyn, N. Y., looking after other 
business. In 1881 he came to Titusville, Penn., where he was foreman in a 
machine shop for Dilingham, Cole & Co. He was an oil operator in Bradford 
for some time, and in 1881 he went to Smethport, Penn., and in company 
with his son, James H. Snow, bought some gas wells and supplied the borough 
of Smethport with gas. In 1SS4 he came to Colegrove as engineer for the 
National Transit Oil Company. Mr. and Mrs. Snow are the parents of three 
children, viz. : Nathan, a dry goods merchant in Boston; William B. (deceased) 
and James H. , general superintendent for the National Transit Oil Company, 
New York City. James H. Snow was married, in 1874, to Delia Newell, of 
Titusville, Penn. July 9, 1886. Heman Snow, the subject of these lines, mar- 
ried Mrs. Betsey Nickerson, of Massachusetts, a daughter of Albert and Mary 
Esterbrooks. 

D. M. WRIGHT, sawyer, Digel, Penn., was born in Eldred township. 
McKean county, Penn., August 13, 1845, a son of M. and Ruth (Brainard) 
Wright, natives of New York State, who came to Eldred township, McKean coun- 
ty, in 1815. They were the parents of nine children, D. M. being the third 
son. When D. M. Wright was five years of age his mother died, and he was 
thrown upon his own resources. He was in the Civil war, enlisting in June, 
1862, and was assigned to Company C, One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Regi- 
ment, New York Volunteers; he served until June 26, 1865, when he was 
honorably discharged and returned to Portville, N. Y., where he followed him 
bering. He married, January 28, 1872, Miss A. E. , a daughter of D. D. and 
Polly V. (Smith) Comes, of Norwich township, and they are the parents of 
two children, Ethel and Nellie. Since his marriage Mr. Wright has been en- 
gaged in lumbering in McKean county. He is a member of Eldred Lodge, No. 
560, F. & A. M. ; Arnold Chapter, No. 254; St. John's Commandery, No. 24, 
Olean, N. Y. ; Clermont Lodge, No. 949, I. O. O. F., and of the G. A. R.. 
J. R. Jones Post, No. 258, of Eldred, Penn. 

HAMLIN TOWNSHIP. 

FRITZ BLOCK, Sr., farmer, P. O. Kasson, was born in Germany, No- 
vember 15, 1846, a son of Fred and Getta Block. Fred Block came to America 
in 1859, and enlisted in the Civil war in 1861, where he was killed, leaving his 
family in Germany. Fritz Block worked as a laborer in Germany until 1872, 
when he came to Morris Run, Tioga Co., Penn., and went to work in the 
coal mines; here he remained two years, then went to work in the mines at 
Clermont. McKean Co., Penn. He married, February 8. 1873, Miss Augusta 
Bemkoskey, of Germany, and they are the parents of seven children, viz.: Mag- 
gie, Anna, Mary, Minnie, Matilda, Fritz, Jr. , and Johnnie. In 1886 Mr. Block 
came to Hamlin township and purchased the farm on which he now resides. 
He is one of the well-to-do farmers in the township, and has held various 
local offices. Mr. and Mrs. Block are members of the Lutheran Church. 



542 HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

W. W. BREWER, proprietor of hotel. Mount Jewett, is a native of Mc 
Kean county, Penn., born in Norwich township November 24, 1843. He 
remained at home until eighteen years of age, and August 13, 1861, enlisted in 
defense of the Union in the noted regiment known as the "Pennsylvania Buck- 
tail--." participating in all the engagements of his regiment. He was wounded 
at the battle of Antietam. but was disabled only a short time. He was dis- 
charged August 13. 1864, and returned home. In 1S84 he built a tine hotel 
in Mount Jewett, and upon its completion opened it to the public, and is still 
its genial proprietor. Mr. Brewer was married, August 9, 1865, to Miss Orpha 
Homer, ami they have two daughters: Nellie and Hettie. Mr. Brewer is a 
member of the Masonic fraternity. McKean Lodge. No. 388. Bradford Chapter. 
No. 260, and Trinity Commaudery. No. 58. 

H. W. BURLINGAME, farmer. P. O. Kasson. is a son of Isaac and 
Sophronia (Wolcott) Burlingame, natives of New York State, who came to Me 
Kean county in 1815 with Timothy Wolcott and others, and settled in Nor 
wich township (then Sergeant township) in the year 1816: it was what is known 
among the old settlers as ''the cold season;'' the crops were all destroyed, and 
Isaac Burlingame. in company with Timothy Wolcott, went in a canoe to Pitts- 
burgh for provisions, taking six weeks to make the trip. Isaac Burliii_ r ame 
was one of the party who were pushing a canoe load of potatoes up what is 
now known as "Potato creek," and tipped the load over in the creek, from 
which incident the stream derived its name. H. W. Burlingame was born in 
Sergeant township, McKean Co., Penn., March 3, 1818, on the old farm now 
owned by George Burdick. His father was a mason by trade, and H. W. 
worked with him until February 26, 1M1. when he married Miss Sally Rifle, 
a daughter of Amos Rifle, of Norwich township, and then began life for him- 
self. They reared a family of four children, viz. : H. L., living in Smethport; 
Wilbur, died in the Civil war: Amanda, wife of James Barnes, of Michigan, 
and Arabella C. , wife of Lucas Wilson, of Ludington, Mich. Mr. Burlingame. 
after his marriage, resided in Norwich township until 1848, when he sold out 
and came to Hamlin township. His wife died in 1849, and in June of the 
same year he married Miss Casandana King, a daughter of Joseph P. and 
Harriet (Berry) King, natives of New York State, who came to McKean county 
among the early settlers. Mr. and Mrs. Burlingame have had a family of five 
children, viz. : Carlton K. ; Millie J., wife of E. L. Olmsted, Norwich; George 
D., deceased; Effie and Royal H.. who reside with their parents. They are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Burlingame lias built by con 
tract many of the roads in Hamlin township, and has been an enterprising and 
successful business man. He has held various township offices, including those 
of Slate road commissioner, supervisor, school director, town clerk, auditor and 
postmaster. 

D. H. DAVIS, lumberman. Mount Jewett, was born in Wales, the eldest son 
in a family of four children born to Joshua and Annie (James) Davis, natives < if 
Wales, who came to Cambria county. Penn., in 1837. The father died when 
I). H. was seven yearsof age, and since that time he has earned his own liveli- 
hood. He learned the sli nakei's trade, at which he worked thirty-three 

years. In September, 1861, he entered the United State- service, serving 
three year- and nine months, when he was honorabh discharged. Returning 
borne he married, in .lime. lsr,7. Miss Clementine Eason, of Cherry Tree, Penn., 
andtheyare tin- parents of five children. Mr Davis worked at his trade until 
1885, when became to Mount Jewett and started a basket factory in company 
with W. H. Reese, and they afterward put in a saw-mill. In InsT the mill was 
destroyed l>_\ the. but has since been rebuilt, and is run under the firm name of 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 543 

Hitchcock & Davis, manufacturers of "dimension stuff." Mr. Davis has held 
the office of justice of the peace for twelve years. He is a member of Burnside 
Lodge, No. 679, I. O. O. F. Mr. and Mrs. Davis are members of the Methodist 
Protestant Church. 

JOHN EASTBURGH, Mount Jewett, is a son of Johnson and Brita (Nel- 
son) Eastburgh, natives of Sweden, was born in Gene city, Sweden, September 
17, 1852, and received a practical business education in his native country. His 
mother died when he was quite young. At twenty-one years of age he engaged 
with a lumber firm as foreman, and was employed by them for eight years. 
In June, 1881, he located at Jamestown, N. Y. , but in a short time came to Brad- 
ford, Penn. , where he engaged as a laborer upon the railroad. From Bradford 
he went to Hillsville, Ohio, and finally returned to Jamestown, engaging with 
the P. & W. R. R. as a section foreman, in which capacity he came to 
McKean county. In December, 1884, he married Miss Annie C. Johnson, a 
daughter of Peter and Charlotte Johnson, natives of Sweden, and they have 
two children: Jennie Mathilda (born December 17, 1885) and Annie Emelia 
(born May 6, 1889). In 1886 Mr. Eastburgh came to Mount Jewett as section 
foreman, and here he has purchased a piece of land and erected his residence. 
Mr. and Mrs. Eastburgh are members of the Congregational Church. 

JOHN EKEN, farmer, P. O. Mount Jewett, is a son of Daniel and Melissa 
(Yons) Eken, natives of Sweden, where he was born November 18, 1825. He 
received his education in the common schools of Sweden, and spent his boy- 
hood days upon the farm with his father. In November. 1847, he married 
Miss Lena Johnson, a daughter of John and Mary (Nels) Johnson, natives of 
Sweden, who has borne him eight children: Mary L., wife of G. Nelson, in 
Brooklyn, N. Y. ; Charlotte T., wife of G. M. Jackson, in Baltimore, Md. ; Ida 
S. , in Brooklyn, N. Y. ; Annie A. , also in Brooklyn, N. Y. ; Emma, wife of 
J. R. Johnson, in Mount Jewett; Augusta W. , Charles and Jennie R. Mr. Eken 
came to McKean county in 1869, and in 1871 located at Mount Jewett, where he 
now resides. Mr. and Mrs. Eken are now members of church. He has always 
been very successful in business, and they have a fine home at Mount Jewett. 

J. F. GALLUP, farmer, P. O. Kasson, is a son of Nathaniel C. and Dinah 
(Edmunds) Gallup, natives of Connecticut, who came to Sergeant township, 
McKean Co., Penn., in 1815. They reared a family of nine children, J. F. 
being the eldest son. He was born in Connecticut, March 17. 1809. His 
educational advantages were limited, there being no schools in that part of 
the country at that time. He spent his boyhood days with his parents upon 
the farm, and, when he was twenty years of age, his father died, leaving him 
seventy-five acres of land, on the condition that he would pay the debts he 
owed. The condition he accepted, and in four years had succeeded in can- 
celing all obligations. In March, 1833, he married Miss Docha Brewer, a 
daughter of Nathaniel and Phebe Brewer, of Norwich township, McKean Co., 
Penn., and to this union were born three children, viz.: Orson D., Ellen A. 
(deceased) and Orpha A., who resides with her father. Mrs. Gallup died 
September, 14, 1885. Mr. Gallup came to Marvin Creek, Hamlin township. 
in 1861, and here he now has a fine home and farm. He has held the office 
of county commissioner one term, besides various township offices. 

M. J. GALLUP, merchant, Moxint Jewett, was born in Norwich township, 
McKean Co., Penn., September 20, 1864, a son of Orson D. and Alvira V. 
Gallup, natives of same township. When he was eighteen years old he formed 
a partnership with C. A. Anderson, of Colegrove, Penn., which continued two 
years, when the partnership was dissolved, and he moved to Mount Jewett, 
where he embarked in the general mercantile business, keeping a fine store o 1 



544 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COL'NTY. 

well-selected goods. He is an enterprising young man. and holds a high posi 
tion among the business men of Mount Jewett. He has held several of the 
township offices, and has served efficiently and acceptably. Mr. Gallup was 
married September '_' I, L887, to Miss Alma •!.. daughter of J. W. and Sarah 
Brennan. all natives of Smethport, Penn. 

GEORGE 0. GARLICK, farmer and postmaster, Kasson, is a - f 

Truman and Catherine (Rifle) Garlick, the former a native of Otsego couuty, 
N. Y. . and the latter of Tioga county, Penn., who came to Hamlin township 
in 1825. Thej reared a family of six children, of whom George 0. is the 
second son. He was born in Hamlin township. McKean Co.. Penn.. June 8, 
1839, received his education in the public schools of the township, and spent 
his boyhood days upon the farm with his father. In May, 1864, he married 
Miss Phebe McKean, a daughter of Bernard and Bridget (Graham) McKean. 
natives of Ireland. They have three children: Bertie. Eva and Bernard. 
After his marriage, Mr. Garlick went to Minnesota with a team, but returned 
in one year, then went to Wilcox, Penn., and engaged in shoemaking, al 
though he had never learned the trade. Here be remained for ten years, at 
the end of which time he settled upon the farm he now owns. In politics Mr. 
Garlick votes with the Republican party, and has tilled the following offices: 
school director, road commissioner, town clerk, collector, overseer of poor, 
treasurer, and has tilled the postmastership of Kasson for six years. 

L. A. GROAT, landlord of the Fairview House, Mount Jewett. is a son of 
Peter and Minerva (Mclntyre) Groat, natives of New York State. They came 
to Wilcox, Penn., in 1870, and Peter Groat was engaged as foreman of the 
Wilcox tannery for twelve years. They reared a family of eleven children. 
the subject of this sketch being the third son. He was born in Bradford 
county, Penn., October 30. L842, and received a practical business education 
in the common schools of New York State. He spent his time with his parents 
until he attained the age of thirty-five years, engaging in the tanning business 
as an overseer. In .May, L881, he married Miss Flora A. Hamilton, a daughter 
of David and Eleanor Hamilton, of Emporium. Penn.. and they have had three 
children: Carrie, Harry and Bertha (the last named deceased). After his 
marriage Mr. Groat went to Clarendon. Warren Co., Penn., and engaged in 
building oil rigs and tanks. In the winter of 1 SS7 he came to Mount Jewett 
and erected the hotel which he successfully conducts. Mr. and Mrs. Groat 
are members of the Presbyterian Church at Kane, Penn. Mr. Groat i- a 
member of Newark Valley Lodge, No. 611, F. & A. M., and of Fisher Tent, 
No. L5, K. 0. T. M. 

PHILIP HAFNER, farmer. P. O. Kasson, was born in Germany, March 
17, 1839, is a son of Christopher and Elizabeth (May) Hafner. He received 
his education in his native land, and came to McKean county, Penn., with his 
parents in L853. When seventeen years of age be went to work as a laborer in 
the lumber woods. In November, 1867, he married Mis- Ellen, a daughter of 
Lyman and M E. (St arks) Bell, of Coudersport, Penn . and thej are the par 
ents of three children: Nellie M.. Harry H. and Leo K. After his marriage Mr, 
Hafner was employed upon the farm of Wernwag .V Co., until 1875, when he 
opened a meat market at Clermont, which he conducted one year, then came 
to Hamlin township, and purchased the farm on Marvin creel;, where he now 
resides. He is a prominent citizen, and has held various township offices. 

WILLIAM HAFNER, fanner. P. O. Kasa is a son of Christopher and 

Elizabeth (May) Hafner. natives of Germany, who came to this country, and 
settled in Sergeant township, .McKean Co., Penn., in 1853. They were the 
parents of eight children, of whom William is the sixth son. He was born in 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 545 

Germany, July 17, 1845, and came to this country with his parents in his 
boyhood. When fourteen years of age he began work as a laborer, at Cler- 
mont, Penn., and afterward went to Wilcox, where he worked for Col. A. I. 
Wilcox, for three years, after which he was employed by an engineering party 
for one year, when he returned to Wilcox, and was re engaged by Mr. Wilcox. 
In March, 1875, he married Miss Jennie Potter, a daughter of John F. and 
Phebe (Farley) Potter, of Lycoming county, Penn., and they have reared a 
family of four children, viz.: Idela M. , Edith A., Edna L. and Earl P. In 
187(5 Mr. Hafner came to Marvin Creek, Hamlin township, McKean Co.. Penn.. 
and purchased the farm where he now resides. 

JOHN HAFNER, farmer, was born in Germany, in 1835, a son of Chris 
topher and Elizabeth (May) Hafner. He came to McKean county, Penn., 
with his parents in 1853, and at seventeen years of age began work for him- 
self as a laborer. He was married, in 1861, to Miss Theresa, daughter of 
Christopher and Minnie Heinemann, of Norwich township, McKean Co. , 
Penn.. and she bore him one child, Mary L., wife of G. H. Graff, of Mount 
Alton, Penn. After his marriage he came to Hamlin township and purchased 
a farm. His wife died in 1878, and in 1881 he married Miss Minnie Fedder, 
of Smethport. who died in 1883. In 1885, Mr. Hafner married Miss Eliza- 
beth Martin, of Farmers Valley, Penn.. who died in 1889. She was a member 
of the Lutheran Church, as is also Mr. Hafner. He has held various town 
ship offices. 

CHA.RLES G. JACKSON, merchant, Mount Jewett, is a native of Sweden, 
born January 28, 1858. He remained in his native country till manhood, 
working on a farm from the time he was old enough for manual labor. In 
1880 he came to the United States and located at Mount Jewett, where he 
obtained employment as a laborer. In 1885 he embarked in mercantile busi- 
ness, and in 1887 became associated with O. Haglen, which partnership con- 
tinued until April 1, 1889. when they dissolved by mutual consent, and Mr. 
Jackson is now conducting business alone. He is a successful young man, 
and is one of the well-known citizens of Mount Jewett. He was married Sep 
tember 15, 1883, to Miss Amanda Lumberg, also a native of Sweden, and 
they have one child. They are members of the Lutheran Church. 

JOHN R. JOHNSON, contractor and house builder, Mount Jewett, is a son 
of Johannis and Anna Elizabeth Johnson, of the township of Hellefors, 
county of Orebro, located in the central part of Sweden, the city of Orebro 
being the capital of said county, and iron mining and lumbering the chief 
industries of that part of Sweden. Johannis Johnson, shoemaker by trade, 
was born in 1818, and died of consumption when forty-eight years old; his re- 
mains lie buried in the Hellefors Cemetery. His wife, Anna Elizabeth, was born 
in 1813, has worked hard all her days, and is yet living in her native country. 
They had six children, two of whom are deceased, and four are living in Amer- 
ica. Of these, John R., who was the youngest child, was born February 4, 
1858, in Orebro county, Sweden. He received his education in his native 
country, and spent his boyhood days with his parents, learning the carpenter's 
trade. In May, 1878, he left his native country and came to America, locating 
at Mount Jewett, where he worked at his trade, and after some time he bought a 
piece of land. As the place was growing, the land rose in price, and he be- 
came very successful in selling land lots. On December 24, 1882, Mr. John- 
son married Miss Emma F. Eken, a daughter of John and Lena Eken, former 
a wealthy farmer of Mount Jewett. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have a fine home, 
where they reside on the main street, Mount Jewett, and have a family of three 
children: Ernest R. W., born October 3, 1883; Ethel Beatrice, born Novem- 



546 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

ber 10, 1N80: Lilly Elvira, born January U, 18811. all of whom reside at home. 
Mr. Johnson is very successful in his business, and Mrs. Johnson is a happy 
mother, loving and beloved by her children, a woman who is a blessing to her 
family. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson attend the Lutheran Church; in politics he 
votes with the Prohibition party. 

N. P. LANTZ, farmer. P. O. Mount Jewett, is a son of John and Annastine 
Lantz. natives of Sweden, and was born June '24, 1841. He received a practical 
business education in the common schools of Sweden, and spent the days of his 
early manhood upon his father's farm, ami on the railroad in the capacity of 
foreman. In November. 1804. he married Miss Sophia M., daughter of Aaron 
and Sophia Elkstrom, and they have a family of eight children. In 1872 Mr. 
Lantz came to Pittsburgh, Penn. , and worked in the coal mines until 1876, when 
he moved to Hamlin township, McKean county, settling three and one-half 
miles from any neighbors. He then engaged with the Union Oil Company as 
foreman, with whom he was employed five years. Mr. Lantz owns a large 
farm near Mount Jewett, is one of the leading men of the township, and has held 
various township offices. Mr. and Mrs. Lantz are members of the Lutheran 
Church. 

CHARLES LUNDEN, proprietor of billiard room. Mount Jewett, is a na- 
tive of Sweden, born January 26, 1866, and when five years of age was 
brought to America and to McKean county, Penn., by his parents. He was 
reared in that county, and lived at home until manhood. He is-now proprietor 
of a tine billiard parlor, and owner of considerable property, including the 
building where he carries on his business, and is one of the most enterprising 
young men in Mount Jewett. December 19, 1887, Mr. Lunden married Miss 
Alma Swonsy, of Mount Jewett. 

THOMAS McCLELLAN, lumberman, Mount Jewett, is a son of A. J. and 
Eliza (Peters) McClellan, natives of Pennsylvania. They were the parents of 
two children, of whom Thomas is the eldest son. He was born in Phillipsburg. 
Centre Co., Penn., September 8, 1859, and received a practical business edu 
cation in the common schools of Clearfield county. In June, 1878, he came to 
Kane, Penn., with the sum of $1.40 of his earnings: here he remained until 
lsM.when he took Horace Greeley's advice and went West. He returned. 
however, the next year, and purchased some land at Ludlow, McKean Co. , 
Penn., in partnership with George Mell, and engaged in lumbering. In 1889 
he entered into partnership with Elisha K. Kane, of Kane, Penn. , and came to 
Mount Jewett, where they purchased a tract of land, and are now erecting a 
large mill with the latest improvements. He is also interested in the Mount 
Jewett, Kinzua & Ritterville Railroad, which is in process of construction. In 
18S5 he married Miss Mary E. Fuller, a daughter of Ambrose and Martha 
Eliza (Jones) Fuller, of Emporium, Penn.. and the] have two children, Helen 
and Paul. Mrs. Martha E. Fuller, was born in Springfield, Mass. Mr. 
McClellan is a wide-awake man. ever ready to promote the interests of his 
township. In politics he votes with the Prohibition party. 

E. B. McCOY, druggist, Mount Jewett, a son of W. Y. and Charlotte 
(Darling) McCoy, of Smethport, Penn. , was born in Smethport June 1. L856. 

He c )ived a practical business education in his native town, and spent his 

boy] «1 days with his parents. November 22, lS7t>. he married Miss Frances 

K... a daughter of Joseph and Rachel (Bovee) Lvman. of Hinghampton, N. Y. 
Mr. McCoj worked in liis lather's drug store until L883, when, in company 
with his brother, H. S.. he bought a stock of drugs in Smethport, remaining 
in partnership until 1885, when he bought his brother's interest. Mr. McCoj 
continue. I in business here until 1 SS7. in which year he sold out and came to 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 547 

Mount Jewett, where he built a store and put in a stock of drugs. He has 
been successful, and is now one of the leading business men of the place; is a 
member of Smethport Lodge, No. 388, I. O. O. F. ; also of Fisher Lodge. K. 
O. T. M. ' Mr. and Mrs. McCoy are members of the Episcopal Church at 
Smethport. 

DAVAULT MARTIN, farmer, P. O. Kasson, is a son of John and Mar- 
garet (Bower) Martin, natives of Germany, who came to Philadelphia in 1835, 
and to McKean county in 1844, and settled at Teutonia. They were the 
parents of eight children, of whom Davault is the eldest son. He was born 
in Philadelphia June 30, 1836. He received his education in the common 
schools of McKean county, and spent his boyhood days upon the farm with his 
parents until twenty-one years of age. When he reached his majority, he began 
work for himself as a laborer, and August 24, 1864, married Miss Elizabeth 
M. Hafner, a daughter of Christopher and Elizabeth (May) Hafner. His wife 
died April 11, 1878, leaving four children: John C, Edward D., Philip W. 
and Minnie E. Four years before marriage Mr. Martin purchased the farm 
on which he now resides, and on which he has erected a tine residence. Mr. 
Martin has served as jury commissioner for three years, and has held various 
township offices. He is a member of McKean Lodge, No. 388, F. & A. M. . 
Bradford Chapter, No. 260, and Trinity Commandery, No. 58, K. T. 

A. MELLA.NDER, merchant, Mount Jewett, is a native of Sweden, born 
April 1, 1852. He lived in his native country until sixteen years of age, when 
he came to the United States, and in 1871 located near the present site of 
Mount Jewett, working on a farm and in the lumber camps. In 1881 he 
started the first store in the town, and has been a successful merchant, owning 
the building where he carries on his business, and which is well adapted to his 
needs. He also owns a large saw-mill at Mount Jewett, and is extensively 
engaged in the lumber business. Mr. Mellander was married, February 13, 
1882, to Miss Huldah W. Burling. 

E. B. MOSSER, tanner, Mount Jewett, was born in Lehigh county, Penn., 
January 28, 1854. He was reared and educated in his pative county, and 
learned the tanner's trade of his father. He remained at home, working with 
his father until he was twenty-six years old. In 1881 he moved to Hunting- 
don county, Penn. , started a tannery, and in 1887 came to Mount Jewett and 
built a large tannery, and is now engaged in business on an extensive scale 
under the firm name of O. B. Mosser & Co. Mr. Mosser was married March 
2-">, 1880, to Miss Emma A. Ripley, of Lock Haven, Penn., and they have three 
children: Frankie, Duart and Belmont. 

J. H. NELSON, farmer, P. O. Mount Jewett, was born near Stockholm, 
Sweden, August 7, 1834, a son of Jacobson and Elizabeth (Anderson) Nelson. 
He was educated in the common schools, and remained at home with his parents 
until he attained his majority. He was married in October, 1862, to Miss 
Johanna, a daughter of Johannes and Annie (Hindrickson) Johnson, natives of 
Sweden. In 1873 they adopted Miss Mamie Nelson. Mr. Nelson came to 
Kane, McKean Co., Penn., in July, 1868, where he worked at his trade (that 
of a mason) for two years, when he settled in Mount Jewett, purchasing the 
farm where he now resides, and was one of the first three families who settled 
in Mount Jewett. He has been very successful in business, is a live, energetic 
business man, and one of the leading men in his town. Mr. and Mrs. Nelson 
are members of the Free Mission Church at Mount Jewett, Penn. 

A. G. PHILLIPS, proprietor of meat market, Mount Jewett, is a native of 
Pennsylvania, born in Crawford county, May 4, 1856. He remained at home 
until eighteen years of age, when he began life for himself, and worked on a 



548 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

salary until he was twenty one. He then opened a meat market, which he car- 
ried on one year, and in 1878 he embarked in general mercantile business 
at Mount Alton. There he remained three years, and in 1881 moved to Kane, 
and thence, in 1884, to Mount Jewett, where he opened a meat market, which 
he still conducts, having one of the best places of the kind in the town. Mr. 
Phillips was married, January 5, L876, to Miss Dora Willey, of Crawford 
county, Penn., and they have one child, Woodley. 

SAMUEL PHILLIPS, merchant. Mount Jewett. is a native of Germany, born 
February 22, 1867, a son of Eliaha and Shera Phillips, natives of Russian Po- 
land. When he was twelve years old he came to the United States, and lived 
in New York City until 1885, when he came to McKeati county, Penn., and 
lived in Bradford a year. When he began life for himself he found employ- 
ment as a clerk in a dry goods store, and in 1886 he formed a partnership with 
B. Applestine, and opened a store in Mount Jewett. This partnership continued 
about three years, and in the spring of 1889, he bought Mr. Applestine' s in- 
terest, and is now conducting the business alone. He is a young man of good 
business ability, and is one of the enterprising merchants of Mount Jewett. 

JAMES RANDALL. Jr., farmer. P. O. Kasson, is a son of James and 
Annie (Fields) Randall, natives of New York State, who came to Hamlin 
township in 1S54. and reared a family of five children, James being the third 
son. He was born on the farm, where he now lives. March 4. L862, and 
when he was live years old his parents sold the farm and moved to Tioga county. 
Penn., where they remained one year, then returned to Hamlin township. 
and settled on Marvin creek. James Randall. Jr., the subject of these lines, 
spent his early days working for his parents, and in l^ s 1. in company with bis 
brother, Dan, bought back a part of the old farm, which their father had pre 
viously sold. April 26, 1886, Mr. Randall married Miss Sarah Richards, a 
daughter of Thomas and Catherine (McElwee) Richards, the former a native 
of England and the latter of Ireland, who were among the early settlers of 
Hamlin township. Mr. and Mrs. Randall are the parents of one child. Wal- 
lace J. In 1886 Mr. Randall bought his brother's interest in the farm, and 
be is now one of the most prosperous farmers of the township. 

WILLIAM SMITH, farmer. P. O. Mount Jewett wasborn December 15, 
1838, a son of Lyman and Betsy (Lytle) Smith, the former a native of Mas 
sachusetts, and the latter of Indiana. The mother died when William was 
quite young, and the father married, for a second wife. Miss Polly Gleason, a 
(laughter of Daniel and Ella (Houck) Gleason, of Ulegany county, N. Y 
William Smith spent his boyhood days with his parents in Yorkshire. Catts 
raugus county, N. Y. In December. IMil. he enlisted in the United States 
service, and was assigned to Company K, One Hvftidred and Fifth Regiment 
New Fork Volunteers, serving three years. In 1866 he, in company with his 
father's family, came to Mount Jewett (then known as Howard Hill), and settled 
upon the farm which he now owns. In December, 1^71. he married .Miss 
Fannie A. Simmons, a daughter of Ensley and Irena (Gleason) Simmons, na- 
tives of New York State, who has borne him three children: Flora, Alice and 
Arthur. Mr. Smith is a member of Smethport Post, No. : M7. G. A. R. He 
has held various township offices, and is one of the leading citizens. He and 
his wife are members of the Baptist Church at Smethport. 

IRA WARFLE, farmer. P. (). Kasson. a son of Thomas and Phoebe R. 
(Dixon) YYarlle. natives of New York State, was born in Broome county. N. Y.. 
April 29, 1836. He was reared and educated in his native county, and when 
twenty one years old came to Marvin Creek, Hamlin township, bringing his 
family from Steuben county, N. Y.. in a sleigh drawn bv oxen. He married. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 549 

June 18, 1854, Miss Mary E.. daughter of Joseph T. and Hulda (Harrington) 
Hicock, natives of Steuben count}-, N. Y. , and they have had a family of ten 
children: Joseph B.. Hulda A., Mary Enmina, Juan S. (deceased), Cora A. 
(wife of George Richards), Phoebe M. (wife of N. D. Hausler), Benson A., Mil- 
lie G. , Sadia A. and Henry N. residing at home. In 1856 Mr. Warfle bought a 
piece of wild land on Marvin creek, where he now lives. He has been success- 
ful in business, and now has a tine home. Prominent in local politics, he has 
held various township offices. 

ALBERT WIBOBG, merchant, of the firm of A. & O. Wiborg, Mount 
Jewett, is a son of C. G. and Lena Wiborg. natives of Sweden, who reared a 
family of five children, one of whom is deceased, and four still living. Albert, 
our subject, being the second son. He was born in Ostergotland, Sweden, June 
12, 1867. His father immigrated to America in the spring of 1869, leaving 
his family in Sweden. He was working on railroad building for eight years, 
and in the spring of 1877 came to McKean county, Penn. .where he bought some 
land located eight miles east of Kane, by the Smethport k Kane road, it being 
a great forest at that time, and the nearest railway at Kane, and not a house 
within two miles in the direction of Kane, and four miles to Howard Hill, 
now called Mount Jewett, where at that time there were only four farmers. As 
soon as he was settled down, he sent for his family, who came to McKean county, 
Penn., in the fall of 1877. The subject of these lines attended the common 
schools of his native country, and on arriving in McKean county he worked on 
the land with his father for eight years, helping to clear off the timber which 
had to be burned on the ground. His father and mother are still living on 
the farm, which is known as " Pleasant Farm," and is now yielding good crops. 
Here a fine house was erected. In the fall of 1885 Mr. Wiborg left the farm, 
to work for himself; then engaged in canvassing for a magazine for two years, 
and also worked in a shingle-mill. In 1888 he. in company with his cousin, 
( ). Wiborg. embarked in mercantile business in Mount Jewett, where they rented 
a store building. In the spring of 1889 they purchased a lot and erected the 
store where they are now located and are doing a thriving business. 

LAFAYETTE TOWNSHIP. 

J. W. BEACON, Mount Alton, was bom in Westmoreland county, Penn.. 
April 13, 1S44. a son of Johnson W. and Rebecca (Miller) Beacon, former a 
native of Westmoreland county, latter of Allegheny county, Penn His father 
was a farmer by occupation, was a stanch member of the Democratic party and 
filled various township offices. He and his wife were prominent members of 
the Presbyterian Church, in which he was an elder for many years. Mr. Beacon 
died in Westmoreland county, Penn., in 1868; his widow is still living and 
resides on the homestead. They had a family of five children, three of whom 
are still living, viz.: Cyrus Scott, pi Westmoreland county: Bev. John J., 
pastor of the Presbyterian Church, of Pittsburgh, Penn., and J. W.. our 
subject, who was reared on the homestead farm and obtained a common- 
school education. He is among the pioneer oil producers, having operated on 
the Storey farm in Venango county. In 1879 he came to McKean county and 
located at Mount Alton, and in 1881 established a general mercantile business; 
he has served as postmaster since September, 1885. In 1872 he was married 
to Miss Lottie Gappen, of Washington county, Penn. , and they have six chil- 
dren: William, Jessie, Harry. Orpha. Ella and Paul M. Mr. Beacon is an 
active member of the Democratic party, and for several years has served as 
school director of the township. He is a member of McKean Lodge, No. 51, 
E. & A. M., of Smethport: of the Knights of St. John of -Malta, of Alton; of 



550 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Columbian League, of Alton, and of Kinzua Lodge, No. 541, I. O. O. F., of 
Bra Lford. In 1889 he retired from the mercantile business, and moved to Ran 
dolph, N. Y., where he is drilling with the expectation of supplying the place 
with gas. 

GEORGE. E BEAUMONT, merchant, Mount Alton, was born in Rocky 
Hill, Hartford Co., Conn.. January 1 7, 1845, a son of Charles ami Mary 
Prati i Beaumont, natives of that State. His father was a harness maker and 
saddler, and in IS 17 moved his family to Illinois, but returned to Connecticut in 
1857. He was a Republican and a member of the Presbyterian Church; he 
died in Connecticut, and his widow is still living. George E. Beaumont received 
an ordinary education, and at the age of fourteen years left home and shipped 
as a cabin-boy on a coasting vessel running on the Connecticut and Hudson 
rivers. In 1862 he shipped aboard a transport carrying a cargo of haj ami 
oats lor the Union soldiers. In 1863 he went to Philadelphia and obtained a 
p i ition as inspector of oil, afterward was located at Pittsburgh and Oil City 
in the same capacity. In 1881 he came to McKean county, and for three years 
acted as ganger for the United Pipe Line Company; since then he has been 
■I in the mercantile business at Mount Alton. In 1867 he married 
Mi-- Emma L. Ward, daughter of Egberts. Ward, of Pittsburgh, and they 
have four children: William. Schuyler Colfax, George E., Jr.. and Fannie 
Ellison. Mr. Beaumont is a member of the Knights of St. John (if Malta: 
in politics he is a Republican. He has served one term as township auditor, and 
has also acted as school director, being now on his second term: he is also 
postmaster at Mount Alton, having been commissioned Augusl 6, 1889. Mrs. 
B ■aumout is a member of the Metho h-t Episcopal Church. 

ORLANDO HAGADORN, farmer. P. O. LaFayette, Penn., is a son of 
Aaron Hagadorn. who was born in Saratoga county, X. Y.. January 4. 1806, of 
Dutch parentage on the father's side, the mother, nee Mary Schemerhorn. 
being a native of New Jersey. October 18, 1839, Aaron married Miss Abigail 
Walker, who was born in Vermont in 1S0S, and moved with her parents to New 
hire and afterward to Broome county. N. Y. In February. 1843, Mr. 
Hagadorn and wife came to McKean county, and purchased their present farm 
in Lafayette township. Here they started in the wilderness, single! 
and by their own hard labor, eh 'are. 1 and improved their farm, and mail' them 
selves well to do. Mr. Hagadorn has been an active worker in the Republican 
party, ami has tilled various important township offices. He and his wife both 
united with the Methodist Episcopal Church when eighteen years of age, and 

ha' ver since led an active Christian life. For mam years .Mr. Hagadorn 

wa- class leader of the church. They have reared three children, one of whom. 
the eldest, Henry J)., was a member of the Fifty eighth Pennsylvania Volun- 
teej Regiment, Company H. and was killed atthe battle of Cold Harbor. The 
living are Oeorge W., engaged in the feed business at Salamanca, X. V.. and 
Orlando, our subject, who was born in Union, Broome Co.. N Y., March 23, 
1841, and cam i t i McKi an c nniy with his parents. He received the advan- 
tages of the township schools, ami has always lived on his present homestead. 
October 23, 1861, he was united in marriage with Miss Rachel, daughter of 
Alexander Hoag, a nativi oi Scotland, and now a resident of Salamanca. X. 
Y To them have been born t wo children: Samuel II. and Jennie E. Mr. Hag- 
adorn ha- always 1 n identified with the Republican party, and has served 

the township as school director, constable, poor master, etc. His wife and 
family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

MARE BARDIE, farmer and ageni lor the Lafayette Coal & Land Com- 
pany, Moitut Alt m, was born in Countj Armagh, Ireland. December 10, 1843, 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 551 

a son of John and Mary Jane Harctie, former a native of same county. His 
mother's father was a soldier in the British army, and was in the battle of 
Waterloo. Mark Hardie moved with his parents to Scotland and located near 
Glasgow, where he received an ordinary education, and was also educated for a 
practical miner. He was married in Salisbury. Scotland, by Rev. John 
Ritchie, of Shotsburn, in 1863, to Miss Sarah Jane Stewart, who was born in 
Ireland. Her parents, William and Mary (Brown) Stewart, were Highland 
people, who moved from Scotland when she was three years of age. In 

1865 our subject and wife emigrated to Canada, and later in the same year 
they came to the United States, first locating in Bedford county, Penn., 
where Mr. Hardie began prospecting for ore, coal and limestone for the Hunt- 
ingdon & Broad Top Railroad Company, and afterward sunk a shaft to the 
coal at Fairplay, Penn. , and assisted in opening a new drift for Wigton & Co. 
He also prospected successfully in Somerset county, Penn. In the spring of 

1866 he came to McKean county and engaged with the Bondvein or Gilsville 
Coal Company, Lafayette & Longwood Coal Company, and located in La- 
fayette township. He is one of the early prospectors in this part of the State, 
and has done much toward developing the coal, ore, etc. He also prospected 
over the State for Gen. Thomas L. Kane. For many years he has success- 
fully conducted the agency for the Lafayette Land Company. He has a 
wide business acquaintance among many of the largest business men of Pitts- 
burgh and other States. Mr. Hardie is an active member of the Republican 
party. In 1876 he was elected justice of the peace of Lafayette township, 
also treasurer of the board of education for three years. Mr. Hardie is a 
member of nearly all the secret societies; among the most prominent are 
Bradford Lodge. No. 334, F. & A. M. ; Bradford Chapter, No. 260, R. A. M. ; 
Bradford Council, No. 43, R. & S. M. ; Tuna Valley Lodge, K. of P.; 
charter member and past grand of Kinzua Lodge. No. 442, I. O. O. F., 
of Mount Alton; charter member of the Knights of St. John of Malta; as- 
sistant State deputy and counselor of the Knights of the Maccabees; charter 
member of the Big Shanty Lodge, and past chief of the Good Templars 
Lodge. He and family are members of the Presbyterian Church. In con- 
nection with his other business Mr. Hardie conducts a tine farm just outside 
of the village of Mount Alton. Mr. ami Mrs. Hardie are the parents of 
ten children, viz. : Margaret, wife of H. L. Shnrwin, of Mount Alton, Penn. . has 
two children, Alfred LeRoy and William; Mary, principal of the Mount Alton 
school; William S. , on the United States boat "Boston;" Elizabeth, a teacher in 
the intermediate department of the Mount Alton school; Ella, Mark Alexander, 
Jennie, Sarah, Laura Edna and George Walter, at home. Mr. Hardie has 
recently prospected across the State on the bituminous coal belt, and finds near 
the New York or northern line of Pennsylvania the coal lies near the surface 
and in small deposits or pockets, but toward the south and west of Pennsyl- 
vania the deposits of coal are larger, thicker, and more pure, i. c, free from 
sulphur and other substances, aad, on account of so much oil and gas being 
now produced in Lafayette township, the coal at present does not pay to 
work, but will in the future. 

J. B. PHILLIPS, merchant, Mount Alton, was born in New Richmond, 
Crawford Co., Penn., April 1, 1856, a son of Ananias and Julia (Gale) Phil- 
lips, former a native of Washington county. N. Y. , and latter of Plafctsburg, 
St. Lawrence Co.. N. Y. His father located in Crawford county, Penn., when 
seventeen years of age, and was one of the pioneers of that county. He is a 
farmer by occupation, and is still living. For many years he was an official 
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and a prominent worker for the 



• i.i'J HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

Republican party. J. B. Phillips was reared on the homestead farm, and ob 
fcained a common-school education. At the age of sixteen years he apprenticed 
himself to a merchant at Mill Village, Erie Co., Penn., and remained with him 
three years. He was then in business for himself six years at the same place. 
In 1881 he came to Bradford, McKean county, and, in connection with his 
brother, A. G. Phillips, engaged in the wholesale produce business. In the 
fall of the same year Mr. Phillips came to Mount Alton, and has since conducted 
his present general store, and is also engaged in lumbering. In 1S76 he mar- 
ried Miss Clara, daughter of Gates II. and Sophia (Willey) Manross, natives 
of Erie county, anil they have two children, Harry 13. and an infant. Mr. 
Phillips is a supporter of the Republican party, and has served as school 
director of the township. He is trustee and steward in the Methodist Episco 
pal Church. 

JOHN SIMPSON, oil producer and merchant, Riderville, P. O., Mount 
Alton, was burn in Sugar Grove, Warren Co., Penn.. September 15, 1851. a 
son of John and Melvina Simpson, natives of that county and farmers b; 
pation, who were prominent members of the Lutheran Church. Our subjeci 

r ived a common-school education, and has followed the oil business in all 

its branches, having worked at rig building, tool dressing, etc. In 1879 he 
came to McKean county, where for five year- he worked at rig building, and 
has since been oil producing, now operating eight wells. In L885 he estab- 
lished his present general store at Riderville, where he acted as postmastei 
until the office was discontinued. May I, 1 ss I . he married Mi--, Mary, 
daughter of John Hill, of Warren county. Penn., and they have three children: 
George, Annie and John. Mr. Simpson is a supporter of the Republican 
party. Mrs. Simpson is a member of the Lutheran Church. 

WILLIAM TALBTJT. farmer. P. O. LaFayette, was born in the town of 
Virgil, Cortland Co., N. Y., July 111. 1S14, a son of William and Elizabeth 
(Preston) Talbut, natives of Otsego and Herkimer counties, respectively. They 
were among the early settlers of Cortland county, and followed farming there 
up to the time of their death, being hard-working. Christian people. William 
Talbut. the subject of these lines, received but a limited education. In 1836 
he married Miss Esther Maria Steele, a native of Connecticut, and a settler of 
o county, N. Y. February 9, L846, they came to McKean county and 
located on their present farm, clearing and improving the same. They reared 
eighi children, all of whom are deceased except the following-named three: 
Esi tier, wife of A. J. Parker, of Smethport, Penn. ; Mary . wife of S. T. Aldridge, 
of YVellsville, Penn., and Amelia, wife of Lyman Merrill, of Potter county 
Mr. Talbut is a supporter of the Republican party, and has served as justice 
of the peace five years, also as school director, supervisor, etc. He and his 
wife are members of the Congregational Church, but as they have no church 
near them, are not regular attendants of any. They are among the earlj 
families of the county, and are highly respected in the community in which 
thej dwell. 

1>K. J. WARD, Mount Alton, was born in Venango county, Penn., March 
7. L859, and is a son of Robert and Nancy (McElwee) Ward, former of whom 
died March 3, L887. The parents were both members of the United Presbj 
terian Church, of which the father was an elder for manj years; he also filled 
various township offices, and was a supporter of the Democratic party. The 
subject of this sketch was reared in Crawford county. Perm, (whither his 
parents had moved when he was seven years of age), and his education was 
obtained in the select schools of thai count). Be early began the studj of 
medicine in the office of Dr. \. Thompson, of Meadville, Penn., and attended 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 553 

lectures at the Western Reserve University, of Cleveland, Ohio, from the med- 
ical department of which he graduated in February, 1SS5. For two and a 
half years the Doctor practiced his profession at Geneva, Penn., and in No- 
vember, 1887, he came to McKean county, where he has since had a large 
practice, with good success, in Mount Alton and vicinity. In May, 188(5, Dr. 
Ward married Miss Marguerette Amy Haire, a native of Ireland, who was a 
resident of Cleveland. Ohio, from an early age, she being a lady of high stand- 
ing, and a member of Trinity Episcopal Church of that place. Dr. and Mrs. 
Ward have one child, Amy Elizabeth, born October 1, 1888. Dr. Ward is a 
man possessed of many good qualities. He is a member of the United Pres- 
byterian Church of Crawford county, a member of the County Medical Society 
and various other societies of McKean county. In politics he is a supporter 
of the Democratic party. 

H. C. WISCOM, proprietor of the Lafayette House, Lafayette, was bora 
in Kings county, N. Y., January 11. 1854, a son of Herman and Elizabeth 
(Aveu) Wiscom, natives of Germany. Our subject received a common-school 
education, and in 1878 came to McKean county, Penn., locating at Red Rock, 
where he worked at the carpenter's trade. In 1883 he moved to Lafayette, 
where he has since been the genial and courteous landlord of the Lafayette 
House. In 1881 he was united in marriage with MissSnsan Johnson, a native 
of Canada, and they have two children: William and Raymond. Mr. Wiscom 
is a Democrat in politics, and is now serving as township supervisor. He is a 
member of Kinzua Lodge, No. 442, I. O. O. F., and of the Knights of St. John 
of Malta. 

SERGEANT TOWNSHIP. 

W. E. BUTTS, postmaster, Clermont, was born in Arkansas, September 18, 
1841. When twelve years of age he came to Pennsylvania, and lived for some 
time at Lawrenceville. When he started in life for himself he was employed 
by the Fall Brook Coal Company, and after his marriage he moved to Clermont, 
where he has since been employed as agent for the Western New York & Penn- 
sylvania Railroad and Coal Company, and has also held the position of post- 
master several years. Mr. Butts was married September 18, 1875, to Miss 
Elizabeth McCann, of Fall Brook, and they have four children: LulaE., Kittie 
A.. W. E., Jr., and Fred H. Mr. Butts is a member of Clermont Lodge, No. 
749. I. O. O. F. 

PETER MARTIN, farmer, P. O. Clermont, was born in Philadelphia, 
Penn., in December, 1835, a son of Adam and Eva (Parents) Martin, natives 
of Germany, who came to Poughkeepsie, N. Y. , in 1833, where they remained 
for one year, then removed to Philadelphia, Penn. Here the father engaged 
as a foreman in Mr. Erie's soap factory, where he worked for eight years. In 
1843 he came to McKean county, settling in Sergeant township, and in 1849 
purchased the farm where his son, whose name heads this sketch, now resides. 
Peter Martin is the second son in a family of ten children. He received his 
education in McKean county, and resided with his parents until their death. 
He married in June, 1870, Miss Lenora, daughter of Philip and Julia A. 
(Wagoner) Roades, who came to Clermont in 1842. Of ten children born to 
Mr. and Mrs. Martin, Burtan L. and Bertha L. are the only ones surviving. 
Mr. Martin has held various township offices; he is a member of Clermont 
Lodge, No. 949, I. O. O. F., and Smethport Encampment, No. 273, and is 
a member of the Baptist Church. 

ORIN PERRY, farmer, P. O. Kasson, is a son of Michael and Hannah 
(Cass) Perry, natives of New Hampshire, where Orin was born in February, 



554 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

1816. His parents afterward removed to Steuben county, N. Y., where be 
received his education. He remained at borne until be was eighteen years of 
age, when he engaged as a common laborer. By thrift and economy be 
finally found success crowning bis honest efforts. He married, in 1835, Miss 
Lurinda Abby, of Steuben county, a daughter of John and Mary (Head) 
Abby. Tbis wife died in L845, leaving two children. Mary (now deceased) and 
Malvina, wife of Calvin Pettis, of Port Allegany. Penn. Mr. Perry married 
in May, 1846, Miss Miranda, daughter of George and Amy (Page) Head, of 
Steuben county. X. Y., and they are the parents of tbe following-named seven 
children: Ann (wife of Freeman Leyzotte, of Ketner. Penn.), George, Amanda 
M. (wife of F. A. Briggs), Andy, John, Mary and Ellsworth. Mr. Perry was 
engaged in farming in Steuben county, N. Y. , until 1859, when he came to 
Sergeant township and purchased tbe farm of '240 acres, where he now 
resides. He has always evinced an interest in tbe township, and has held 
various local offices. 



CHAPTEB XXVIII. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES— WETMORE TOWNSHIP AND BOR- 
OUGH OF KANE— CORYDON AND HAMILTON TOWNSHIPS 

WETMORE TOWNSHIP AND BOROUGH OF KANE. 

W. J. ARMSTRONG, M. D., Kane, was born at Clariugton, Forest Co., 
Penn., December 12, 1853. and is a son of William and Margaret (Hepler) 
Armstrong, former a native of England, latter of Germany. The subject of 
these lines completed bis literary studies at Allegheny College. Meadville. 
Penn.. from which be graduated in 1881, with tbe degree of A. B.. and in ISN4 
he received the degree of A. M. He began the study of medicine with Dr. C. 
C. Baker, and in the winter of 1881-82 attended the University of Philadel- 
phia, and winter of 1882-83 the Bellevue Hospital Medical College, of Xew 
York City, graduating from tbe Latter in 1883. He first located at SligO, Clar 
ion Co., Penn.. and January 1. L886, removed to Kane, where he has built 
up a good practice. Tbe Doctor is a member of Kane Lodge. No. 566, F. & 
A. M. He was married, in L882, to Hattie A. Bell, and they have three 
children: Madge, Minnie and Clare. In politics Dr. Armstrong is a Repub 
lican. He and bis wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

1\ W. BRAYTON, druggist, Kane, son of D. C. Brayton, was born in Al- 
bany. X. Y.. in L857. In L859 his parents moved to Avon, Livingston Co., 
N. Y., where lie was reared. He graduated from tbe State Normal School at 
Geneseo, N. Y., in ^T'J, and then was employed as clerk in Avon, and was 
connected with the mercantile interests of the town until L880, when be came 
to McKean county, and for a year was employed in the office of the Sugar Run 
Lumber Company, at Bradford. He was then boot keeper and clerk for Mr 
Curts at Ludlow, six years, and in 1 SSS he removed to Kane, where be is now 
engaged in the drug business, and lias built up a good trade. Mr. Brayton 
was married in L881 to Ella J. Burleigh, and they have three children. He is 
a member of the Masonic fraternity, lodge, chapter and commandery, He is 
a Republican in politics. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 555 

J. D. BROODER, manufacturer, Kane, was born in Carbon county, Penn., 
but when he was a child his parents moved to McKean county, where he was 
reared and educated. When fourteen years old, he left home, and until 1866 
was employed in saw-mills. In that year he entered the employ of a railroad 
company, and had charge of their shops at Kane until 1880, from which time 
until 1885, he was in the employ of the Standard Pipe Line Company, having 
charge of the pump station and the pipe Hue district. In 1885 he became as- 
sociated with Joshua Davis and Elisha K. Kane, and incorporated the Kane Gas 
Light & Fuel Company, with which he is still identified, and which from the 
time of its incorporation has been a successful investment. Mr. Brooder was 
married to May Galvin, and they have four children. He is a Democrat in 
politics, and is a member of the borough council. 

GEORGE W. CAMPBELL was born at Kinzua, Warren Co., Penn., 
August 3, 1831, and is a son of John Campbell, who emigrated from Lycom- 
ing county, Penn., about the year 1800, he being one of the early pioneers of 
northwestern Pennsylvania. Owing to the fact that his father was an invalid, 
George, at the age of seventeen years, assumed control of his father's business 
which he so managed that by the time he was twenty one he had entirely paid 
his father's debts, which were considerable. A few years afterward he com- 
menced business as a lumberman, becoming general jobber for the firm of 
Meade & Eddy. This he continued successfully for several years, at the end 
of which time he was engaged in the same business for Messrs. Charles & L. 
D. Wetmore. Having continued with these parties for some time, during 
which he had acquired quite a competency, he moved to Warren and engaged in 
the oil business, which proved disastrous. He then tried the mercantile busi- 
ness, but found this not his forte, and, gathering up his fast diminishing 
resources, entered into a partnership and once more betook himself to lumber 
ing, this time in Clarion county, same State. But his partners were not prac- 
tical lumbermen; difficulties arose, and Mr. Campbell retired from this venture 
with a capital stock of about $2,000 — indebtedness! He was advised by his 
friends to avail himself of the provisions of the bankruptcy act, then in force, 
but not considering this an honorable method of liquidating debts, he refused. 
For two years from this time he worked as a day laborer, but finding that his 
wages were not sufficient to support a large family, to say nothing of remov- 
ing the debts, he consulted with his creditors, who advised him to again try 
lumbering, promising him assistance. Accordingly, with no capital but an 
honorable name, he, in 1880, built a saw-mill at Ludlow, McKean Co., Penn. 
This proved a success, and he liquidated his indebtedness, but fire in 1885 
reduced the mill to ashes, entailing a loss of $7,000. Mr. Campbell had, how- 
ever, erected another mill, which he operated until 1887, and also built one in 
1886 at Mount Jewett, McKean county. In 1888 he and his sons, John and 
Edward, young men of rare energy and business tact, purchased the property 
of West & Britton, situated two and one half miles north of Kane. This prop- 
erty has since been greatly improved, the mills now having a daily capacity of 
60,000 feet of lumber. Mr. Campbell and his sons are owners of the Kinzua 
Creek & Kane Railroad, ten miles in length. Since 1880 Mr. Campbell's busi- 
ness has steadily prospered. In 1S54 the subject of our sketch married Mary 
Nutt, of Busti, N. Y., who has proved a true helpmeet. They have six chil- 
dren. Mr. Campbell has been a stanch Republican ever since the formation 
of the party. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
in the support of which they take an active part. In 1888 they purchased their 
present residence at Kane. 

JAMES CAMPBELL, dealer in horses, etc., Kane, is a native of Ireland, 



556 HISTOliY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

where he was reared, and in June, 18*57, he came to America and located in 
Elk county. Penn. In September. 1870, he moved to Kane. McKean county, 
where, until 1 sT* >. he was engaged in teaming and in the livery business. 
Since the latter year he has dealt extensively in horses, buying and selling, 
and also in wagons, harness, etc. He is one of the enterprising men of Kane, 
and is the owner of several handsome business blocks. Mr. Campbell married 
Hannah Evans, and they have live children. He is a member of Kane Lodge, 
No. 566, F. & A. M., and Warren Chapter, No. 8. E. A. M. In politic-, he 
affiliates with the Republican party. 

O. D. COLEMAN, Kane, son of Dr. Horace and Sarah Coleman, was born 
in Liberty township, McKean Co., Penn., in 1833. He remained with his 
parents until L856, when he removed to Port Allegany, where he engaged in 
mercantile business. In 1864 he removed to Kane and opened a general store 
which he has since conducted, and he is now one of the successful merchants 
of the place. In 1874 Mr. Coleman was married to Miss Flora Bell, only 
daughter of N. D. and E. A. Bell, of New Hudson. Allegany Co., N. Y., and 
they have one daughter: Florence Pearl Coleman. Mr. and Mrs. Coleman 
were formerly Presbyterians, but united with the First Congregational Church 
at the time of its organization, about two years since. In politics Mr. Coleman 
i- :i Republican. He has taken an active interest in public affairs; has served 
as commissioner and auditor of the county, also as a member of the borough 
council. 

H. H. COltSON, proprietor of the Kane House, Kane, was born at Jersey 
Shore, Lycoming Co., Penn., in 18r>4, and remained in his native town until 
January, 1880, when he removed to Bradford. McKean county, then in February 
of the same year located at Kane and engaged in the hotel business In 1 ssc> 
tie bought the Kane House, of which he is proprietor, having a good patronage, 
hi'-; capability and geniality as landlord being fully recognized by the traveling 
public. Mr. Corson is a man of sound business principles, and was one of the 
first councilmen in the borough. He is a Eepublican in politics. He was mar- 
ried in 1883 to Ellen Long, a niece of George Welker, and they have three 
children: Beulah. Raymond and Ruth. 

JOSHUA DAVIS, banker, etc., Kane, was born in Cambria county. Penn.. 
in 1843, his parents having emigrated from Wale- a short time before. He 
was educated in the common schools of Ebenshurg. and began his business life 
in 1867. That same year he married Miss Hannah Howells. of Ebensburg, 
after which they located at Kane, where he engaged in business as a dealer in 
general merchandise. Disposing of his mercantile interests in 1886, he em- 
barked in the manufacture of brush blocks, and was also interested in the manu 
fact u re of clothespins, being one of the firm of Howells. Moffitt & Co. He is 
also interested in the chemical works, and is a member of the banking house 
of McDade, Davis & Co. He is a member of the Kane Gas Light & Heating 
I lompany, and is always ready to invest in any enterprise which promises to 
increase the prosperity of Kane. Mr. Davis was interested in lands which 
proved valuable at the tirst development of oil at this place, and since then he has 
invested largely, which investments have proved very remunerative. Mr. Davis 
was one of the tirst settlers of Kane, built the tirst house in the business end 
of the town, and has since erected many business and residence houses. He is 
a member of Kane Lodge, No. 566, P. & A M.. of Bradford Chapter, No. 260, 
i; \ M.. and of the Scottish Rite, at Erie. Be is also a Knight Templar, be 
ing a member of Knapp Commanderv. No, 10. of Ridgway, and, having served 
in the Union army, in the war of ; he Rebellion, is also a member of the ( Iratid 
Arin\ of the Republic. He has three children: William H. , Cora May and Annie 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 557 

Rachel. Of these, William H. is manager and part owner of the brush block 
factory; like his father he is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Mr. Joshua 
Davis' career only exemplifies what perseverance, industry and well-directed 
effort will accomplish; beginning life with but 25 cents cash capital, he is em- 
phatically a self-made man, and is now one of the able and prominent citizens 
of McKean county. 

LEMUEL DAVIS, dealer in furniture and carpets, Kane, is a son of Will- 
iam and Elizabeth Davis, and was born May 2, 1839, near Ebensburg. Cam 
bria Co., Penn., where he secured a good school training. After completing his 
studies, he commenced teaching, but concluding that a commercial life was 
preferable, financially, he laid aside his ferule and grammar, and embarked in 
general merchandising, which he followed several years, carrying on, also, a 
lumber business in connection. In 1868 he opened out a livery, and in 1885 In- 
removed to Kane, where he continued in the same line of business until 1889, 
in which year he sold out his interests and commenced in his present line. Jan- 
uary 1, 1863, Mr.' Davis married Jennie, daughter of John and Margaret 
(Smith) Evans, and they have five children: Irene, who taught school three 
sessions in Kane public schools, and is now a teacher in Kane; Dennie, Will 
iam R., Mede and Mabel. Mr. Davis is a member of the Republican party, 
and in 1883 was appointed sergeant- at-arms in the senate of Pennsylvania, a 
position he held during the regular and extra sessions of that year. He was 
also elected justice of the peace twice in Cambria township, Cambria county. 

CALVIN DeYOUNG, grocer, Kane, is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Al- 
lentown in 1862. He lived in Philadelphia eight years, and then moved to 
Stroudsburg, same State, and from there, in 1888, to Kane, where he is engaged 
in the grocery business. Mr. DeYoung is one of the enterprising young men 
of the borough. He is a member of the Patriotic Order Sons of America and 
the Sons of Temperance. He casts his suffrage with the Prohibition party. 

RICK DONOVAN, proprietor of the Hotel Lamont, Kane, was born in 
Elmira, N. Y. , March 6, 1849, and was reared and educated in his native city, 
remaining there until he was twenty years of age. In 1869 he went to Irving- 
ton, Warren Co., Penn., and engaged in the hotel business, conducting the 
Junction House until 1886, when it was destroyed by fire. He then removed 
to Kane, and became proprietor of the Hotel Lamont, which, under his man- 
agement, is one of the best-conducted hotels in the borough. Mr. Donovan 
married Anna Fitzgerald, daughter of M. Fitzgerald, one of the pioneers of 
Warren county, and they have had three children, one of whom is living, 
Annie M. Mr. Donovan is a Democrat in his political views. 

JOHN FLEMING, proprietor of the Fleming House, Kane, is a native of 
Ireland, whence he came to America in 1874. In 1877 he located at Kane, 
where he engaged in the boot and shoe business. In 1879 he bought a lot in 
the business part of the town, and iu 1887 built a large brick hotel, which he 
opened as the Fleming House, and of which he is still the proprietor. Mr. 
Fleming is a genial, whole-souled man, and as a landlord is popular, his house 
being well patronized by the traveling public. He was married in 1883 to 
Julia Hoffman, and they have five children : Jane, Lillie, Mary, Josie and 
Ella. Mr. and Mrs. Fleming are members of the Catholic Church. In pol- 
itics he is a Democrat. 

C. V. GILLIS, Kane, was born in Ridgway, Penn., in 1841, a son of 
James L. Gillis, a former citizen of that town. Our subject was given good 
educational advantages, graduating from White Hall Academy, Harrisburg, in 
1859. He then removed to Nebraska, remaining there until 1862, when he 
went south, and during the Civil war was captain's clerk on a war vessel. In 



558 HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

1864 he returned to Elk county. In 1868 he was elected treasurer of his 
county, serving two years, and the following term filled the office of deputy. 
He was subsequently engaged in mercantile business until 1876, when he re- 
moved to Kane and opened a drug store, which he carried on until 1888, when 
he suld his interest in that business. Mr. Gillis is a member of Kane Lodge, 
No. 566, F. & A. M. ; Elk Chapter, No. 230, R. A. M. ; Knapp Commandery, 
No. 40, K. T., and Caldwell Consistory, of Bloomsburg. He is past master, 
past high priest, past thrice illustrious grand master, and past commander, not 
by dispensation, but by service. He takes an active interest in all local mat- 
ters, casting his suffrage with the Democratic party. Mr. Gillis was married 
in 1864 to Anna Overholzer, of Harrisburg. 

J. T. GRIFFITH, one of the representative, energetic, active and pro- 
gressive young men of McKean county, was born in Ebenslmrg, Cambria Co.. 
Penn., June 19, 1853, a son of Thomas and Mary E. Griffith. His early 
schooling was obtained in his native town, and he afterward attended Blairs 
ville Academy, in Indiana county, Penn., completing his education at Columbia, 
Lancaster county, same State. Having now satiated himself at the "Pierian 
Spring,"' it remained for him, in order to thoroughly qualify himself for a 
commercial career, to secure a good business training, which he did, by attend- 
ing for a time to his father's mercantile affairs. When twenty-four years of 
age, in 1877, Mr. Griffith moved to Kane, with which place he has since been 
prominently identified. In 1881 he commenced a general merchandise and 
lumber trade at Kane, where he now has three saw-mills running, with a daily 
aggregate capacity of 90,000 feet, and in 1884 his brother became associated 
with him in business, the firm name being J. T. & W. Griffith. Having 
recently become largely interested in the oil trade (already to the extent 
of some sixty wells), the brothers intend to devote their entire attention and 
energies to that and the lumber industries. On March 25, 1875, the subject of 
our sketch was married to Martha J., daughter of Thomas M. Jones, of Bbens- 
burg. Penn., and they have three children: William, Mary and Annie. The 
parents are members of the Congregational Church. Mr. Griffith is a Royal 
Arch Mason, and is an active worker in the Republican party. In 1878 he 
was elected school director, and in 1888 he was honored by being elected a 
member of the State legislature, in which he serves his constituency with 
marked zeal and integrity. 

WEBB GRIFFITH, manufacturer of and dealer in lumber, Kane, is a 
son of Thomas Griffith, and was born in Ebensburg, Cambria Co., Penn., in 
1860. He remained with his parents untill 1885, when he removed to Kane, 
and became associated with his brother, J. T. Griffith, in business, dealing 
extensively in lumber, and operating mills at Kane and Griffith's Station. 
They employ a number of men, and handle from 3,000.000 to 5,000,000 feet 
of lumber aanually. Mr. Griffith is a stockholder in the Citizens' Gas Com 
pany, and is largely interested in the production of petroleum, owning twelve 
producing wells. He is one of the prosperous young men of Kane, his suc- 
cess being the result of energy and business ability. He is a member of 
Kane Lodge, No. 566, F. & A. M. ; in politics he is a Republican. 

T. R. HOSKINS, miller, Kane, was born in Canada in 1856, a son of Joab 
Hoskins. He came to the United States in 1881, and located at Watertown, 
N. Y., where he was engaged in farming until 1882, when he removed to El- 
dred, Penn. , and carried on teaming in the oil country. From Eldred he 
went to Ceres, thence to Bolivar, and in 1886 located at Kane, where he was 
employed by an oil well supply firm until 1887. In the spring of 1887 he re- 
moved to Findlay. Ohio, and the following fall returned to Kane, where he 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 559 

became associated with C. E. Brown, and built the Kane mills. They manu- 
facture an excellent grade of flour, and have a good trade in custom-milling. 
Their mill has one set of rolls, and has a capacity of turning out ten tons 
daily. Mr. Hoskins is a member of Lodge No. 412, I. O. 0. F. 

DAVID HOWELLS, manufacturer, Kane, was born in Ebensburg. Cam- 
bria Co., Penn., January 5, 1845. When he was a boy his father died, and 
when he was fifteen years old he started in life for himself, having also the care 
of his mother and sister. In February, 1865, he enlisted in Company H, Eighty- 
third P. V. I., and served until July 3, 1S65, when he was mustered out. He 
returned home, and was engaged in the lumber trade until July, 187U. when 
he removed to Kane, and for seven years was employed as book-keeper for J. 
Davis. In 1887 he started a general store, and also established a clothespin 
factory, the firm name being Howells, Moffitt & Co. The capacity of the fac 
tory is 300 boxes of seven gross each per day. and they give employment to 
thirty men. Mr. Howells is an enterprising man, and is at the head of one 
of the leading industries of Kane.- He is a member of Kane Lodge, No. 566, 
1' & \. M. ; Bradford Chapter, No. 260, K. A. M. ; Knapp Commandery, 
No. 4<>, Ridgway and Bradford Council, also of Presque Isle Lodge of Per- 
fection. Politicaly he is a Republican. He was married. December 2d. |M'i6. 
to Miss Ann Humphrey. 

MA.I. GEN. THOMAS L. KANE, the founder of Kane, was a Phila 
delphian, descended from some of the oldest pre- Revolutionary families of 
the northern colonies. His patronymic was derived from John Kane, who 
came from Ireland in 1754, and married Sybil Kent, daughter of a Puritan 
minister of '•Mayflower" ancestry. Elisha Kane, their son, married Alida 
Van Rensselaer, daughter of Gen. Robert Van Rensselaer, and their son, John 
K. Kane, afterward Attorney General of Pennsylvania and subsequently judge 
of the United States District Court, married Jane D. , daughter of Thomas 
Leiper, who commanded the Philadelphia First City Troop during the Revo- 
lution. Thomas Leiper' s wife was of the old Philadelphia family of Grays. 
Their second son, Thomas Leiper Kane, was born Febuary 27, 1822. He mar- 
ried April 21, 1853, his second cousin, Elizabeth Dennistoun Wood, whose 
father, William Wood, was by birth a Scotchman, of Covenanter blood, while 
her mother, Harriet A. Kane, was the daughter of John, the eldest son of 
John and Sybil Kane. William Wood still lives in New York, and until last 
year was one of the most active members of the Board of Education of that city. 
The latter years of his life have been devoted wholly to philanthropy, and public 
works for the development of that city. Thomas L. Kane, and to a less ex- 
tent his brother, Elisha Kent Kane, the arctic explorer, differed from the rest 
of their family connection on the question of slavery. Educated to high flown 
radical ideas of liberty by fighting behind the barricades in Paris, shoulder to 
shoulder with the men who in subsequent years suffered death as Communists in 
defense of their " Amour Sacre\" their " liberty cherie," young Kane had hardly 
returned to his native land before he engaged in the anti-slavery struggle, and be- 
came a director of the " Underground Railway. " His two means of earning 
a livelihood were sacrificed to his principles, resigning the United States com- 
missiouership because it would have compelled him to assist in the Fugitive 
Slave Law [See Wendell Phillip's speech on the case of Judge Loring.], and 
resigning the Clerkship of the District Court to go on a special mission to avert 
the impending Mormon war. In 1856 he came to Elk county as agent of a 
Land Improvement Company, and as city director of the Sunbury & Erie 
Railroad. He was thus occupied at the commencement of the Rebellion, and 
he was the first man to offer his services to the governor of Pennsylvania for 



560 HISTOKY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

its suppression. How he raised, in McKean, Elk and neighboring counties, 
tbe celebrated "Bucktails," and his battles, wounds and promotion have be- 
come a part of the history of the war more than of these counties. In 1864. 
crippled by many wounds, he returned to the mountains to revive his former 
projects for peopling the wilderness. The village of Kane was planned by 
him as a Prohibition Borough, but the act of incorporation was lost [sic^\ after 
its passage and before receiving the governor's signature. He endeavored to 
give effect to his views on this question by placing restrictions on all village 
lots, but a method of circumventing him was found by the liquor men, and 
from 1867 to 1878 he contented himself with personal efforts at license court. 
In 1878 a more effective restriction was found, and the subsequent growth of 
the town has been on land protected against liquor shops. The McKean, Elk. 
Forest and Clarion (commonly called the Big Level), the Kane, Wilcox, Ridg- 
way and St. Mary's, the Kane & Campbell's Mill, and the Kane & Lafayette 
are State roads which remain as monuments to his local patriotism, legislative 
influence and engineering skill. The routes of the Philadelphia & Erie Rail- 
road, the Pittsburgh & Western, the Ridgway & Clearfield and the New York. 
Lake Erie & Western Coal Railroads, through these counties, were designated 
by him, and he was the most influential man in promoting the construction 
of those railroads. At the time of his death he was president of the New 
York, Lake Erie & Western Coal Railroad, which had just completed its famous 
Kinzua viaduct. Politically Gen. Kane was first a war Democrat, and sub- 
sequently a Stalwart or Grant Republican. In 1872, however, he joined 
the Greeley liberal revolt against corruption, after warning Gen. Grant of 
his intention in an interview which only cemented the strong personal friend 
ship which subsisted between them until his death. In 1880 he represented 
his congressional district at the Chicago Republican Convention, and was 
prominent among the "306" or "Old Guard." The bronze medal com- 
memorating the fact is cherished bj r his children. Woman suffrage and the 
Higher Education of women were essentials of his political doctrine, and his 
wife and daughter graduated from the Woman's Medical College of Philadel- 
phia. His religious affiliations and tenets were strongly Presbyterian, and 
the First, Presbyterian Church of Kane, a picturesque and costly building, was 
constructed for his sake by his aunt, Mrs. Ann Gray Thomas. Complying 
with his dying request, his body was interred in front of this church, where a 
simple granite slab covers the grave. Gen. Kane died in Philadelphia, De 
cembcr 26, 1883. His wife and children all survive. Harriet Amelia, Evan 
O'Neill and Thomas Leiper are physicians, and Elisha Kent is a civil engineer 
by profession. All are members of the Presbyterian Church, and of the Pro 
hibition party. They reside at Kane, and endeavor to carry out their father's 
projects and principles. 

J. F. KELLY, proprietor of livery, Kane, is a native of Pennsylvania. 
born in Buckingham township, Wayne county, in 1856, a son of John Kelly. 
He remained with his parents until 1872, when he entered the employ of the 
Delaware & Hudson Canal Company, and later was employed on the Hudson 
river. He afterward returned to his native town, and still later located at 
Warren, Penn., where he was engaged in the lumber trade. In 1888 he 
bought a residence in Kane, and in April, 1889, purchased the livery stable of 
L. Davis & Co. , and now has the only first-class livery in the borough. He 
has a good stock of horses, carriages, buggies, etc., and is prepared to furnish 
any kind of outfit desired by traveling men, tourists, or pleasure seekers, at 
reasonable rates. Mr. Kelly was married, in 1878, in his native county to 
Ellen McDermott, who has borne him four children: Frederick, Louie Bene- 



BIOGKAl'HICAL SKETCHES. 561 

diet. William and Edmund. The family residence is on Dawson street, in the 
borough of Kane. 

THOMAS KEELOR, lumber merchant, "Wetmore, was born in Cincin- 
nati, Ohio, in 1832. He was reared and educated in his native city, remain 
ing there until thirty years of age. In 1862 he came to Pennsylvania, located 
on Oil creek, and became engaged in the oil trade. In 1864 he made large 
purchases of timber land near Wetmore, McKean county, and erected a steam 
saw- mill, and dwelling-houses for his employes. He has been successful in 
this business, and now has another mill on the Tionesta. His mills are con- 
nected by a steel-track road, stocked with his own cars. By perseverance 
and indomitable will, Mr. Keelor has made from the heart of the forest I lie 
thriving town of Wetmore, which is now one of the pleasant towns of the 
county. He has made all the improvements, even to the cutting of the roads. 
He has 100 men in his employ, and both the mills have a capacity of turning 
out. 1110, HIM) feet of lumber daily. Mr. Keelor is one of the able men of the 
county, and one of the representative lumbermen. In addition to his large 
lumber interests lie is engaged in the mercantile business, and also is farming 
to a large extent, owning considerable available farming land, and in all his 
varied interests he ranks among the foremost men in the county. Four of his 
sons are employed as heads of as many departments in their father's business. 
Mr. Keelor is descended from an old American family, his paternal grandfather 
having served as a soldier in the Revolutionary war. This patriot moved from 
Camden, N. .).. in 1812, to Hamilton county, Ohio, which was then a dense 
wilderness, but is now the most populous county in the State. 

O. (i. KELTS, jeweler, Kane, was born in Ridgway, Elk Co. , Penn. , in 
1860, a son of O. 1'. and Ardissa (Wilcox) Kelts, natives of Potter county, where 
fchej were married. They moved to Ridgway and thence to Horton, and from 
there to Erie city, where the father died; the mother now lives at New Castle. 
They had two children: On in C. and O.G. After the death of his father O. 
G. Kelts lived with his grandmother several years, and then with C. Hole-, at 
Ridgway, of whom he learned the jeweler's trade. In 1882 he came to Kane, 
where he begau work at his trade, but now keeps a store, supplied with a 
good stock of watches, jewelry, etc.. in addition to which he is a dealer in gen- 
eral merchandise. During Cleveland's administration Mr. Kelts was appointed 
postmaster at Kane. He is a memberof Kane Lodge, No. 566, F. & A. M. Mr. 
Kelts was married. Feb. 2, 1882, to EllaWicks, and they have one child, Clyde. 

C. H. KEMP, proprietor of the ■•Thompson House." Kane. This house. 
which was designed as a summer resort, is delightfully located in the mount- 
ainous regions of Northern Pennsylvania, and is accessible by the Philadel- 
phia & Erie and the Pittsburgh & Western division of the Pennsylvania Rail 
road. It is situated at an altitude of nearly 'J., 100 feet above sea level, and on 
the most elevated point of that region. Pure air and water are here afforded, 
making it a healthful resort during the heat of the summer months. Good 
fishing for lovers of the piscatorial sport, and romantic drives also commend the 
place to those in search of amusement in that line. With cuisine department 
unsurpassed, and a thriving borough near by of several thousand population, 
with none of the objectionable features found at many of the watering places, 
it is eminently designed as a home for those seeking rest and recreation. Mr. 
Kemp was reared on a farm, and at the beginning of the war of the Rebellion 
he enlisted in Company H, Third West Virginia Infantry, and was afterward 
placed on detached duty in the quartermaster's department, He was offered 
promotion, but declined. After the war he returned to Winchester, and until 
1867 was in mercantile business. From 1867 to 1871 he was manager of Bol- 



562 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

t..n's Hotel, at Harrisburg. In the summer of 1875 be was al Cape .May. and 
in L876 was manager of the " Washington House," Philadelphia. He came to 
Kane in 1877, and took charge of the "Thompson House." Mr. Kemp is an 
enterprising, genial gentleman, eminently fitted for the business in which he is 
engaged. 

O. B. LAY. proprietor of the Cummings Lumber Company, Kane, is the 
third sun of George G. (now deceased) and Emma (Ogden) Lay. and was born 
in Marshall, Mich., January 12, L849. The mother was a daughter of Jona 
than Ogden, one of the early settlers of Biughamton, Broome Co.. X. Y., then 
known as Chenango Point. In March. 1S09, at the age of twenty years, the 
subject of our sketch came to Pennsylvania, and was first employed by the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company as assistant agent at Cameron station, where 
he remained two years; was then promoted to the position of agent for the 
same company at Daguscahonda station. Here he remained nearly two years, 
when he was acain promoted, being given charge of the Kane station, at which 
borough he has since resided. He served the Pennsylvania Railroad Company 
at Kane, nine years, ending May 1, 1882, when he resigned his position to en- 
gage in other business. Mr. Lay established and edited the first newspaper 
(The Kane Weekly Blade) published in Kane. It. was established in 1879, 
and suspended in 1883 on account of the office being destroyed by fire. From 
February, 1882. to March, 1889, Mr. Lay was actively engaged in mercantile 
business" in Kane, but disposed of same in order to give his entire attention to 
his lumber business, in which he had embarked in the fall of 1885. He is the 
sole owner of the Cummings Lumber Company, and his mill has a daily 
capacity of 25,000 feet of lumber. Mr. Lay was married in January, 1875, to 
Blanche E., daughter of D. T. Hall, of Kane, and they have two children: 
Flora A. and Oakey H. Mr. Lay is a member of Kane Lodge, No. 566, F. & 
A. M., the Royal Arcanum and the Sons of Temperance. Politically he is a 
third party Prohibitionist, believing that prohibition, with a party behind it. 
pledged to its enforcement, is the only effectual method of dealing with the 
liquor traffic. He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. 

JOHN D. LEONARD (deceased), born in Springfield, Bradford Co., Penn., 
February 3, 1816, died July 14, 1888. He was one of the first settlers of 
Kane, and, with the exception of 'Squire Hall, was, at, the time of his death. 
the oldest citizen of the borough. He was one of the pioneer merchants, and 
for twenty-one years was postmaster, holding the position until February 22, 
1886. Mr. Leonard retired from active business life some time before his 
death. He married Susan M. Smith, who survives him. and is one of the re- 
spected citizens of Kane. Mrs. Leonard is the daughter of Nicholas B. Smith, 
and was born in Alba, Bradford Co. , Penn. When she was eight years of age 
her mother died, and her father afterward moved to Columbia township, same 
county, where he passed the last years of his life. His family consisted of six 
children: Perussa, Lydia, Huldah, Edward C, Susan M. and Mary A. 

B. F. McCONNELL, merchant. Kane, was born in Newry, Blair Co., Penn.. 
in 1864, and was reared and educated at Renovo. whither his parents, Henry 
and Mary Jane McConnell, moved in his childhood. Later they came to Kane. 
and here, in 1884, he engaged in the grocery business, becoming a member of 
the firm of B. F. McConnell & Co. This was one of the enterprising firms of 
the borough, and had a good trade, but Mr. McConnell sold out his interest in 
the firm, and, August 15, 1889, with a partner, went into the dry goods trade. 
the business being carried on in the name of B. F. McConnell. Mr. Me 
Connell is a member of Kane Lodge. No. U2, I. O. O. F. In politics he affi 
bates with the Democratic party. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



I VUES MeDADE, Kane, was born in Cambria county, Penn., in 1844. a 
son A Henry McDade. He remained at home until eighteen years of age, and 
lu^ng the war of the Rebellion (in 1862, was employed with a construction 
corps! the building of bridges in Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia^ At he 
close of the war he returned to Cambria county, and soon after entered the 
employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company for eight months being con- 
dn Softhe yard engine at Williamsport. He was then transferred toRenovo 
where he was yard dispatcher, five years, and upon the extension of the line 
was again transferred, this time to Kane, where he was yard dispatcher, also 
five yfars In 1871 he left the railroad employ, and is now engaged in more 
industrial enterprises than any other one citizen in his community. Onleav_ 
in- the railroad he embarked in the lumber trade, and later earned on a livery 
table. He was also for some time connected with the "*™*fc£<*^* 
the town, and is now senior member of the banking firm of McDade , Davis & 
Co. He is president of the Citizens' Gas Light & Fuel Company, and, with 
J T. Griffith, has a lamp-black factory, which has a daily capacity of twenty 
barrels. The development of the Kane oil fields is due chiefly to his enter- 
prise, as when the territory was abandoned by the ad men in order to 
thoroughly test the field, he gave 300 acres free of royalty to Craig , & Cap- 
neau. who drilled on the land and found the well that opened up the field 
He is a large land owner, and has since the opening of the oil fields sold 600 
acres for $76 000. He is a practical farmer, and some of his land is undei 
Sato Mr. McDade was married in Renovo, in 1873, to Sarah Swedy, 
and they have live children: William Alden, Elizabeth Mabel. James Ray^ 
mond Henry Calvin and Edward. Mr. McDade is a Democra in politics, and 
in 1888 was the candidate of his party for member of the legislature. 

J D MAGOWAN, druggist, Kane, was born in County Down, lieland, 
in 1852, son of David and Jane Magowan, of Scotch-Irish parentage. He was 
reared and educated in his native country, and in 1872 came to America and 
located at Kane, Penn., where he worked at the carpenter s trade unti 1 1 U t. 
He was in the employ of O. D. Coleman untd 1881, and then for fom years 
was employed by Joshua Davis. In 18S5 he started m business for himself, 
opening a drug store, and now has a good trade. Mr. Magowan was ma. ried 
°n 1886 to Bella C. Lafferty, daughter of Robert Lafferty, one of the pioneers 
of Kane, but now deceased, and they have two children-one son and one 
daughter. Mr. Magowan is a member of Kane Lodge, No. 412, 1. U. U. x. 
Politically he is a Prohibitionist. Mr. and Mrs. Magowan are members of the 
Presbyterian Church. „ 

ADA C MALONE, editress and manager of the Leader, ot Kane, was 
born February 4, 1867. at Ridgway. Elk Co., Penn in the public schools of 
which place she received her primary education. On June 6, ItitiZ, she gi act- 
uated from the high school, and she then attended the State Normal School at 
Lock Haven, one term. On June 2, 1S84. Miss Malone entered the office of the 
Ridgway Advocate, as an apprentice, being afterward promoted to book- 
keeper and proof-reader. In the spring of 1886, she came to Kane to accept 
position on the Leader, but left the town June 1, 1887. In August of that 
'ear. she accepted a position as compositor in the office of the Daily Mirror 
published at Warren, Penn., where she remained one year and a halt, and 
April IS, 1889, she was appointed to her present position in Kane. 

FRANK W MEESE, proprietor of the St. Elmo Hotel. Kane, was born 
in Somerset county. Penn., in 1835. His father Elijah Meese, of English 
descent, was born "in Somerset. Penn.. April 25, 1808, and died m New 1 lnl- 
adelphia, Ohio, March 29, 1879, weighing, at the time of his death, 4.< 



564 HISTORY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

pounds. The mother of our subject. Mary (Walter) Meese, -who was of German 
descent, was born, near Somerset, Penn., February l">, 1799, and was killed 
near New Philadelphia, Ohio, by her horse running away, December 14, 1861. 
When the subject of these lines was ten years old, his parents removed to Tus- 
carawas county, Ohio, where he was reared and completed his education. 
remaining there until 1851, when he went to Somerset. Penn. . and then to West 
Virginia, and was there employed by the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company 
as extra passenger and freight conductor, retaining that position until 1861. 
He then enlisted in Company F, Sixteenth O. V. I., for a term of three months. 
He was wounded at the battle of Carrick's Ford, in July of that year, and at 
the expiration of his term of service returned to West Virginia and resumed 
his former position on the Baltimore cV Ohio road. In the spring of 1862 he 
went to Hollidaysburg, Penn., was conductor between Altoona and Harris- 
burg, and in 1863 was transferred to the Huntingdon & Broad Top road, 
where he remained until May 9, 1864, when he was sent to Renovo, and was 
conductor of a local freight train between that point and St. Mary's. October 
1 I, 1864, the road was opened to Kane, which was made his terminal point. 
February 8, 1865, he was appointed yard dispatcher at Kane, a position he 
held until June 20, 1869, when he resigned and entered mercantile life, being 
associated with J. D. Leonard. This he continued until 1^73; then inSeptem 
ber, L874, he became the proprietor of the Centennial Hotel, which he conducted 
untilJune 20, 1880. In this hotel, July 4, 1874, Mr. Meese accidentally shot 
himself through the thigh with a revolve]-, and was laid up with the wound over 
a year. In 1881 he built the St. Elmo hotel and opened it to the public on June 
25 of that year. Mr. Meese is a genial, courteous gentleman, and this, added 
to his natural business ability, qualifies him for the position as landlord of one 
of the best hotels in Kane. Among his other accumulations he has gained in 
hVsh until he tips the scales at oTiO pounds. In politics he is a Republican, and 
in religion independent. F. W. Meese was married to Missouri M. Keefer, May 
5, 1859, in Cumberland, Md., by Rev. Pat Hamill. His wife died March 2. 
I860, in Frederick city, Md. He was next, married to Kate Virginia Penner. 
of Cumberland, Md., November 12, 1S74. by Rev. Father Delaroque, in Kane. 
Penn. His son. F. W. Meese. Jr. (by his tirst wife), resides in Kane. Penn.. is a 
painter and paper hanger, in politics is a Republican, and is a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. On Sunday, September L6, 1866, Mr. Meese, at 
the suggestion of George Welker, performed a mock marriage, uniting in the 
bonds of wedlock. Casper Huffnagle and Miss Lizzie Marker, daughter of Fred 
Marker. This was the only mock marriage Meese and Welker ever were con- 
nected with, as it cost Mr. Welker some trouble and money to persuade Huff- 
nagle to relinquish his bride. 

M. W. MOFFITT, manufacturer, Kane, is a son of Jesse Moffitt, and was 
born in Genesee county. N. V.. in L831. In 1832 his parents moved to Colum 
bus. Warren Co.. Penn., and thence to Erie county, where his school day- were 
completed, and where he grew to manhood. When he started in his business 
career he embarked in the lumber trade, and afterward was in mercantile busi- 
ness, fourteen years. In 1879 he removed to Kane, where he became a member 
of the lumber firm of P. (\ West A Co.. and subsequently of the firm of 
Howell-. Moffitl A Co., manufacturers of clothespins. He is an enterprising 
man. and has been successful in his business operations. He was married, in 
i ■ i ■ b Bassett. Mr. Moffitt is a member of Kane Lodge, No. 566, 
1' & L M., Bradford Chapter, No. 2(30, R. A. M., Bradford Conned. R. A S. 
M., Knapp Commandery, No. in, Ridgway, and Presque Isle Lodge of Per- 
[n politics he is a Republican, and i- the present burgess of the 
borough, lie is a member of tin' Methodist Episcopal Church. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 565 

G. H. PRESTON, M. D., Kane, was born in Lake county, Ohio, in 1854. 
He attended the schools of Madison, completing his studies at Madison High 
School; then went in to a drug store at Painesville, same State, where he learned 
the business and remained three years, when he began the study of medicine 
with Drs. Stranahan and Preston, of Warren, Penn. In 1S7S he attended the 
medical department of the University of the City of New York, and graduated 
in 1879. The Doctor began his practice at Dunkirk, N. Y., and same year 
removed to Kane, where he has since been in the active practice of his pro- 
fession. Dr. Preston has been surgeon for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, 
ten years, has held the same position for the Pittsburgh & Western Railroad, 
three years, and is medical examiner for all the insurance companies repre- 
sented in Kane. He is a member of the Acme Oil Company, the banking 
house of McDade, Davis & Co. and the drug firm of J. W. Griffith & Co. The 
Doctor also has large interests in timber land and oil property. He is one of 
the prosperous citizens of Kane, and a leading and influential physician and 
business man. 

WALTER B. SMITH, hardware merchant, Kane, a son of William J., 
and Roxana Smith, was born in Lottsville, Warren Co.. Perm., in 1852. He 
remained in his native county until 1869, when he removed to Ridgway, Elk 
county, where he learned the tinner's trade. In 1872 he revisited Warren 
county, and went into the hardware business, which he continued until 1871, 
when he sold his interests there, and returned to his former employer in 
Ridgway. He went to California in 1875, but remained only about a year, 
returning to Elk county in 1876, and in 1879 moved to Kane, and embarked 
in the hardware business. He took George Welker as partner in 1887, the 
firm name being the Smith & Welker Hardware Company. They carry a 
complete stock in their line, and have a paying business. Mr. Smith takes an 
active interest in public affairs, and has served several terms as poormaster, 
and two terms as burgess of the borough. In politics he votes independent of 
party. He is a member of Kane Lodge, No, 566, F. & A. M. ; Ridgway 
Chapter, R. A. M. ; Bradford Council, and Knapp Commandery, K. T., also 
Kane Lodge, No. 512. I. O. O. F. In 1883 he married Rosa Welker, a 
daughter of his business partner, and they have one child, Roxana. 

FRED S\Y ANSON, blacksmith, Kane, is a native of Sweden, born in 1855. 
a son of S. M. and Annie Swanson, the former deceased. He was reared in 
his native country, and in 1878 came to America, and to Pennsylvania, locat- 
ing at Kane; then went to Warren, where he was employed in the foundry of 
Struthers & Wells, and was afterward with the Northwestern Mining 
Company at Dagus Mines, Elk county. He subsequently removed to Kane, 
and has since been working at the blacksmith's trade. He is one of the 
reliable citizens of the town, and takes an interest in all matters pertaining to 
the public welfare. He is a member of Kane Lodge, No. 566, F. & A. M. 
In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Swanson was married in 1881 to Josephine 
Oleson, and they have one son, Harry. Mr. and Mrs. Swanson are members 
of the Lutheran Church. 

J. A. VOLLMER, dealer in furniture, and undertaker, Kane, was born in 
Elk county, Penn., in 1855. He was reared and educated in his native county, 
remaining at home until his majority, when, in 1876, he went to St. Mary's 
and then to Philadelphia, and learned the cabinet maker's trade. He located 
at Kane in 1882, and in addition to working at his trade is engaged in the fur- 
niture business, keeping a good stock in his line, including sewing-machines, 
etc. He also keeps a stock of undertaker's goods, being the only undertaker 
in the town. Mr. Vollmer was married in 1882 to Laura Tyler, and they have 



566 HISTOltY OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

four children. They are members of the Catholic Church. In politics Mr. 
Vollmer is a Democrat, and is a member of the borough council. 

GEORGE WELKER, hardware merchant. Kane, is a native of Germany, 
born in Rhenish Bavaria in 1836, a son of Michael Welker. In 1853 the 
family came to America and located at Philadelphia, where the subject of our 
notice learned the shoemaker's trade, and in 1857 moved to Williamsport, 
same State, where he worked at his trade until L864, in which year he camp to 
Renovo and bought the Dlrich House, which he conducted about a year. In 
1865 he came to Kane, where he purchased the first lot after the town was laid 
out and surveyed, and built the first house on the town site. He opened a 
hotel, and also engaged in the boot and shoe business until 188'i; he nest lie- 
came a member of the firm of Smith & Welker, dealers in hardware. He has 
taken great interest in the prosperity of Kane, and has been ono of the fore- 
most to assist all laudable enterprises. He has served several terms as a 
school director. Mr. Welker married Rosa Richly, who died in 1883, leaving 
three children: Rosa, wife of W. B. Smith: Lizzie and Emma. In 1885 Mr. 
Welker married Mary Sullivan, and they have two children: John and Edna. 
Mr. Welker is a member of Smethport Lodge, F. ct A. M. . and Williamsport 
Lodge, No. 570, I. O. O.E. In politics he rotes independent of party. 

P. C. WEST, manufacturer, Kane, is a son of Spencer West, one of the 
firm of P. C. West & Co., and was born in Minerva township, Essex Co N 
Y., August 2, 1828. His parents removed in his early childhood to French 
Creek, Chautauqua Co.. N. Y., and thence to Mill Creek and Harbor Creek, 
Erie Co., Perm., where his school-days were completed, and where he started 
in his business career. He was variously engaged in farming, in mercan- 
tile trade, and in Corry, Perm., in the lumber business until 1879, when, in 
October of that year, he removed his mill from near Lowell Station to near 
West Kane, and is now associated in the lumber trade with M. W. Moffitt; is 
also a member of the firm of West & Britton, his son, J. L. West, being also a 
member of the firm. This firm manufacture clothespins, their factory, which 
is on Bajard street, having a daily capacity of turning out 350 boxes, five 
gross each. Mr. West is one of the enterprising citizens of Kane. He was 
married in Concord. Erie Co.. Penn., June 2. 1853, to Elizabeth, daughter of 
Samuel and Ellen Heath, of Concord, that county. His wife died in Corry, 
November 2, 1889, of paralysis, aged sixty years, nine months and twenty 
seven days. In religion Mr. West is a Baptist, and in politics a Republican. 

WILLIAM P. WESTON, attorney at law, Kane. Perm., was born in Bur 
lington, Yt., in 1852. He completed his education at Lafayette College, 
Easton, Penn. , from which he graduated in 1^71. Be afterward studied la\i 
at the Columbia Law School, N. Y., graduating in L878. He was admitted to 
the bar of McKean county, Penn., in 1879, and began practice at Kane borough. 
He i- enterprising and ambitious, and is connected with various business inter- 
ests of the town. Mr. Weston is a member of the lumber firm of Stone, Wes 
ton A. Co., and of the banking house of McDade, Davis & Co., of which he is 
also cashier. He owns considerable oil land and several producing wells: also 
operates in od and timber lands. He is one of the energetic, public-spirited 
citizens of the town, and is prominent in business circles. In politics he is a 
Republican. 

REV. GEORGE WINKLER, priest in charge of St. Callistus Roman 
Catholic Church, at Kane, was born in Brooklyn. N. Y. His educational 
raining was received from the Jesuit fathers atFordham. X. V.. and at Fran 
cis Xavier's College, New York City. He was ordained to the priesthood in 
ISM'., by Rt. Rev. Tobias Mullen, D! D.. bishop of Erie. Penn. His first pas- 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 567 

torate was at McKean Corners, Erie county, and from there, in 1SS8, he was 
sent to Kane. In addition to the church at Kane he has charge of the 
churches at Rasselas. Johnsonburg and Wilcox. Upon his arrival at Kane he 
found no desirable place for holding services, and for a time the Temperance 
Hall was used. At Rasselas and Johnsonburg there was no place at all suita 
ble, while at Wilcox there was a frame structure totally unfit for a church. 
He went to work, aud now there is a good frame church at Johnsonburg, a 
stone church at Rasselas, a brick church at Kane, and also a frame church at 
Wilcox. He has superintended the building of these churches, and in the 
discharge of pastoral duties has endeared himself to the people of his various 
charges. 

CORYDON TOWNSHIP. 

M. J. JOHNSON, farmer, P. O. Corydon. Warren Co., Penn., was 
born in Livingston county. N. Y.. March 9, 1835. When eighteen years of 
age he left home and worked for farmers by the day until he had earned 
enough to buy a farm in Allegany county, N. Y. , which he cultivated and 
owned until 1807, when he exchanged his farm for a tract of wild land in 
McKean county, Penn., which he has cleared and improved, and now has 
one of the best farms in Corydon township. Mr. Johnson was married April 
2, 1862, to Miss Mary A. Kirstatter, of Warren county, Penn., and they have 
four children — Marion W., Alice M. , Cora E. and Harrie F. — all living at 
home. The parents of Mr. Johnson were named Daniel and Elizabeth, the 
former of American and the latter of German descent. Mrs. Johnson's par- 
ents were named Lorenzo and Maria Anna Kirstatter, of German birth. 

C. D. SEAMAN, farmer and lumberman, P. O. Cornplanter, Warren 
Co., Penn., is a native of McKean county, Penn., born December 25, 
1836. He was reared on a farm, and on reaching manhood bought a tract of 
wild land, which he has improved, and which is now one of the best farms in 
Corydon township. In addition to attending to the cultivation of his farm 
Mr. Seaman is extensively engaged in the lumber business. He was married 
in October, 1862, to Miss Annie Smith, of Cuba, N. Y., and they have one 
son, Allen, who is still at home. 

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP. 

JAMES ANDERSON, merchant, Morrison's, was born in Kent county, 
England, near London, October 25, 1814, a son of William and Mary 
(Bainbridge) Anderson. He lived in his native county until seventeen years 
of age, and learned the cutter's trade in London. In 1831 he came to 
America, and for a year was employed as cutter in a wholesale clothing house, 
and then removed to Corydon, Penn., and opened a general store, being one 
of the first merchants of the town. He was obliged to undergo many hard- 
ships in the early days of McKean county, but has ever been a live, ener- 
getic business man, and is now one of the leading citizens of the township. 
He has served one term as commissioner of McKean county, and has been jus- 
tice of the peace thirty -five years. He was married February 22, 1841, to 
Miss Isabelle Hoop, of Lafayette, Penn. Mr. Anderson's father. William An- 
derson, was born in Kent county, England, October 5, 1783, and his mother was 
born in Pontefract, England, September 1, 1787. They were married May 6, 
1806. In 1809 William Anderson bought a captain's commission in the Eng- 
lish army, and served until after the battle of Waterloo, when he sold his commis- 
sion and went into the mercantile business in London. In 1829 he came to the 
United States, for a year was in business in Utica, N. Y., and in 1830 bought 



56> HISTORY OF JfCKEAN COUNTY. 

a large tract of land in McKean county, Peun.. and was one of its pioneer 
settlers. December 24, 1836, after a visit at bis son's, James Anderson, of 
Corydon, he started home through the woods afoot. The snow was very deep, 
and the weather very cold. It is supposed that he became wearied and sat 
down on a log to rest, as he was found the next day. December 25, by Mr. 
Thomas, the mail carrier, between Smethport and Warren, Penn., frozen to 
death, in a sitting posture. His widow departed this life at 8 o'clock on the 
morning of Decembers, 1889, at the advanced age of one hundred and two 
year'-. 

■I. (1. CURTIS, tanner, merchant and lumber manufacturer, Ludlow, was 
born in Fairfield county, Conn.. November 7. 1830, a son of John and Lucy 
(Blackman) Curtis. John Curtis was one of the pioneers of Fairfield county. 
and a tanner by trade. Mr. Curtis received an ordinary education, and 
when eighteen years of age left home and learned the machinist'- trade at 
Naugatuck. Conn.; afterward went to Painted Post, X. Y.. and later traveled 
as a journeyman workman for several years. He afterward, in connection with 
J. D. Hamilton, of New York, built a tannery at Curtis Station. N. Y., which 
they operated for eight years, after which he took charge of the Lehigh Tan- 
nery at White Haven, Penn., for Thomas Smull & Sons, for three years. He 
then erected a tannery at Emporium, Penn., the firm being styled Hamil- 
ton, Curtis & Co. In 1869 he came to Ludlow and built the present Ludlow 
tannery, making harness and rough leather, associating with him Mr. Maxwell, 
in 1886, under the firm name of Curtis. Maxwell Co., for the purpose of 
finishing shoe leather. Mr. Curtis also operates an extensive mercantile busi- 
ness at Ludlow, and is interested in manufacturing lumber. In 1855 he 
married Miss Mary Chambers, a native of Yates county. N. Y.. and they have 
two sons, Daniel and John S., living at home. Mr. Curtis is a supporter of 
the Republican party, and he and family are members of the Episcopal Church. 
He has served as postmaster at Ludlow since 1882. 

GEORGE P. FOTJLKROD. lumberman, P. O. Bradford, was born in 
Tioga county, Penn.. January 17. 1849. When he was sixteen years old his 
parents moved to Sheffield, Penn., where he grew to manhood. His father 
was a lumberman, and he went into the mill to learn to fit saws, becoming an 
expert in the business, and he has fitted saws for the best lumbermen in Mc- 
Kean county. In 1888 he located at Martindale, Hamilton township, built a 
mill, and now does a good business, cutting 25,00(1 feet of lumber per day. 
He is one of the successful lumbermen of the county, and is a prominent and 
influential citizen. He is a member of Lodge No. 373, I. O. O. F., of Kinzua, 
Penn. Mr. Foulkrod was married October 15, 1877, to Miss Saudi S. Springer, 
of Ludlow. Penn. 

I'd 'WARD N. HALLOCK. lumberman, P. O. Bradford, was born in Craw- 
ford county. Penn., August 29, 1^-V2. When he was sixteen years old he be- 
gan clerking in a bank in Erie, and remained there rive years, then accepted 
a position with a pipe line company in Foxburg. Penn. In 1879 he moved to 
Bradford, Penn., ami bought oil and lumber property, and has since been en 
gaged in both the production of petroleum, and also owns a tine sawmill at 
Watsonville, where he turns out 25,000 feet of lumber per day. Mr. Hallock 
was married May '21. 1878, to Miss Phebe E. Keith, of Rome, N. Y.. and they 
have two children: Charles S. and Florence 15. Samuel T. Hallock. father of 
Edward X. Hallock, was born in Ulster county. N. Y.. July 4. 1809, ami 
died iii Crawford county, Penn., September 25, l s 77. Sara C. (Baily) 
Hallock. the mother of Edward N.. was born in Greenfield, Mass., Mil 6, 
1M I. and died in Crawford county, Penn.. November 12. 1882. Charles F 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 569 

Keith, father of Phebe E. (Keith) Hallock, was born in Herkimer county. 
N. Y. , September 19, 1823, and died in Oneida county, N. Y., August 27, 
L883. Jerusha (Read) Keith, mother of Mrs. P. E. Hallock, was born in 
Herkimer county, N. Y. , in 1826, and died there in 1855. 

H. W. MARTINDALE, lumberman, Bradford, was bom in Erie, Erie 
Co., Penn., June 2, 1855, a son of A. C. and Abbie (Borrows) Martindale, 
former a native of Erie county, and a farmer by occupation, latter a native 
of Jamestown, Chautauqua Co., N. Y. ; they are still living in Erie county, 
and are prominent members of the Presbyterian Church. They have three 
children living: Elsie (wife of J. J. Wheelock, of Titusville), Ruby (living at 
home) and H. W. H. W. Martindale was reared on the homestead farm, and 
received his education at the State normal school at Edinborough. At the 
age of twenty-three years he left home and located at Bolivar, N. Y., engaging in 
the livery business. He was also a commercial traveler for three years. In 
1884 he came to McKean county, and accepted a position with H. S. Southard 
as foreman of his lumber-mills in Hamilton township. This position he held for 
three years, and has since been engaged in manufacturing lumber for B. Ne 
smith it Co., employing sixty men. In 1880 he married Miss Ida, daughter 
of \V. H. Burlingham, of Holland, Erie Co., N. Y. , and they have one child: 
Roy E. Mrs. Martindale is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 
Mr. Martindale in politics is a Republican. 



HISTORICAL ADDENDUM. 

The following list of soldiers buried in the vicinity of Bradford, Penn., 
was furnished by T. J. Fennerty, but received too late for insertion in its 
proper chapter: 

BRADFORD CEMETERY. 

James De Long, First Company Fourteenth William Fairfax, United States Colored 

New York Volunteers. War of 1813; Troops. 

died April 21, 1872, aged ninety. Joseph Carpenter, Eleventh New York Vol- 

A. Beaman, New York Volunteers, War of unteers. died September 19, 1877, aged 

1812. thirty-two years. 

M. P. Brown, Company D, One Hundred Henry Schlegel, Company F, Tliirty-sixlh 

and Forty-sixth Pennsylvania Volun- Pennsylvania Volunteers, died Deeem- 

teers, died May 21, 1872. ber 17, 1881. 

Julius Buchanan entered service in 1861, Frank Humbart. Pennsylvania Volunteers, 

died July 27, 1872. died during tin- year 1881. 

George Ingraham, soldier of 1812, died July A. L. West, Company D. Twenty-third 

27, 1872. Regiment N. J. Volunteers, died in Oc- 

M. O'Brien, Company F, Seventy-second tober, 1880, at Knapp's creek. 

New York Volunteers, died November A. S. Magee, died in December, 1881, at 

27, 1877. Bradford. 

Barnabus Pike, soldier of 1812, and the first G. Hutchinson, Company E, Fifty-eighth 

white settler in this valley, died Oc- Pennsylvania Volunteers, died May 5, 

tober 30, 1880. 1880. 

H. D. Hicks. Company C, Two Hundred Benjamin Lecompt. Company B, Eighth 

and Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, Pennsylvania Volunteers. 

died at Petersburgh", Va., April 2, 1865, Richard Chancellor, Company B. United 

aged forty-three years and two weeks. States Colored Troops. 

Sam Brownlee, Forty-ninth New York Vol- J. B. Jamison, Fiftieth New York Engin- 

unteers, died in June, 1880. eers. 

Thomas Maben, Pennsylvania Volunteers, H. Ingles, Company D. Fourth Pennsvl- 

dieil May 1, 1881. vania Cavalry. ' 



570 HISTOlii OF MCKEAN COUNTY. 

OAB HILL CEMETERY. 

E. W. Skinner, corporal Company F. Cue J. N. Towles regimenl unknown. 

Hundred and Eleventh Pennsylvania James Caserly, Company F, First New York 

Volunteers, killed March 2. 1863 Cavalry. 

Wash. Walter, corporal Eleventh Ohio Bat- C. I. Grant, Company I, One Hundred and 

tery, died December 5, 1881. Seventh New Yuri; Volunteers. 

I. 6. Beecher, First New York Dragoons, J. II Powell, Company II. Twenty-eighth 

died April 6, 1883. lows Infantry. 

I tmes Maginnis, Company K, Ninety-Sec- George Allen, regiment unknown. 

ond New York Volunteers, died April A. I!. Irwin, regiment unknown. 

'.'5, 1883. 

ST. BERNARD CEMETERY. 

\ Crocker, One Hundred and Sixth New William Quinlan, regiment unknown. 

York S. V. M. Rodell, Massachusetts regiment 

KENDALL CEMETERY. 

Capt. I.N. Thompson, Company K. Six- Himan Cole, One Hundred and Seventh N 
teenth Maine Volunteers, died May 6, Y. S. V. 

1880. Moses Cole, soldie of 1812 

DEGOLIA CEMET] ' 

John Inglesby, War of 1812, died April 16, W. Tanner, War of 1812. 

1865. Simmond Hammond. War of 1812, died 
.1 W. Cobbett, Company A, One Hundred December 20. 18G2. 

and Ninety-ninth Pennsylvania Yolun- W. Watrons, Fifty third Pennsylvania Vol- 

teers, died in October, 1867. iintei rs, died" December 23, 1ST?. 

Orville Jewett, Company A, One Hundred Col. .1. K. Haffy, Forty-Second Pennsyl 

and Ninety-ninth Pennsylvania Volun- vania Volunteers (Bucktails di< 

teers. died in October, 1880. Richmond. Va., 1865. 

\. M. Cram, Company E. Fifty-eighth Charles Price. Wisconsin regiment. 

Pennsylvania Volunteers, died March 

IT. 1880. 

LAFAYETTE CEMETERY. 

John Cool, Company F, One Hundred and Charles A. Tenney, Company II Seventh 

Forty-Second Pennsylvania Volunteers. Ohio Infantry. 

Alfred Hoop, Company I, Forty-Second Joseph Norton, Company E, One Hundred 

Pennsylvania Volunteers (Bucktails). and Fifty-third Pennsylvania Volun 

George Talbot, Company F, Fifty-eighth tier- died December 25, 1878. 

Pennsylvania Volunteers. 

LUDLOW CEMETERY, HAMILTON TOWNSHIP. 

S. D. Morrison, Company E, Twelfth Penn- .lame- \\ bott Company I, Fo 

sylvania Cavalry, died April 19, 1871. ond Pennsylvania Volunteers (Buck 

C Morrison, Company G, Independent In- 
fantry of Pennsylvania. 

BOLIVAR RUN CEMETERY. 

Tobias Cornelius, Company (J, Fifty third Zadock Reynolds, War of 1812, died April 
Pennsylvania Volunteers, died March bi. 1850. 

25, 1863. 

SAWYER CEMETERY. 

W.J.Snyder, Company I. Forty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers (Bucktails), died 0< 
tober 7. ixt!7. 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 



ELK COUNTY. 



CHAPTER I. 

TOPOGRAPHY AND NATURAL HISTORY. 



Formation— Judge Geddes' Report— General Topography— Population, 
Area and Natural Resources— Oil and Gas Wells and Pipe Lines- 
Coal Deposits, Etc.— Lumber Resources— Fires and Floods— Wild 
Fruits, Animals, Etc. 

ELK COUNTY was carved out of the hills and valleys of McKean, Jeffer- 
son and Clearfield counties, April 18, 1843. Judge Geddes, who in 1831— 
32 surveyed the Clarion and Sinnemahoning summit for the proposed canal 
of that period, says in his report: "At the head of Bennett's Branch is a 
marsh called Flag Swamp, from which in wet seasons the water flows both 
ways, and where at such seasons the summit might easily be passed in a 
canoe. This point is remarkable as, probably, the only one in the State where 
the beaver can be found. Everywhere else they have been driven out by 
the approach of human footsteps. In the same region a few elk still remain." 
Running from the southeast corner of Warren county through McKean' s 
southwest corner, and as far as Daguscahonda was the old Buffalo swamp. 
The big level or ridge, running in opposite directions through the northwest 
corner of the county, made the swamp look greater to the old-time travelers 
than it really was, while the Warren and Ridgway State road, cut through in 
1832, aided such travelers in obtaining glimpses of the historic swamp in its 
extensions. 

The elevations of the county are given as follows, the figures represent- 
ing the number of feet above tide level: Hyde House, Ridgway, 1,400; P. & 
E. R. R. , Ridgway, 1,393; S. & R. R. R. crossing Ridgway and Centreville 
road, 1,925; Lower Kittanning bed at Mine No. 8, 1,605; L. K. bed at Mine No. 
15, 1,845; L. K. bed, McAllister's farm, 1,600; road at J. C. McAllister's. 1,580; 
Clarion bed at Mine No. 7, 1,685; Clarion bed at Mine No. 16, 1,735; Boot 
Jack, 2,166; road forks, warrant 4,248, 1,760; road at Brandy Camp Hotel, 
1,565; lower Freeport bed ("Mvein"), Faust farm, 1,760; lower Freeport 
bed (" M vein ") west side of Mead's run, north of Mead's Run School-house, 
1,710; lower Freeport bed, tunnel opening, southwest of Meade Run School- 
house, 1,650; Freeport lower limestone, McAllister farm, 1,740; ferriferous 
limestone, mouth of Karns run, 1,535; George Faust's house, 1,765; J. C. 
Wellington's house, Karns run, 1,600; Mead's Run (Colomo) School-house, 
1,550; Theodore Fox's house, 1,530; summit of Fox hill, 1,755; Freeport 
lower limestone, west of Fox hill, 1,580; bottom bench of Freeport upper coal, 
west of Fox hill, 1,650; J. S. Chamberlin's house, 1,545; summit of Cham- 



574 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

berlin hill, 1,845; Freeport lower limestone, Chamberlin hill, 1,730; Eer 
riferous limestone, Chamberlin hill, 1,585; Brockport, 1,545. 

Rathbun, 1,316 above mean ocean level on track, West Creek Summit. 
1,695; St. Mary's, 1,667; a poinl near St. Mary's. 1,888; Scahonda, 1,519; 
Daguscahonda, 1. ITS; Shawmut, 1,426; Bidgway, 1,393; Whistletown, 1,414; 
Johnsonburg, 1,441; Eolfe, 1,446; Clarion. 1,482; Wilcox, 1,526; Dahoga, 
1,601; mouth of Johnson's run, 1,505; Benezette depot. 1,040; Medix run 
bridge, 1,099; Caledonia tunnel, 1.148; Dent's run. 924: a point east of 
Earley, 2,265, and a point just south. 2,108. 

The population in 1870 was 8,48s. in 1880, 12. sou. and in 1888, 17,075, 
based on the election returns, which, in November of that year, show 1,824 
Democratic votes, 1.321 Republican, 52 Prohibitionist and 18 Cnion Labor, a 
total of 3.215. The area is 774 square miles or about 495,360 acres. The 
\a-t resources of this territory are principally lumber and coal. There are 
seven veins of bituminous coal, each twenty-eight feet thick, two veins of can 
nel coal, three feet each in thickness, and two beds of lime partly fossilized. 
Iron ore, which yields 30 to 40 per cent of pure metal, abounds in the hills. 
Heavily timbered" wildernesses cover a large portion of the county. Tanning 
and lumber are the principal active industries. In the vicinity of St. Mary's, 
coal of good quality is mined and shipped to market. 

In the "sixties" an oil well was put down SO0 feet near Ridgway. but 
abandoned. In June, 1876, travelers noticed the old well flowing, and the oil 
stampede was resumed. About this time the oil well at Wilcox was blowing 
gas at a tremendous rate, and many residents felt certain they lived within the 
envied oil circle. The oil lease from David Scull to Maurice M. Schultz for an 
oil tract in Jones township, was entered March 19, 1877, and in April, Alonzo 
Field leased lands there to W. L. Holman, T. VY. Ryan and YY. W. Griffith. 
The lease on the Mulroy lands in Benezette was made in February to R. W. Pet 
rikin, Julius Jones. George Rolfe, S. P. Romig and D. A. Waddell. The 
same parties leased several tracts in that and adjoining townships, making the 
actual beginnings of oil leases in this county. 

On the Julius Jones farm, one mile west of Benezette, on Bennett's creek. 
"The Nearest Oil Company" (which is composed of numerous Bradford spec- 
ulators) cleaned out, in February. 1890, an old hole drilled in 1882, during 
the Cherry Grove excitement. When the well was first drilled there was a 
showing for a good twenty or twenty-five barrel well, but owing to the discour- 
aging outlook for a better price for oil at that time, the well was abandoned. 
G W. Newman, the principal projector of the modern prospecting, states that 
the company own 6,000 acres in the vicinity. 

The Ernhout & Taylor well No. 1. at Wilcox, reached a depth of 276 feet in 
February, 1878, and work on the Benezette well was commenced. Schultz No. 
3 was yielding three to five barrels; a well on the Hedsnecker farm was com 
menced, also one on the Bridgetown tract, and one for Boughton, Frisbee 
& Van Sickle on Big Mill creek. In March Capt. Ernhout leased 117 acres at 
Whistletown and the Osterhout lands along the Clarion, i Tones and Ridgway 
townships, for oil prospecting purposes .... In June, Ism), the Hiding's well 

at Daguscahonda was down to third sand Hallock I Johnson's well in 

Millstone township, near Raughts. was shot in July. 1881, and a 1,200 barrel 
tank erected. The Johnsonburg well, six miles south oi Wilcox, was then 
reported yielding from fifty to seventy-five barrels per day. 

The Grant & Hoiton gas well was struck in June, L883, at 2,300 feet. 
and a light oil producer the same month .... In May, 1885, the White. 
Oyster & Short gas well was drilled at Johnsonburg, and in June a gas 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. -) t I 

run was struck at 1,734 feet In August, 1886, S. B. Hughes & Co.'s well 

in the northeastern part of warrant 3663 made forty barrels the first three 
days after being shot, while the well of M. J. Feeley & Co., in the northeast 
corner of 3072, was credited with six barrels a day from an upper sand, which 
was supposed to correspond with the Clarendon formation. These wells are 
over three miles apart, and were thought to mark the beginning of two new 
and distinct oil-producing districts. Armstrong, Boggs & Co. had two wells 
drilling in this region, one on 2032 and the other on 3655, and several other 
test wells were started .... In 1871 the old John well was drilled near the 
Schultz well of 1887. In .May. L887, live wells were completed iii Elk county, 
and there were eighteen producing wells in the field averaging seven barrels 
each. Mike Murphy's well on warrant 2027 was then a mystery: Clark & 
Foster's wells on 3663 and 3664 were fair producers; their No. 3 on i'ii:;:; was 
drilling, and No. 4 on same warrant struck sand .May 31. while a rig was up 
on 2020. The Elk Company's well on 3663 was yielding fifteen barrels, and 
another well was started h\ them; Porter, Thyng & Co.'s No. 4 on 2033. 
and No. 6, were doing well; the Highland Oil Company's hole on same war 
rant was also giving fifteen barrels. The Wilcox Tannerj Company's well was 
finished on 2676 ton Lanigan's run) to a depth of 1,750 feet, and proved a 
producer. Round it were the National Transit Company's gassers 

In August, 1887, .John .Markham had his pipe line complete from his Kane 
wells to the Highland oil field Porter, Thyng & Co.'- No. L0 on the north 
east corner of 2033 was rated at twenty barrels per day; Boggs, Curtis & 
Co.'s well on 2027 was being drilled; the venture of the < 1 i 11 is Farm Oil Com- 
pany was closed down after going over 2,300 feet; the Sill, O'Dell & Barnsdall 
well on the Crawford lot was drilling, while Clark ,v Foster found two new 
producers. The Elk County Oil & Gas Company's well, three miles north 
west of Ridgway, was shot in July. 1886, and showed a strong flow of gas. 
Many oil ventures have been made in the Elk county field, but success seldom 
rewarded the ventures. Within the last few years the gas reservoirs in the 
Johnsonburg neighborhood have proven themselves worthy of notice, and gas 
from these wells is being conducted into the towns and villages of the county, 
as related in the sketches of such localities. 

In February, 1890, the T. F. Barnsdall lands in Elk county, and wells 
producing 275 barrels per day. were sold to Noves, Wood and others for 
$325,000. 

The coal deposits of Elk are scattered everywhere, but developed only at a 
few places — St. Mary's and Dagus mines being the mining centers. In the his 
tory of the townships much is given relating to the development of the coal 
beds .... The paint-ore mine, extending from Eagle Valley to Whistletown, 
was discovered by D. R. Kline on the lands of J. S. Hyde, in 1887. 

Building stone of excellent quality is found outcropping on the sum 
niits and hillsides. In 1888-89 the first organized effort to find an outside 
market for this sandstone succeeded, and quarrying and shipping building 
stone is to-day an important industry. . . .Throughout the county great hem 
lock tracts still exist, with smaller tracts of pine and hardwood. How long this 
forest may continue to clothe the hills and valleys may be learned from a 
review of the great lumber mills scattered here and there, the sketches of 
which are contained in the pages devoted to local history. The forest fires of 
centuries seem to have done little injury to the great trees, as only a few sec 
tions of the forest disappeared before the flames. In May, 18S4, the great fire 
which swept over parts of Cameron county, damaged property here: The 
saw-mill of Steinhelfer & Otto, near Swissmont, together with lumber, logs 



5(8 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

and houses, loss, $8,000; insurance, $4,000. The saw-mill of Joseph Goetz, 
also near Swissmont, together with 100,000 feet of lumber, 1.000,00(1 feet of 
logs, house and household effects, involving a loss of $6,000, upon which there 
was no insurance. The house of Mr. Tyler and its contents, near by, were also 
burned. Andrew Kaul lost his saw-mill on Spring run, 2,500,000 feet of lum- 
ber, over 100,000 feet of logs, boarding house, stables, blacksmith shop, and 
nearly a mile of plank road; on Wolf run 1,000.000 feet of logs, 300 cords of 
bark, camps, stables, blacksmith shop, etc., his loss at both places aggregating 
about $25,000. Mr. Kaul also lost a saw-mill, all his houses and 60,000 feet 
of lumber at Sterling run, Cameron county, upon which there was an insurance 
of $7,500. Near Hemlock station the large Otto mill and a great amount of 
lumber were destroyed. Will Sykes' mill, at the same place, escaped. 

The flood of August 12 and 13, 1885, deluged Johnsonburg, threatening 
the Bayard mills at Whistletown; carried away 400,000 feet of logs from the 
Hyde mills at Eagle Valley; carried away the Dickinson Brothers' boom lower 
down, and at Portland did more damage. At Ridgway the water was two feet 
deep on Main street, near the R. & C. depot, and the water entered the Bogert 
House and the Congregational Church. The high waters of May and June, 
1889, also caused damage. 

When the pioneers arrived, they found wild fruit in abundance. Mr. 
Brooks states that native grapes from the size of the Delaware to the Fox grape, 
grew as large as crabapples, yielding fifty bushels from one vine. Native 
plum trees grew on the river bottom lands by hundreds and thousands, the 
fruit of which were large, juicy and luscious, delicious as nectar, fit food for 
the gods. Peach, pear and apple trees were planted by the immigrants, 
and in a few years peaches were so abundant that thousands of bushels of the 
fruit fell to the ground and became food for the swine. About 1832-33 the 
severity of the winters killed many of the peach trees, and since that time, there 
has been comparative scarcity. Game, like fruit, were offered to the pioneers. 
Elk were found in the Flag swamp neighborhood as late as 1850, and in 1867 
the last elk in the State was killed on Bennett's branch. In the fall of 1886 
the presence of one was reported. The deer, bear, wolf and fox are regular 
inhabitants down to this day. A story of a bear hunt is chronicled under 
date, December 111, 1876. It is unlike a pioneer bear story in the round- 
about way taken by the hunter to capture bruin. It appears that on the 
date mentioned, Ralph Johnson of Dry saw-mill, while in the woods about one 
mile from his house, stopped by the side of a large standing hemlock, when 
he heard, as he supposed, the breaking of ice, caused by his own weight, 
but a visual ray of about seven feet of his height proved to him that some- 
thing with its head poked out of a small hole was grating its teeth within 
six inches of his boot. From the size of the hole, as it appeared from 
the outside of the tree, he thought it an animal of some description, of 
inferior size, and blocked up the hole. Next morning, in company with John 
and Will Wainwright, with two axes and a single-barrel rifle (the old family 
gun) carried by Will, went to capture the prize, and to their surprise found 
a hollow larger than a flour barrel, which evidently had been lately vacated 
by <>ld bruin: following the trail about one mile, they found him under a 
flat rock. Ralph, Will and the dog stood guard until John went and re- 
turned with John Johnson, commonly known as ''Old Farmer," with two 
more rifles, a double and single barrel. But one shot from the gun manu- 
factured in our fathers' day gave him such a headache that a shot from 
the other single-barrel gun, piercing a second hole in his forehead, laid 
out a bear weighing about 260 pounds by the "Farmer's" scales. 



HISTOKY OF ELK COUNTY. 579 

Iu 1885 a Daguscahonda chicken walked out of the shell on four per 
feet legs, and was indeed one of Nature's strange freaks. Had it been 
cuffed and kicked about like the common brood, it would still have lived, 
but it was petted to death. Though having unusual facilities for walking, 
it only played the pilgrim for a few da\ s. 

While the unthinking hunter has been for years industriously eng 
in killing the deer, it is a relief to think that two citizens, at least, have 
succeeded in saving a number of thorn. The Trout Run Park, the private 
property of Andrew Kanl and J. K. P. Hall, containing 600 acres, is located 
between St. Mary's and Benezette, in the heart of the wilderness. This pari 
is enclosed by a fence eight to ten feet in height, erected at a cost of $2, 51 K I 
The park was enclosed in 1887, and stocked with twelve deer. A mountain 
stream flows through this park, and outside, in the course of this stream arc a 
series of tish ponds and hatching houses, for the cultivation of brook trout and 
carp. The wire in the fence is connected with an electric apparatus in the 
game-keeper's house; close by is the club house. The total cost of this park 
may be placed al |7,000. The Williamsport Republican, referring to this 
great game preserve, says: "It is six miles square, and was arranged as it now 
is about four and one-half years ago. The work of making such an immense 
place was a tremendous one, but it was accomplished with apparent ease. All 
around the place a fence made of trees stand-, from ten to fifteen feet in height, 
inside which the brush and trees are so thick, that people are easily lost there. 
Approaches to the park are so arranged that the deer coming up find but little 
difficulty in gaining an entrance, but once inside there is no possible mei 
getting out. Inside the fence the ground slopes so much that the most expert 
juniper in the deer tribe, would not attempt to get out. It is thought now 
that there are not less than one hundred and fifty deer within the park." 



CHAPTER II. 

INDIANS AND PIONEEES. 



The Aborigines— Gen. Wade— Early Reminiscencfs of Judge Kyi.i k 
Pioneer Settlers— Judge J. I.. Gillis and Others— Irishtown— First 
Declarations of CiTizi'.vsmr Tin: German Union Bond Society— Some 
First Things in the Cm nty— Reminiscences of John Brooks. 

THIS section of Pennsylvania was the hunting-ground of the aborigines up 
to the close of the first decade of this century, when the first faint gleams 
of civilization darted through the forest, chasing, as it were, the shadows of 
the savages. Who the aborigines were, so far as history tells, is shown iu the 
pages devoted to the Indian history of McKean county. 

Gen. Wade and family, with a friend named Slade, came to the headwaters 
of the Little Toby, in 1798, and settled temporarily at what is now Little 
Toby, on the Rochester & Pittsburgh Railroad. In 1803 the party returned 
east, but the same year came hither and built a log house at the mouth of the 
Little Toby on the east bank. In 1806, while Wade and Slade were hunting 
round what is now Blue Rock, they saw an Indian girl watching them. Ap- 
proaching her, the General enticed her to follow him to his home, and there in- 



580 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

troduced her to Mrs. Wade. In 1809 this semi captive married Slade, the cere- 
mony being performed by Chief Tamsqua. A few years later Slade moved to 
what is now Portland, established a trading house there, and when the white 
settlers came into the No Man's Creek neighborhood. Wade and Tamsqua pre- 
sented to them the pipe of peace. Judge Kyler, writing to Dr. Earley, of Ridg- 
way, in 1874, gives valuable reminiscences of early years. He states: " A large 
body of land containing about 100,000 acres lying in what is now Benzioger, 
Fox, Horton and Houston townships, the latter in Clearfield county, was pat- 
ented to Samuel M. Fox (deceased), and was offered for sale and settlement by 
his heirs. Their agent, AVilliam Kersey, opened a road from the State road 
(now Bellefonte and Erie turnpike), to what is called the Burned Mill. These 
lands lay in what was then Jefferson, McKean and Clearfield counties, most of 
it in the latter, which at that time could not poll over 160 or 170 votes, and 
was attached to Centre county. It had but one township, called Ckinelecla 
moose; that was the name of the township here then. A man named Amos 
Davis was the first actual settler. He resided, prior to 1810, some two or three 
years on the tract north of me, where the steam saw-mill stands. In the spring 
of the above year, my father, John Kyler, who lived in Centre county, came to 
see the country, and located his place at Kyler' s Corners on Little Toby creek. 
That year and the summer following he packed his provisions on a horse to do 
him while clearing some land and putting up a cabin, and the last of May or 
first of June, 1812, moved his family to this country. Elijah Meredith had 
moved in a few days before, and Jacob Wilson and Samuel Miller at the time 
we did. Miller located at Earley, and the year following Jonah Griffith located 
at the farm where Centreville now is. Miller and Griffith both left the follow- 
ing year. The grist-mill erected by Kersey was a small affair, built of peeled 
hemlock logs — had one run country stones, and no bolting cloth for a couple 
of years. Flour of all kinds had to be sifted. William Fisher, of Centre county, 
who succeeded Kersey as agent, put in a bolting cloth. Soon after David Mere- 
dith and Jacob Wilson went there to grind, for eveiy man was his own miller. 
There was no fire-place, but a few stones for a back wall in one corner, and in 
the night, while asleep, the mill caught fire; they, having nothing but their 
shoes to carry water, were unable to put it out, and the mill burned down. 
Then for more than a year what grain was raised had to be taken to Maxwell's 
mill, on Anderson's creek, to be ground, some forty miles. If grain had to be 
bought it could not be got, frequently, short of Centre or Indiana counties. 
Clearfield was divided into two townships — one Lawrence, for Capt. Lawrence 
of the Chesapeake, who met his death in his battle with the Shannon; the 
other Pike, for a general of that name killed in Canada. Our township was the 
latter, and Chincleclamoose became extinct. Soon after we moved to the country, 
father and I went to the mill to grind some grain he had raised the year Before, 
and beat out with a stick on a quilt. Just as we were leaving for home we 
heard a yell, and saw a man come bustling along clad in a blanket coat. Father 
said 'there comes an Indian.' He, however, proved to be a Welshman named 
David Roberts; he had no family; he had taken a place at Instanter; had 
cleared also a potato patch at Johnsonburg, near Wilmarth; said he had 
heard there were people living in these parts, and come to see if he could find 
them; said he could furnish seed potatoes. Two of the settlers, each with a 
bag and horse, went after them, Roberts being guide, and got some, but had 
much difficulty getting through the woods. He paid us several visits, and 
when winter came went to a place called Beaulah to spend the winter with his 
own kind of people, and married there. Iu these days house floors were either 
split puncheon or logs hewed on one side and matched at the edges: barn 




S^to .o$lU&»^j 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 583 

floors the same. Roofs were split clapboards held in place by weigh! poles. 1 
think a year after we came here settling began on Bennett's branch of the Sin 
nemahoning, but I leave it for some one else who will, no doubt, give an ac 
count of that place, who is better acquainted there than I am. Elk, deer and 
bear were very plenty here at that time, and from the number of dead trees, as 
well as the remains of bark shanties and the tomahawk marks still vi 
the trees from which the bark was taken, I infer that (his was a hunting 
ground much used by the Indians at one time, but they did not hun.1 
great ileal after the first settlers came. Those that did were reputed to be of 
the Cornplauter tribe. Those I knew best were Big John, Logan and Capt. 
Crow. Big John was a noble looking Indian, past the middle age, tall, straight 
and well proportioned. Logan looked very old. The last time I saw them, 
Big John took an opportunity to tell us ' Logan too old to hunt, he could not 
see to shoot straight..' In 1816 the land owners commenced building as a 
new mill, and finished it the year following, i'ii the site of what is now Con 
nor' s mill. Permanent settlers in 1816 were thi Wilson, 

Kyler and Meredith. Others had made Improvements, intending to settle, but 
never brought their families, or lilt soon after, if they did. and Davis sold in 
the fall of that year to a man who did not move to it. ami lost it 1 
taxes paid. William McCauley moved in the spring of 1817. The next year 
James Reesman, James Green, Smith Mead, Esq., and others made improve 
ments, but only the three named were permanent. Perhaps some two years 
after, Leonard Morey, from Sinnemahoning, came around with a petition to 
have tin- section struck off into a new township. It was granted, and the eouri 
named li Sinnemahoning, This displeased the settlers west of the barret 
thej petitioned for change of the name, and the court named it Fox, in honor 
of Samuel M. Fox. The township included all of Horton within the Clearfield 
line. I [ouston, in that county now. and .lay. These three townships being taken 
from Fox has reduced its territory to its present size. Between the years IMS 
and 1823, Conrad Mover. Tibni Taylor, John Cellar, Joel and 1'hiletns Clark. 
Isaac Coleman, Uriah and Jonah Rogers, Rev. Jonathan Nichols. Alanson Vial 
and Hon. Isaac Horton were added to the settlement and remained permanenl Ly. 
The three latter named located on Brandy Camp branch of Little Toby, now 
Horton township, and the following named: Dr. William Hoyt, John Bundy, 
James R. Hancock, Chauncey Brockway, Esq., James Tidings and Robert 
Thompson remained a number of years and then left; but all have some of 
their descendants living here. From the above time to the present, popula- 
tion has steadily increased. It required an indomitable spirit for the first set- 
tlers, who sought a home so far in the wilderness in a dense forest of timber, to 
clear the ground and render it fit for cultivation, and few had courage to at 
tempt it, or constancy to persevere if they did." 

In the history of Cameron county the advertisement of the Burlington trait 
is given. Observing it, Joseph Potter. Leonard Morey and William Ward set 
out from their homes in Susquehanna county, Penn., April '_'. L812, on the 5th 
reached Butler's cabin on the north fork of Pine creek, and next day pushed 
on to the head of the Allegheny, where they stayed with a Mr. Heirs | Avers], 
thence to Lymans and Canoe Place, and on the 10th arrived at John Earls. 
On April 11 they went down the branch to Spanglers, thence up B< n 
branch to Dr. Dan Rogers' house, where they arrived on the 13th. This 
house stood a little above the large dam below Benezette. The three poineers 
purchased lands on the loth, Morey buying a mile below Caledonia, but 
later changing to a point near the mouth of Medix Run; Ward, where Caledonia 
stands, and Potter opposite the mouth of Medix Run. On the Kith the 



584 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

pioneers set out on their return trip, two of them revisited the place iD 
September, and on their return spoke so highly of the country that in 
February, 1813, L. Morey and Dwight Caldwell, with their families. Ichabod 
and Sylvester Powers and William F. Luce set out to settle there. At Grass 
Flats Capt. Potter joined them, and traveled to Andrew Overturf's (Dutch- 
man) house between Bennett's branch and the Driftwood, where they arrived 
on the 12th. Next day they proceeded up the branch, passed Nanny's house, 
one and a half miles from the mouth of the branch; a mile farther landed at 
Thomas Dent's house; where Grant depot now is was the home of Ralph 
Johnson, and next was Dr. Rogers' cabin, a 16x20 house, where they found 
Amos Mix and family, and where all found shelter that night of April 15, 
1813. Mix and his wife arrived there in 1812. In that year Dr. Rogers 
began clearing the lands a little above Summerson's eddy, but within a few 
years moved to Jersey Shore to practice medicine. In August, 1813, 
McMurtrie visited his lands to cut out a road from the mouth of Trout 
run to Rich Valley, and did cut four miles to where H. K. Wilson resided in 
modern times. In 1815 Morey purchased from Gen. James Potter 379| acres 
near the mouth of Trout run, and in April, 1816, began improvements, build- 
ing a small grist-mill. In 1827 he sold this place to Reuben and Ebenezer 
Winslow. Carpenter Winslow arrived about this time. In 1818 Morey built 
a small grist-mill. Benjamin, son of Ralph Johnson, who died March 9, L886, 
was born near Grant railroad depot, July 4, 1813. 

Mrs. Emily E. Gillis, of Gilroy. in Santa Clara Co., Cal. (daughter of the 
pioneer Gelott, and wife of Charles, eldest son of Enos Gillis), writing to the 
editor of the Democrat in 1885. states that her father came in 1814, and on 
June 19 of that year he and Eliza Morey went down the Sinnemahoning, 
thirty-five miles, in a canoe, to be married by Squire Lusk, accompanied by 
Erasmus and Cephas Morey, W. F. Luce and Mrs. Caldwell. It took two 
days to return. Mrs. Gillis, Sr. , died August 18, 1850, and her husband, Sep- 
tember 29, 1854. 

Capt. Potter Goff settled on Bennett's branch in Jay township, in 1817, 
with his wife and six children; Joel Woodworth, his son-in-law, accompanied 
him. He died on the home farm (in recent years the W. F. Luce farm), 
November 12, 1846, aged seventy years. His first wife died in September, 
1834, and in 1836 he married the widow, Ann M. Luce. 

Chauncey Brockway and his wife and child came in December. L817, 
from Galway, Montgomery Co., N. Y., 400 miles by wagon, and 90 miles 
up the Susquehanna. He was married in 18 L6, and the first child was burn 
in April, 1817, so that his wife had to take the infant pioneer with her on 
this great journey, and settled on Bennett's branch, seven miles from any 
neighbor, In 1821 the family moved to Brandy Camp, near Ridgway, thence 
up the Toby that spring, and to Illinois in 1854, where his wife died in 1885, 
and himself on December 4, 1880. In April, 1818, Joseph Crandell and 
Lyman Robinson, sons-in-law of Brockway, arrived and purchased on the hill 
north of Caledonia on the Gen. Boyd estate. 

Jonathan Nichols came in March, 1818, accompanied by Hezekiah Warner. 
his son-in-law. Both brought their families and settled on the Gen. Boyd 
lands, north of Kersey's. Nichols was a Baptist preacher and a physician, 
the first of either profession in the county except Dr. Rogers. He moved 
tu Brandy Camp in Horton township about 1821. where he died in May, 
hS4!>. Under him Dr. Clark, a son-in-law, studied medicine. Hezekiah War- 
ner, who also moved to Brandy Camp, returned to Caledonia and purchased 
lands from Thomas Leggett and Jabez Mead in 1825. There he was joined 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 585 

by Zebulon Warner in store ami tavern keeping and lumber milling. Starr 
Dennison settled on Spring run in March, 1818, and resided there until his 
death in 1844 Ebenezer Hewett came from Saratoga, N. Y. . the same 
year, and located a large tract, four miles above Kersey run. In December 
he was followed by Col. Isaac Webb, of the same county, who cleared a farm 
two miles above Kersey run. He was a surveyor, and a man whose memory 
was proverbial. Consider Brockway followed bis sun. Chauncey, in 1819, 
and located north of Kersey run about four miles on the Kersey road. 

Isaac Horton, Sr. , who settled at Brandy Camp in 181 8, died in 1873 .... 
David Johnson, who settled at Johnsonburg prior to 1821, learning thai James 
L. Gillis had located at Montmorenci, four miles away, determined to move 
west if Gillis would not. He did move, and by 1824 the Montmorenci farm of 
tOO acres was cleared, and a saw and grist mill, carding-mill and several im- 
provements were made by the new pioneer on Mill creek a Little west of the 
farm. In 1S71 O. B. Fitch, afterward proprietor of the Thayer Souse, car 
ried on this farm. It was subsequently purchased by .Maurice M. Schultz who 
set men to work to restore the farm, and under him it has reached it- present 
productiveness. 

Judge James L. Gillis, who died in Iowa in July, 1881, was born in Wash 
ington county, N. Y., in 1792. In 1812 he was commissioned lieutenant of 
an Ontario county cavalry company in Col. Harris' dragoons. After the affair 
at Lundy's Lane he was made prisoner by the British, treated in the barbarous 
manner of that time, and put on board a transport to be taken to England. 
He and several others captured a boa! belonging to the transport, and reached 
the bank of the St. Lawrence river, but all were retaken and were said to have 
been subjected to cruelties, of which even Indians were ignorant, until ex 
changed at Salem, Mass., after the war. In 1822 he settled in what is now 
Elk county (within sixteen miles of a neighbor and seventy miles of a post 
office), as the agent of Jacob Ridgway, to whose niece he was married in L816. 
In 1830 he moved six miles from his farm to the present town of Ridgway. 
Gov. Porter commissioned him associate judge of Jefferson county; in 
L840 he was elected representative, again sent to the senate, became one of 
the first associate judges of Elk county, and in L856 was elected congressman; 
later he was agent for the Pawnees. In 1858 Capt. Hall defeated him for 
congress. Through his efforts Elk and Forest counties were organized, the 
latter by joint resolution and to oblige Cyrus Blood, one of the pioneers. He 
was charged with complicity in the abduction of Morgan for giving away 
Masonic secrets, but was acquitted. Mrs. Houk. of Ridgway. C. V. Gillis, of 
Kane, Mary B. Porter, Augusta A. Noxon and Cecilia A. Whitney, of Chautau- 
qua county, N. Y. Bosanquet, Henry and Robert, children of the useful 
pioneer are living. Enos Gillis, a brother pioneer, is referred to in this work. 

W. P. Wilcox, who in 1831 came to what is now Williamsville, as agent 
for the Richards & Jones Land Company, later the McK. & E. L. & I. Co. 
In lS3.~i he was representative, and was re-elected three times successively, 
then served in the senate, was elected a representative again in 1857 and in 
1859, and died at Port Allegany in April. L868. In the winter of 1832-33, L. 
Wilmarth, Arthur Hughes and George Dickinson bought land of J. L. Gillis 
and Mr. Aylworth, and also water-power for lumbering business. There was 
but a handful of people in Ridgway at this time. Hughes and Dickinson 
began to build mills. Col. Wilcox settled here. Mail accommodations were 
established. 

Rasselas W. Brown died June '27. 1887. He was born in 1809 in Herkimer 
county, N. Y., and in 1837, with his brothw-in law, W. S. Brownell, of 



586 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Smethporfc, went to Michigan, stopping at Wilcos en rani,. He returned to 
Williamsville in October, purchased land near by, and on March 16, 1838, 
: . ! . > i n <_^ ) i 1 into the wilderness bis wife and two sons, J. L. Brown, of Wilcox, and 
W. W. Brown, of Bradford. In 1 S41 he moved to Rasselas, where he died. 

Joseph S. Hyde settled at Caledonia in 1837, but shortly after moved to 
Ridgway as an employe of Enos Gillis, and operated the old Gillis mill. 
above the present Hyde grist-mill, until it failed to pay expenses. In L840 be 
moved to Wisconsin, but returned, and in July. L842, married Jane Gillis. a 
daughter of his former employer. Subsequently he resided at Montmorenci. 
Sbarpsburg and other places until 1846, when be purchased from Gillis & 
McKinley a mill which stood on the site of the present Ely mills. He made 
this a success, and soon after engaged in lumbering. Only a few years elapsed 
until he became known as the lumber king. He was the most progressive 
citizen of Elk county until his death. June 30, 1S8S. Shortly after he moved 
to Ridgway. without money and without friends, be wanted Dickinson to sell 
him an ax on credit, but the merchant refused, when Hyde said to him: " Keep 

your d d ax; I will see the day when I can buy and sell you."' J. S. 

Hyde became a millionaire and owner of 36,000 acres, a store at Little Toby, 
established in September, 1882, being among his enterprises. 

Early in the ••thirties'' Irishtown was settled by Irish immigrants ... . 
Catherine (Rielly) Mohan, who died in Fox township, June 22, 1886, was mar- 
ried in L836 to Larry Mohan, but both had resided in this county prior to that 
year. Other names given in the history of the Catholic Church of Kersey's or 
Centreville belong to that period. 

In September, 1844, the first declaration of citizenship was made by Thomas 
Rielly, a native of Ireland. His example was followed that year by Michael 
White, Thomas Fletcher, John Sullivan, Patrick Shelvy, Michael Brown, Pat- 
rick Malone and Lawrence Mohan, all natives of the Emerald Isle. In 1845 
thirty natives of Germany and one of England declared their intentions. Jere- 
miah Calahan was admitted to citizenship in September, 184.3, also Robert 
Mcintosh and Patrick "Whelan (both Irish), Conrad K. Huhn (a German) and 
Joseph Hetzell (a Frenchman). The records for the last forty five years tell 
of the remarkable immigration to this county, thousands of names, principally 
Germans, filling records A and H. 

In 1842 the German Union Bond Society purchased 35,000 acres from the 
United States Land Company, or Boston Company, and in the fall thirty one 
families settled a few miles north of Kersey"s: thirty three families came in the 
spring of 1843. The first piano was brought into Elk county (and it may be 
-.aid int. i the territory now divided into five counties) in 1845, by Ignatius 
Garner. The same year he organized a brass band company at St. Mary's, 
the first band in the territory. The first mail carried through Elk county was 
that l>\ W illiano ('. Walsh, from Milesburg to Smethport, in 1828. The first 
post-office was at Richard Gelott's house, where the Barr Railroad depot now is. 
then called Bennett's Branch. The next office was presided over by Vine S. 
Brockway at his home, and the third at Kersey's, where •lames Green was 
sworn to fulfill the duties of master by L. Morey. March 12, 1828. This office 
was kept where is now Centreville. Reuben Ayleswortli was the next master, 
beeping the office at Ridgway. Williamsville came next, with W. P. "Wilcox. 
mast.'i-. Xe\t came Bunker Hill and then Smethport the end of the route. 
Among the successors of Walsh was a Mr. Coone (who carried a spinning- 
wheel from White's, near Smethport, to Ridgway on horseback) ami Daniel 
Hyatt. Erasmus Morey was the second postmaster at Bennett's Branch, com 
missioned Julv 4, 1828. This office was changed to Caledonia, when Zebulon 




^/^g^^A 



HISTOltY OF ELK COUNTY. 589 

Warner took charge. Erasmus Morey, born at Charlton, Mass., May 16, 1796, 
settled on Bennett's Branch in 1813, and on July 4. 1828, succeeded the 
pioneer postmaster at that point. Mr. Morey and John Brooks are two 
pioneers who have done the part of good citizens in preserving records of pio- 
neer times, which would otherwise be lost forever. The latter, in his reminis- 
cences, speaks of old-time farming and milling: 

Axes and hoes were clumsily made by the rough blacksmith. Grain and hay were 

stacked in the fields or yard or put into round log barns. Threshing was done with flail. 
or trampled out with oxen or horses; the grain was separated from the chaff by winnow- 
ing it through the meshes of a riddle, made for the purpose, while the breezes would cany 
away the chaff; or in a calm, two persons would raise and maintain a blast by a dex- 
terous swinging movement of a double linen bed sheel. while the third person would 
winnow the threshed grain from the riddle. Corn and buckwheat w ere sometimes ground 
on hand-mills, and sifted through sieves made from dressed perforated sheep or deer skins, 
drawn over a wide oaken hoc. p. The nether or bed stone in the hand mills was fixed to 
a bench constructed for the purpose, and the upper or runner stone was made to revolve 
on its spindle by means of a pole, the upper end of which was passed into an augur hole 
in a board fastened overhead, and the lower end of the pole was fitted into a bole drilled 
in the upper surface of the runner, near the periphery. The miller would seize the pole 
with one hand, sweeping it around, and with the other feed the mill with grain. Another 
device was substituted for a hand-mill, vet more rude in construction, and was constructed 
by cutting down a medium-sized tree, leaving the stump with its surface even and level, 
into which a bowl-like excavation was made by cutting and burning, which would hold 
about a peck. A hard-wood pestle was then made to fit the excavation, and this was 
fastened by withes to the top of a small sapling bent for a spring-pole, which grew, or 
was planted near the stump. The operator would then place corn or buckwheat in the 
mortar, and seizing the pestle with both hands would, per force, thrust it into the mortar, 
crushing and grinding the grain therein. The spring-pole would draw up the pestle 
again, when released from the hand, and again would be thrust into the mortar, and thus 
by repeated processes the grinding would be accomplished. There were some grist mills 
erected, driven by water-wheels; the mill-stones were made from the fine conglomerate 
rock, which is found in abundance in this section. Linen or cotton bolting cloths were 
attached to reels and driven by machinery, by which the bran was separated from the 
flour and meal. Of course the flour was coarse, and contained much of the gluten, and 
the phosphates with the starch, and was therefore adapted to make good bread, that 
would maintain vigor of muscle, of bone and of brain, as well as the fat of the system. 
Native forest fruit was then abundant [as explained in the first chapter], game was 
plenty, the rivers were streams of crystal liquid. Women frequently performed a part of 
the farm service in that age", some. with sickle and rake in hand. doing the work of a harvest 
man. Others, with hoe and fork, did good work in the hay and corn field. One of them 
is remembered as placing her child in a sap-trough near by, when but little over a week 
old. while she split more rails in a day than her husband. These cases are not adverted to 
as exemplary, but as facts incidental to pioneer life. Oxen were generally used both for 
farming and for lumbering. And iu one instance Major Bennett, who made an improve- 
ment on the Potter reserve, at Benezette, on Bennett's Branch, yoked his milch cows to 
plough his garden and his fields. Bennett afterward removed to Crawford county, where 
some of his descendants still reside. The attractions for farmers were greater iu that 
section than in this. 



5'JO HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 



CHAPTER III. 

COURTS AND BAR. 

First Courts, Where Held— First Record of Courts in Elk Count? 
Bi 3INESS Transai n:i> in the Courts of L844 -Kari.y Admissions to the 
Bar — Crimes— Licenses— Appointments -Names of Attorneys Who 
Practiced Here from 1868 to 1879, and Subsequently— New Court- 
house and Jail— Law Libraries. 

T1IK lir-1 cunts of this county were held in the old school-house at Cale- 
donia. The walls on three sides were standing until recently in a fair 
state of preservation. A recent measurement of the walls made by Erasmus 
Morey and Squire Dixon showed the building to have been 20x24 feet in 
size. 

The first record of the courts of Elk county is dated December 19, 1843. 
James L. Gillis and Isaac Horton, associate judges, were present, and before 
them William J. B. Andrews qualified for the office of prothonotary; Oriab 
Rogers was appointed crier; Vine S. Brockway, Ensebius Kinkaid and Joseph 
Rogers, court constables; B. Rush Petrikin, George R. Barrett and Lewis 
W. Smith were present, and permitted to practice in the courts of Elk county. 
This completed the round of business, and court adjourned to February 19, 
IS! I. Judge Alex McCalmont was present in February, and at this time N. 
W. Goodrich, D. B. Jenks, Jesse G. Clark and L. T. Parmelee were admitted 
to the comity bar. Ensebius Kinkaid was appointed sheriff, and N. W. Good- 
rich, prosecutor, pending the issue of commissions to them or others. In 
.March the court assembled, but adjourned till Ma\ 20, when a petition for a 
new township was presented and the original county seat commissioners asked i" 
show cause why they should not report their proceedings to the constituted 
authorities of Elk county. All that part of Sbippen township south of Jones, 
and north of Fox and Jay, was attached to Fox township for administrative 
purposes. On September 16 licenses were granted to the Boston Lumber 
Company and Dickinson & Co. to deal in foreign merchandise; and the firs! 
grand jury of the county was impaneled. The names of such jurors are given 
as follows: Rasselas W. Brown, John Gardner, Jacob Kriger, Selah Morey, 
William McComber, Henry Mason, David Meredith, .lames Malone. Robert 
Mcintosh, William Shepard, George Smith, Henry Stutter, William Taylor, 
Joel Taylor, Abijah II. Weed, Eben. C. Winslow, Reuben ('. Winslow, David 
Wheeler, all farmer-; Jacob Coleman, merchant. Gibson; James Gallagher, 
hotel, Ridgway; Joshua Iddles, carpenter; John Collin- and Samuel Stone 
back, laborers; Eezekiah Warner, merchant. Jay: AJanson Viall, hotel. Fox; 
Caleb Dill, blacksmith. 

The report of the statute commissioners was made at this time, as given 

in the transactions of the commissioners: S. .1. G Irich, S. P. Johnson, 1 

V. James, George W. Carskadden and William A. Williams were admitted to 
to tic bar, and David Thayer was indicted for keeping a tippling house [n 
December C. P>. Knapp and Uoberl Wallace were admitted, and John Roth 
rock and Robert Wise were licensed to deal in foreign goods, as well as the 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 591 

D * /i n^Vinsnn companies. Commissioners Brockway, Winslow and 

:,;:;,: ^Effia-^E**™ in office, on the oath of Edward L Derb^ 
I kuv returned a verdict of not guilty. The grand jury declared that the 
MlXrg andSmethport turnpike* was abandoned by the turnpike company, 
^suggested its repair by the county. Hiram Payne and John ,S. McCah 

^^turde^ 

licenses 101 swre Simpson George Weis and John Rothrock in 

S 184?an? •A.PiSrrf Benfinger township^ In May tavern 
licenses were granted to Caspar Burhagher and Anthony Fotchman of Ben- 
STJZ* and Mary Viall, of Fox; Henry Thayer and Pierce J Brook 
ofTd'gway/on condition that neither drunkenness -r dxsordei .should be 
tolerated. Lewis M. Burson, James Campbell George W. Te.glei and W. 
Hecker were admitted to the bar in September, 1840. 

Pa rS Malone and Gerhart Schoening, of Fox and tau»M 
ively were licensed to keep general stores. In February, 1847 Alfred L Peai- 
IK -ranted license to keep a temperance house m Jay, and Joseph Luhr a 
liquor house at St. Mary's in Benzinger township and in May jasper Ditch 
wished to compete with Luhr, and was permitted to carry out has wish Tin 
man Weaver was indicted for forging county orders, George Rhmes t ox keep 
a disorderly house, and Isaac Nichols and Milton Johnson for cutting tim- 
ber In lSsthe grand jury presented the fact that the county stove pipes 
were going to waste for want of care. William P. Jenks was admitted to the 
also B D. Hamlin and Mr. Bishop. In 1849 William A. Stokes was per- 
: it ,d to practice here, and in September Joseph Buffington took bf , seat as 
president iud-e. In May. 1850, Aaron Harrington petitioned for license to keep 
a tavern at Centreville and J. T. Wells at High and, numerous petitions 
camlfrom St. Mary's, at which place the German element was determined to 
have beer The grand jury condemned the Thayer & Winslow mill-dam across 
BennetTs Branch in September, 1851. In February, 1852 Judge White pre- 
SZ llegii^cy was 'presented in a few forms about this time and some 
cases of forgery, counterfeiting and perjury are recorded. Andrew G Cm tin. 
Dave Boal and John L. Cuttle were permitted to practice at this bar. In June. 
SS.EA Pattison and Charles Horton -readmitted m October Previous 
and Reuben Mickle in October following. In March 1854 E. f-™^* 
John G. Freez were admitted, and in May James G Gordon and I\ J. McCul 
Wh Tn October 1855 E. S. Dandee was admitted; in January, 185b, , J o- 
SpfB. McEnally 'and in December, J. A Boyle. The .examining .committee, 
n re Bovle comprised B. F. Lucas, W. A. Wallace and Albert Willis. A A 
McKni^htwa ; Emitted in 1858, Samuel ^-ndEdwarclBtanobarf in 1859 
and wfrren Cowles in 1860. From this period until June. 86C ^ when George 
A. Rathbun was admitted, there is no record of additions to the bar of Elk 
county. The motion to appoint an examining committee on his petition was 
made by Justus C. Chapin, when Henry Souther, W. P. Jenks and R Blown 
Te appointed such committee. In October John G. Hal was admitted, and 
hf January 1864, Louis Grander. In March, 1864 the first inquest on the 
body of an unknown person was held at Ridgway. It is ™W^17?*?* 
on the railroad. In January, 1865, an inquest on the body of Peter McQuuk 
was held The back of his head was torn away. In January, 18b/, f. w. 
Jenks O. T Noble and W. W. Brown were permitted to practice here and in 
August, H. C. Parsons. C. Luhr was appointed court interpreter at this 



592 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

term, and in November, C. O. Bowman, S. E. Woodruff, W. H. Am, 
and C. W. Huntington were enrolled as members of the bar. In 1868 John 
1). Newton and C. H. Gross were admitted members of the bar. also Elijah H. 
Clark, V. O. Smith and A. V. Parsons. In April of this year. President Judge 
H. \V. Williams took his Beat on the bench. The trial of Mrs. J. S. Scott for 
poisoning her husband on June 7. 1ST:!, took place in January. 1874. J. K. 
P. Hall represented the State. The woman was found not guilty. The 
murder of old William Falen by William Bromley took place in Horton town- 
ship, July 19, 1873. In May, 1879, M. Ohearn, of St. Mary's, was sentenced to 
a fine of $100, and eight years solitary coin orison for manslaughter. 

In September, 1880, the trial of Harry English for the murder of Frank War 
nith, of Caledonia, on April 17, took place before Judge Wetmore. Messrs 
Wurzell, G. A. Jinks, J. G. Hall and C. H. McCauley prosecuted, and P. 
It. Cotter, A. B. Richmond, Eugene Mullin and W. W. Ames del 
The jury acquitted the prisoner, In May. 1886, William C. Bush, wbo was 
charged with the murder of Philip P. Bush, near Wilcox, was captured; < 
September 24 he was sentenced to death by Judge Mayer, but this sentence 
was commuted to imprisonment for life. 

The attorneys who practiced here from August. 1868, to May, 1879, exclu- 
sive of the above mentioned are named in the following list: 1868, M. VV. 
A.cheson, Frank Barrett, Luman Stevens; 1869, Samuel A. Purviance. Wil- 
son C. Kness, Charles Albright; 1871, F. O. Bailey, W. W. Ames; 1872, J 
C. Johnson, E. S. Goulden. John H. Orvis, C. H McCauley; 1873, W. P. 
Mercelliott, Robert P.Allen; 1874, W. M. Lindsey, D. S. Herron. Charles 
Dinsmore, B. \V. Green: 1875, J. Ross Thompson, C. S. Cary, B. S. Bom 
ley, F. D. Leet, A. L. Gordon; 1876, C. W. Stone. Henry W. Watson, 
Charles Bartles, Jr.. R. M. Chamberlain, W. S. Hamblen. Charles Geddes; 
1878, George R. Dixon, J. M. Schram, M. S. Kline. W. M. Rightmyer; 1879, 
C. H. Noyes, George W. Wurzell, L. J. Blakely. 

In 1S80 P. R. Cotter, Eugene Mullin. Schnurr and Metzgar were per- 
mitted to practice here, and also A. 1!. Richmond, Rufus Lucore and George 
P. Griffith. Harry English was indicted in May for murder, with A. J. and 
Phoebe Rummer, but the latter were discharged. English was charged with 
the murder of Frank Warnith, on April 17. 1880, at Caledonia, as shown in 
the evidence before % the coroner's jury, [n September, English was charged 
with the murder of Philip Yollmer. but found not guilty, and was tried for forg 
ery. He was sentenced to pay $500 and costs for the latter crime. An in- 
quisition held on the body of John Johnson, killed July l->. at Centrevilli 
approved. The village of Ridgway was incorporated. In January. 1881, the 
name of M. S. Kline appears on the roll of attorneys; in May, resolutions on 
the death of Matthew P. Hoss. the ol.l court crier, were adopted. In Septembei 
an inquisition was held on the bodies of Engineer Wm. Kepperly and Fireman 
Charles M. Parks, killed in the wreck at Silver creek bridge near St. Mary's, 
September 8. In January, 1882, George W. Clinton was appointed surveyor, 

vice J. L. Brown who was appointed in I> mber, 1881, on account of failure 

to elect a surveyor. Charles B. Parley was admitted to the bar in May. and 
[saiah 11. Brown and H. H. Hall in September. In January. 1883, Ernesl J. 
Wimmer was enrolled as a member of the liar. At this time a number of in 
'pn^ts on men killed on railroads were held, the records tilling several pi _■■ - 
the premature explosion of a blast on the Rochester & Pittsburgh line killing 
several workmen. George A. Allen. S. W. L'ottit and J. P. McNarney were en 
rolled as attorneys in May. Tn July, 1883, a number of fatal railroad accidents 
find reference on the court records. In November, 1884, George W. Boyer 
was appointed deputy treasurer of the county. In May, 1885, J. Bayard 




^^c<u^ 



a*t 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 595 

Henry and F. P. Pritchard were permitted to practice here; A. E. Whitney 
was admitted, and in November, A. L. Cole, of Clearfield, Messrs. Chapman, 
McClure and Wallace, of McKean, were permitted to sign the roll. In 1 V ^H 
S. M. Brainerd, of Erie, W. W. Ames and N. M. Orr, of McKean, and Tru- 
man Ames, of Clearfield, enrolled their names. W. W. Barbour was admit 
ted here in September, and N. T. Arnold and F. H. Ely were formerly en- 
rolled. P. J. Vonada is the latest addition to the bar of this county. 

la 1879, two grand juries having condemned the old wooden court-house 
erected in 1845, the commissioners, then consisting of W. H. Osterhout, Mi- 
chael Weidert and George Reuscher, took steps to erect a new building for the 
courts and county officers. After examining court houses in several counties, 
they concluded that the general plan of the one then lately erected in Warren 
county would best suit the needs of Elk. and adopted plans and drawings made 
by J. H. Marston, of Warren, and Mr. Marston was employed to supervise the 
work. The old building was sold as it stood to Hugh McGeehin and by him re- 
moved to his lot on Main street, west of Mill, and turned into a tavern, now 
known as the " Bogert House." Mr. Marston drove the work as rapidly as 
possible, and on July 16, 1879, the corner-stone was laid with appropriate cer- 
emonies. The January court for 1881 was held in the new building, which 
was then fully completed. It is 110x55 feet, having a clock tower in which is 
a Howard clock, costing some $700. The old stone jail, built about 1846, 
having been formally condemned, the commissioners in 1884 commenced the 
erection of a new one which should be more in accordance with modern ideas 
and give greater security for the retention of prisoners. It is located in the 
rear of the court-house, and the dwelling for the sheriff projects to the east, so that 
it is plainly visible from Main street. The cage system has been adopted for 
the cells, twenty- two in number, built of hardened chrome steel bars. It has 
all sanitary appliances, rooms for hospitals, bath-rooms, and the male and fe- 
male wards separated by a brick wall. It was constructed under the supervis- 
ion of M. Van Etten, who had been a foreman under Marston on the court- 
house. The cost of the court-house in round numbers was $65,000, that for 
the jail estimated at $40,000, was in fact about $37,000. The erection of 
these substantial buildings at a cost of over $100,000 has set the question of 
the location of the county seat at rest for a long time to come. The exterior 
walls, eighteen inches thick, are of brick of Elk county burning, except the 
face on front and sides, which are of Buffalo pressed brick, the corners being 
laid up of cut sandstone. All the partition walls on the ground floor are of 
brick, twelve inches thick, and supported by two feet thick foundation walls of 
stone. There are four fire-proof vaults 10^x20 feet, with floor and ceilings of 
brick and cement arched on iron girders; and the whole building is plentifully 
supplied with all modern conveniences, and heated throughout by steam. 
Natural gas is used for fuel and light. Another feature of the county offices 
is the Schoening system of records and blanks, designed by the popular pro- 
thonotary, Schoening. This system is as yet confined to small sections of the 
country; but when its excellence is generally understood, it will take the place 
of all old-time methods. 

The Rathbun law library, in George A. Rathbun's office in the court-house, 
is modern in arrangement and quality of works. Mr. Rathbun contributed a 
very excellent sketch of Ridgway to the press a few years ago, written and 
compiled during his leisure hours among his valuable collection of law books 
and general historical works. Charles B. Earley's law library is another feat- 
ure of the county seat. For over twelve years the work of gathering this val- 
uable collection of books has been carried on. This library finds a place in 
the large building erected, in 1889. for himself and brother, Dr. F. G. Eailey. 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 



CHAPTER IV. 
TRANSACTIONS OF THE COMMISSIONERS. 

introductory— Establishment of Elk County— Its Boundaries— The Com- 
missioners of 1843 and Theih Transactions— Location of the County 
Si \i Count"? Contracts, etc.— Doings of the Commissioners fisom 
Dates of Appointment— County Officials— Court-House— First Couin 

—New Jail, etc. 

PRIOl! to L813 Clearfield county bad but one township — Chincleclamoose. 
In L807 or l sl,s one Amos Davis settled north of Earley. near where th< 
steam sawmill of 1876 was erected. In the spring of 1S10 John Kyler came 
to explore, and located his land selection at Kyler's Corners, and in 1812 
brought his family hither. In 1813 Clearfield was divided into the townships 
of Lawrence and Pike, in honor of two heroes of the war of 1812, and the old 
name disappeared. 

The act establishing Elk county was approved April IS, 1843. Pai 
Jefferson, Clearfield and McKean counties were detached, and the boundaries 
of this new division of Pennsylvania set forth as follows: Beginning at the 
northeast corner of Jefferson county, thence east nine miles to the northeast 
corner of Lot 2328, thence south to Clearfield county, thence east along that 
line to the east line of Gibson township and south so far that a line westward 
to the mouth of Mead's run shall pass within not less than fifteen miles of the 
town of Clearfield; thence westward! y to Little Toby creek; thence along a line 
to the mouth of Mead's run, and northwesterly to where the west line of Ridgwaj 
township crosses the Clarion river; thence in the same direction to a point 
where a <lue north line will strike the southwest corner of McKean county, and 
along such line to that corner, thence along the south line of McKean to the 
northeast corner of Jefferson county. Timothy Ives, Jr.. of Potter. James W. 
Guthrie, of Clarion, and Zachariah H. Eddy, of Warren county, were named 
commissi' iners to mark the boundary lines and acquire lands by donation or 
purchase, lay out lots and convey them and conduct this business until the com- 
missioners to be elected in October qualify. The act doe^ not charge them with 
locating the seat of justice, and as a result the elected commissioners resorted 
to extraordinary proceedings in an effort to interpret the act in a spirit of jus- 
tin •. 

ELK 001 \ / P", si 

Messrs. Brockway, Brooks and Winsl 

., .. .... , , ; pursuance of the duties required of the undersigned 

. Keporioi mn>mj i es, . comm j ss j on ers under an act erecting a new county out of 

: Jr.,ofPoUercounty James , of j efferS on, Clearfield and McKean counties! passed 

. w. uutnne, or wanon . A H , s |M: , W( . Qerewitll enc i ose ;m ,i hand over to 

. county, and /.. il. ro.u. . successors in office, all matters in relation 

IIT ''" , '" 1 !" >-■. -"■"•; thereto (viz.): Deed of land for situation of public 

missionereamwmtedbyan lluiMillLrs ti|]l . ,„ water pr j vil eg e and propositions of 

; M ° Assail. > toloMta . ,,„„„„ -, viz ,. j , j, EtTdgway. Esq., II..,! .lames L. 

. the seat of justice of Elk . Gmlg Mi _. w ,_ NN ilmarih .,-„,, Q 4 eorge i,i,.kin-.,. 

: which we acci pted for the purposes therein specified; 

Als... an article of agreement and contract with E. 

Derbj to build court-house and offices: an article of agreement for surveying the county. 



HISTOKY OF ELK COUNTY. 597 

and all other papers in our possession in relation to said county as commissioners, all 
of which is respectfully submitted. 

Ordered to be given over to the cornmis- J. W. Guthrie, ) Commissioners undei 

sioners of Elk county. September 17, - the Art of April tS 

1844, By the court. Z. Henry Eddt, ) 18J/3. 

Charles Horton, 
Dep'y Proth'y. 

Among the propositions made to the county seat commissioners was one- 
of 100 acres at Boot Jack, or the forks of the road to Brandy Camp, four 
miles east from Ridgway, by Matthew McQuoin, who also offered to donate a 
year's work toward erection of county buildings. Reuben Winslow proposed 
to erect public buildings at the mouth of Trout run should the county seat be 
located there, while John J. Ridgway and the residents of the old village agreed 
to donate land and water privileges, and erect buildings. 

Under date July 1, 1844, John J. Ridgway and his wife. Elizabeth, sold 
(through their legal ageut, Jonathan Colegrove) town lot No. 116 (10,400 square 
feet) to Z. Henry Eddy, for the use of Elk county, the consideration being 
$20. 

In 1848-40 A. I. Wilcox, in the house, and Timothy Ives, in the senate, 
introduced a bill to remove the county seat to St. Mary's. Will A. Stokes, a 
Philadelphia lawyer, who purchased land near St. Mary's, urged the legis- 
lators to support this bill, which would have been carried had it not been 
for the determined and well -organized protest of the friends of the old seat 
of justice. 

In October, 1843, John Brooks, Chauncey Brockway and Reuben Winslow. 
the newly elected commissioners, organized by appointing B. Rush Petrikin. 
clerk, and David Wheeler, treasurer. The county-seat commissioners were noti- 
fied of this organization, and asked to make return of their dealings with the 
new county. Wilcox and Harrison, the boundary surveyors, were granted $375 
on October 17, payable when a complete map of the county would be presented 
by them. Jonathan Colegrove, agent of J. J. Ridgway, was notified of the new 
organization; a letter was addressed to the statute commissioners, again ask- 
ing for their report, and the board adjourned to meet at John S. Brockway' s 
house, in Jay township, on November 6. At that meeting the courts were or- 
dered to be held at Hezekiah Warner's house, at Caledonia. In May, 1844, 
Leonard Morey was appointed commissioner's clerk. In June the following 
circular was addressed to the people on the matter of locating the county seat, 
and John Blanchard was selected attorney to advise the board: 

PUBLIC NOTICE. 

The citizens of Elk county and the public generally are hereby respectfully notified 
that the Commissioners of said coutity have no knowledge of any seat of justice being 
fixed for the county of Elk. 

And whereas, it is reported that lots are soon to be exposed for sale in the town of 
Ridgway, purporting to be the place where the seat of justice of Elk county has been 
fixed: 

We, the Commissioners of said count}', inform the public generally, that we do not 
know that there is any seat of justice fixed for said county at Kidgway, or any other 
place, consequently we do not recognize the town of Ridgway as the seat of justice, and 
feeling desirous that the people, before they purchase lots in the town of Ridgway, under 
the impression that they are purchasing lots in the town where the se:it of justice, of Elk 
county has been fixed, should be apprised of the above facts, we therefore solicit attention 
to this notice. 

25 June, 1844. John Brooks, ) f , 

Attest Reuben Winslow. f "'"■ 

Leonard Morey, Clerk. 

It was also "resolved that the clerk give notice to the Hon. the Judges of the Court 
of Common Pleas and the several courts, in and for the county of Elk. and also notify the 



598 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

other officers of Baid county, that the board continue to designate the school-house near 
the house of Hezekiah Warner in Jay Township, whereal to open and hold the several 
courts for Elk county." 

On June 26 the meeting adjourned to reassemble at Brockway' >. on Sep 
tember L6, but by some arrangemeni the commissioners met at David Thayer's 
house, Ridgway. After that day's business was transacted, they considered 
the house too small, and held their meetings in Erasmus Morey's home at Ridg- 
wav. On the 19th proposals for donations of moneys or lands for the loca- 

the county seat were called for, C. Brockway dissenting; but replies 
o ere si > ansa! i sfactory, that the time had to be extended and re-extended until 
i (ecember 16, when Ridgway appears to have been selected. On the 19th Ed 
ward Durby received a draft for $11.20 on J, •). Ridgway. to apply on his con 
tract for building court house. In March, 1845, a meeting was held at Brock 
way's house in Jay township, but on May l'.t the commissioners met in their 
office at Ridgway. and appointed B. P. Little clerk. In September B. T. 
Hastings was given the contract for county printing, and on the 18th of thai 
month, Edward Durby was given a draft on J. J. Ridgway for $1,000 and 

$300 to apply on his contract for building the court-house. In Decern 
ber, a draft on J. J. Ridgway for $260 and one for §120 were given to Durbj 
Ui complete payment for his work — the drafts applying on Mr. Ridgway' s 
donation for public buildings. At this time. also, an arrangement with Jon- 
athan Colegrove (Ridgway's agent) resulted in drawing moneys to bo cred 
tted to the landlord's tax account. In September, 1846, J. Y. James was 
employed to print assessment blanks. Patrick Malone, who established a store 
in Fox township in July, paid a tax of $8.75. Barnhard & Schoening, of Beu- 
zinger, who opened in June of this year, paid $9.62. Jesse Kyler qualified 
as commissioner in November, vice John Brooks. B. F. Corey, of Smethport. 
contracted to do the county printing, and David Tracy who commenced trading 
at Ridgway, December 21, was granted a License; while Joseph S. Hyde, who 
openeda store at Ridgway. September 1, 1846, was not licensed until January 
'.». 1 s 17. Thomas Dent took the place of Commissioner Wilcox in November. 
and joined in a note to James Halliday and Davidson, the jail builders — $100 
for six months. On January 20, 1848, the jail building was completed. 8b. 25 
being the bill of extras. Ignatius Garner qualified, vice Brockway, in October 
of this year. A. H. Corey, of Smethport, was given the printing contract: 
Ralph Johnson took Commissioner Kyler's place in November, 1849; E. R. 
Brody, of Brookville, was appointed public printer in December; B. P. Lit- 
tle, treasurer in January, 1850, and C. F. Luce, clerk. In June, Sylvester 
s, piiers contracted to lay water pipes from the spring to court-house, and P. 
T. Brooks to remove stumps from public square. J. R. Morey was appointed 
clerk in 1850, and in November, Star Dennison took Commissioner Dent's 
place. Edward C. Schultz took Garner's placeon the board in 1851. In 1852 
the railroad grants were made as stated in the pages devoted to railroads. 

C. F. Luce qualified in November, L852, and in December H. A. Pattison 
was chos 'ii clerk: but. soon gave place to J. R. Moroy. Ellis Lewis being then 
county treasurer. In Mayand July. 1853, bonds to the Allegheny Valley Rail- 
road and to the Sunbury & Erie Railroad Companies were issued; Lebbins 
Luther took Commissioner Dennison' s place in October. In February. 1854, 
a large area of land was sold for taxes. In March Albert Willis was appointed 
clerk, but gave place to Horace Warner, who in September was replaced by 11. 
A. Pattison; while in November William A. Blj and .lesse Kyler took Com 
missioners Schultz and Luce's places. In January. L856, Justus C. Chapin 
qualified as treasurer, and inNovembei 3 — ph Wilhelm was commissioner, via 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 601 

Luther. In 1857 C. F. Luce was appointed clerk, and Joshua Keefer elected 
commissioner, vice Bly. 

In January, 1858, J. C. McAllister was clerk, and in October Caleb Dill 
took Commissioner Kyler's place. Dr. C. R. Earley was reappointed mercan- 
tile appraiser this year. Joseph W. Taylor qualified as Commissioner, vice 
Keefer, in November, 1860, and Julius Jones, vice Dill, in November, 1861. In 
December the first mention is made of a board of relief, and not one reference 
made up to this date of the terrible Civil war. In September, 1S62, county 
orders of small denominations were authorized in order to meet the want of 
United States fractional currency. Before the war, Andrew Howe, owner of 
a coal mine in Fox township, contracted to supply coal at 9| cents per 75 
pounds. James Coyne was county treasurer in 1862, and in the fall Commis- 
sioner Charles Weis took Wilhelrn's place; in January, 1863, John C. Mc- 
Allister was reappointed clerk, and later Charles Luhr took Coyne's place as 
treasurer. In February, 1864, a bounty of $300 was authorized to be paid to 
volunteers responding to" the call for troops. By April 21, 105 volunteers en- 
listed under this call. In July, J. W. Taylor took Commissioner Keefer' s 

In October, 1864, Commissioners Dickinson, Taylor and Weis formed the 
board, and in December T. B. Cobb was appointed clerk pro tern. In July, 
1865, George D. Messenger took the place of Judge Dickinson, and in Noveni 
ber, W. A. Bly and Louis Vollmer qualified. In January, 1866, J. K. P. 
Hall was appointed clerk, and John G. Hall, attorney. In April, 1867, Julius 
Jones was appointed commissioner vice Bly resigned, and in January, 1868, 
Henry Warner qualified vice Jones, who was elected but refused to serve. In 
November, H. S. Belknap qualified vice Warner, whose term expired, but in 
November, 1869, Henry Warner qualified. In April, 1869, R. G. Gillis was 
appointed clerk vice Hall, and in February, 1870, he was succeeded by C. H. 
McCauley. John Barr took Commissioner Taylor' s place in November, and with 
Vollmer and Warner formed the board. About this time the era of iron bridges 
was introduced and in May, 1871, the contract for the iron truss bridge over 
the Clarion at Ridgway was sold. Commissioner Robert I. Campbell quali- 
fied in November ; Henry D. Derr was county treasurer. A year later G. E. 
Weis took Louis Vollmer' s seat as commissioner, and in October, 1873, Julius 
Jones took that of John Barr, Campbell and Weis holding over. In January, 

1875, Michael Weidert was elected commissioner vice Campbell; while Joseph 
YV indf elder, the successor of Derr as treasurer, still held that office. In January. 

1876, Messrs. Weidert, W. H. Osterhout and George Reuscher formed the board; 
Jacob McCauley qualified as treasurer, and W. S. Horton succeeded C. H. Me 
Cauley as clerk. In 1879 Michael Brunner was treasurer. In May the commis- 
sioners petitioned the court for authority to issue building bonds for $30,000, 
which petition was carried, and in July the bonds were sold. 

The corner-stone of the present court house was placed July 16, 1879, and 
from this period to December 28, 1880, when the work was completed, little 
was done beyond giving close attention to construction, the raising of funds 
and expenditure of between $60,000 and $65,000 for public buildings. On 
December 27, 1880, a teachers' institute was held in the court-room, and on 
January 25, 1881, the first court was held in the new building, Judge W. D. 
Brown presiding. In December the commissioners resolved to charge the pro 
thonotary, $20;"the treasurer, $15; the sheriff and district attorney $7.50 each 
per annum, for heating their offices. In January, 1882, the old commissioners 
retired, and Hiram Carman, James K. Gardner and John Nissell came in. W. 
S. Horton was reappointed clerk; George Weidenboerner qualified as treasurer. 



602 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

and Hall & McCauley accepted the position of counsel for the board. In 
1884 the question of building a new jail was received favorably, and in the 
winter of 1884-85 contracts for building were sold, D. K. Dean being the 
architect. In January, 1S85, Nicholas Kronenwetter took Commissioner Nis- 
sell's place; John Nissell was appointed clerk, and John Collins qualified as 
treasurer. In January, 1888, John McGovern, J. F. English and Nicholas 
Kronenwetter were elected commissioners, and the work of locating the poor- 
farm, commenced by their predecessors, became the first important subject for 
their consideration. John B. Forster qualified as treasurer. In April, 1 888, 
the commissioners learned that they had no authority to purchase farms or 
build houses for the use of the poor, and a matter that occupied attention of 
the hoard for days, and caused many miles of travel, was dropped. 



CHAPTER Y. 
POLITICAL HISTORY. 



Political Status of Elk County from 1843 to 1889— Vote on the Prohib- 
itory Amendment in 1889— Returns by Boroughs and Townships- 
Elections in 1889. 

THE political status of Elk county from 1843 to 1889, as well as the names 
of the politicians, is given in the following pages. The county commis 
sioners find mention in the pages devoted to the transactions of that body from 
1843 to the present day. 

The first election for county officers was held October 10, 1843. The 
returning judges were A. I. Wilcox (D.), John Cobb (W.), James L. Moore. 
Daniel Smith and Almerin Kincaid, with E. Kincaid (D.) and Charles Hor- 
•ton (D.), clerks. There were three commissioners elected: John Brooks (W.) 
receiving '2'2'J votes; Chauncey Brockway. 17"), and Reuben Window (YY.i. 124. 
The candidates for auditors were George Dickinson (D.), who received L62 
votes; Ralph Johnson, 100, and Leonard Morey (W.), 98. David Wheeler 
received 117 votes for treasurer; James Mis, 101 votes for coroner; Eusebius 
Kincaid (D.), 91 votes for sheriff, and William J. B. Andrews, 121 vote- foi 
proth -notary. 

In October, 1844, F. R, Shrink received 132, and Joseph Markle 103 votes 
for governor. The question of selling the Main Line was negatived by L52 
vote-, while 62 votes were given for sale. Reuben Winslow (W.) received I s -'! 
rotes for commissioner, and William F. Green, 148 votes for auditor. In No 
vember the twenty six candidates on each presidential ticket received, respecf 
[very, L28, L01 and 9 votes. 

In L845 .lames L. Gillis (D.) received 91, J. Thomas Struthers (W.) 74 
votes for senator; Solomon Sartwell (D. ) 81, and Ben Bartholomew tW.i 7o 
for assembly; Charles Horton (D.) received 157 votes for prothonotarj and 
recorder; [gnatius Garner (I), t 95, and William Barr (W.) 45 tor a 
Chauncey Brockway. L09, and .lames McQuone, 51 votes for commissioner, and 
Jacob Coleman (D.) 98, against Ebenezer C. Winslow (W.) 56 votes Eor 
t reasurer. 

The October elections of 1846 show 134 votes for Sol. Sartwell (D.) and 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 603 

99 for Henry P. Kinnear (W.), candidates for representative; Jacob Schmeltzer 
defeated David Thayer and Charles Mead (W.) in the race for sheriff; 
Nathaniel Hyatt (D.) had 93 and Carpenter Winslow (W.) S3 votes for 
coroner; and Thomas Dent (D. ), was chosen auditor by 203 votes, while A. B. 
Weed (W. ) had 66. The race for congress was closely contested, James 
Thompson (D.) receiving 128 and James Campbell (W.) 113 votes. 

In November, 1847, James Irvine (W.) received 93 and F. R. Shunk (D.) 
182 votes for governor. Alonzo I. Wilcox (D. ) 195 and E. M. Howard (W.) 
70 votes for representative; Henry Souther (W.) 152 and Libbens Luther (W.) 
116 votes for treasurer; C. F. Luce received 143 and Henry Warner (D.) 80 
votes for auditor, and David Thayer (D. ) was elected sheriff by 140 votes 
against 121 recorded for Erasmus Morey (W. ). 

In 184S Morris Longstreet (D.) received 283 and William F. Johnson (W.) 
145 votes for governor; James Thompson (D.) 226 and James Campbell (W. ) 
14!) votes for congress; Timothy Ives, Jr., (D.) 221 and D. B. Long (W. ) 177 
for senator ; A. I. Wilcox (D. ) 280 and James Alexander (W.) 105 for repre- 
sentative; Charles Horton (D.) 351 and Edward C. Schultz (D. ) 79 for pro - 
thonotary; Thomas Irvine (D. ) 264 and Henry Warner (D.) 60 votes for 
auditor. The presidental electors were Thomas H. Sill 134 votes, Timothy 
Ives (D.) 242 and William W. McDougall (F.S.) 16 votes. 

In 1849 James Mix (D. ) was elected coroner, Starr Dennison (W.) auditor, 
and C. F. Luce treasurer, who did not qualify, and in 1850 B. P. Little (W. ) 
was appointed. 

In October, 1850, there were 303 votes for and 53 against the proposed 
constitutional amendments; Henry Souther (W.) received 67 and Justus C. 
Chapin (D.) 22 votes for prosecuting attorney; Edward P. Goff (D.) 161) and 
B. P. Little (W. ) 41 votes for surveyor; Charles Mead (W. ) 245 and Henry 
Thayer (D. ) 51 votes for sheriff ; Townsend Fall was elected coroner, there 
being eight candidates; Joseph Mason, Jr., auditor, there being six candidates; 
Joseph Rogers received 109 and D. D. Hyatt 12 votes for the office of sheriff: 
William J. Hemphill received 285 votes for representative. 

The Elk county Whig convention of 1850 was presided over by Edward 
Derby, with B. P. Little, secretary, E. C. Winslow, W. S. Meredith, William 
Shepard, C. F. Luce, R. W. Brown, E. Derby and Silas Blake were appointed 
a central committee; H. Souther, A. H. Head and John Patterson delegates 
to congressional convention. 

The Democratic county convention of 1850 was presided over by Jesse 
Kyler, with J. R. Morey, secretary. James L. Gillis, W. P. Wilcox and 
Dr. C. R. Earley were congressional delegates, and A. I. Wilcox, Jesse Kyler 
and George Dickinson representative delegates. 

In 1851 the record of votes for president judge and associate judges is 
first made in this county. Robert G. White (W.) had 433 votes for president 
judge; George Dickinson (D.) and William P. Wilcox (D.) received 357 votes 
against 211 recorded for Ebenezer C. Winslow (W.) and John Brooks (W. ); 
James L. Gillis (D.) received 340 and Reuben Winslow (W.) 239 votes for 
representative; Charles Horton (D.) 383 and C. F. Luce (W.) 225 for pro- 
thonotary; Ellis Lewis (D.) 221, J. R. Morey (W.) 163, H. Souther (W.) 155, 
and Erasmus Morey (W.) 59 votes for treasurer; Joseph Wilhelm (D. ) 330 
and Henry A. Parsons 121 votes for auditor. 

The elections of 1852 show 423 Democratic, 163 Whig and 14 Abolitionist 
votes for the respective sets of electors. A. S. Arnold received 293 votes for 
representative, and Sand ford Yale 197 for auditor; George R. Barrett was 
Democratic elector, and Dorman Phelps, Whig elector. 



604 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

In 1 853 Alvin H. Head (W.) defeated David Thayer (D. ) in the contest for 
the sheriff's office; Townsend Fall was chosen coroner, and Alex Caldwell I W. ) 
defeated A. S. Arnold (D. i in the districl for representative, though the latter 
received a large majority of votes in till; ami McKean. 

Caldwell defeated Seth A. Backus iD. i in 1S54. David Barclay received 
558, Richard Arthur, 1-1. and ('. B. Curtis. 36 votes for congress: Charles Me 
Vean (W.) received 100, ami James Love il>. i 859 votes fur prothonotary ; 1>. 
D. Hyatt (D.) defeated Carpenter Winslow I W. ) in the race for coroner by 3 
rotes- 319 vs. 316; W. X. Whitney (D.) ami Reuben C. Winslow (W.) 
received heavy partj votes for auditor, and the prohibitory licpior law received 
282 votes for, and 312 against. 

The elections of 1855 show Seth A. Backus (D.) received 371 (elected) and 
William A. Williams (W. ) 255 votes for representative; Byron D. Hamlin (D. i 
370 and Eenry Souther (W.) 27<> for senator; Justus C. Chapin (D.) 363 
and Horace Warner (W.) 199, for treasurer; William C. Healy (D.) and 
Charles Luhr (D.) were elected auditors. 

In 1856 there were 575 Democratic, 320 Republican, and 7 Abolitionist 
votes cast, respectively, for the presidential electors. James L. Gillis (D. ) 
received 530 and James S. Myers (W.) 304 votes for congress; Seth A. 
Backus (1). ) defeated John Brooks (R. ) for representative; William C Healy 
( 1 ). i was elected sheriff, defeating Charles Mead I R. I by 197 votes; Isaac Hor- 
ton (D.) and Vine S. Brockway (D. ) were chosen associate judges; Eddy Hyatt 
(1). ) mikI Martin Perrin (D.), auditors; Holmes A. Pattison (D. ) defeated 
Albert Willis (R. ) for the office of prosecuting attorney, and George F. Shafer 
( D. ) was elected surveyor. 

The elections of 1857 show 594 votes for W. P. Wilcox (D.) and 470 
for Joel Spyker (R.). They were opposed by James S. Leinard (D. ) and 
Robert Watson (D.), who received 225 and 262 votes, respectively. John A. 
Boyle (D. ) was chosen treasurer; Martin Perrin (D. ). auditor; Jefferson L. 
Brown I D. I. surveyor; C. F. Luce (D. I was elected prothonotary by 3 l J7 votes, 
against 369 for C. McVean (R.); while the attempts to amend the constitution 
were voted down here by 257 against, 30 for. 

In L858 James L. Gillis (D.) received 479 and Chapin Hall ill.) 395 votes 
for congress; William P. Wilcox (D.) and F. L. Boyer (D.) were chosen rep 
reseutatives ; Kennedy L. Blood (D. ) received 504, and Thomas McCulloch 
(R. ) 367 votes for senator; James Coyne (D.) defeated W. F. Schoeniug (D. ) 
for the auditor's office, and J. C. Chapin (D. ) was elected prosecutor. 

In 1859 A. M. Benton (D. ) and Jefferson Boyer (D.) received 474. and 
Isaac <!. Gordon (R.) and William A. Nichols (R.) 351 votes for represents 
tives (Benton and Gordon being elected). Joseph S. Hyde (D.) was chosen 
auditor; Isaac Horton, Jr. (Ind. D.) defeated Jefferson L. Brown (D.) for the 
office of treasurer by 20 votes; G. A. Rathbun (D.'i was elected surveyor; 
James T. Burroughs (D.), coroner. The race for sheriff was carried by Alvin 
H. Head (R.), who received 412 vote-,, or- s over the number credited to Jacob 
McCauley (D. ). 

The elections of 1860 show 121 votes for Andrew J. Curtin (R.) and (533 
for Henry D. Foster (D.), for governor; 628 for James R. Kerr (D. ) and 117 
for John Patton (R.), congressional candidates; E. R. Brady (D. ) 020, A. M. 
Benton (D.) 522, I. G. Gordon (R.) 122. and S. M. Lawrence (R.) 507 
votes for assembly. G. Ed. Weis (D.) ">02 and C. McVean i K, i 381, for 
prothonotary; D. D. Hyatt (D. ) 1 16, for coroner, and George Dickinson (D. ) 
110 and W. F. Schoening (D. ) 407, for auditor. The electors on the respect- 
ive tickets received the following vote: B. D. Hamlin (D. ) and others 525, and 
Henrj Souther (R.) 107. 



",p 




u^ 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 601 

In 1861 R. G. White (R.) received 512 votes for president judge; C. L. 
Lambertson (D.) 516 and S. M. Fox (R. ) 298, for senator; C. R. Earley (D. ')* 
518, G. W. Zigler (D.)*490, A. I. Wilcox (It.) 320 and J. B. McEnally (R.) 
315 votes for the assembly; V. S. Brockway (D.) 549, E. C. Sckultz (D.) 
652 and E. McCready (Ind.) 216 votes for associate judge; Justus G. Chapin 
(D.) was elected district attorney; James Coyne (D.) received 643 votes for 
treasurer; G. F. Schaffer (D. ), surveyor; Henry Warner (D. ), auditor. The 
military vote shows 28 for A. I. Wilcox (R. ) and 27 for Joseph B. McEnally (R. ). 

The election of 1862 shows 607 votes for Milton Courtright (D.) and 
276 for Gleni W. Schofield (R.), for congress; 669 for C. R. Earley* 1 D. i. 652 
for T. J. Boyer* (D.), 315 for Warren Cowles (R.), and 268 for Martin S. Shan- 
non (R.), candidates for assembly; 593 for P. W. Hays (D. ) and 270 for W. 
W. Horning (R.), candidates for sheriff; R. T. Kyler (D.) was chosen auditor. 
In August, 1862, G. A. Rathbun was appointed deputy prothonotary. and 
rilled that position until elected in 1866, except for some time in 1863, when 
William J. Morearty was deputy. 

In 1863 T. J. Boyer (D.)* and A. M. Benton (D.)* received 786, and Frank 
Bell (R.) and John Mehaffy (R. ) 391 votes each for representative; Charles 
Luhr (D.) was elected treasurer; G. Ed. Weis (D.), prothonotary; Louis Voll- 
mer (D.), coroner; George Walmsley (D. ), surveyor, and H. D. Derr (D. ), 
auditor. 

In 1864 the vote against the amendment of constitution was 382, and 
for, 260. William Bigler (D. ) received 656 votes and G. W. Schofield (R.) 
240 votes for congress; T. J. Boyer (D.) 641, for assembly; J. McCauley (D.) 
was elected auditor; L. J. Blakely (D. ), attorney; and D. D. Hyatt (D.), coro- 
ner. Raseelas Brown (D. ), a presidential elector, received 835, and John P. 
Penny (R.) 348. 

In 1865 H. W. Williams (R.) received 298 votes for president judge; 
George D. Messenger (D.) 450, for associate judge; D. D. Hyatt (D.j was 
elected coroner; C. R. Earley (Ind. D.) received 767 votes for representative; 
James Coyne (Ind. D.) 500 and J. C. Chapin (D.) 337, for treasurer; James 
A. Malone (D.) 504, and W. J. Leahy (R) 328 votes for sheriff, and 
William A. Wallace (D.) 537 votes for senator, against 154 recorded for John 
Irvine (R.).f 

The elections of 1866 show 936 votes for William L. Scott (D. ) and 359 
for G. W. Schofield (R. ), congressional candidates; John D. Hunt (D. ) and 
James McKay (R.) received the respective votes for assembly; E. C. Schnltz 
(D.)879, Jesse Kyler (D.) 896, and Charles Mead (R.) 41.2, for associate 
judges; G. A. Rathbun (D. ) 922, for prothonotary; Byron J. Jones (D.) 919, 
for auditor, and George Walmsley (D.) 915. for surveyor. 

In 1867 Thomas J. McCullough (D. ) received almost the full vote of the 
county, 765, for representative; James K. P. Hall (D. ), for district attorney; 
Claudius V. Gillis (D.), for treasurer; George D. Messenger (D. ), for auditor; 
and George Dickinson (D.), for jury commissioner; Horace Little (R. ) receiv- 
ing 262 votes for the same office. • 

In 1868 Rasselas Brown (D. ) received 1,061 and G. W. Schofield (R) 501 
votes for congress; W. A. Wallace (D.) and Manasseh Arnold (II. I, the re- 
spective votes for senator, and T. J. McCullough (D.) and F. M. Adams (R. ), 
for representative; Daniel C. Oyster (Ind. R.) received 990 votes for sheriff: 
J. S. Bard well (R.) was chosen coroner, and Clark Wilcox (D. ) auditor. 

•Elected in district. 

tThe district comprising Elk, Cameron. Clearfield, Clarion and Forest gave Wallace 4,88J and In ine 
2,896 votes. 



608 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

The presidential electors received 1,119 Democratic and D68 Republican votes. 
respectively. 

In 1869 Charles R. Earley (Ind. I received 705, and John G. Hall (R. T>. ) 
682 votes for representative; Frederick Schoening (D.) 921 and Charles 
McVean (R.) 483 votes for prothonotary; Henry D. Derr (D. ) 918 and J. 
K. Whitmore I R. I 51 1. for treasurer; Joseph Wilhelm (D. I 009. Jerome Powell 
(R.) 423 and Jos. E. Moyer (D.) 355, for auditor; and Michael Weidert (D.I 
was chosen coroner. 

The elections of L870 show 798 votes for Rasselas Brown (D.), and 
:'»'_' 1 for L. D. Wetmore (R-), (elected in district), candidates for president 

judge; 7ST for Selden Marvin (D.) and 342 for G. W. Schofield lit.', i 

gressional aspirants: 741 for John G. Hall (D. ) (elected) and 340 for W. E. 
Lathey (R.), candidates for assembly; 697 for George Walmsley (D. ) and 
416 for J. L. Brown (R.), for surveyor; Joseph Kerner (D. ) 674 and Charles 
Mead (R.) 329, for jury commissioner; James K. P. Hall (D. (was elected 
attorney; G. F. Dickinson (D. ) defeated C. McVean (R.) for the office of 
auditor. 

In 1871 Edmund English (D.) received 893, and A. I. Wilcox (R.) 680 
votes for representative; William A. Wallace (D. ) and Jesse Merrill (R. ), the 
respective votes for senator; J. V. Houk (R.) 768 and Charles Luhr (D. i 929 
defeated Julius Jones (D. ) ~>17. and George Dickinson (D. ) 767. in the race 
ociate judges; Daniel C. Oyster (Ind. R.) 7 7 ' > , defeated James McClos- 
kev (D.i 769, for the office of sheriff; Charles R. Earley (Ind.) 846, defeated 
Jo |ili Wilhelm (D.) 714, for treasurer; C. W. Barrett (D.) and C. A. Wil 
cox ll).), were chosen auditors. In this year 571 votes were cast for calling a 
constitutional convention, and 454 for the proposed amendment. 

In 1872 Thomas L. Kane (Ind.) received 1,181 and Carlton B. Curtis 
( 1!. i 626, for congress, similar votes being given for congressat-large and del- 
egates-al large; John G. Hall (D. ) 1,151, George A. Aughenbaugh (D.) 1. 138, 
and A. C. Finney (R.) 617, for delegates to convention: David P. Baird (D. ) 
1,173 and William H. Newcom (R.) 641, for representative; Frederick Schoen 
ing (D. ) 1,203, for prothonotary; Thomas Irwin (R.) was elected auditor. 
The votes for presidential electors were 753'Demoeratic. 679 Republican and 
9 Prohibition. 

In 1873 there were 1,021 votes recorded for license, and 450 against. D. 
P. Baird (D.) received 1,288 votes, and J. W. Phelps (It.) 391. for represent- 
ative. James K. P. Hall (D.) and Rufus Lucore I R I received the respeci 
ive party votes for attorney. Joseph Windf elder i i >. i and Hezekiah Horton 
(It. i. for treasurer: Thomas' J. Burke (D.) and A. W. Gray (R. ). for auditor; 
Philip Krigle (D. ) and Rauson T. Kyler (D.). for jury commissioner, while 
T. S. Hartley (R. ) was elected coroner. In December the new constitution 
was favored l>v 592 and condemned by 229 voters of Elk count). 

In 1S74 Levi A. Maekay (D. ) received 1,190 and C. T. Alexander (R.) 
3:;.") votes for congress; Warren.]. Woodward I IX I I. ll'.l and E. M. l'axton 
(K. i 157, for judiciary; Sebastian Wimmer (D.)917 and D. C. Oyster (R. 1 693. 
for assembly; Daniel Scull (Ind. ) 558, Isaac Horton (R.) 162, P. W. Hays (DO 
322. and H H. Wensel (R.) 258, Eor sheriff ; N. G. Bundj (D.) 815 and J. J 
Taylor 727, for auditor; and Charles McVean (R. i was elected coroner. 

In 1875 Fred. Schoening il). i was elected prothonotary by 1,310 out of 
1,312 votes cast; Jacob McCauley (IX). by 798 against 766 given to Charles 
McVean (R.); William H. Hyde (D.) received 1,058 and K J. Spangler (D.) 
991 \oies. and were elected auditors; P. 1). Thomas (D.) (elected in district) 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. t>U9 

received 1,028 and AVilliain P. Finley (R.) 539 votes for senator; Eugene 
Lentz (D.) 1,030 and R. W. Petrikin (R.) 513 votes for surveyor. 

The elections of 1876 show 1,330 Democratic, 534 Republican and 50 
Greenback votes for the respective electors. Levi A. Mackay (D.) received 
1.373 and R. V. B. Lincoln (R. ) 65, for congress; William L. Corbett (D. ) 
(elected) 1,355 and Henry Welter (D.) 566, for senator; Charles R. Earley 
(Ind. ) 977 and Sebastian Wimmer (D.) 901, for representative; C. H. McCau- 
ley (D.) 1,269 and J. O. W. Bailey (R.) 635, for attorney; Eugene Lentz (D.) 
1,354, for surveyor; Philip Young (D.) 741, William Clyde (D.) 585 and Mar- 
tin Clover (R.) 567, for jury commissioners; Julius Jones (D.) 1,395, G. Ed. 
Weis (D.) 1,264 and Horace Little (R.) 648, for associate judge. 

In 1878 there were live candidates for sheriff. Daniel C. Oyster (R.) re- 
ceived 580, John R. Kime (D.) 522, Thomas J. Burke (Ind.) 354, James Ro 
gan (Ind.) 76, and George Everett (R. ) 88. Andrew J. Curtin (D.) received 
1.010 and Seth H. Yocum (G. B. and R.) 803 votes for congress; John G. Hall 
(D.) 1,111 (elected), Edward M. Grant (R.) 445 and T. W. Taylor (G. B.) 
389 votes for senator; C. R. Earley (D.) 844, W. H. Horton (G. B.) 648 and 
W. W. Ames (R.) 423, for representative; Michael Brunei- (D.) 1,065, B. T. 
Ely (G. B.) 655 and A. E. Goff (R.) 212 votes for treasurer; Fred. 
Schoening (D.) received 1,580 votes for prothonotary, while J. M. Mecum 
(D.) and Charles Miller (D.) were elected auditors. 

In 1879 G. W. Wurzell (D.) was elected district attorney, and Joseph 
Emmert (D.) and J. V. Bonnert (D.), jury commissioners. The elections of 
1880 show 1,534 Democratic, 720 Republican and 88 Greenback votes cast for 
the respective electors. Rasselas Brown (D.) received 1,624 and W. D. 
Brown (R.) (elected), 693 votes for president judge; Andrew J. Curtin (D.) 
1,496 and Thomas H. Murray (R. ) 828 votes for congress; J. L. Brown (D.) 
1,338 and C. R. Earley (Ind.) 963 votes for assembly; Thomas Sullivan (D. ) 
1,332 and James J. Taylor (R. ) 994 votes for sheriff. 

In 1881 Fred. Schoening (D.) received 1,927 votes, and had no oppo- 
nent for the office of prothonotarv ; George Weidenboerner (D.) received 933 
and James Penfield (R.) 881 votes for treasurer; G. Ed. Weis (D.) 1,202 
and G. G. Messenger (D.) 1,072, were elected associate judges, defeating W. 
H. Osterhout (R.), who received 885, and E. Morey (R.), who received 517 
votes. R. F. Smith and T. J. Taylor received 1,251 votes each, and were 
elected auditors, J. S. Chamberlain (R.) receiving 681 votes for the office \Y. 
L. Williams (D.) was chosen coroner. 

The elections of 1882 show 1,322 votes for A. G. Curtin (D. ) and 545 for 
S. H. Orenig (R), congressional candidates; 1,452 for John G. Hall (D.) and 
384 for Miles W. Tate (R.), for senator; 1,359 for Jefferson L. Brown (D. ) 
and 494 for O. M. Montgomery (R,), for representative; Charles B. Earley (D.) 
received 1,328 votes for district attorney, John Wainwright (D. ) 1,326 for 
surveyor; Henry Largay (R.) 738, G. C. T. Hoff (D. ) 594 and John Bonnert 
(D. ) 531, for jury commissioners. 

The elections of 1883 show 932 votes for Albert Weis (D.) and 858 for 
Henry Largay (R. ), candidates for sheriff; 1,002 for John Wainwright (D. ) and 
634 for G. W. Clinton (R.), for surveyor; 648 for proposed sheep law and INI 
against. 

In 1884 the Democratic electors received 1,447, the Butler or Greenback 
electors 127, the Republican electors 1,082 and the Prohibition electors 31. P. 
R. Ackley, Andrew Patterson, Joseph A. Ege and J. D. Wallace were the elect- 
ors named. A. G. Curtin (D.) received 674 and John Patton (R.) 1,935, for 
congress; H. M. Powers (R.) 1,191, and W. H. Horton (D.) 1,478, for repre- 



610 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

sentative; John Collins (D.) 1,571 and W. H. Osterhout (R.) 1,109, for treas- 
urer: W. S. Horton (D.) 1,059, Albert Greiner (E.) 1,016, for prothonotary; 
Julius Jones (D.) 1,655, and John H. Yaughan (D. ) 1.0(34. for auditors, while 
E. Hovencamp (R. i had L.066 votes for the same office. 

In 1885 Ernest J. Wimnier (D.) received 862 and Dyson Eishell (E 
votes for district attorney; Reuben Mohney (D.) was elected jury cornniisMnii.M-. 
receiving 858 votes, while E. M. Rogers (R.) received 630. 

The elections of 1886 show 1,946 votes for J. K P. Hall (D. ) and 841 for 
John Patton (R.), candidates for congress; 1,069 for H. L. Young (R. i and 
1,736 (D.)for John H. "Wilson, for senator; 1,942 for A. A. Clay (D.) and 858 
for A. E. Whitney (R.) for assemblv: 1, 190 for Peter Gainor (D.), 994 f..r 1' 
C. < »yster (R. ) 410 for Anthony Aninon (Ind. D.) and 213 for George F. Spul 
ler (D. ), candidates for sheriff; John Wainwright (D. ) received 1,668 and J. 
W. Brown (R.) 1,131 votes for surveyor; W. L. "Williams (D. ) was chosen cor- 
oner; G. Ed. Weis(D.) received 1,458, G. G. Messenger (D.) 1,426 and O. M. 
Montgomery (R.) 1,3S0 votes for associate judge. 

The elections of 18S7 resulted as follows: John R. Kime (D. ) received L,5l <■> 
and John Ernhart (R.). 910 votes for associate judge: John B. Foster (D.) 
1.377. W. S. Service (R.) 852, Charles McVean (R.) 107 and L. W. Gifford 
(Ind. D. ) 62 votes for county treasurer; W. S. Horton (D. I 1.570 and C. E. 
McCrea (R.) 887 votes for prothonotary; Henry Weithoff (D.) 1,488 and A. 
E. Timm (1). ) 1,421, were elected auditors, over E. Hovencamp (R.) who re- 
ceived 1,016 and J. F. English (R, ) 20 votes. 

In 1888 there were 1,322 votes cast for Republican, 1,824 for the Democratic. 
52 for the Prohibition and IS for the Labor electors. There were 1880 votes 
cast for James Kerr (D.) and_l,211 for Theodore P. Rynder (G. B. and U. L. ), 
candidates for congress; 1,9/5 for Capt. A. A. Clay (D.) and 1,230 for E. M. 
Rogers (R.), candidates for assembly; 2,225 for Charles A. Mayer (D.) and 49 
for C. L. Hawley (U. L.) candidates for president judge; 1,953 for E. J. 
Wimmer (D.) and 1,241 for W. W. Barbour (R.), candidates for district attor 
ney; C. J. Dill (D.) and S. L. Brown (R.) were elected jury commissioners. 

The election of June 18, 1889, on the question of constitutional prohibi- 
tion shows S20 votes for the prohibitory amendment, and 1,579 against it. The 
suffrage amendment received 237 votes, and was opposed by 1,480. 

The returns by boroughs and townships as published in the local journals 
are as follows: Horton township gave 108 votes for amendment and 75 against, 
majority 33; East Spring Creek gave the antis 5 1 majority, 25 votes fur and 7'.' 
against; West Spring Creek went 41 for and 19 against; Highland township 
went 37 for and 5 against, majority 32; Fox township went 147 for and 'J'_!^ 
against, majority 81; Jones township voted 69 for, 118 against, majority 49; 
Ridgway borough voted for the amendment L09, against the amendment. 150, 
majority against, 41; Ridgway township cast '- 111 \otes for amendment. 125 
against; in Jay township, 53 votes for and 72 against, gave the antis 19 
majority; Benezette gave 14 majority for the amendment, 09 for. 50 against; 
Rolfe gave the Prohibitionist 5 majority, 3'.' vote- for and 34 against. Ben- 
ginger's vote was almost unanimous against the proposition, the people looking 
upon it as not only an attack on personal liberty but an attempt at a combi- 
nation of church and State government. 

The Elk county elections of November, 1889, show 1.419 votes for G. R. 
Woodward (D.), 671 for J. Jackson (R.) : candidates for sheriff; 1.291 for Dr. 
W. B. Hartman (D.) and 780 for Dr. Sapp il!. I, candidates for coroner: I I 
Willard (D.) received 1,200 for surveyor, Horace Little (R.) being his opponent. 





~-OL- 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 



613 



CHAPTER VI. 

JOURNALISM- SCHOOLS. 

journalism st. Mary's Republican-The Elk County Advocate-Tiie 

Elk Democrat— The Daily Democrat— The Elk County Gazette- 
Other JOURNALS. 

Schools First School in Elk County, and Early 1 eaching— Township 

Schools— First Public School— Statistics, 1888-89— St hool Superintend- 
ents— County Institutes. 

journalism. 

THE first newspaper printed and published in Elk county was called the 
St. Mary's Republican. It was born in the town of St. Mary's in the latter 
days of the year 1849. After a struggle of a few weeks, it died of starvation ; 
this, too, in the thriving borough which now supports two sprightly Jefferson- 
ian Democratic journals, one of them a semi-weekly. What a change to be 
wrought in only thirty-eight short years ! 

The Elk County Advocate first saw the light of day on March 9, 1850. It 
was in size 22x28, and in appearance ranked fairly with the county papers of 
that day. The press and types were bought with money subscribed mainly by 
citizens" here, but with some assistance from non-resident land owners. Prac 
tical printers were gathered in from Jefferson, Clearfield and Warren counties. 
After an all-night effort, the paper was got in readiness for the weekly horse- 
back mail, then carried by the late ex sheriff, David Thayer, through the 
almost unbroken forest to Warren. The second number was also issued with- 
out definite arrangement, with the name of Henry Souther, now a prominent 
citizen of Virginia, as editor. In the meantime a contest was going on among 
the imported printers for the job of running the Advocate. Arrangements 
were finally made with Jerome Powell, one of the importation, to edit and pub- 
lish the paper for one year— the sum of 1600 being guaranteed him for the 
service. 

The editor of the Advocate noticing the organization of the "Know-noth- 
ings." in April, 1854, says: "The patriots of the Revolution fought not only 
for their liberties and firesides, but also to build up a country here, where the 
oppressed of all nations could find a refuge and home throughout all future 
time. But the Know-nothings are out for a different order of things." 

The result was that the Advocate was published and edited by Mr. Powell, 
assisted for a short time in the editorial department by Mr. Souther, for about 
five and a half years, or till September 8, 1855. The paper was then sold to 
our now prominent citizen, J. L. Brown, of Wilcox, who changed the name, we 
believe, to the Elk County Reporter. From that point the paper changed 
hands frequently. Maj. J. A. Boyle succeeded Mr. Brown, followed in turn by 
P. W. Barrett. H. A. Pattison, Dr. J. S. Bardwell, in 1870, and others. John 
G. Hall finally bought it, and carried it on for a while in the interest of pure 
and unselfish Democracy. 

The Advocate came into possession of the Republican party by purchase 
about December 1, 1868. An organization was formed called "The Elk 



■11 HISTORY. OF ELK COUNTY. 

County Atlrut at ion." and certificates of stock issued to the amount of 

11,300. We are indebted to J. H. Hagerty for one of the original certi- 
ficates of stock. In size it is l.'xSi inches. It is printed in two colors, red 
and green, and reads as follows: 

No Ridgway, Elk County, 1'a.. $ 

Ridgway, Pa., December 1st, 1868. 

This certifies that lias paid to 

THE ELK COUNTY ADVOCATE ASSOCIATION, 
The sum of Two Dollars which entitles him, or the bearer hereof, to One Share of 
Stork, at two dollars per Share, in the said Elk County Advocate Association. 

John R. Baird, y 
•I S. Bardwkll, ^Trustees. 
J. H. Hagerty. \ 

On March 2, 1ST 1 . Henry A Parsons, Jr., became owner of the Advocate, 
vice Mr. Souther, and. abolishing the old numerals, commenced with Vol. I. No. 
1, and introduced steam power presses. On September lit, 1872, H. A. Patti- 
soti became publisher. In 1884 the office was sold to the Ridgway Publishing 
Company, limited, the present proprietors, who purchased and added to the 
plant the Schoening series of law blanks, and some new machinery and type. 
Just when the name of the paper was again changed from the Reporter to the 
original name Ridgway Advocate, we have been unable to learn.* 

The Elk Democrat^ was started August 26, 1869, by the Elk Democrat 
Association. The stockholders were William A. Wallace, of Clearfield: John 
G. Hall, George Dickinson, J. S. Hyde, W. H. Hyde. G. D. Messenger. Sr. . 
Nelson Gardner, G. G. Messenger, G. F. Dickinson. David Thayer, C. V. 
Gillis, W. C. Healy, C. H. McCauley, H. S. Thayer and Fred Wilmarth, of 
Ridgwaj ; and J. K. P. Hall and Louis Yollmer, of St. Mary's. The paper 
was started for the purpose of advocating the cause of John G. Hall, the 
Democratic nominee for assembly, the St. Mary's Gazette, the only Democratic 
paper in the county, having espoused the cause of C. R. Earley, who ran as an 
independent candidate against Mr. Hall. John F. Moore, of Clearfield, had 
mechanical charge of the paper until October 30, 1869. A German printer 
was imported from Philadelphia, and, during the exciting campaign of that 
year, eaeli issue contained several columns of German editorials for the special 
benefit of the German voters in Benzinger, St. Mary's. Fox and Jones. The 
contest having resulted in the election of Mr. Hall, it was decided to continue 
the publication of the paper, and on November 1. 1869, Eugene J. Miller, of 
Barrisburg, assumed editorial and mechanical charge of the office. In 1870 
the paper was enlarged from seven to eight columns to the page. After a 
service of two years, Mr. Miller resigned, and the office was leased to C. W. 
Barrett. In the latter part of March, 1873, Mr. Miller purchased the estab 
lishment from the Elk Democrat Association. Up to thai time the office was 
located on the second floor of J. S. Byde's building, afterward used ;.s ;i 
boarding-house. As soon as .Mr. Miller hail obtained possession, he removed 
the office to the second floor of the new building of \V. S. Service, opposite 
the court bouse, where it remained until the early morning of September 29, 
L882, when it went up in smoke in the disastrous lire which reduced to ashes 
the business heart of Ridgway, having in December. 1874, absorbed by pur- 
chase the job printing office of Fred Schoening. making it at that time the most 
complete printing establishment in the country. Only one line of type from 

loom Jerome Powell's sketcli .■nut Me. 
1 Bj Eugene J. Miller, who fur fourteen years >v:is the editor and proprietor of the Elk /»■ 
the Colui i ■ ■ ■ 

lie left i;iii'_-ua> iii April, i ssii. with nls family, for Southern Pines, N.< business there. 



HISTOEY OF ELK COUNTY. 615 

the entire outfit escaped the names, and that was not in the office, having been 
borrowed by Mr. Parsons. This line Mr. Miller still has, carefully laid away. 
and prizes it highly as a relic of the old Democrat outfit. Thanks to the 
courtesy of H. A. Parsons, Jr., proprietor of the Advocate, not an issue of the 
paper was missed. The week following the fire a small sheet was issued, and 
from that time until the 2d of November following, the paper appeared regu- 
larly from the Advocate office as a half sheet, when a shanty having been built 
on Court street, opposite Mercer's meat market, and a new outfit procured, 
it was again issued as a full-sheet, being printed on a Prouty press, which was 
the first cylinder press ever brought into the county. In August, 1883, the 
office was moved from the shanty to the second floor of R. I. Campbell's new 
brick building. In the spring of 1884 a Bookwalter engine was put in, and 
the newspaper and job presses run by steam. On December 1, 1884, Mr. 
Miller sold the office to George R. Dixon, A. M., the present proprietor. The 
Daily Democrat was issued in November, 1887, and continued during the 
meeting of the institute. Mr. Dixon is a trenchant writer. In 1875-76 he 
wrote a valuable history of the county schools, much of which is incorporated 
in this work. 

The' Elk County Railroad & Mining Gazette Company was incorporated in 
August, 1867, with C. R. Earley, H. Kietz, W. Jame3 Blakely, C. McVean, 
Fred Schoening, L. J. Blakely, E. C. Schultz, and George A. Rathbun, mem- 
bers. The object was to publish a journal showing forth the resources of the 
county. The first issue of the Gazette is dated September 24, 1868, with Ed- 
ward F. Hodges, editor. He was followed by L. J. Blakely. Capt. G. C. 
Brandon, who died at Mount Pleasant, Mich., in 1889, was, for a number of 
years editor of the Gazette. His daughter, Mrs. E. B. Wilmarth, is now ed- 
itor of the Democrat at that place. Volume V, No. 36 of the Elk County Ga- 
zette was issued January 9, 1873, by G. C. Brandon, and he continued regular 
publication for over fourteen years, until March 11, 1880, when C. W. Barrett 
succeeded him. In the salutatory of Mr. Barrett, March 18, 1886, this sen- 
tence finds a place: " Financially we expect to pay our liabilities and collect our 
bills, or vice versa, and upon this last declaration hangs all the law and the 
profits." In April, 1887, the vice versa part of the program seems to have 
been accomplished, for the office passed from the possession of the sheriff into 
the hands of D. R. Wilmarth & Co. There was no paper issued on April 1 4, 
but on April 21 D. R. Wilmarth & Co. appear as publishers, with H. A. Hall, 
editor and G. A. Westcott, superintendent. In January, 1890, Harry A. Hall 
disposed of his interest in the Gazette to the Wilmarth Bros., preparatory to 
i lie establishment of his law office at Ridgway. 

The Grace Church Record, a monthly sheet, was published at Ridgway in 
June, 1876, with Rev. William James Miller, editor, by Charles R. Earley ami 
W. F. Geary. 

The Herald was issued semi-weekly, at St. Mary's, June 11, 1887, by C. 
W. Barrett, formerly of the St. Mary's Gazette, fie sold the office, January 
19, 1888, to F. J. Wimmer and T. A. Jacob, the latter being now sole owner. 

The Clarion Breeze, No. 1, Vol. I, was issued at Johnsonburg July 18, 
1889, by A. J. Quimby, formerly of Coudersport. This journal, like the town 
it represents so well, started pretentiously, and continues to carry out its pre- 
tensions. 



The first school in Elk county was opened in 1821, two years after the es- 
tablishment of a school in Cameron county. It was presided over by Cephas 



616 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Morey, and carried ou in one of the two rooms into which the leading building 
on Meadic run, in what is now Benezette township, was divided. 

In that early age there were many peculiarities in habit and in diction, the 
words would and could were pronounced by some wold and cold, the letter z 
was pronounced zed, and had been pronounced a short time previous izzard, 
the words cubic, music and others, now ending in ic, wore written cubick, 
musick, and the words ending in or were spelled and written our, as honour, 
labour, etc. In those schools there were no blackboards in use; slates were 
used for the purpose, and all examples in the lessons in the arithmetic were 
performed on the slate. The pens used were made from the goose-quill, the 
ink from maple bark, copperas and pokeberries. Dilworth's and Webster's 
spellers, which were succeeded by Comley's ami Byerly's, Murray's English 
reader and introduction were the principal books used in those schools. The 
arithmetics were Pike's and Dilworth's: Walker's abridged vocabulary was re 
ferred to as a standard on pronunciation, providing the schoolmaster was so 
fortunate as to have one in his possession. Spelling from memory, words given 
out or pronounced by the teacher, produced somewhat of emulation, and as the 
higher branches were not taught, the pupils having more time and by tie 
quent exercises in orthography became excellent spellers. 

Capt. Peter Goff opened a school in Jay township in 1S'_''J. In 1823 the 
first school in Fox township was opened at Irishtown. Dr. William Ho\ t was 
the teacher, while his daughter, Camillo. presided over another school on the 
Little Toby. Olive Brockway conducted a school at Brandy Camp in L820, 
and Hannah Gilbert at Ridgway. la 1832 Miss Graham conducted a little 
school at Millstone village, and eight years later John Knox presided over a 
very primitive school at the mouth of Spring creek. In 1842 Peter Hardy 
taught in a little frame building erected about that time at the crossing of 
the turnpike and St. Mary's road, in Jones township. The schools of Ben 
zinger date back to 1N44-45, when two lay brothers of the Bedemptorisl 
order — Joseph and Xavernis — opened a school. The following year the firs! 
public school was presided over by Fred Clarinaav. who was succeeded by 
John Fresh and Charles Luhr. The convent schools followed, as related in 
the history of St. Mary's. In ISoT L. S. Houk taught the first school in 
Highland township, and the beginnings of education were made in every sec 
tion of the county. 

The report of Superintendent C. J. Swift, on the schools of Elk county, 
dtited June i. L888, gives the following statistics: M school-houses or '••'•• 
rooms; in graded schools; 28 male and 89 female teacher-; 1,890 male and 

1,645 female pupils, of whom 2,440 attended schools; scl 1 tax $37,196.69, 

state moneys $3,203.21, total revenue $44,573.52; teachers' salaries $23, 
613.15; total expenditures $41,930.47, including salaries, and $9,357.67 ex 
pended on houses and rents. The figures tor June, L889, correspond with 
the increase in population and wealth. In the sketches of the townships and 
boroughs a history of the local schools appears compiled from Mr. Dixon's 
admirable centennial paper, and from other sources 

The first superintendent of schools was \\ . I! (iillis, chosen by the school 
convention in June, lSo). and granted a salan of *7o per annum. At the 
time of his appointment there were only twenty nine schools in the county, 
and the directors of many of them were so adverse to the new office and its 
incumbent as to refuse him admittance. The position was so disagreeable, and 
the condition of the public schools so disheartening, that Gilles resigned within 
a few months. Dr. ('. R. Barley being appointed to till out the term. lb- re 
ported that " nearly every male at the age of twenty-one years had signed a 




//?//, C2^^Z^~r^^ 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 619 

petition for the repeal of the law creating the office of county superintendent." 
Notwithstanding this report, the directors, in convention, re-elected the doctor 
in May, 1857, and increased his pay to $400. In 1860 he was again elected; 
but, resigning in 1861, Rufus Lucore was appointed and served until May, 
lSf>: J ,, when James Blakely, of St. Mary's, was elected. Mr. Blakely was 
re-elected in 1866, and during his six years' tenure of office he witnessed the 
remarkable growth of the school system. . George Walmsley of St. Mary's 
was elected in 1869, but being ineligible, Rufus Lucore was appointed. At 
this time the salary was placed at $600, but in 1872, when Mr. Lucore was 
re-elected it was increased to $1,000. George R. Dixon, A.M., was elected in 
1875. His attention to school affairs created among the people new and 
favorable impressions of the system, and won their interest. At the beginning 
of his term, and in 1S76, there were sixty-six schools in the county. Super- 
intendent C. J. Swift has now about one hundred school rooms under his 
supervision. 

County Institutes. — The first institute was held in June, 1856, under the 
call of Dr. Earley. When he took the chair only one teacher was present, 
Wallace W. Brown, but others came in. and a session of two weeks was pro- 
nounced a success. The institute has met annually since that time. In De- 
cember, 1884, there were present W. J. King, Maud Paddock, Edith Henry. 
Mary Gray, Mary Haskin, Benezette, Penn. ; Mary Reed, Dry Saw Mill, Penn. : 
William Gross, Charles Ritter, Ralph J. Hirsh, Maggie Weidert, Lizzie Rogan. 
Minnie Fillinger,' Mary Kangley, J. L. Henry, Kate Fillinger, John J. Laumer, 
Theresa Laumer, Frank J. Lion, Fred ■ Burnhard, St. Mary's, Penn.; S. E. 
Hayes, Mary McGrady, Mrs. Lemuel McCauley, A. A. Newell, Kate McQuone, 
P. W. Moyer, Ella Donovan, Orpha Keltz, Viola Keltz, Kate Callahan, Emma 
Callahan, Maggie Ahern, Bridget Walsh, Annie Gillen, Kersey, Penn. ; Viola 
Hayes, Dagus Mines, Penn. ; J. H. Hayes, Lawrence Fee, Weedville, Penn. ; 
Alice Neill, Flora Irwin, Kane, McKean Co., Penn.; Alice Brian, Brookston, 
Forest Co., Penn.; J. C. McAllister, Jr.. Brandy Camp. Penn.; Ottis Sibley, 
Brockwayville, Jefferson Co., Penn.; W. J. Morrison, W. A. Smith, Eva Rich-, 
ards, Brockport, Penn. ; Bertie Lindgren, Delia Van Aiken, A. E. Whitney, 
Emma Beman, Ada Malone, Jennie Mitchell, Babe E. Wilcox, Prof Swift, Ella 
Kime, Hattie Warner, May Little, Kate O'Connor, Kate Gresh, Cozy Miller, 
Kate McNaul, Julia Flynn, Ridgway, Penn. ; Matie Locke, Kate Murphy, 
Amanda Wilcox, John B. Ague, Nellie Northrop, Flora Weining, Wilcox, 
Penn. ; Laura Warner, Jessie Parsons, William Deveraux, Miss Annie Dill, 
Rasselas, Penn. ; Hattie Van Stienberg, Eliza Brosius, Blanche Hindman, 
Emma Campbell, Raughts, Penn. ; M. F. Hindman, Millstone, Penn. ; Eliza 
Donachy, Whistletown, Penn. ; Maggie A. Whitehill. J. B. Dunn', Luna Rod- 
gers, Arroyo, Penn. ; Ida Millin, Hallton, Penn. ; Mrs. Maud Grain, Carman, 
Penn. During the last five years the list of attendants has been so extended 
as to preclude the possibility of reprinting here. 



620 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 



CHAPTER VII. 

MILITARY AFFAIRS. 

SOMI \ I TERANS OF THE WAR OF 1812— EnK COUNTY IN THE CIVIL WAR— THE 

Forty-second Regiment (buckt ails) — Names of Soldiers— Tin: Elk 

County Guards— Sixteenth Regiment, P. V. [.—Company II. of Ri 

\\ ay, and its Record. 

JAMES L. GILLIS was the first regularly discharged soldier of the war < I 
1812 who settled in Elk county. Isaac Coleman entered the militia in 1812, 
when but sixteen years old, and served until the English were routed from the 
lake and laud. In 1S24 he came to Elk county from New York, and died at 
Brandy Gamp, in September, 1879. David Langdon, a veteran of 1812, 
resided at Brockway in 1884. He was then ninety years old, and declared he 
never felt tired in his life except once — during his march home from Sackett's 
Earbor, after muster out. Other defenders of the young Republic came 
hither, while the children or grandchildren of Revolutionary heroes find a 
home here to-day. 

Scarcely had the echoes of the Confederate grins at Fort Sumter died 
away, when the telegraph wire bore a message from Thomas L. Kane to Gov. 
Curtin asking permission to raise a regiment. The permit was granted at 
once, and going into Elk county he enlisted Hiram Woodruff* at the old tav- 
ern in Williamsville Hollow, placed a bucktail in the recruit's hat. and went 
forth to enlist the Forty-second Rifle Regiment. 

THE FORTY-SECOND REGIMENT (bDCKTAILS|. 

Company G, of the Forty-second Regiment (better known as the Bucktails, 
or Kane's Rifle Regiment), was recruited in Elk county, in April, and mustered 
May 2 l J, 1861, when Hugh McDonald was commissioned captain. He served 
until muster out, June 11, 18(>4. and was brevetted major in March. L865, 
Jesse B. Doan, the first first lieutenant, resigned January 11, 1862; Thomas 
B. Winslow was promoted from private to first lieutenant on the same date. 
and served until the close. A. J. Sparks, second lieutenant, resigned in April, 
1862; John A. Wolf rose from sergeant to first lieutenant. February 1, L863; 
John \j Luther was promoted to second lieutenant. March 11. 1863. and was 
discharged March 12, 1865; Sergt. Seth Keys was mustered out in June. 
L86 I ; Sergt. •). B. Thompson was transferred to the One Hundred and Ninetiel h, 
May 31, 1864, also Sergts. James McCoy, Charles Q. Sharer, and R. E. Looker, 
the transfer of the latter being made twenty days after receiving wounds: 
Sergt. John ('. Cole died of wounds, June 11, 1862; Sergt. Denis Fuller was 
killed at Fredericksburg, December 13, 1862; sergeanl Charles B. Wright de 
serted October 11, and Sergt. Norman C. Bundy was missing August 11. 
1861, out the latter returning in May, was honorably discharged Ma\ L2, 
Corps. Arnold B. Lucore and Thomas J. Stephenson were mustered out with 
the company June 11, 1864; Corps. Elijah S. Brookius and John McNeil 

Joseph T bin! came here in 1859, having hitherto resided across thi I In VIcKean county. He 

states that IMchurd I.ooUei sl ; .;in-<l the luicktall roll first, followed b> llii w Iruff. 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 621 

were transferred to the One Hundred and Ninetieth Regiment, and Samuel S. 
Caldwell to the V. R. C. Corp. John H. Evans died at Harrisburg, July 1. 
1S61; John Looney was killed at Fredericksburg, and John C. Wray died at 
Harrisburg. 

Among the private troops killed on the field or who died from the effects 
of wounds were W. W. Barr and Joseph N. Hoffman, killed at Spottsylvania, 
May 9, 1864; Martin Kelly, Cyrus Marginson, Willard Aylin, at Harrison- 
burg, June 6, 1862; John Wenrick and John A. Spencer, at Fredericksburg, 
December 13, 1862; Hiram Woodruff, at Gettysburg, July 2, 1863, while A 
S. Davis died of wounds received there; W. D. Watkins was accidentally killed 
at Alexandria; D. Nolin committed suicide; Charles K. Coleman, James Cas- 
siday, Ben Fuller, Alanson Holly, Jerry Sullivan, Ezra P. Tillson, and John 
Imes died in service; John Miller was killed while drawing the attention of 
the enemy ; John P. Arts and Allen C. DeBeck, were missing after the affair 
of May 30, 1864, at Bethesda Church. Among the wounded discharged 
were Clinton Bundy, W. H. Chase, G. C. De Beck, John F. Dailey, James 
H. Eliler, Ben Ireland, J. A. Lehman, Allen Mahlen, John Reinhart, August 
Rhanewalt and Jackson Stewart. 

The private troops discharged on surgeon's certificates are named as fol- 
lows: Simon B. Benson, Lafayette Bingham, A. C. Carpenter, Orlando Davis, 
William Daniels, G. W. English, A. J. Graham, J. J. Garrison, Thomas A. 
Gross, James H. Hollis, C. Lukens, R. W. Lenish, T. Montgomery, James 
McDonald, Ben Sparks, Edward D. Sawyer, George Shaffer, John Sheeley, 
W. L. Stark, N. H. Tubbs and Jesse D. Vainer. The troopers sentenced by 
court-martial to be discharged were D. M. Henderson and Michael McCoy. 

The transfers to the One Hundred and Ninetieth Regiment, May 31, 1864. 
were Clinton Bundy, Levi Bateman, Napoleon Burnett, James C. Cum'mings, 
F. G. Cordes, Marcus Kline, Joseph Farley, Floyd Holly, J. A. Hollingshead,' 
Reuben Keller, W. Kreecht, J. W. Miller, Marshal Quay, Cyrus Robbins. 
James Rawley, F. H. Robinson, A. J. Simers, Elhannan Stephens, J. W. 
Strubble, Robert L. Sharer, C. Wansall and Lawrence Willey. 

The private troops mustered out with company, June 11, 1864, were 
John F. Darley, G. C. DeBeck, Tartulas J. Garrison, T. B. Johnston,' John 
W. Leeman, Thomas H Ryan, G. W. Scott, J. W. Wharton and Joseph 
Walshe. Among the men transferred to other regiments were Thomas Fur- 
long and John Imes to the V. R. C. , and James Gross and George H. Price to 
the Sixth U. S. Cavalry; A. Kearns, L. Lewis and R. C. Winslow were not on 
roll at this date; William Warner and J. H. Whitehead were on detached 
service; Edward Doan was reported as missing in June. John Showers and 
James A. Graham in August, and George R. Norwood in May, 1861; Rufus 
Padget and W. D. Warner in June, 1863; Solomon King was a soldier 
in Company I. Among the soldiers of the Forty-second residing here belong- 
ing to the regimental association are Levi Bateman, L. W. Gifford, T. B. 
Johnson, William Kreecht, Reuben Keller and L. Lucore. 

Capt. Anthony A. Clay, of Rasselas, served in the Fifty-eighth Pennsyl- 
vania Infantry, and has been a resident of Elk county for over twenty three 
years. He was born at Vienna, Austria, in 1839. 

Among other soldiers from this county are the following named from St. 
Mary's and neighborhood: James Phelan, 58th; Anthonv Schauer. 10th; Jere- 
miah Sullivan, 58th; Louis Garner; George Krellner, "6th ; Sebastian Metz- 
gar, 6th; George Kingsley; Charles Scheider; M. Stevich; Thomas Zimmett, 
111th; Jacob Schubert, 111th; George Smith, 111th; Capt. Charles Volk,' 
111th; Frank Bieberger, 111th; Frank Weidenboerner; Charles Harpstritt, 



622 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Illtli: Andrew Dippold, 111th; Frank Weis, 111th; George Nissell. 111th; 

- Stauffer, Sr .. 111th; Stauffer, Jr., 111th; Stephen Henry: Frank 

Sosenheirner, 105th; John Langenfeld; Nissell; A. Brahm; John E. 

Weidenboerner, 105th; John Fischer, 105th; Wendel Lion; Philip Wil- 
helm, U. S. Cavalry; William Krackle, 10th; John Kries; John Miller; Jacob 
Miller; John Oyster; Reuben Kellar; Nicholas Brock way; Henry Largay: 
John Wellendorf; Peter Albel, 105th, (killed), and a few others. 

Dr. Bard well was appointed local surgeon of the invalid corps January 1, 
1865, on which date there were fifty-six invalid soldiers placed in the old court- 
house, now the Bogert House, under Capt. Short. Two months later another 
detachment arrived and were quartered in the old school-house across the river. 
All the men recovered and were discharged. 

R. W. Petrikin, born in Benezette township in 1843, was killed by Indians 
in Mexico. October 15, 1882, while acting as chief of construction on the Mexi- 
can International Railroad. He entered West Point in 1861, and in 1866 was 
assigned duty as lieutenant at Baltimore. 

The Elk County Guards organized in August, 1854, with R. Maginniss. cap 
tain; Harvey Henry, first lieutenant; W. N. Whitney, second lieutenant: J. 
F. Dill, ensign; W. C. Healy, first sergeant; Crawford, second; Wilcox, third, 
and H. Souther, fourth; H. A. Parsons, first corporal: P. T. Brooks, second; 
L. Brigham, third, and C. Mead, fourth. 

SIXTEENTH REGIMENT, P. V. I. 

The Ridgway Rifles, Company H, of the Sixteenth P. V. I., was organized 
in L874, with Frederick Schoening, captain. Among the first members were 
J. O. W. Bailey, T. W. Benson, W. S. Horton. J. W. Morgester, M. S. Kline, P. 
R. Prindle, C. W. Barrett, C. Bowers. Harry Wilson, Henry J. Iloff, Michael 
Luly, Joseph Holseybooth. W. S. McVeigh, W. A. Cummings, H. A. Parsons, 
Jr., J. D. Fullerton, L. W. Ely. Henry Warner, Joseph Metts, L. Luther. C. 
H. Rhines and C. F. Howe. The total enrollment up to July 31, 1887, was 
209, of which number 54 were discharged, 4 re-enlisted, and 3 died. All the 
volunteers enrolled up to July 31, 1887, were residents of Ridgway. Of the 
original members, Will. S. Horton and H. A. Parsons, Jr., are still mem- 
bers of this company, the former succeeding Fred. Schoening as captain, 
and the latter succeeding Joseph Bailey as first lieutenant, who succeeded (J. 
R. Woodward. This Joseph Bailey was commissioned vice J. O. W. Bailey, 
who died in 1878 at Camp Chautauqua. C. H. Rhines was the pioneer second 
lieutenant, followed by George R. Woodward, Joseph Bailey came next, fol- 
lowed by Charles F. Geary, the present second lieutenant. The company was 
called out during the riots of 1887-88, and has been present at all State drills 
since 1874. The present strength of the command is 61, of whom 50 wire at 
Camp Kane, Warren, in July, 1889. 

In 1SSS Company H won the regimental trophy for rifle shooting, and 
claims twenty nine sharpshooters' badges, having lost in 1887 by only two 
points. O. T. Miner, a soldier of 1S61-65, was a member of this command 
until recently - The State decoration is awarded all guardsmen who at the 200 
and 500 yard ranges, live shots at each range, possible 50, make at least 25. 
Those who make VI, and upward, axe designated as "sharpshooters." and 
gel a silver bar. Following is the list for l s ^\ giving points and years of 
ser\ ice: 

Sharpshooters W. S. Horton, 50, 6; Joseph A. Lewis. 16, 2; William 
B. Shean. 16, 2; Henry A. Parsons. Jr.. 15. 6; C. A. Olmsted. 45, 6; F. E. 
Nichols. 15. 0; L. B. Elliott, 45, 6; A. F. Bemau, 45, 3; Horace Huston. 1".. 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 625 

1; George R. Woodward, 44, 6 ; Charles F. Geary, 44, 2; AVilliarn Colloin, 44. 
4; James L. Henry, 44, 2; A. S. Hotter, 44, 2; Charles Moore, 44, 1: D. E. 
Moore, 44, 2; James D. White, 43, 6; A. E. Ross, 43, 2; William Cunning- 
ham, 43, 1; George McFarlin, 43, 3; David Lobaugh, 43, 2; W. B. McCor- 
mick, 42, 6; Isaac N. Benton, 42, 2; Milton Sleight. 42, 6; Claud Kime, 42, 
1: Amos DeVoge, 42, 1; O. S. Winslow, 42, 1; A. M. Ent, 42, 2; H. Ellinger, 
43: Clyde Kime, 43. 

Ordinary marksmen— W. M. Elliott, 40, (5; Joseph Cassidy, 40, 1; Martin 
Mitchell, 40, 2; Jack E. Barrett, 38, 1; W. T. Moore, 36, 1; True Gilman, 35, 
1; James A. Neill, 35, 1; D. W. Healy, 34, 1; John Cunningham, 32. 2; 
John Wallgren, 32, 1; J. W. Curry, 32, 1; Fred. Hartley, 31, 1; Mack 
Lewis, 31, 1; John Davis, 30, 2; C. E. Luther, 30, 1; Harry Ellinger. 30, 1: 
F S Tinthoff, 30, 1 ; D. A. Meilus, 29, 1 ; John Meicht, 29, 1 ; O. T. Minor. 
28, 1; W. C. Beman, 27, 1; W. E. Horton, 27, 1; George Barrett, 27, 1; J. 
P. Keys, 26, 1; Charles Quinn, 26, 1. 

In 1889 the silver bar honor was won by the same members, with one or 
two exceptions. 



CHAPTER VIII. 



RAILROADS. 



Philadelphia & Erie Railroad— Sunbury & Erie Railroad— Pittsburg & 
New York Railroad— Other Roads— Accidents, etc. 

THE Philadelphia & Erie Railroad was chartered April 3, 1837, as the Sun- 
bury & Erie, and the work of construction was commenced in 1852. The 
whole line was opened October 17, 1864. In January, 1862, it was leased to 
the Pennsylvania Railroad Company at 30 per cent of the gross earnings. In 
1870 the lessors agreed to receive the net revenue. The total length is 
287.56 miles. 

A letter dated Ridgway, December 23, 1846, signed by Leonard Morey and 
Henry Souther, advises Ignatius Garner of his appointment as delegate to the 
Philadelphia railroad convention of 1847, from Elk county, the convention 
being called to consider measures for the completion of the Sunbury & Erie 
Railroad. In July, 1851, a railroad meeting was held at J. Luhr's house, St. 
Mary's, George Weis presided, with Philip Stephan and Ed. Babel, vice- 
presidents, and C. Luhr, secretary. Books were opened and $S, 100 subscribed. 
An address by E. C. Schultz was followed by an increase of subscriptions to 
§15,500. Ignatius Garner, John Susenbonner, A. Stockman and others 
favored the building of the Sunbury & Erie road. At Ridgway M. L. Ross, 
Dr. C. H. Fuller, Maj. Maginnis, H. A. Parsons, Charles Horton and George 
Dickinson were the leaders in favor of subscribing to this road, while the 
pioneers of Benezette also favored it. 

A convention of delegates from the townships was held February 17, 1852. 
This convention instructed the commissioners to subscribe to the stock of the 
Sunbury & Erie Railroad Company. Negotiations were at once entered into, 
and on September 6, 1852, a subscription of $100,000 was authorized, subject 



626 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

to the confirmation by a general meeting of citizens to be held October 5, thai 

year. This meeting ratified the action of the commissioners, and on October 
8 the grand jury authorized a subscription of $39,383 to the stock of the 
Allegheny Valley Railroad Company, and the commissioners acquiesced. In 
.May. 1853, bonds for the latter subscription were issued, and in July $20,000 
bonds of the former subscription were signed. 

Thomas L. Kane was one of the directors of the Philadelphia & Erie 
Railroad Company. To him is credited the discovery of the low summit of 
the mountains in McKean county. In 1856 he came to spend the summer at 
Williamsville, and while there studied the geological structure of the country, 
and planned the line of the Big Level road as well as of many of the railroads 
of McKean and Elkcounties. The location of the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad. 
a- at present constructed, has been questioned by a number of engineers. Be this 
as it may, the present line with its first prominent summit at West creek, north 
of St. Mary's, at an elevation of 1,695 feet, and its more western summit at 
Kane, with an elevation of 2,020 feet, shows a much more preferable line than 
tho preliminary surveys run to the north, of which Col. Jarret's was one, 
with the eastern summit at an elevation of '225 feet higher than the present 
highest summit at Kane. 

On June 23, 1863, S. Wimmer came to Elk county as principal assistant 
engineer of the Pennsylvania company, to complete the Philadelphia & Erie 
Railroad from Whatham to Warren, of which E. Miller and Milton Courtright 
were chief contractors. In July. 1864, the road was practically completed; 
but not until March, 1865, did Mr. Wimmer sever his connection with the 
road, owing to his acceptance of a position as engineer on the Vera Cruz rail 
road, where the Wimmer bridge stands as one of the memorials of his work. 
near La Cumbres de Maltrata. In March. 1869, he took charge of the build 
ing of the Benezette and Driftwood division of the Low Grade, and subse 
quently. of the road from Benezette to DuBois, which was completed in 1874. 

The railroad accident of April 7. 1875, resulted in the death of Adam Brehm. 

The accident occurred just east of Rathbun The accident east of the rail 

road bridge at Ely's mill, of November 1, 1877, when the day express ran into the 
Empire freight, resulted in the death of Calvin D. Shearer, and William Col- 
lins, engineers; Morris Farrell, fireman, and William Stevens, brakeman; and 
William Gallagher, fireman on freight. D. C. Oyster, a passenger, escaped, like 
other passengers, with some little injury. 

The wreck of August 11, 1NV-I. occurred just above Whistletown. Bert 
Lnderson, an Erie brakeman, of Bradford, was buried beneath the wrec 
where he was found dead that Sunday evening. It is said that his invalid wife 
had warned him not to go on the trip, feeling that he would never return alive 

He too, tilt very uneasy, for on bidding her good bye he promised her that he 
would leave oil' railroading on his return. He said this would be his hist trip 
The locomotives telescoped each other, and were twisted into amass of crushi ■■ 
and broken iron. Ten cars of the Erie train ami fifteen of the Philadelphia 
,\ Erie train shared the fate of the engines. The wreckage was piled high 

upon the track, and soon caught fire. Two cars loaded with naphtha w 
nited. and with a lorn 1 explosion increased the extent of the blaze. The fifteen 
cars of the Philadelphia & Erie were about all consumed in the flames, while 
the Erie cars fared better. 

In July. L881, work commenced on the Pittsburg & New York Railroad be 
tween Etidgwaj and Whistletown. The line was projected from a point oppo- 
site lied Bank creek to Mahoning creek, and thence bj Brockwayville ami Kid- 
way to Bradford. The building of this road led to much trouble, but a truce 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 627 

was called. At midnight, on April 14, 1882, the truce between the New York, 
Lake Erie & Western and the Rochester & Pittsburgh Railroad Companies 
was broken, and by the morning of the loth a quarter-mile of track was con- 
structed on the disputed right of way between Ridgway and Johnsonburg. 
1!\ .May 4 there were two miles of track placed between Ridgway and Whistle- 
town, and on May 6 the quarrel was settled by the New York, Lake Erie & 
Western Company relinquishing all claim to right of way between the towns 
on the west side of the Clarion, agreeing to run over the Philadelphia & Erie 
between the points named, while the Rochester & Pittsburgh surrendered an 
equal length of their line from Ridgway to the mouth of the Toby. 

The accident on the Rochester & Pittsburgh Railroad, at Rasselas, twenty - 
five miles southeast of Bradford, took place July 1, 1883. S. N. Toles, con- 
ductor, Michael Downs, brakeman, R. A. Clement, George Quinn, Adamo 
Angelo and Sam I. McKee, all of Bradford, except the Italian, were killed out- 
right, and John Collins, mortally wounded, died July 2. The accident was 
caused by the rear portion of a heavy freight breaking away from the main 
train, and rushing down a grade of fifty-eight feet per mile dash into the sec- 
ond division driven by Patrick Downs, who instantly reversed the engine and 
jumped for his life. 

The Daguscahonda Railroad, though a short one, has played an import- 
ant part in the development of a large section of the country. Dr. C. R. Earley 
was superintendent in 1871, and like other progressive enterprises in which he 
is interested, made this a success. In August, 1871, Track- walker Dan Downs 
fell asleep on the track, four miles from Ridgway, and was killed by the ex- 
press train. The Daguscahonda Railroad accident of September 30, 1871, 
resulted in the wreck of six freight cars. On February 3, 1872, Patrick Mc- 
Tige was killed at Ridgway depot. 

The Low Grade Division of the Allegheny Valley Railroad was completed 
from Driftwood, Cameron county, to the mouth of Red Bank creek in Clarion 

county, in 1874 The Ridgway & Clearfield Railroad, 27. 23 miles in length 

to Falls Creek was opened November 9, 1883. but its extension of 7.64 miles 
was not completed until 1885 ... .In August, 1883, it was proposed to extend the 
McKean & Buffalo Railroad from Clermont to Johnsonburg, under the name 
of Clermont & Johnsonburg Railroad. Byron D. Hamlin being president. 

The Wilcox & Burningwell Railroad Company was organized in March, 
1886 .... The Johnsonburg Railroad Company was chartered in March, 1 887, to 
build a road from Johnsonburg to Clermont in McKean county, eighteen miles, 
then to connect with the Buffalo, New York & Philadelphia Railroad. In July. 
1889, the road was completed and leased to the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany. Several important points at which stations have already been located are 
Glen Hazel, Instanter (new) and Clermont. This new connection is used 
mainly as a feeder in the interest of the Pennsylvania Railroad. 

A standard gauge railroad is to be built from Portland to Hallton, thirteen 
miles, by Andrew Kaul, J. K. P. Hall, W. H. Hyde, J. K. Gardner and others. 
In March, 1890, B. E. Wellendorf made a preliminary survey of the route. A 
tannery at Carman and several large saw-mills it is said, will follow. The Clar- 
ion River Railway Company elected, in February, 1890, J. K. Gardner, vice- 
president; J. K. P. Hall, secretary and treasurer; B. E. W T ellendorf, engineer, 
and Harry Alvan Hall, general manager. 



628 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 



CHAPTER IX. 

Ml DICAL. 

The Pioneer Physn iaxs of the County and Later Practitioners— Record 

hi I'm -ii iaxs Won Registered Under the Act of 1881. 

IX L809 the pioneer physician of the county arrived in the person of Dr. 
Rogers, of whom a good deal is related in a former chapter. In 1818 Dr. 
Nichols came, then Dr. Clark, and before 1823 Dr. Hoyt was in Fox town 
ship. In 1S43 Madam Dorothea Wolfram came as an accoucheur under spe 
cial contract with the colony at St. Mary's. Dr. D. Miner was in Jones 
township in 1844; Dr. Earley came about 1846, ami practiced at Kidgway as 
early as 1855. WheD Dr. Van Volsey arrived in 1861, Jeremiah Chapman was 
Dr. Earley' s first partner in the drug business, and later Dr. Hill was associated 
with him. Lewis Iddings, A. B. Pulling and Buchmau were in Fox township 
in 1850-51, and at that time Dr. Earley was a resident of Jay township. Dr. 
W. J. Blakeley was at St. Mary's, and he and Earley, Bardwell and Mc 
Knight were the only regular physicians of the county in 1863. 

The record of physicians who registered under the act of June 8, 1881, 
is given as follows, also the place and date of diploma, as well as the year 
of registry. 

Those who registered in 1881 were as follows: 
{Dudley B Day, Cincinnati, 1877. +S. Michael Free. Ohio, 1880. 

(John S. Bardwell, ,1856. *Herman Straesslev. practice, . 

*Theo. S. Hartley. Buffalo, . JE. L. Ernhout. Wilcox, 1879 

c. G. Wilson, Jefferson College, 1873. {A. M. Straight, Bellevue, . 

Eben J. Russ. Nat. Med. College, 1861. JFred Saurwald, St. Mary's, . 

( \iu- A. Baskins, Buffalo, 1878. {Edward T. Williams, Ceutreville. . 

William B. Harlman, Pa. Med. Col., ts56. {Andrew Meisel.Elk county, 1871. 

j Walter L. Williams, practice, 1869. Samuel B. Hartman. Jefferson College, . 

+C. R. Earley, , 1846. 

Those who registered in 1882 were as follows: 

fCarolum W. Anderson. Geneva. 1861. Jeremiah K. Bowers, Phila. . 

Macob 1). Woodruff, Buffalo. L882. ;T. R. Williams. Baltimore, 1882. 

Those who registered in 1 SS:', were as follows: 

fD. D. Fislier. Vermont, . Joseph H. Hoffman, Philadelphia, . 

Il'ninn- \\ Sapp, Baltimore, . Jason T. Waid. Buffalo. 1883 

A. A. Swcier, Philadelphia, . 

Those who registered in 1SS4 were as follows: 

I Williams, practice, l^il A. B. Bevier. Bellevue. . 

James H. Wells, Bellevue, . William II Tassell, Baltimore, . 

Those who registered in 1885 were as follows: 

V. R. Corbett, Philadelphia, . Byron Clark. Baltimore. . 

Francis G. Early, Philadelphia, 1885. Sherman E Ayars, Ec. College, N. Y.. . 

Charles R. Earley, . 1-16. A K.llv Corbin, N. Y. College, . 

L. Gibbons Smart, Baltimore. . Hush Henry, Cleveland, . 

Those who registered in lSNli were as follows: 
Mrs. II. M. Mullhaupt, Philadelphia. 1886. *W. C. Quinn, Baltimore. 1886. 
William I ' .Inn,- Michigan 1886 

•Deceased. fPresent. {Moved. 




c^ 



^-w5*_-j£± 



^XJ^dt 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 631 

Those who registered in 1887 were as follows: 

fW. J. McKnight, Pennsylvania, 1886. fH. P. Holt, Baltimore. . 

f.IamesG. McCoy, Ohio, 1873. J. A. Burgoon. Clarion County, . 

J. N. Smith, Cleveland, . John L. Wright, Philadelphia,' 1881. 

Henry H. Smith, Philadelphia, 1887. 

Those who registered in 1888 were as follows: 
William C. Niver, practice, 1852. F. H. Sinning, Philadelphia, 1885. 

R. J. Hillis. Baltimore. . "'Charles M. Blakeslee, practice, 1853. 

Those who registered in 1889 were as follows : 

Merrit Wilcox, Philadelphia. . William R. Palmer, Buffalo. . 

Walter B. Hottel, Cleveland, . -fJohn C. McAllister, Jr.. Baltimore, . 

L. L. Sapp registered in March, 1890; Dr. Hartman came in 1865, Dr. 
H. T. C. Krumme about 1867, just after W. W. Shaw's advent. C. H. Ful- 
ler was an old botanical doctor. 



CHAPTER X. 

BENEZETTE TOWNSHIP. 

Elevations — Minerals — Population — Elections — Resident Tax-payees, 
1844— The Township in 1850— Village of Benezette— Miscellaneous. 

BENEZETTE TOWNSHIP, east of the Appalachian chain, is the home of 
Bennett's branch of the Susquehanna. The highest measured point is at 
the head of Mix run, near the southern line of the county, 2,130 feet, and the 
lowest point, near the village of Dent's run, 1,100 feet, while the depot at the 
village is only 925.8 feet above tide level. 

The strata underlying Benezette are represented in the section of the Bene- 
zette dry hole. This hole was originally a salt well, and was drilled to a depth 
of 600 feet about twenty- six years ago. The hole was three inches in diameter, 
and salt water was thrown up over the derrick, by gas, for half an hour at a 
time. The water came from a depth of 300 feet. It was afterward drilled to 
a depth of 721 feet in search of oil, and was abandoned in February, 1878. 
Well-mouth above ocean level, 1,005 feet. The record is as follows: 

Conductor 7 Hard blue limestone . . 130 Red rock mixed 625 

Red and gray rock 17 Light slate 134 Gray sandstone 633 

Gray shale 57 Dark slate 152 Red rock 657 

Red" rock 61 Sandy slate 178 Hard gray and blue 

Gray slate 73 Slate 200 rock." 6119 

Red rock 91 Red rock 204 Red rock 707 

Blue slate 99 Gray hard rock 207 Gray rock 713 

Blue sandy rock 103 First sand 217 Second sand (not 

Blue slate 123 White clay 225 through) 721 

The Winslow coal veins were among the very first worked in this township. 
The location was near the confluence of Trout and Spring runs, and at the 
heads of Autens' and Dent's runs. The place was known as the ••Winslow 
Colliery" — titles never conferred on coal mines or banks by Americans. In 
1863 an examination of the beds showed several veins of good coal. Simon P. 
ilomig, Judge Jones, E. Fletcher & Brother, Harbison & Walker and Barr & 
Radcliff were the principal operators from 1872 to 1878 in coal and fire-clay 
deposits. In June, 1881, Emery & Beading leased large tracts in Benezette 

♦Deceased. tPresent. 



632 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

township for oil-well and mining purposes, and in 1 882 some wells were drilled. 
At tin- beginning of 1890 the oil stampede, referred to in the first chapter, took 
place. 

Tin- ferriferous limestone of Benezette lias been burned for many years 
with success. Ten years ago Winslow's quarry furnished enough to the 
adjoining kiln to yield from thirty to forty live bushels per day. The lime 
from the kiln cold at 10 cents per bushel for farm and mortar purposes; bul 
for plasterer's use it had to be picked at a cost of 4 cents per bushel extra. 
In the kiln of that period it required one bushel of coal to burn six bushels of 
lime. In 1874 Romig burned 300 bushels of lime from this stone. Iron ore 
was found near the junction of warrants 5015-14 and 5020-21. It was simply 
Eerriferous limestone heavily charged with iron, but unprofitable to work. 

Fire clay deposits between the villages of 'Benezette and Rock hill were 
iipeued in 1ST 1 ,*. So early as 1854 a deposit on the Jones farm. S.O00 feel 
south west of Benezette. was opened at an elevation of 1,330 feet, or almost 300 
above Jones' dwelling. Reed and Harbison worked this bed in the ••seventies." 
and in L880 Harbison & Walker were owners. Near warrant 5482 a clay bed 
was worked in 1S74 by the Fletchers, and in later years by Harbison & Walker, 
who Eound a market at Pittsburgh, the price being $3.50 per ton delivered in 
that city. The deposit known as Barr's clay mine was opened in L875, and 
produced an excellent clay for fire brick. 

The population in 1880 was 835, including 297 in Benezette village. In 
ISSN there were 101 Democratic, 97 Republican and 5 Prohibition votes casi 
203x5 representing 1,015 inhabitants. 

So many references have been hitherto made to the old settlements in this 
township, the writer confines this sketch to the recorded history of the last 
fifty years. The first township election for Benezette. was held in February. 
L846. E. E. Winslow was chosen justice; Henry Derring, constable; Car 
penter Winslow and John English, supervisors; William Boyer, John Murray. 
I!. ( Winslow, Simpson Johnson, Samuel Overturf and Theodore Johnson. 
school directors; John Collins. Ralph Johnson and William Johnson, auditors; 
It. C. Winslow, clerk; John C. Hicks and Benjamin Johnson, overseers of 
poor; George English, assessor; Thomas Overturf. judge, with Ellis Lewis 
and Theodore Johnson, inspectors of election; Charles Winslow and Coleman 
Johnson, fence viewers. Henry Derring was chosen justice in 1849. E. C. 
Winslow in 1850. In February, 1890, D. W. DeHass was elected justice of 
Benezette township; L. Lucore and G.W. Mahon, supervisors; W. A. Shaffer. 
treasurer; J. E. Daugherty, school director; L. D. Rearich, auditor; D. E. 
Ileweti. collector, and F. S. Blesh, clerk. 

The resident tax-payers of Gibson township (later part of Benezette town- 
ship. IS Hi), in |S | |. were John Brooks (surveyor). Washington Brooks. Aaron 
Bailey, Nathaniel Bailey (tannery), Benjamin Blossom. Saul Ellis, James and 
William Barr, White] Bartholomew (farmers), James I'.ateman (hunter), Jacob 
Coleman, (postmaster and grist mill owner), lohn Coleman and Washington 
Coleman (saw-mill owners). Philip Chambers (saw-mill), Samuel Conwaj 
(blacksmith). William Boyer, Thomas Dent (saw mill owner), Andrew Dent. 
Thomas Dent. Jr., William Dent and Michael Erisbey (sawyers), James, 
David and John English (farmers), John C. and .lohn S. Hicks. George Ho] 
lingsworth, Jesse Ball, .Joshua Jewells (carpenter), William E. and Giles 
Jordan, Ralph Johnson (saw-mill owner), Theodore, ML D.. William and 
Benjamin Johnson. Amos Kingsley, William Lane (blacksmith), Harrison 
and irchie Logue, Henry Lashbaugh (or Lorshbaugh), James, Henry. John and 
William Mason, Joseph Mason (saw-mill owner), Joe Mason (si maker), 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 633 

John Murray, William Montgomery, James Mis, (saw- and grist-mill owner), 
Hezekiah and Solomon Mix, Daniel Miller, George Mahau, Thomas. James and 
Andrew Overturf (farmers), Joseph, Robert and Joseph, Jr., Ritchie, John 
Stormfelder (tinner), Edward C. Schultz, Michael Spangler, Henry Sharer, 
Henry Stuttle, William Shepperd. Henry Strump, John Swartz, John Sharer. 
George, Daniel, John, Samuel, Sylvester, Isaac, Benjamin and Jacob Smith, 
Mears Sarver, James Wiley, Cyrenius B. and William Wykoff. James Yards' 
lands, represented by George Mead, covered a large area of this township 
small owners claiming the balance. The resident tax-payers of Huston township 
or rather of that part of it belonging to Elk county in 18-44, were Isaac Bliss, 
Isaac Coleman, Henry Gross, James Tyler, John and W r illiam Macomber, 
Leonard Morey, Jr. (saw-mill); Morris and Charles Webb (saw- and grist-mill 
owners) and Hiram Decker. 

R. M. and D. Winslow were merchants in Benezette township in 1850. 
There were thirty-six dwellings, thirty-six families, 243 inhabitants, twenty- 
seven farms and ten industries The new depot at Rathbun was com- 
pleted in January, 1890, and an extensive net-work of tramways erected 
round the Hall & Kaul mills. 

The village of Benezette is located on the Low Grade Division of the Alle- 
gheny Valley Railroad, on Bennett's branch of the Sinnemahoning. Reuben 
Winslow, a man of energy, founded it. In the year 1813, while the battle upon 
Lake Erie was being fought, which resulted in Perry's victory, the cannonad- 
ing was heard all along the settlements within the limits of the township. The 
inhabitants, totally ignorant of the cause, and supposing it was an attack of 
the Indians on some other settlement, assembled and started in search of the 
Indians, continuing the pursuit for several days. 

In July, 1852, J. C, Jr., propounded the following question in the Advo- 
cate: "If it takes twenty -eight days and nights to carry papers from Phila- 
delphia to Bennett's Branch, Sinnemahoning, how long would it require to get 
news from Paris?" Times have changed. The railroad now carries the tid- 
ings in a few hours. The village is liberally supplied with good hotels — the 
Benezette by Henry Blesh, the Winslow and the Daley. At Dent's Run is the 
well-kept house of W. A. Hatton. 

The tire of June, 1884, was caused by the explosion of a lamp in a store- 
room. All the business part of the town was destroyed, eleven houses being 
burned. 

The Catholic Church of Benezette was dedicated November 23, 1871), by 
Bishop Mullen. It is administered by Rev. Dr. Brennan at Driftwood .... 
The corner-stone of the I. O. O. F. hall at Benezette was placed August 
14. 1884, by George Aumann, T. J. Shaffer, G. L. Winslow and D. W. 
Bennett .... Medix Run post-office was presided over from April, 1880, to 
September, 1882, by John Barr, when Luther Lucore was appointed. Mrs. 
Maggie McDonald was acting postmistress from April, 1880, to April, 1886. 

Cornelius Wainright, who died at Dry Saw Mill in July, 1876, settled at 
Driftwood in 1857, leasing the John Coleman farm, hotel, blacksmith shop 
and wagon shop. In 1862 he moved up Bennett's branch, and in 1868 erected 

Dry saw-mill, near Grant depot The history of Dent's Run is so closely 

identified with that of Driftwood, that references to it are made in the history 
of Cameron county. W. A. Hatton's hotel at Dent's Run was destroyed by 
fire February 13, 1889, while Miller's store was saved .... The fire of May, 1875, 
near Mount Pleasant depot, not only destroyed the woods in that vicinity, 
but also the barns of Johnson & Blesh and shop of William Johnson. St. 
Mary's was threatened at this time by bush fires. 



634: HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 



CHAPTEIi XI. 



BENZLNGER TOWNSHIP— BOEOUGH OF ST. MARY'S. 

Benzinger Township General Description— Early Land Purchases— 

Hi sident Tax-Paters in 1844— Elections— Voters in 1846— Population— 

I3l SINESS. 

Bokoi gh of St. Mary's Location, etc.— Beginnings of the Town— REM- 
INISCENCES OF CHABLES LUHR— MUNICIPAL A FFAIRS— FlRES— INDUSTRIES— 

I Sank — Hotels — Churches — Convents and Convent Schools — Acade- 
mics— Puk lic Schools— Societies— Miscellaneous. 

BENZINGER TOWNSHIP is divided into the Mississippi and Atlantic 
basins by the Appalachian chain. In the eastern half are found the head 
waters of West creek (which runs to Emporium to unite with the Sinnema- 
homing. This creek is fed by the north fork coming down from Jarrett's 
Summit), and Trout run or north branch of Bennett's branch. Elk creek, 
which heads near the Cascade mines, east of St. Mary's, flows in a general 
westerly course to Ridgway. Powell's run parallels Elk creek a few miles 
north, and Crooked creek drains the extreme northern part of the west half 
of this township. The greatest elevation is on the divide between the head of 
Crooked creek and the north fork of West creek. This is said to be as high 
as Jarrett's Summit, 2,245 feet, as determined by Col. Jarrett, September 15, 
1855. At Rathbun depot, the elevation is 1,316 feet, and at the point where 
West creek crosses the east line, 1,280 feet or twenty-eight feet higher than 
Beeehwood depot. 

Round St. Mary's the lands have been cultivated for forty years, and as 
the hills are low, this section of the county tells at once of its agricultural 
wealth. The coal deposits in the neighborhood of St. Mary's are extensive, 
and have been a source of wealth to the county for over a quarter of a century. 
About two and three-fourth miles north of St. Mary's, at the old school-house 
i 1,830 feel I, a coal vein was discovered at an. elevation of 1,780 feet. A gen- 
eral measurement of ihe strata shows 07 feet of gray sandstone, shale and 
slate, 3 of K. U. coal, 33 of sandy slate and shale, 18 inches of K. M. coal. 55 
feel of sandstone and shale. 3 of Dagus coal, 3 of fireclay, 17 of shale, 16 inches 
nf coal, 10 feet of sandstone and shale, 10 of limestone and shale, 13 of shale. 
a layer of coal, 16 of shale and 2 feet of coal, showing the lower productive 
measures to be 235.3 feet thick at St. Mary's. Ten miles south the Freeporl 
limestone is only 40 feet above K. U. coal. From the center of warrant I 10J 
si ml bwest to northeast corner of warrant 4395 the boldest exposure of sandstone 
in this township is found. 

In 1842 the idea of establishing a colony mi Elk creek was conceived as 
related in the history of St. Mary's. Lands were purchased from the Fox Land 
Company of Massachusetts, September 20 of that year, for $24,668.62, or 75 
cent-, per acre, the last payment being due in 1849 

'The agreement between the trustees of the United States Land Company 
and Mathias Benzinger, of Baltimore, dated A] nil is. 1844, provided for the 
sale of 35,090 acres of laud to the latter, on warrants numbered from 4112 to 



HISTOBY OF ELK COUNTY. 637 

4408, out of which 100 acres for a church lot and 1,980 acres for roads were 
to be deducted. The price paid was 75 cents per acre, or $24,757.72. 

The resident taxpayers of Shippen township (Benzinger township in 1845) 
in 1844 were Martin* and Charles Herbstritt, Bartle Guire, John Addelber- 
crer, Nicholas Hill, Adolph Stockman, Paulus Dirnel, Mathias Wellendorf 
(blacksmith), Sebastian Krauss, John Karker (cordwainer), Frank Kellar (tai- 
lor). Charles Kellar, John Bittman, Anton Avers, Dill Baltason. Charles Schrie- 
ber (matchmaker), Herman Koch and Nicholas Both (cordwainers), Lawrence 
Stockman*, Benedict Heubel, Julius Forenbaum (cordwainer). John Sosenheirn- 
er (tinner), George Hasselman, George Weis and Joseph Stockman. Each of 
the above named owned one or more town lots, except Joseph Stockman, who 
was a single freeman. Eev. Alexandre, a Hungarian count, was the trustee of 
a saw-mill — an eleemosynary institution In 1845 the names of Anthony An- 
tonaves, John Walker, Matthias Glaus, Francis Smith, Anthony Fochtman and 
Andreas Fleisman appear on the roll. 

The first election was held in February, 1846: George Weis* and Ignatius 
Garner were chosen justices; N. Hill*, constable; Adam Vollmer*, Louis Voll- 
mer*, F. J. Kellar, F. Schmidt*, Valentine Muller* and B. Weidenboerner*. 
directors; L. Stockman*, Ignatius Garner and Michael Langenfeldt*, audit- 
ors; L. Stockman*, clerk; George Wonder* and F. X. Biberger, in the west, 
inspectors; Adam Vollmer*, judge of election, and Adam Vollmer, assessor. 
Anton Hanhauser was chosen justice in 1849; J. Graham* and E. C. Schultz 
in 1850. 

The Benzinger election of February, 1890, resulted in the choice of John 
Glesner and Charles Sneider, supervisors; J. B. Heindl, N. J. Tierney and 
Ignatius Schaut, school directors; John B. Gerber and W. A. McCoy, auditors; 
J. J. Vollmer, collector and constable; George Nissel, overseer of poor; J. M. 
Meyer, clerk, and Paul Busch, treasurer. 

The first voters in February, 1846, were the officers named and Joseph 
Gernzer*. John Wonder (at Baltimore, now in Fort Wayne, Ind. ). John Sosen- 
heimer, Casper Buchhage*. Matthias Wellendorf*, Michael Derlet*, Anton 
Fochtman*, Carl Schrieber*, F. Eisenhauer*, Augustus Osterman*, Anton 
Kuntz* Bertol Guyer* Francis Schmidt*, F. J. Kellar, Fred Miller*, Fran- 
cis Bonnert*, Peter Burget*, Joseph Korbe*, Michael Frey*, Joseph Kern*, 
and Bernard Weidenboerner*. All the voters and officers of 1846 are dead, 
with the exception of Ignatius Garner, John Sosenheimer and John Wonder. 

The population in 1880 was 1,976, exclusive of St. Mary's, which then was 
credited with 1,501 inhabitants. In 1888 there were 56 Bepublican and 367 
Democratic votes recorded in the township, pointing out a population of 2,1 15, 
while in the borough there were 43 Bepublican, one Prohibitionist, and 308 
Democratic votes given, showing 1,760 inhabitants — a number under the 
present population. The election on the prohibition and suffrage amendments 
of June 18, 1889, is noticed as follows by one of the local journals: "Six 
hundred and forty-one votes were cast in St. Mary's borough and Benzinger 
township, out of which the amendment received 32. In the borough 295 votes 
were cast, 280 against and 15 for the amendment; two votes were lost, proba- 
bly by two persons getting two prohibition tickets instead of one prohibition 
and one suffrage. Majority in the borough against the amendment, 263. In 
the township 346 men voted: 329 against, 17 for; majority, 312. Total major- 
ity in the precincts, 575." In St. Mary's borough were George Weis, Lee & 
Bom. Charles Fisher and G. Schoening, dealers; Joseph Luzr, A. Fochtman, 
James Graham and John Haus, hotel keepers, in 1S50. In Benzinger township 



638 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

were 263 dwellings, 270 families, 1,270 persons, 114 farms and two manufact- 
uring concerns. In 1852- 53, M. Hans and Joseph Windfelder had breweries 
here and Philip Stephen a distillery. 

The mines of the St. Mary's Coal < 'ompany were opened in September, 1863, 
and mining operation- comn enced in July following. In 1883 the Dagus coal 
was still taken out by this company, each side of the tracks of the Philadelphia 
& Erie Railroad, where the bed ranges from thirty-four to forty inches in 
thickness. Mr. Patton was then superintendent, and he resided near the sum 
mit of the hill, ltii* feet above the working coal bed. and seventy feet above a 
three-foot vein he discovered in drilling a well. 

The Keystone mines, formerly owned by the Benzinger Company, of which 
Dr. O. S. Sanders was president, and W. H. Finney, secretary, are one and one- 
half miles east of the depot at St. Mary's. They were worked up to the period 
when D. Eldridge abandoned it. The extreme western opening was 1,825 feet 
above tide, ami the coal bench was thirty six inches in depth. Just east, at an 
elevation of 1,835 feet, was another opening into this Dagus bed. The mines 
were purchased l>\ J. K. P. Hall, in 1889. The Cascade mines were opened 
east of the Keystone tract in 1^7 S . 1>\ Haul & Hall, with James Black, superin- 
tendent. The elevation is 1,815 feet and the depth of seam forty inches. Since 
1880 Martin Dippold is superintendent, and W. A. McCoy has been weighman 
since the beginning. This mine employs 130 hands, and produces 80,00(1 tons 
annually. Their railroad system is one and one half miles of standard track. 
The Silver Creek mine on the Monastery lands, just northwest of St. Mary's. 
was opened late in the "seventies," and explored to a depth of 253| feet. The 
mine was worked by Eldridge until the deposit was exhausted. 

The Scahonda coal tract, north of the depot, courprises the "Four Fingers " 
— prongs of the plateau — underlined by Alton coal, at a depth of fifty feet. 
The vein is thirty six inches in depth. At a depth of seventy-eight feet a 
twenty four inch vein of Alton coal was discovered. "William C. Young's mine 
on the east side of the creek, is 1,880 feet above tide. Weidenboerner's opening 
in warrant 4405 is 1,817 feet above tide, and shows thirty-six inches of can- 
ie -I coal Dhe deposits are said to be of little commercial value. . . .The Hazel 
Dell mine, just east of St. Mary's, was opened in 1879 by the Cascade Coal 
Company, and was under the management of Daniel Geary, for some years. 
until P. J. Fleming succeeded him. Mr. Cook is the present mining boss. 
There are forty-five men employed and the product is 100 tons per day .. . 
The Tannerdale Coal Company was incorporated in June. 1866, to develop the 
cal deposits in Benzinger township. The members were Isaac and I. T. Lu- 
lam, W. H. Hewitt. A. Stoutenburgh. P. S. Henderson. J. Kirkpatrick, F. A. 
Leash. Pamelia, Rate M., Lizzie C, M. andW. M. Singerly. 

The only bed mined up to 1884. was the Dagus. three miles northeast of 
St. Mary's, within a half mile of the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad, The ele- 
vation of the opening was 1,750 feet. One mile east, oil the Shahler farm, at 
an elevation of L, 675 feet, another mine was opened in the Clermont coal, and on 
the same farm at 1,660 feet a bed of the Alton upper coal . . . .The Kaul mine. 
adjoining the borough limits, was opened years ago and purchased by Mr. Kaul 
from Windfelder & Hill, in 1872. This mine may he said to be the supply 
mine of the borough. . . .The Elk creek mines were developed by Kaul & Hall. 
in 1^77. with Superintendent Eldridge in charge .... In June, 1876, the Young 
rere opened at Scahonda. In September, l s 7'd. tic St. Mary's test oil 
well was down 2. til 1 feet, and No. 2 was located on the Leonard Wittman farm, 
five miles north of Xo. 1. on Powell's run. 2,500 feet. 



HISTOBY OF ELK COUNTY. 



BOKOUGH OF ST. MARY S. 



639 



St Mary's is located in north latitude 41° 25' and longitude 1 2o , west of 
Washington, according to observations made by Stokes in 1849. It is located 
in the midst of a rich agricultural district ou an elevated plateau, where the 
steep hills, common to all other sections of this part of Pennsylvania, are 
merged into a heavy-rolling table land- about 1,900 feet above ocean level. 
The history of the town dates back to 1842. Its beginnings are told by docu 
ments in possession of Charles Luhr, from which the following story is taken: 
Some time in the early part of 1842, a committee from Baltimore and Philadel- 
phia was chosen to go westward in search of uncultivated lands for the establish men, of 
a colony. It has always been a great mystery to me how tins committee ever found 
heir way into the wilds of Elk, and under whose guidance, but such it was never- 
theless On their return they reported favorably for tins location. The lands were 
bought and articles of agreement signed. The first meeting in Baltimore was held Octo- 
ber a5 1842 and reads as follows: -Minutes of the German Catholic Brotherhood of 
Philadelphia and Baltimore to found a colony in Jefferson and McKeau counties, 
signed by John Kernhaas. secretary." Then follows a copy of the contract or agree- 
ment .ride September 20, 1842, between the Fox Land Company, of Massachusetts, of 
Uie m-'t part and Nieklas Reimel, John Albert, Michael Derleth. Adolph Stockman 
JohnSchad Peter Brechtenwald and Mathias Schweitzer, members ot the Brotherhood 
from Philadelphia and Baltimore for the purchase of twenty-nine warrants of land m 
the counties of Clearfield. Jefferson and McZean (Elk not being formed at that time) foi 
the sum of S24 668.62, or about 75 cents per acre, payable in rates. The last payment i.> 
be made in 1849. Sundry meetings were held during October, organizing the members; 
dividing them into several classes or installments, fixing payments, etc On October-; , 
a committee consisting of John Sosenheimer. John Winter John Want and t . X hSie- 
berger were chosen to start November 1 with the first installment for the colony, o meel 
a similar party from Philadelphia. Two families were included in the first installment, 
viz • Benedict Ziebel, wife and four children; Barthel Geyer, wife and three children- 
fifteen persons in all, including the committee. Their route was laid out to Colum- 
bia Pen n by railroad; thence by canal to Freeport; thence by the overland route to the 
place of destination. The bill of expenses for the party may be interesting to the read- 
ers and is recorded as follows: Transport and over-weight, $88.69; utensils, $13.46 gro- 
ceries $18.02J; books, $2.75; cash. S80; miscellaneous, $14.20*. Arriving at Kersey the 
partvtook up quarters with John Green; the house being too small for all they had to 
take" to the barn. As no road led to the promised spot from this point, and only a few 
blazed trees being their guide, the sturdy pioneers did not shrink from their undertak- 
ing; but with a pack on their shoulders, leaving their families m Kersey in comfort- 
able quarters, and following those few indications of a hunters path, they arrived on 
the banks of Elk creek Decembers, 1842. The site chosen for the first log hut was 
on the bill where now stands the home of Mr. Matthias Wellendorf. This gentleman 
and Mr John Walker were of the first from the Philadelphia branch, and are the only 
two of the brave and enduring pioneers still residing here. December 8 being the 
feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, and the name of the brst 
white woman who trod the soil bciug also Mary, the colony was named St. Mary s. 
The men toiled all week in clearing lands, building log huts covered with hemlock 
bark, cutting and opening roads, and returning Saturday's to their families in Jersey 
providing they did not miss the trail. As soon as a road was opened and sufficient huts 
were erected, the entire party moved to their future home. 

Other names are given in connection with this settlement of December, 
1842- Matthias Wellendorf, J. Walker. Herman Koch. F. J. Kellar, J. Vom- 
baum, A. Ewars, N. Hill. C. and M. Herbstritt, J. Dill, N. Beimel, J. and M. 
Albert, P. Reitenwald and Messrs. Kraus, Fingering, Krauter and Girard— 
all from Philadelphia. A few days later the colonists from Baltimore ar- 
rived— J. £fehaut, B. Hetfebel, B. Geyer, Caspar Wolfrom, G. Hassellinan 
Bartel Ox and Alderberger— who joined the first party at Kersey. As stated. 
the first cabin was raised on the Wellendorf home lot, J. Dill built a sec- 
ond, which is still standing. Late in December of the same year, as they had 
built enough shanties, they took their families in and began to cut down trees 
along St. Mary's road. The shanties and all other work done was made in 
common, so also had they a common store where they drew their rations. The 



0±0 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

clearing and the work in genera] progressed slowly. The community plan of 
working would not go — sonic were always sick, and others had some other ail 
ingsor excuses so that during the first yearonlyafew town lots were cleared. 
although in the spring of L843 the number of colonists was increased by the 
-■a mil installment from Philadelphia and Baltimore. About 1S44 John Ivaiil. 
Andrew Dessler and John Baum arrived. While they were building their 
shanties the men used to come in on Mondays, take their rations along, camp 
out and return on Saturday to their families in Kersey. In one of their jour- 
neys to the settlement, Girard and his son, with their rations for the week, 
were a little behind the rest of the party, and went out of their path some- 
where near Laurel run and lost themselves. They wandered about all day; 
when night came they built a fire, and as they had their rations along for the 
whole week, they made a hearty supper. The next day they began wandering 
again and walked continually all day long. Toward evening they came to a 

pli where a tire was smouldering, when the old man said: •"Thank God! we 

must now be near some settlement, as there must have been some one here who 
has built this fire." While they were occupied in replenishing the tire and 
making arrangements for supper, the young man said: " Why. father, this is 
the place where we camped last night, and we built this tire!" Xext morning 
thej resumed their journey: this time thej shuck a creek, which they followed. 
and toward evening they came out at Bidgway. 

* In the fall of the .year 1842? Father Alexander, from Baltimore, came to 
the colony by invitation. This gentleman, a man of great learning and 
experience, and a lover of rural life, became so convinced that the community 
plan would not work, that the settlement was bound to break up, and the 
Labor and money already spent in the undertaking lost. He conceived another 
in in save it, but this could only be carried out by some person of influence 
and means. He, therefore, after consultation with the colonists, went back to 
Baltimore, and laid his plans before Col. Matthias Benzinger, a man known 
for his kindness, enterprise and experience. He prevailed on Col. Benzinger 
to come and look at the settlement. Late in the fall of 1843, Col. Benzinger 
came to the colony, and after 1 examination concluded to buy the lands. The 
community society then had their contract annulled with Mr. Kinsbury. and 
Col. Benzinger then bought the colony lands, with some other adjoining. 
making about 66,600 acres. The following year, as soon as the season un- 
favorable, part of the lands was laid out in farms of 25, 50 and 100 acre-. 
and also part of the village of St. Mary's, and he gave each of the colonist: of 
the community, who remained, 25 acres and one town lot free. Now each one 
was for himself, and the work and improvements went on well from that time. 
In 1844 John Kaul came from Bavaria and located for a time at St. Mary's, 
but subsequently settled on his farm. In the fall of the year 1^14. George 
W ei- came to the colony and put up a store at the house of J. Walker, then 
the largest and best in the place, and in the following spring built his store- 

Earl) in tin' summer ol 1843 Rev. Father lioness, .it nil p Iphla, visited tin' 

settlement, after holding services in the old cliurcli :it [risntown. It'' advised tin- pol rs to disband 

,.. ru red, and converted the ivil.i. u.len spot, their 

> -s vvinnim; additions in 1st:;. In 1844, during the Knov notl - a Philadelphia, a number of 

I'hilmlHphiaii* sou-bt n n^-fr.nn poliliealnnd elu - I. - 

and Adam Volhner. (balianl S.-hoenin^. ]',. Hrnt -iiki. v. bunt/ and others not sowed know 

' .iii Krsol died at M M„ \ -. V ,_ ,~| :'.. t-M. 11 i:'.,. M r>. 

for Ids wife and ehildren when death .ailed him away. He died in tin lion-. ..! ' li u les l.nhr. oi 
[gnutius (hmier a.lniiin-ioivd the . ■ - .1 k. liar, who arrived with 1 

COlOnlStS, I .. 1MJ. died m It. to. «.■«,. Well, in I. Hi. Walk. Tan. I Ave I 

.■ont.-inporan |...iii.-ei's, survivin-. (lerhariish >> :i o the United 

stale- from I'nixsin in Is;;;, and .■ally in the •• I. .i l ir, " w as oi f the t hive agents sent to select Ian. is in 

i\ lor tin- ceianan eolonv. « >M \l i -. i ■:, i z . » h,. .he.i at St. Mary's in Jan lid tohavi 

been born in 1767. Louis Vollme'r. horn in I'.avai i i mi.-.i m.ii... m se| 

1841. and to St. Mary's in 1846, he died January 5, 1889. Mis. Heindl, a settler ol 





^- 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 643 

house and store on the north side of Elk creek. About the same time Col. 
Benzinger engaged Ignatius Garner as agent and general director of the 
colony, and early in the year 1845 Mr. Garner went to Europe with Rev. 
Cartuyvels, and came back in July with a good number of substantial settlers. 
About this time Baron Von Schroeder, of Munich, joined Benzinger in partner- 
ship. From that time the colony made rapid progress, settlers coming from 
Europe and all parts of the United States. A large three-story log house was 
built on the south side of Elk creek, with twenty-four rooms; where the 
colonists found shelter until they could build houses for themselves. At the 
same time a neat church was built, and also the large saw-mill on Elk and 
Silver creeks, by Father Alexander, who made his residence here, and by his 
good example, cheerfulness and liberality, contributed largely to the success 
of the colony. At the same time Col. Benzinger took into partnership John 
Eschbach. another wealthy and influential citizen of Baltimore. These two 
gentlemen did not spare any time or money to make the colony a success. 
Roads were now laid out and opened at the expense of the company. These 
road openings gave work to those in need, and from one to two hundred dollars 
were paid out weekly by their agent for these purposes. In the fall of the 
year application was made for a post-office, as the nearest post-office was then 
nine miles from St. Mary's, at Daniel Hyatt's, and a special office was granted 
on the 19th of November, 1845, and Ignatius Garner appointed as postmaster. 
In the first quarter 222 letters were sent, and the amount of money received 
was $16.83. During the September term the court of Elk county granted the 
formation of Benzinger township, and the legislature early in their session 
appointed an election house. 

During the summer of 18-46 Joseph Luhr came to St. Mary's and opened 
his hotel, which many a traveler will remember on account of the kindness of 
the landlord and the good fare received. The colony increased steadily. In 
January, 1847, the number of souls amounted already to 980. The colonists 
were laborious, frugal and always cheerful. The prospects were often gloomy, 
yet perseverance overcame all. The festivals of the church and the national 
holidays were always regularly kept. Many an inhabitant of Elk, and even 
adjoining counties will remember the 4th of July which they celebrated in 
common with the inhabitants. In the spring of the year 1848 Benzinger and 
Eschbach took into partnership William A. Stokes, a renowned lawyer from 
Philadelphia, who came to St. Mary's with his family on the 4th of July, in 
the same year, with the intention of making his residence in the colony. He 
commenced to clear the Roselay farm, about four miles east of St. Mary's, and 
to build a mansion on it. His wife, being in delicate health when he came 
here, died about a year after their arrival, so he sold out in the fall of 1849 
and returned to Philadelphia. Rev. J. L. Y. Cartuyvels became his successor 
in partnership, and finished the clearing and building of the Roselay farm. The 
church and parsonage, which was built, in 1S45, was situate in the triangle 
formed by Centre, Markus and Cross streets, and was destroyed by fire, with all 
its contents, on the 10th of May, 1850, in the day time, the origin of the 
fire being unknown. This was a sorrowful day for the inhabitants of St. 
Mary's, but they did not despair. Preparations were soon made to build 
another and more substantial church nearer the center of the town. The place 
was selected in a dense forest, but willing hands had it soon cleared; materials 
were prepared and collected, and on the 27th of June, 1852, it was so far 
advanced as to have the corner-stone laid. The work went on gradually so that 
on the 8th of December, 1853, the church was opened. 

Municipal Affairs. — The town of St. Mary's was incorporated by special 



6 I I HISTOKV OF ELB COUNTY. 

act of the legislature, March '■',. I s I s . [gnatius Garner was elected first bur 
gess, followed in L849 l>v Anthonj Eanhauser; L850, George F. Schaffer 
1851, F. X. Biberger; 1855, Edward Babel, and 1856, E. C. Schultz. Ii is 
said that George Gainer filled this office. The clerks were Matthias Wollen 
dorfj 1849; [gnatius Garner, 1850 51; Louis Vollmer, L851; Bernard Eckle. 
1853; Casper Wehner, 1854; John Butsch, 1855; Joseph Wilhelm, 1856; 
Michael Brunner, 1857... 1!. Weidenboemer was president of the council 
until succeeded by Charles Luhr in 1855. In 1856 Charles Luhr was com 
missioned justice, serving until 1863. 

< in April 25, l s -~>7, Louis Vollmer was elected burgess: Bernard Eckle, 
John Butsch. G. F. Schaffer, Gerhard Schoening and Michael Brunner, conn 
cilmen; Messrs. Eckle, Butsch, Schaffer, Vollmer, Francis Weis and Michael 
Fry, school directors: Wendel Lion, town constable; C. Chisbe, assessor: 
Henry Severing, high constable; George Weis and Philip Stephen, ovi 
of poor; Jacob Shoat, auditor: John C. Weidenboemer, judge, with Michael 
Schenebeck and Lorenzo Westnetzer, inspectors of elections. The office of 
burgess has been tilled since that time by the following named citizens: Louis 
Vollmer, 1858; G. Edward Weis, 1859 60 68 69 70; Anthony Kuntz, 1861; 
Blakeley, L862 63; Joseph Windfelder, 1864; Matthias Wellendorf, 
: 77: F. X. Biberger, 1866; Bernard Eckle. 1867; Charles Luhr. 1872; 

Charles Weis. 1874-76-79-80; George Weidenl rner, 1S75; Michael Mc 

Nall.\. L878; Josiah Berden, 1881; Michael Gerg, 1882; Charles Weis. 1883 
84; H. A. Hall. 1885-89. ... Joseph Hanhauser is present clerk, succeeding 
Charles Luhr, who was secretary in 1859-64, when Joseph Wilhelm was ap- 
pointed. In L865 John Butsch was secretary, and in 1866 C. Luhr was 
appointed; in 1869, M. Brunner; in 1871, E. Spellenberg; in 1875, C. Luhr, 
who served to 1887. 

The following officers were elected in February. 1890: Justice of the | 
Charles Weis; chief burgess, Adam Pistner: town council. John Vollmer. 
George Schlimm; school directors, Frank Goetz, Thomas Ernst; high con- 
stable. Thomas Valentine; tax collector, George Hoehn; overseer of poor, 
Joseph Schauer; judge of election. John G. Volk; inspectors of election, A 
Kuntz. William Beecher; auditor. A. C. Schaut. 

Water Company. The St. Mary's Water Company was incorporated July 
6, 1889, with J. K. 1'. Hall, president: George Weidenboemer, secretary, and 
Charles Luhr, treasurer. The directors are J. K. P. Hall. George Krellner, 
John Schauer. Andrew Kaul. John Rogan and George Schlimm. The water 
ri<dits were granted to the borough by the Benedict ine Father, and right of way 
between the dam and borough obtained variously: The water is brought from 
Silver creek, which is dammed one and a half miles above the huge Btoni 
church, ami the water,- are led 1,000 Eeel east of this dam to the reservoir, 
where the engine-house stands. This reservoir is Hilt feet above the depot 
at Si. Mary's. Mr. Thomas, of Clarion, is superintendent of construction. 

(i Companies.- St. Mary's Gas Company was organized under the law. 
Maj 9, L889, with A. Kaul. J. K. P. Hall. Kben •!. Russ, Charles Luhr ami 
( ieorge Krellner, stockholders. The object was to mine for gas in Pidgway town 
ship, and convey it to St. Mary's by pipe line Eor use of consumers. Charles 
Luhr was elected president, and Harry A. Hall, secretary. In July ninety foui 
acres were purchased west of Johnsonburg, where two wells an' being drilled 
b\ Irving Schultz for the company. In August a Mr. Conroj contracted to 
lay seven and one-quarter miles of pipe from the wells to the limits, and also 
sewn miles within the borough— the contract calling for completion in October. 
Work on the main line and in the borough was at once entered upon.... The 



HISTOKY OF ELK COUNTY. 



645 



new gas company of St. Mary's was organized January 1, 1890, with Joseph 
Sehliniin, president; E. W. Kuntz, secretary; Louis Gies, treasurer, and they, 
with George Reusher, Sebastian Craft, Frank Goetz, Theodore Miller and 

F. A. Ehrich, formed the board of directors The Silver Creek Gas & Oil 

Company of St. Mary's was incorporated in November, 1889, and in February, 
1890, work was begun on their well below the monastery. 

Fire Companies.— St. Mary's Fire Company, No. 1, was incorporated in 
May, 1875, with George Schmidt, Philip Meyer, Frank Gerg, Charles Kuffm 
and John W. Fox, subscribers and directors. In 1877 Elk Fire Company was 
in charge of Marshal G. E. Weis, with John Krng and A. Weis, assistants; J. 
M. Mecuni, engineer; A. Auman and Charles Weis, captains; W. W. Ames, 

president; P. B. Wachtel, secretary, and John Krug, treasurer The Star 

Hose Company, No. 2, was organized in January, 1890, and the following offi- 
cers elected: President, Mat Schieler; first vice president, George A. Valen- 
tine; second vice-president, Kalph Lawrence; secretary, W. A. Klausman; 
financial secretary, Joseph Imhoff; treasurer, John Swartzfisher; foreman. 
George Foster; first assistant foreman, A. Benninger; second assistant fore- 

man^George Loeffler The Citizen's Hose Company was organized Feb 

uary 21, 1890, with following named officers: Dr. A. Mullhaupt, president; 
W."L. Price, vice-president; C. S. Wilmarth, secretary, and N. J. Tierney, 
treasurer. In the fall of 1889 the borough council received 1,000 feet of hose, 
and new hose-cart and engine. 

^■,. es ,_The fire of May, 1850, which destroyed the old church budding was 

the first The new grist-mill at St. Mary's was burned November 22, 1852 

The fire of June 14, 1871, destroyed three buildings on Mary street, in the 
vicinity of Walker' s hardware store .... On May 2, 1 872, the Alpine House and 

other buildings were destroyed The Ellis mills at Blue Rock were destroyed 

by fire, July 24, 1873; no less than 650,000 feet of lumber, 400,000 lath and 
15,000 pickets were destroyed. 
' "oly 25, r" 

, wareho 
._ factory, 

dwelling houses and barn; A. Auman's and John Seal's residences; John 
Smith's" business house; J. Wilhelm's hotel and two store-houses; Ed. 
McBride's three store buildings and barn; A. Geeck's barber shop and dwell- 
ing; A. Meissal's bakery, store and dwelling; A. Schauer's store, saloon and 
dwelling; P. B. Wachtel's store and dwelling; Riley Bros.' hotel and barns; 
Charles° Luhr's dwelling house; railroad depot; Vugel's hotel and brewery: 
J. F. Windfelder's hotel; J. E. Weidenboerner's store-house; L. Wittman's 
store; J. W. Wilhelm's store, and George Schaut's large building, containing 
two stores, photograph gallery and two flats. The total loss was placed at 
$104,000. 

The fire of February 16. 1889, threatened the Rettger house on Maurus 
street. To the firemen and waterworks system its escape from total destruc- 
tion is due. 

Industries. — The Penn Lumber Company was chartered in March, 1887, 
with Andrew Kaul of St. Mary's, president; J. K. P. Hall, secretary and 
treasurer; A. Kaul, J. S. Schultz, W. H. Hyde, J. G. Hall and B. F. Hall, 
directors. This company is composed of individual owners of lands and mills, 
banded together for the purpose of manufacturing and selling lumber. 
Each mill sends to the head office at St. Mary's regular reports, and from 
this office advices are furnished the offices at Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, 
whence information is returned relating to the stock required. The pro 



646 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

ducts of the mills is about 80,000,000 feet annually. The present president 
and secretary are the same as in L887. J. B. Given, of Philadelphia, was 
general manager up to the date of his death, in February, 1890. William H. 
Hyde, J. G. Hall. A. Raul, John Ernhput and J. B. Given are directors. Fred. 
Wilmarth is sales agent at Pittsburgh. The Perm Lumber Company mark- 
ets the cut of the following named mills: The Eagle Valley & Gallagher Run; 
Saw-mill Run and the Farm mill of the Hyde estate; Beechwood. of the 
Beechwood Lumber Company; Rathbun, of Andrew Kaul & Co.; Summit mill, 
of A. Kaul; Daguscahonda and Wilcox mills, of Jackson; S. Schultz; Carman 
& Vineyard Bun mills of the Portland Lumber Company, and Truman mills of 
Arthur's Coal & Lumber Company. The old Benezette mill is also in this 
category, but not included, as the work there is about closed. 

The Hall & Kaul lands in Benzinger, Jay, Fox and Jones townships, to 
gether with two tracts in Cameron county, aggregate 40,0(10 acres, exclusive 
of their lands as members of the Portland company. This huge tract is 
operated by the owners, giving direct employment to about TOO hands, and, 
being among the largest shippers known to the Pennsylvania company, con 
tribute largely to swell the ranks of employes of that railroad corporation. 

In the fall of 1889 Andrew Kaul and J. K. P. Hall purchased warrants 
2425, 2377, parts of 236] and 2363, 163 acres in 2319. and 65 acres in 
2323, or a total of 3,900 for 3108.000, embracing 7,000,000 feet of cherry, 
together with hemlock and other woods. Some short time before this the 
Portland Lumber Company purchased the Mill Creek property for $100,000. 
. . . .The Sample Lumber Company, of Alabama, comprises in the membership 
Andrew Kaul and John L. Kaul, of St. Mary's, and Alfred Truman. John 
L. Kaul is secretary. 

The St. Mary's Tannery was established in April, 1884, and work com- 
menced September 5, that year. The proprietors are J. K. P. Hall and A. 
Kaul, and Kestler. Lesh & Co. , of Boston. The capacity is 2,200 sides per 
week, and the number of men employed is eighty. A. Moser has been man- 
ager since the beginning, and the specialty is Union sole leather. 

The Spring Tannery, inside the borough limits, was established years ago 
by Judge Schultz and conducted for years by Joseph M'ilhelm. In 1885, the 
works became the property of Hall & Kaul, who manufacture rough leather. 
J. F. Myer is manager. 

In July, 1873, the Walker & Hoffman brick-yards were established The 

Lewis & Bauer grist-mill was opened in August, 1889. . . .John Dornish and 
J. Fritz have rented the Benedictine Priory mill of Father Prior. They are 
dow making extensive repairs on the mill, and it will soon be in running 
order. 

The first brewery was established by Michael Hantz in 1S45, a small con- 
cern, which continued about ten years. Joseph \\ indf'elder built a brewerj 
in L851. In September, 1876, the building and machinery became the prop 
erty of Charles and Henry Luhr, the present owners. The annual sales range 
from 1.000 to 1,500 barrels. The third brewery was started by Charli 
in 1855 56, opposite the old Washington House, later built when 1 is now the 
City Hotel, and later built the brewery now owned by Straub, in Benzinger 
township. The Babylon Brewery was founded b} Edward Babe] — hence the 
name. This burned down a few years ago. The second brewery in the 
borough was established by AVilliam Geiss, who sold to the present owner. 
Charles Walker. 

Hunk. — The St. Mary's Bank was established in isfn with Sampson Short, 
W. M. Singerly, Louis Vollmer. John G. Hall, and J. K. P. Hall, stock holders 




,y&/// 1 juw}/^*^ 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 649 

The capital stock was $50,000. After the retirement of Messrs. Short and 
Sino-erly, J. S. Hyde became a member of this firm. Mr. Vollmer retired 
later, so that J. K. P. Hall, John G. Hall and the Hyde estate are the present 
proprietors. The capital stock is continued at $50,000. The office is in the 
Hall building erected by Mr. Hall in 1874. 

Hotels. — The first hotel was kept, where the Silver Creek Tannery now is, 
by Buehhaga. This was subsequently conducted by Graham, and in 1851 
was closed, and near by E. C. Schultz established his tannery. The next 
hotel was established by Anthony Fochtman in 1845. This house stood on 
the hill opposite J. Walker's old home and was named the Lion Hotel. On 
his death the business was discontinued. 

The Washington House was established by Joseph Luhr in 1847 and con- 
ducted by him until 1872, when it was rented to various parties, the last 
renter being Peter Shoup, who carried it on until 1887. 

The Franklin House was erected by Anthony Hanbauser in 1849. After 
conducting the house for about twelve years he leased the house. The house 
was next sold to William Geis, who conducted it until its sale to Anthony 
Koch, who sold to Mr. Boyer in 1886. 

St. Mary's Hotel was established about 1855 by M. Wellendorf, who con- 
ducted the house for a number of years, after which his children carried on 
business there up to 1877-78. 

The Alpine, where is now the Commercial, was built by Joseph Wind- 
felder after the war. Herman Kretz was tenant in 1866-67. Afterward Mr. 
Scull conducted the house until its destruction in May, 1872. It was rebuilt 
by John Wachtel, who carried it on until Riley Brothers purchased it and 
became owners in 1878. In 1884 they sold to Mrs. Jackson, who sold to Will- 
iam Geis, the present proprietor. During Riley Brothers' administration the 
name was changed to Commercial. 

The City Hotel was built by Lawrence Vogel in 1886. On his death in 
1887 the widow rented the house to N. McCarty, who is the present pro- 
prietor. 

Churches. — The Catholic Church of St. Mary's is contemporary with the 
first settlement of Benzinger township. Father Alexander was the first priest,* 
followed by Rev. Borgess, who attended the church at Irishtown in 1843, and 
visited this, then new, settlement. A church building was erected in 1845, on 
the triangular piece of ground between Centre, Markus and Cross streets. This 
house was burned in 1850, giving place to the present stone church, com- 
pleted in 1852. In 1850 the Benedictine Fathers took possession of this 
old Redemptorist mission, and for forty years have labored among the 
people. One at least of the many illustrious men of this religious order 
deserves mention here, as by work and family he was connected with St. Mary's- 
— Arch- Abbot Boniface Wimmer, born January 14, 1809, near Ratisbon, Bavaria, 
died at St. Vincent's Abbey, near Latrobe, Penn., December 8, 1887. His 
original Christian name was Sebastian, which of course was lost in the new re- 
ligious name, Boniface. He completed a classical course of eight years, at 
Ratisbon, and entered the Munich University in 1827, with the object of grad- 
uating from the law school, but changing his intention entered the Ratisbon 
Seminary, and on July 31, 1831, was ordained priest. In 1832 he entered the 
Benedictine Monastery, at Metten. From 1833 to 1846 he was priest and pro- 

* It is related by Andrew Reilly. ot Smethport, that in 1842 he set out tor Bellefonte to seek a priest 

t" attend IrN living brother. On arriving at Kiilnwav In- learned that a priest had arrived al the i rman 
si'ttli-mi'iit iSr. Marv'si. and on arriviui; there tulil Father Alexander his mission. The weather was ver\ 
eold. lint tin- priest set out mi tlie limn wearv journey and reached Xunandah I 'reek in time to administer 
the last sacrament. 



650 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

fessor at Edenstetten, and in 1840 was promoted to a chair in Louis Gym a a 
sium, Munich. Meantime emigration to the United States was large and some 
calls for priests came from beyond the Atlantic. The young Benedictine con- 
cluded to be among the pioneers and conceived the plan of establishing an 
abbey in the United States. The plan met with some obstacles, but the mis- 
sionary spirit conquered, and ultimately King Louis I. favored tbe proposition 
and came to bid farewell to the priest, the four students and the fifteen young 
men who set out in August. 1846. They arrived at New York September 16, 
and soon reported to Bishop O'Connor, who transferred to them the church 
property, where St .Vincent's Abbey now stands. In 1850 he founded the priory 
of St. Marv. In I s "' 1 he visited Rome, and the title of abbot was conferred 
on him, and the same year the monks at St. Vincent were incorporated under 
the title " The Benedictine Society of Westmoreland County." Afterward he 
tunii d his attention to the West, establishing houses in Kansas, Minnesota and 
Chicago, and later to the South, in 1876-77, establishing an abbey in Louisi- 
ana, one in North Carolina, one in Virginia, one in Alabama, one in Georgia, 
and also one at Newark, N. J. In 1881 he established a monastery in Illinois. 
On Skidaway Island, near Savannah, he established a school for colored chil- 
dren, and the Church of the Sacred Heart, at Savannah, for colored citizens. 
December 29, 1883, he was raised to the dignity of Arch- Abbot. The attend 
ing ceremonies were the most interesting known in the history of the Benedic- 
tines on this continent. In July, 1877. Father Paulinus was succeeded by 
Father Celestine as prior and Rev. F. Edwards took the place of Father Den- 
nis as priest of the English Catholic Church. In February. 1890, Father In- 
nocent was pastor and Rev. Placitus Piltz, O. S. B., pastor of St. Mary's. 

The Shiloh Presbyterian Church was organized May 2(5. 1S67. but on July 
8. 1866, the first Protestant sermon was preached by Rev. D. Hull, of North- 
umberland Presbytery, at St. Mary's. This sermon was given in Joseph Pat 
ton's small office, where occasional services were held by Mr. Hull until the 
meeting of his presbytery on the third Tuesday in April, 1SI>7. when, on the 
petitions of certain parties, a committee, Revs. Hull and Sturgess and El- 
der Quiggle, was appointed to organize a church. This committee met with 
the people in the dining-room of the Alpine House (then operated by H. 
Kretz), May 26, when an organization was effected with the following members 
Joseph and Jennet Patton, James, Mary. Edward and Eliza Mitchell. Christian 
Folkrod, Elizabeth. Louisa E., George P. and John W. Folkrod and Eugene 
and Ann Tormey. Joseph Patton was chosen elder and E. Mitchell deacon. 
Rev. Mr. Hull was authorized to continue reception of members and perform 
the services of ordination and installation two weeks hence. On that date 
James and Jennie Snadden and Robert Martin were admitted to membership, 
and the first-named admitted additional elder. The above-named individual- 
were duly set apart to the offices to which they were elected with appropriate 
services, when the present title was given to this church, which was incorpor- 
ated January 16, 1869, on petition of James Snadden. Samuel Reynolds. Evan 
.1. lJuss. John Wylie, Charles Finney. C'harle- Ames and Joseph R. Patton 
The latter, in 1863, came to St. Mary's as superintendent of the St. Mary's 
Coal Company, and was the main supporter of the Shiloh Presbyterian Church. 
He died January 27. 1884, having served as clerk up to December, 1882. when 
W. \Y. Ames succeeded him in this office. On his departure for Brookville on 
September I. l sss . the pastor became the acting session clerk Rev. Mr. Hull 
supplied the pulpit until May 15, 1872, when Rev. Robert White succeeded, 
and was installed pastor and served until 1877. Rev. S. T. Thompson was 
called and presided here in March, 1880. He remained here until August 19, 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 651 

1884. In May, 1885, Dr. Kennedy came, and was installed in the fall of that 
year. A church bouse was built some time after incorporation on lots donated 
by Dr. Sbirley, of Reading, Penn. Tbe value of building and lots is about 
$3,C00. The number of members recorded is seventy, and the Sunday-school 
120. 

Convent and Convent Schools. — In 1848 a few Sisters of Notre Dame 
came here to teach the female schools. They left the field shortly, or on No- 
vember 20, 1849. Mother M. Walburg Deitrich, daughter of J. Deitrich, was 
born in Wurtemburg, Germany, May 20, 1802. and made her religious profes- 
sion as a Benedictine nun in 1834, at the ancient convent of St. Walburg. In 
June, 1852, she came to the United States with other sisters — Mother Bene- 
dict Reip and Sister Maura — of the order, and on July 22, of that year, Mother 
Reip established the first Benedictine convent in this country, at St. Mary's. 
in a small frame building where is now the monastery. Prior to her death, 
on April— 25^i&?§, she saw no less than thirty-two convents of Benedictine 
nuns established in the United States. Her sister nuns were not so fortunate. 
Mother Reip died in Minnesota and Sister Maura at Erie. 
_ The first reception of nuns took place in October 1853, Sisters Scholastica, 
Alexia and Lidwina, of St. Walburg' s, being received. At this time also twelve 
novices were received, of whom Sister Bernardo (formerly Miss Mary Weiden- 
boerner), Sister Edwarda (Miss Pauline Redant), Sister Luitgard (Miss Mary 
Butsch) and Sister Hildegard (Miss Theresa Renner) were residents of St. 
Mary's. Of the others, Sister Placida is the only one now in the convent. The 
present Sister Bernardo is a sister of the first named. There were two recep- 
tions in 1854, when seven sisters entered this convent. In February, 1855, Sis- 
ter Nepomecene entered and is now here. In December, three nuns from 
St. Walburg arrived, who afterward went forth to aid in establishing other 
convents. 

In 1856 Sisters Frances, Ruperta and Anselma, with Sister Scholastica as 
Superior, went to Erie and established the present convent there. Miss Ried- 
derer accompanied them as a postulant. There are now sixty-seven sisters there. 
In March, 1857, Mother Emerana, accompanied by Sisters Benedicta, Alfonsa, 
Philomena and Mienrad, went to Indiana, Penn., but finding the location un- 
suitable, moved to Newark, where they established the present convent. In 
June, 1857, Mother Benedicta Reip moved to St. Cloud, Minn., with the 
greater number of the sisters of this house and established a convent there. 
After the departure of the pioneer prioress, Sister Theresa was appointed. She 
presided over the convent until 1875, when Mother Isadore (Miss Magdalene 
Piltz), who entered here in 1861, succeeded, having hitherto filled the posi- 
tion for one year. In July. 1857, Sister Wendelin (Miss Margaret Rieder) and 
others were received. In 1858, there were four postulants received, among 
them Miss Sarah Ann Blakely (Sister Beatrice), the first directress of the new 
academy, which position she filled until 1863, when she and other sisters 
moved to Nebraska City, Neb., to establish the convent there. In 1859 the 
work of building a house was commenced, and in 1860 the large stone convent 
was completed under the supervision of Father Giles, then prior of the monas- 
tery. This building was opened in December, 1860. At this time there were 
over thirty sisters forming the community, exclusive of all formerly sent forth 
to found new convents. In 1859-60 a few receptions are recorded, among 
whom were Sister Ida, now in the convent, and Sisters Martha, Floriana and 
Justiniae, and in October, 1861, Sisters Mary (Miss Mary Glenn), Cunnigunda 
(Miss Christina Thomas), Frances (Miss Magdalena Fox) and Agnes (Miss 
Tillie Ackerman). The latter is deceased, but the other Sisters are now in the 



652 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

convent. In 1N62 Miss Weidenboerner (Sister Bernardo), Miss Piltz (Sister 
Isadore), Miss Paulus (Sister Elizabeth), Miss Binder (Sister Mecbtildi and 
Miss Anna Bush (Sister Scholastica) entered the convent, and are now here. 
In 1862 three sisters from the convent went to Shakopee, Minn., to found a new 
convent there — Sisters Adelaide (Elder), Clara (Vogel) and Mechtild (Richter). 
The Johnstown convent was founded in 1870 by nuns from St. Mary's, Sister 
Mary being one of the founders. In 1863 there were ten receptions, and dur- 
ing the last twenty-six years there were about 130 sisters made profession 
here. Twenty-five sisters died here and are buried in the convent cemetery. 
In August. 1887, Mother Isadore retired at the expiration of term, and Mother 
Pia was elected. She entered the convent in May, 1871, being formerly Miss 
Anna Tegler, of St. Mary's. The total number of the community in August, 
ISS'.t. was sixty-four. In May, 1868, the convent at Richmond, Va. , was 
founded by nuns from the mother house, among whom were Sisters Edith 
(Vogel), Philomena (Magill) and Clara (Mary Vogel). 

The mission schools of this convent were established at Tidioute, Lueinda 
and Fry burg, 1876; Kane, 1878; Warren, 1883, and Centre ville, 1884. These 
are, in fact, branch houses of the house at St. Mary's. Sister Wendelin, Ed- 
ward'a. Luitgard. Bernarda, Aloysia (Miss Theresa Nissell), Adelbertha (Miss 
Glath) and Adelbertha second (Miss Mary Withman) are numbered among 
the dead of all the sisters who entered from St. Mary's. 

The convent chapel was built by Andrew Miller, of Philadelphia. He also 
donated the three beautiful altars, valued at over $2,000, together with $4,000 
expended on the building. Any one who has ever been within a convent chapel 
may understand what beauty in church decoration means, and apply the paint- 
ing of the imagination to this beautiful house of worship. The only daughter 
of the donor — Sister Stanislaus — is a member of this community. 

Academy. — In 1853 St. Benedict's Academy was established, with Mother 
Walburg Deitrich, directress; Sister Boniface, teacher of English, and Bene 
dicta, of German. School was continued in the pioneer house until 1860. when 
the new convent building was erected. In 1859 Mother Beatrice took the 
place of Madame Walburg, and presided over the academy until Sister Mary 
was appointed, in 1863. She served until 1870. when Sister Boniface (Cassidy) 
was appointed, filling the position for three years, but not continuously. Sister 
Genevieve (Doran), one year; DeSales (Burgoon), one year; Pauline (McDer 
mott), nine years; Mary (Glenn), three years; Boniface (Cassidy). one year: 
Agnes (O'Connor), the present directress. Sister Beatrice (Wimmer) presides 
over the music class; Sister Edith, over the primary class; Sister Benedicta, 
over the senior classes; Sister Mary over the drawing classes; Sister Walburg. 
over the fancy work. The academy is attended variously, the boarders num- 
bering from eighteen to fifty, and day pupils about thirty-five. The present 
academy building is 80x45 feet, four floors in height, with basement; supplied 
with hot and cold water throughout, and heated by steam. There are fifteen 
large rooms, together with the great dormitory on the third floor and the study 
hall. Such rooms extend almost the whole length of the building. 

Public Schools. — Prior to 1848 the schools of this section were conducted 
by the Uedemptorist Fathers, but in February of that year a school district 
was organized, with Gerhard Schoening, president; I. Garner, secretary and 
L. Vollmer, treasurer. George Weis, Adam Vollmerand I'liili|i Stephen were 
members of the first board. In March, same year, a tax of ten mills was au- 
thorized, and in April. Louis Germanhausen's house was rented for the use of 
the teacher. The old school-house stood west of the priory, and is now a car- 
penter shop. T. F. Klarinaar was the first lay teacher, In 1 coming in 1S47. 




t^^L 



s&»t 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 655 

and serving in that capacity here at $25 per month. It appears that a school 
board had been previously organized, for in January, 1849, F. X. Bieberger 
is referred to as having been collector in 1847, and exonerated from paying 
the sum of $28.28. In 1850 Charles Roth took Klarinaar's place as teacher. 
Lawrence Wesnetzer was also employed with E. C. Schultz; Michael Frey 
was secretary, followed by Sosenheimer, who, with M. Wellendorf as presi- 
dent, served in 1851. Charles Luhr succeeded Schultz as teacher of En- 
glish in 1852, with a Mr. Tresh. B. Weidenboerner was then a member 
of the school board. In September, 1852, Anthony Baecker was employed 
as teacher, at $25 per month. Ignatius Garner presided, with George 
Weigel as secretary, and the sisters presided over the female school. The 
tax duplicate at the time was $387.89, and a school-house was erected. In 
1853 Joseph Windfelder was secretary, but gave place to M. Wellendorf, 
who was president in 1854, with Bernard Eckle, secretary. A. Schmidt, 
E. Schultz and Charles Luhr were teachers then. B. Weidenboerner suc- 
ceeded as president in 1856, and in May of that year, Francis Weis* was 
appointed president, John Butsch being secretary, Charles Kahler, a mu- 
sician of some merit, was then a teacher in the school. In 1857 John Bntsch 
was succeeded by Louis Vollmer. and Francis Weis. by George F. Shaefer; 
among the teachers was John Butsch, who taught outside the borough. In 
1859 Louis Vollmer and Bernard Eckle rilled the offices of president and secre- 
tary, respectively, and continued in same until 1864, when Edward Babel suc- 
ceeded Vollmer as president. F. X. Haberbusch was elected president in 1866; 
Joseph Windfelder, in 1867; Louis Vollmer, in 1868; Joseph Wilhelin. in 1871, 
and, in 1875, Bernard Eckle was succeeded by Michael Brunner as secretary. 
John Sosenheimer was elected president in 1875; George Krellner, in 1876; 
Leonard Wittmann, in 1878; George ImhofF. in 1SS4; Charles Luhr, in 1885; 
J. E. Weidenboerner, in 1886-87; Charles A. Lion, in 1888, and John Haas, 
in 1889. F. X. Haberbusch was chosen secretary in 1876; John Foster, in 
1877; J. B. Foster, in 1878; Charles Luhr, in 1880; Andrew Geeck, in 1884; 
Albert Weis, in 1888, and Charles Luhr. in 18S9. 

During 1870-72, J. A. Blater took charge of the male school, succeeding 
Mr. Brockbank. Frederick Barnhart came in 1873, and remained until early 
in 1888, when W. H. Devereaux came to preside over the senior boys' school. 

Under date of February 23,1 857, an agreement was entered into by the board 
with Prior Rupert Seidenbusch, by which the latter bound himself to pay to 
the school board of Benzinger township the amount expended in refitting the 
house on Boniface street, whenever circumstances would require such house 
for monastery schools. 

In early years the sisters taught the public school near the monastery for 
$25 per month. A frame building was erected in 1854, below the church. 
where the rear part of the present large brick structure, put up in 1869, 
stands. There, Sisters Luitgard, Hildegard, Boniface and Nepomecene pre- 
sided over the several classes. The last named is still engaged in the new 
brick school-house, enlarged in 1885, where also the present Reverend Mother 
taught. There are six teachers employed: Sisters Nepomecene, Cecelia, 
Gabriela, Stanislaus, Aloysia and Antonia. The number of pupils is 600. . . . 
In December, 1889, thfc plan of providing books, free of charge for the pupils 
of Benzinger township, was adopted. 

Societies. — St. John's Fraternal Society of St. Mary's was incorporated 
June 3, 1857, with the following-named members: B. Eckle, Edward Babel, 
Casper Wehner, J. Wegener, John Meyer, John Kries, Francis Kellar, D. 

* Joseph Gerber presided over the old Benzinger district, then separate from St. Mary's. 



656 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Redant, Joe Kroft, Sebastian Hahn, B. Neilrnuller, Joseph. Thomas and George 
Kerner, Charles Luhr, F. Scratzenstaller, M. Schineebeck, Paul Eberl, A. 
Fochtman, L. Deitz, Mathias Becker, Michael Hogerel, Joe Eckert, L. Wes- 
netzer, Joe Windfelder, Thomas Scheidler, G. Weigel, John Wendl, Peter 
and J. Gluxner, Xavier Biberger, B. Weidenboeruer, Joe Gerber, Joe 
Kreig, George Dehl, C. Ritter. Yal. Hoffman, Joe Paullus, Fred Miller. J. 
Sosenheimer, A. Semmler, Joe Willberle, Daniel Kries. J. Schmidstbauer. L. 
Gohr, M. Aumann, C. L. Kackler. F. Schneider. Michael and Adam Zimmott, 
Anthony Seidler, Casper Eniniert. Andrew Grass. George Wegemer and Bart. 
(lever. The organization was simply a benevolent one. to relieve the unfortu- 
nate or helpless families of the district. It has at the present time 254 mem- 
bers, and 12,800 reserve fund. Charles Luhr is president, having served 
fifteen years, and Michael Brunner contemporary secretary. Joseph Sporner 
is one of the present officials. 

Lieut. M. W. Lucore Post, No. 216. G. A. R., was mustered in January 
12, 1882, with W. W. Ames, C. ; L. W. Gifford, S.V. : Lafayette Coop, J. V. ; Dr. 
W. B. Hart man, surgeon; Jacob Dice, chaplain; F. M. Hanes, Q. M. ; L. H. 
Garner, adjutant; P. C. Shaffer, O. D. ; J. D. Stover. O. G. : William Gille- 
lan. S. M.. and George Krellner, Q. M. S. A week later the roster contained 
fortv-four names. The charter was granted August 23. 1S81. to W. W. Am6s. 
L. W. Gifford, W. B. Hartman, J. A. Dice, W. A. Hartranft, W. E. Gillen. 
J. A. Muttersbough, H. S. Williams, William Irwin, Robert Warner, J. H. 
Rickards, Philip Shaffer, L. H. Garner, Samuel Madara, Elias Mover. M. A. 
Lowry, John Koch and Frank Hanes. Since that time the position of com- 
mander has been filled by W. W. Ames, L. W. Gifford, W. W. Ames, William 
McCoy, G. C. Brandon, George W. Boyer and L. H. Garner, and that of 
adjutant by L. H. Garner, William McCoy, G. C. Brandon, W. W. Ames, L. 
W. Gifford, G. W. Boyer, L. H. Garner, W. A. Hartranft. The present 
number of members is thirty seven. The officers of the post for 1890 are 
Rev. Dr. Kennedy, Com.; Ruf us Lucore. S. V.; T. Thompson, J. V. ; L. H. 
Garner, acting adjutant: W. E. Hewitt, chaplain; Dr. Hartman. surgeon; 
G. W. Boyer, Q. M. ; C. Schnyder, O. of D.. and J. Sullivan, O. of G. 

Xerxes Hut, O. O. of H., was instituted November 4. 1SS2. with thirty one 
members. The officers were G. C. Brandon, L. W. Gifford. W. B. Hartman. 
George Spowart, Sam. Madara, Thomas Low, Harry Weis, William Koch 
and Thomas Valentine. 

The I. C. B. U. , Branch, No. 469. was organized in July, 1883, and char- 
tered January 13, 1884, with the following named members: N. J. Tierney, 
Patrick Rogan, James Fleming, Jr., A. Gibbons. P. Sweeney, James Rogaa, 
Sr.. Mathew Kangley, M. Sullivan, R. Cloak, John J. Kreig, Edward Gorman, 
Frank Leary, George Laber. In May, 1883, a temporary organization was 
effected, with N. J, Tierney, president, who has served in that position sinci>. 
except in 1887, when W. E. Meagher was elected. The first secretary was 
James Fleming, succeeded by Anthony Gibbous, W. J. McClure, Edward E. 
Timm. M. C. Butsch and John Fehely. The latter has served two years, the 
others one year each. The branch comprises 128 members, with place of 
meeting at Rogan's Opera House. 

St. Johannes Wittwen Yerein was incorporated January 2, 18ST. with 
J. A. Hanhauser, G. Krellner, M. C. Butsch, J. Heindl, Joseph Schauer, 
Joseph Diehl, Joseph Kraft and Alois Stop)', all of St. Mary's, stockholders. 

St. Mary's lias not been without a band organization since 1845, when I. 
Garner, F. \. Kohler, Michael Frey and John Moyer held the brass instru- 
ments. This was the pioneer band of the four counties treated in this volume. 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 657 

In 1847 Charles Luhr joined the society, holding the piccolo. In 1851-52 a 
second band was formed, with I. Garner, George E. Weis, C. Luhr, C. Weis, 
William Weis, John Butsch, M. Brunner, L. Wesnetzer, John Sosenheimer, 
F. X. Kohler, Frederick Schoening, members. This organization continued 
twenty-one years. In the " seventies" another band came into existence, and in 
1882 the Silver Cornet band. In 1887 the Benzinger band was organized. 
The Citizens' band was organized February 5, 1889, with John G. Volk, presi- 
dent; Joseph J. Luhr, secretary; G. F. Schaut, treasurer, and Max Miller, 
teacher. The other members were Charles B. Garner, Edward Wittmann, 
Jacob Meisel, Joseph Meisel, Frederick Luhr, M. J. Heocherl, Joseph Frein- 
del, Louis Hauber, Frank Dornish, Stephen Geotchling and Frank Wilhelm. 

Mountain Queen Lodge, No. 459, K. of P., claims the following officers 
for 1890: David Heath, P. C. ; David Puncheon, C. C, and Daniel Seward, 
K. of E. and S. 

Keystone Assembly 10547, K. of L. , organized some time ago, is a pros- 
perous association. 

The Elk County Agricultural Society and Trotting Park Association was 
incorporated September 17, 1883, on petition of James Rogan, J. K. P. Hall, 
Andrew Kaul, B. F. Hall, G. C. Brandon, G. E. Weis and Henry Luhr. The 
place of meeting was fixed at St. Mary's, round which are found the agricult- 
ural wealth and leading farmers of all this section. 

Miscellaneous. — In the convent may be found some valuable paintings, 
among which a few, by Sister Mary, are prized very highly. The " Christ 
on the Cross," by Von Hoeck (born at Antwerp in 1598, and a student of 
Rubens), brought from Belgium in 1849 by Baron Charles Van Ersal. is now 
in possession of Ignatius Garner. In 1882 he shipped it to Munich, to be 
restored. A certificate by Dr. Carl Foerster, art expert and president of anti- 
quarian society of Bavaria, dated December 10, 1882, shows the painting to 
be one of Von Hoeck' s. He also bears testimony to the work of restoration, 
and terms it a fine, well-preserved and undoubted original, which bears the 
truthful characteristics of the Rubens school. 

The Bible of the Old and New Testaments, translated into German by Rev. 
Dr. Johan Eclen, with permission of church and king, in 1537, is in possession 
of Ignatius Garner; also a copy of Dr. Johan Deitenberger's translation 
of 1587, published at Cologne by Kerwinum Calenium. Each large volume is 
perfect in paging and printing, while the illustrations are almost as clear as 
they were over 300 years ago. The last mentioned volume is in the original 
hog-skin binding, with embossed cathedral figures. He has also a smaller 
Bible in Latin vulgate, printed in 1079, at Cologne, by Herman Demen. and 
approved by Pope Clement VIII. This last-named relic was presented to Mr. 
Garner in 1874, by Father Burns. He also has a bell, cast about the four- 
teenth century, bearing the names of the evangelists. Dr. Earley has one of 
the old Bibles of the twelfth or thirteenth century, written on vellum in 
the monastic style of that period, and also one of the early printed volumes. 

In 1877 a flint stone dresser was found in the crevice of a rock west of St. 
Mary's by A. Auinann. About this time an old lady found a steel sword, with 
brass handle and guard, under an old log near the Barrens. 

In 1845 Ignatius Garner was commissioned postmaster. In 1855 George 
Weis was appointed and served until 1860, when Fred Schoening was ap- 
pointed. James Blakely was appointed after the war, followed by Charles 
McVean, who gave place to I. Garner in February, 1887. H. A. Parsons was 
appointed in 1889 .... The first railroad agent was W. E. Armstrong. He 
was followed by John Collins. In 1877 or 1878 Samuel Mutherbach was 
appointed, and in 1882 L. H. Wilson. P. Fisher is assistant agent. 



''••" v HISTORY OF ELK COUNT Y. 



CHAPTER XII. 

FOX TOWNSHIP. 

General Description — Settlement — Sous First Things— Resident Tax- 
payers, 1844— Elections— United States Land Deeds— Coal and Oil 
Companies— Villages— Churches, Industries, etc. 

FOX TOWNSHIP is mainly in the trough formed by Boon's mountain on 
the east and Shawmut mountain* on the west. The Appalachian chain 
stretches along the northeastern line for two miles, when it diverges west- 
ward for two miles and then runs south 25° west, crossing the southern line 
two miles east of the southwest corner. East of this divide the headwaters 
of Kersey creek and Cherry run have their sources, while west is Little Toby 
and its feeders, running southwest, and the southern feeders of Elk creek, flow- 
ing north. Sandstone-capped Boon's mountain reaches a height of 2,265 feel 
east of Oentreville, and on the road from Kyler's to Weedville 2,085 feet; a 
hill just southwest of Kyler's, 1,950 feet, affords one of nature's observa- 
tories. The valleys east of the mountain are deeper and narrower than 
those on the west side, and the topographical appearance is very dissimilar. 

The trough contains the principal coal deposit--, the exploration at North 
western Mining & Exchange Company and the Connor mines (opened in 1 866 
by the owner), being carried to a depth of 516 feet prior to 1883, showing 
two heavy outcrops and nine distinct bodies of coal. The Peter Connor coal 
field is on Warrant 4077, at an elevation of 1.875 feet. This field was leased 
by D. Eldridge, who abandoned it. The Kersey Coal Company opened a de- 
posit of Alton coal in 1866, about three and one-half miles south of the Phila- 
delphia & Erie Railroad, on the western side of the Daguscahonda Railroad. 
In 1848 Dr. Earley opened a bed at the heads of Coal run and Toby 
branches, which in 1884-85 was part of Northwestern Mining & Exchange 
Company's field. On the Hawk farm, on one of the feeders of Mill run. Na- 
thaniel Hyatt opened a mine in 1847 or 1848. This was immediately north of 
the Kersey Coal Company's old mining village. One mile north of Kyler's 
was Enos Hayes' coal mine; but the first in that district was opened by Judge 
Kyler, whose trade extended to Allegany. 

Limestone is exposed on Toby creek, southeast of Kyler's Corners, ai an 
elevation of 1,570 feet above tide. This exposure is six feet in depth. It is 
also exposed on the head of Sawmill run, from which it was quarried by Judge 
Kyler for lime-burning. At a point one mile west of Kyler's, on the Thomp- 
son farm, near Brandy Camp, a red bog- iron ore was discovered some years 
ago. The quality is similar to that near Ridgway and in Spring Creek town 
ship, and consequently of little commercial value until new methods of reduc- 
tion are introduced. Sandstone is found here, as in all other sections of the 
count). 

In 1811 the Fox & Norris Company offered fifty acres to each of six families 
as an inducement to settlement. In 1812 Jacob Wilson, John Kyler, Elijah 
Meredith, Samuel Miller, Amos Davis and Jonah Griffith accepted this bonus. 

♦The old Shawmut Railroad was constructed almost on the -tuninit of thi* ridge. 



HISTOKY OF ELK COUNTY. 661 

and brought their families into the wilderness (Davis came in about 1807 or 
1810 as tne pioneer), but the three last-named left in a few years. The farms 
of the three first-named still bear the titles of their original cultivators. Will- 
iam Morgan taught the first school, in John J. Bundy's house, now on the 
Breham farm, Dr. William Hoyt succeeding him, and William Christie pre- 
sided over the third term. The company built a mill between Daguscahonda 
and Centreville, at Old Burnt Mills. A second mill was erected, to replace th# 
pioneer one which was burned, and this gave place to Peter Connor's mill, and 
later to the John Koch grist-mill. Stephen Oyster's grist mill on Little Toby 
was completed on the site of the old mill, February 15, 1851. George Weis 
and Daniel Oyster were dealers in that year, the latter with A. Harrington: 
R. Brown, at Brandy Cainp, and Nathaniel Hyatt, kept hotels. Jesse Kyler 
operated the coal mines. Dr. Lewis Giddings resided two miles south of 
Centreville. 

The resident tax-payers in 1844 were George Artz (joiner), Michael Brown, 
Chauncey Brockway, Philetus Clark (saw-mill), Daniel Clark, Joseph T. Comley 
(tannery), Jeremiah Callahan, Henry Carnes (saw-mill), Josiah Earl, Clark 
Eggleston, Patrick Fern, Amos Fox, John Green, W. F. Green, Henry Gross, 
Miles German, Catherine Hays, Jeremiah Hewitt, William Hoyt, James K. 
Hancock, Eddy, Daniel and Nathan Hyatt, John and William Horning, Mar- 
tin Huhn (blacksmith), Conrad Huhn, Isaac and Charles Horton, James and 
William Iddings, Reuben Iddings (saw-mill), David R., Jesse and John Kyler. 
Jacob Kregar, John and George Kellar, Plummei - Little, Patrick and John 
Largay, Conrad, Jacob, Elias and John Moyer, William McCauley, Elijah. 
Elijah, Jr., David and William Meredith, Thomas, John. James and Patrick 
Malone, Terence, Matthew and Arthur McQuone, John Miller. William Max 
well, James L. and Edward M. Moore, John, Daniel, George and Lawrence 
Nolf, Jonathan Nichols, Daniel Oyster (grist and saw-mill), William Pauley, 
Andrew, Ira and Jesse Pauley, Jonah, Joseph and Uriah Rogers, Nelson Riggs. 
James Reeseman, Thomas Rielly, Patrick Shelvy, John (mason), and Robert 
Sullivan, Andrew Shafer, Jacob Schmeltzer (saw-mill), Peter, George, 
John and Rufus Thompson, Reuben Thompson (saw mill), G. B. , David, Will 
iam, Jacob, Josiah, Joel and Joseph Taylor, Alanson Viall, Michael White, 
Jason Wadsworth, Samuel and Jacob Wilson, Gardiner Weaver and John 
Wonderly. The "United States Land Company, represented by James Wilson, 
owned a large part of this township; the Kersey Company owned the mill 
tracts; five acres formed the area of Horton's saw-mill lots, and a number of 
small tracts were credited to non-resident owners. 

At the election held February 27, 1844, Chauncey Brockway and Eddy 
Hyatt were chosen justices; Joseph Rogers and John Horning, supervisors; 
Joel Taylor and Uriah Rogers, constables; George Thompson, assessor; P. B. 
Little. E. Hyatt, Joe Taylor, J. T. Comley, W. W. Horning, Joseph Rogers 
and Jacob Taylor, school directors; C. Brockway, clerk; William Maxwell and 
Nathaniel Hyatt, overseers of poor; Daniel Oyster, E. Hyatt and James 
Iddings, auditors; Jacob Schmeltzer, judge, with W. S. Meredith and Jacob 
Moyer. inspectors of elections. Isaac Horton was elected justice in 1846; 
Chauncey Brockway and Peter Thompson in 1849. The officers for Fox town- 
ship chosen in February, 1890, were Charles Straessley and W. J. Frantz, 
school directors; Patrick Quinn and Henry Gross, Jr.. supervisors; C. Miller, 
overseer of poor; William Thomas, auditor; A. M. Cut, treasurer; John 
Poutzer, clerk; Michael Keeley, collector. 

In December, 1844, the United States Land Company deeded to the Ger- 
man Agricultural Society (Nicholas Reimel, John Albert, Matthew Schweitzer 



662 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

and Peter Richterwalt, trustees) a tract of land (1,012 acres) in the vicinity of 
the place hitherto known as Strasburg, and another of 510 acres known as the 
"facility tract." The consideration mentioned is $187 (with other goods and 
valuable considerations). The Strasburg tract was surveyed I Warrant 4370 
December 11, 1793, was granted to James Wilson, who sold to Samuel M. Fox 
in April, 1795). The facility tract. No. 4371. was surveyed at the same time, 
and passed through the same ow-nership. In 1840-41 new surveys were made 
by Amos and Little, and an elaborate chart of the Kersey tract was prepared 
by them. In 1808 Samuel M. Fox died, and Joseph M. Fox represented 
the heirs. 

The Toby Creek Coal and Oil Company was organized in March, 1865, 
with Andrew Dutcher, W. H. Armstrong, Elias S. Lowe, Fletcher Coleman 
and Frederick Lovejoy, members. The object was to develop the mineral 
lands in Fox township. This company drilled a well on this land .... The 
Noble Coal and Oil Company was incorporated in February. 1865, with 
Orange Noble, George B. Delamater. John W. Hammond. John H. Bliss and 
Herman Janes, for the purpose of developing coal and nil lands in Fox town 
ship. The company still own their lands, but the timber has been sold to 
Oyster & Short. . . .The Kersey Coal Company was incorporated in 1866 for 
the purpose of mining coal in and around Kersey. 

Kersey derives its name from the original owner, who came in 1812-13 
with James and David Reeseman, John Kyler, Jacob Wilson, Elijah Mere- 
dith and others, who crossed from Boon's mountain to Elk creek, where Mr. 
Kersey built his mill and connected it with the settlements by a road from 
Reeseman' s to Jacob Wilson's and thence to John Kyler' s via Merediths. Eras- 
amus Morey traveled this road in 1815, when it was a bridle path. The next 
road was from Clearfield to Bennett's branch, and the next from Karthaus to 
Bennett's branch, cut through in 1822. for Peter A. Karthaus, by Leonard 
Morey for $12 per mile. Julius Jones came in March, 1854. from Essex 
county, N. Y., and settled on the Potter survey, where he bought the Thayer 
& Sisson saw-mill, which was burned in 1855. About 1833, Kersey's mill 
on the Karthaus and Ridgway road was built. Prior to this, many settlers 
came in, among whom were those pioneers referred to in the general chapter 
and in the pages devoted to biography. 

Centreville was platted for John Green in November, 1846. Thirty years 
later there were the following business houses at this point: one grocery, one 
drug store, two taverns, a temperance hotel, two breweries, two shoe shops, 
two blacksmith shops, a wagon shop and a harness shop. The post office in 
1876 was called Kersey's. The mail was brought here by horseback. Conrad 
Caseman carried it back and forth from Milesburg to Smethport weekly, mak- 
ing a journey of 145 miles. A Catholic church also stood here at this time. 

The church of St. Boniface (Catholic) is the succeesor of the old church 
at Irishtown. which was old when the pioneers of St. Mary's passed here in 
1842. It dates back about fifty-seven years, and among the survivors of its 
early members are Nancy Callahan, Messrs. Largay and Sullivan, John Col- 
lins, Sr.. and Joseph Koch. Sr. The settlers built the church at Irishtown 
(or Kersey, by which name it is still known) a few years after the settlement. 
Some of the names of the clergymen attending to Catholics there: Fathers 
Nugent, Dean, Pendegrass, Coady (still living, and rector in Titusville, Penn.. 
of St. Titus Church l and Smith, who became the first resident pastor, a house 
having been erected for his use, and which is yet standing. Father Burns 
succeeded Father Smith. After him the Benedictine Fathers attended Irish- 
town (1853), the first one of that order being Father Amandus, O S. B.. 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 663 

Father Odilo, O. S. B., succeeded, and it was during his term as pastor that 
the present church (1853-54) was built, where it now stands, two acres of 
ground having been donated by a Mr. Green. Many Germans having settled 
in Centreville and neighboring farms, other Benedictine Fathers continued to 
officiate, some of whom are still living, viz. : Fathers Placidus, Rupert Seiden- 
busch (bishop of Northern Minnesota), Fathers Ignatius (at present attached 
to the Benedictine order in England), Erhardt, Athanasius (who built the pa- 
rochial house in 1862 — still standing). From the year 1867, secular clergy 
were pastors, the first one being Father Joseph Oberhofer, who died as pastor 
of St. Joseph's Church, January 16, 1889. Then came Father A. M. Wirz- 
field. in 1869, who died in a very short time after leaving Centreville in 1 >• 70. 
Father F. J. Hartmann next became pastor, during whose term the church was 
enlarged. In 1878 Rev. A. Reck came, and in 1880 Rev. T. J. Clark was ap- 
pointed assistant, who was succeeded by Rev. E. J. McGinley. In 1882 
Father Reck resigned, on account of old age, when Rev. P. Brady took charge 
and presided over the parish until 18S4, when the present Father Link was ap- 
pointed. The parochial school-house was erected in 1884-85, by the con- 
tractor, Joseph Wandeil, at a cost of $4,000, under his superintendence; im- 
provements were made in church and parsonage, and new cemetery grounds 
purchased and surveyed. There are 150 families in the congregation, most of 
whom are of German descent or nativity. 

The Kersey Methodist Church was chartered September 26, 1885, on peti- 
tion of J. C. Wharton. John Marsh, Joe Wandel.'I. Harvey and S. Michael 
Free. The church building at Centreville was completed April 26 of that year. 
The names of pastors who have served this church are Revs. H. M. Burns, J. 
A. Hovis, S. E. Ryan, A. L. Brand, O. H. Nickle, P. D. Runyan, and Thomas 
Pollard, the present pastor. 

The Kersey Grange Building Association petitioned for incorporation in 
January, 1878. William McCauley, W. H. Meredith, R. T. Kyler, C. E. Green, 
N. G. Bundy, W. W. Rogers, David, R. J. and W. H. Meredith and Hays Kyler 
were named directors. 

Adelphi Hut, O. O. of H., was organized at Centreville November 4, 1882, 
with the following-named officers: C. R. Fritz, John McKelloph, A. H. Rambo, 
J. M. Cornell, Z. A. Anderson, B. Smith, Gust. Lurndgust. George Brown and 
H. Swanson. 

St. Boniface Beneficial Society was incorporated September 17, 1883, with 
office at Centreville. The subscribers were Charles Mueller. Michael Fuenf- 
finger, Martin Koch, Charles Brandmiller and F. X. Eberl. 

The Centreville Cornet Band was organized in January, 1887, with A. 
Hann, F. X. Eberl, M. J. Fuenffinger, John Brandmiller and Max Miller, di- 
rectors. 

The Centreville Foundry was established in 1853. by William Wood. . . . 
The Collins Hotel at Centreville was destroyed by lire July 30, 1880, and three 
valuable horses were burned in the stable. . . .The Koch store-building here is 
certainly one of the largest and best-stocked mercantile houses in the county. 

Earleyville, eight and one half miles east of Ridgway, was laid out by Dr. 
Earley in 1865. In 1876 a Presbyterian church, the terminal buildings of the 
Daguscahonda Railroad, a tannery, a few stores and several dwellings existed 
here The Earleyville fire of March, 1883, destroyed the J. A. Mohan build- 
ing, in which C. S. Luther kept store .... The old Presbyterian house of worship 
at this point is sometimes used. 

Dagus Mines is the name appropriately bestowed on the great mining center 
of the county. As stated elsewhere, the village owes its beginnings and prog- 



664 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

ress to the Northwestern Mining & Exchange Company, whose extensive coal 
mines offer labor at fair pay to every willing worker. The Northwestern Min- 
ing & Exchange Company's enterprise has contributed more than anything 
else to the wealth of this township. Scarcely a decade has passed awa\ since 
the vanguard of the company's workmen presented themselves among the set- 
tlers. David Robertson, under whom the extensive mines of the company have 
been developed, has been here from the beginning, and has always been held 
in t he highest estimation by the employees and people. A large clerical force is 
employed by this company, while the names on the miners' pay-roll run up into 
the hundreds. The postoffice was established here with J. H. Beadle in charge 
about the time the Steele store was opened here. A. H. Sassaman has been 
assistant postmaster for the last seven years. The Steele store dates back to 
1880, when J. H. Beadle was sent here to conduct the house. The stock car 
rii'd is valued at about §20,000. A branch house below Brockport is manage 1 
by W. V. Parmley, where a similar amount of stock is carried. 

Elkton Presbyterian Church, one mile west of Dagus Mines, was organized 
by C. P. Cummins, March 6, 1852, and Rev. McCurdy, elder of the church at 
Beechwood. Among the members were Adam and Lucy Shaffer, B. P. Little, 
Mrs. Eliza Mcintosh, Eliza Winklebleck and Eliza Maxwell. In 1855 Mrs. 
Horning. Mrs. Taylor and Mrs. Meredith became members, and a number of 
children and infants were baptized. In December a Rev. J. Wray signs the 
records, and not until July, 1867, is the record re-opened by Horace Little. 
From memoranda made, however, it appears that Rev. Mr. Junkin had charge 
in 1860 and Rev. Levi Little in 1866-67. Rev. T. S. Leeson of Brookville. 
presided in 18G5. The church at Dagus Mines is mentioned May 20, 1882, 
when Rev. D. \V. Cassidy, Horace Little and others moved to Dagus Mines. 
At this time there were only seven members of the Elkton Church, all women: 
Mines. Ann Bell, Hollebaugh, Ann Meredith, Ann Taylor. Rosanna McCauley 
and Eliza Green. Others joined at organization, such as Robert Hodgson. An- 
drew Ruddack and J. Henry Beadle, who were chosen trustees and elders: 
Sydney xAlmy, James Stratton, Thomas Leslie, John Lewis, James Lusk and 
John Herskey, trustees; Mr. Beadle was chosen clerk; subsequently, Rev. S 
T. Thompson preached here. In 1885 Rev. Dr. Kennedy supplied the pulpit, 
and in April, 1886, Rev. A. B. Fields was stated supply. In September of 
that year Robert F. Oswald took Mr. Beadle'splace as clerk. The trustees 
then elected were Messrs. Oswald, Brown, Bell, Patterson, Craig and Went 
worth. During the years 1887-88 a number of member-- were received, and in 
August, 1889, the little church erected in 1882 was refitted and painted. It 
was dedicated by Rev. Dr. Kennedy of St. Mary's. August 25, 1889. The 
present membership is twenty live. Rev. James Dickson is pastor. 

Messiah's Church of Toby, at Kyler's Corners, was organized by Elder J. D. 
Boyer, October Is. 1857. Since that time Elders M. H. Mover, Micajab Lan 
ning. J. Aldred, A. L. Brand and Nehemiah Stokely have filled the pulpit. El 
der S. Ebersole being the present pastor. The church house was dedicated 
I tetober 18, 1868, and this, with other property, is valued at |2,000. Mr. Eber 
sole preaches at Sterling Run, Mason Hill, Hicks' Run. Mount Pleasant, 
Mount Zion and Caledonia. The Adventists have a good church building in 
Rich Valley. 

In 1850 there were 142 families, 142 dwellings. 765 persons. 1 ID farm 
8 manufacturing industries in Fox township. The population in l s sn was 
2,256, including 414 persons in Centreville. In 1888 there were 261 Demo- 
crats. 207 Republicans and 15 Union Labor votes cast The hotels and pro- 
prietors of same, in 1889, were as follows: Andrew Hau, Han's hotel, Kersej . 




/i^U/Yi^x^. ov , C 




HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. _ 667 

William Goodall, Eureka hotel, Dagus Mines; William Conners, Conners' ho- 
tel, Coal Hollow; William Kierr, Kierr's hotel, Kersey; John Collins, Collins' 
house, Kersey; Lewis Thomas, Exchange hotel, Kersey; John Koch, Koch's 

hotel, Kersey, and George Spuller, Spuller house, Kersey The assessment 

of 1889 shows 3,598 acres, and 2,(00 acres of mineral lands credited to the 
Hyde estate, and 3,425 to Earley, Brickell & Co. The manufacturing interests 
assessed were: B. J. Boutzer, saw- mill; Joseph Reburo, saw-mill and limekiln; 
E. F. Johnson, saw-mill; John Koch, saw-mill; Charles Miller, tannery; Mer- 
edith's saw-mill; John Spillane, new and old mill, and Urmann's brewery. 



CHAPTER XIII. 



HIGHLAND TOWNSHIP— HORTON TOWNSHIP— JAY TOWNSHIP. 

Highland Township Its Conformation— Growth— Business— Elections. 

Horton Township General Description — Minerals — Villages — 

Churches— Elections, etc. 

Jay Township Streams — Elevations, etc. — Resident Tax-payers in 

1844 — Business in 1850— Coal and Oil Companies— Census Statistics- 
Elections— Caledonia— Miscellaneous. 

HIGHLAND TOWNSHIP is the name given to the broad, flat hills of 
Elk county. The Big Level ridge, extending from Tylersburg, in Clar- 
ion, to Howard hill, in McKean, crosses the northern part of Highland, its ele- 
vation along the railroad varying from 1,912 feet on the line of Forest county 
to 2,071 feet on Spring creek summit. On the line between Warrants 3776 
and 2005, the elevation is 2,005; old school-house on W T arrant 3776, 1,850 feet, 
and the point where Bear creek crosses the Warren- Ridgway turnpike, 1,825 
feet. In Revolutionary days, and indeed up to 1880, the "Big Level" was 
the only sure guide for the traveler in this region. The pine and hemlock 
forests of Highland appear to have been more dense than in any other sec- 
tion, and this, added to the fact that the streams run in all directions and the 
grades of the plateau slopes are so easy, made exploration very difficult. Evi- 
dences of the old military road of Revolutionary days are said to exist on the 
'"Big Level" both here and in McKean county. This ridge is comparatively 
level all the way to Howard hill, the elevation being gradual. Tionesta creek 
forms in the northern part of the township within the angle formed by the 
Ridgway turnpike and Kane road. Spring creek heads on the divide north by 
west of Highland, with sonthern feeder flowing from Spring creek summit. 
Bear creek is found everywhere south of Highland village and east of a line 
drawn south from Spring creek summit, while Big, West Pigeon and Hunter 
runs, with numerous feeders, are found in the southwestern quarter. The 
Pittsburgh & Western Railroad almost parallels the Ridgway and Warren 
turnpike. Little had been accomplished up to 1884 toward developing the 
coal deposits of this township, except a digging on the Stnbbs farm, although 
coal was known to exist on warrant 3776 and other places. 

In 1850, in Highland township (opened that year) were four dwellings, 
four families, thirty-three persons and two farms. The population in 1880 



668 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

mi- 261. In 1888 tli ire were thirty-seven Bepublican, eighteen Democratic 
and nine Prohibitionist votes cast, representing 320 inhabitants. 

Ni \v Highland post-office was established in December, 1853, with Charles 
Stubbs postmaster. The tiist mercantile house in Highland township was 
opened in 188(1 by H. O. Ellithorp. Today there are only two hotels in tin- 
township: George C. Kicker's Jamestown House, at Jamestown Mills, and 
Anthony Deet's Jack Waite Bead House, at Chaffee Siding. In the northern 
part of the township, on Tionesta creek, is James City, the site of James 
Brothers' saw mill. It is connected with the owner's office at Kane by tel- 
ephone and with the Tionesta Valley Railroad by a siding. 

The officers of Highland township chosen in February, 1890, are H. B. Van 
Oiman, justice: A. Maxwell and J. C. Bicker, supervisors; E. Havencamp. Jr.. 
clerk: H. O. Ellithorp, collector; H. Gorton, treasurer; A. W. Irwin and C. A. 
Ellithorp, school directors. 

HORTON TOWNSHIP. 

Horton township lies mostly within the fourth bituminous coal basin, and 
with the exception of a part of the northern sections, is drained by Toby creek. 
Many of the hilltops reach an elevation of over 2.100 feet, one summit at 
George Faust's house was found to be 1,960 feet, and the lowest point, where 
the Toby flows into Jefferson county, 1,463.8 feet. The population in 1880 
was 688. In 1888 there were 116 Republican, 102 Democratic and lOProhibi- 
tionist votes cast, representing 1, 140 inhabitants. In 1864-65 mining oper- 
ations were regularly commenced in this township. The location is about half 
a mile northeast of the Shawmut Company's store, at Shawmut, or three-fourths 
of a mile northeast of Mine No. 7, opened in 1S07, to take its place as a pro- 
duce]'. The elevation of the first is 1,725, and of the last-named 1,685 feet. 
Near the former, No. 15 mine was developed in 1804, but closed down in 
1865-06, owing to the difficulty of shipping the product. About 3,600 feet 
west of No. 7, was the water vein opening. 

East of Brockport, 1,685 to 1,695 feet above tide, a great exposure of lime 
stone occurs, and has been quarried for years. Limestone outcrops in rear of 
the old hotel on the Hyde faim, on Toby creek, at an elevation of 1,980 feet, 
in the bed of the creek, near the county line and at many other places. 

The village of Hellen is located on Little Toby creek, near where Brand} 
Camp creek joins it. It is on the road from Bidgway to Brookville. Daniel 
Oyster, the Brockways and Clai&s were early settlers. George Nulf, an old 
hunter of Hellen, fell from his look out in a tree, while watching a deer lick, 
and died May 29, 1871. 

Shawmut is a town of about seventy-five houses, thirty of which are already 
occupied. It contains one large store, by Brinker & Jones, besides offices 
and other necessary buildings which go to make up a general mining town. 
The coal works of Brinker & Jones are situated down Mead's run, about two 
miles, and are now being superintended by George Young, of Bed Bank, Penn.. 
who pushes business along much to the satisfaction of employees and em- 
ployer. 

The Vineyard Rim Mills, owned by J. S. and W. 11. Hyde. J. K. P. Hall. 
and A. Haul, fourteen miles south of Bidgway. were built in L883, with a ca- 
pacity of 40,000 feet of bill lumber per day. The company owned 13,000 acres 
of pine land in that neighborhood. 

Brandy Camp may be termed the mother of settlements in the south 
western townships. In 1818 Isaac Horton settled here, and around this pioneei 
other settlers located, such as the Brockways. In 1826 the first school-house 



HISTOBJ OF ELK COUNTY. 669 

was erected, and in it Olive Brockway presided over a small number of pupils. 
In 1829 Minerva Horton, one of Miss Brockway's first pupils, was the second 
teacher. She also presided over the school established that year on the Little 
Toby. In 1807 the township was established, and the year following it was 
established a school township. Charles A. Brown, a native of the county, is 
superintendent of the Hyde farm and hotel at this point. 

Brockport is a progressive village, on the Little Toby, above the mouth of 
Mead's run. Years ago the manufacture of lumber was commenced in this 
neighborhood by Chauncey Brockway, Sr. In 1884 Nulf & Chamberlin estab- 
lished their grocery store; ten years before this John Cuneo's general store 
was established; William H. and Alonzo S. Horton' s store dates back to 1885. 
In 1889 C. L. Chamberlin purchased W. H. Horton' s interest in this store. 
There are other general stores, grocery stores and hotels, with the lumber 
manufacturing concerns of James Curry & Son, Gillingham, Garrison & Co. 
(1883 — Richard Torpin, Jr., resident partner and manager) — and others. The 
Clintons settled in this vicinity in 1843 and H. A. Parson in 1869. 

The corner-stone of the Methodist church building at Brockport was 
placed July 4, 1889, and the church was dedicated October 27, by Mr. J. A. 
Hovis, the pastor. . . .The Iddings House, at Brockport, was built in 1886-87. 

Horton City is the name given to a new manufacturing center on Mead 
run, near the old Mead Run school-house. Here is the large general store of 
Burr E. Cartwright, and his shingle and planing-mills. Here too, are the large 
saw-mills and lath-mills. The standard gauge railroad system, connected with 
the works, is seventeen miles in length, equipped with five locomotives and 
fifty logging cars. The name was given in honor of \V. H. Horton, who, in 
1885, commenced the true development of this section. 

Mead Run claims a general store in connection with the Cartwright lum- 
ber industries. In 1889 the contract for building 100 dwellings for the em- 
ployes of the Northwestern Mining and Exchange Company, was entered into, 
and the development of this section was entered upon. 

Bradford I. Taylor, born at Brandy Camp, near Ridgway in 1844, died in 
August, 1885. About the time of the war, he was superintendent of the coal 
mines at Shawmut, and in 1875 made a purchase on the Quintuple tract. . . . In 
October, 1879, the Shawmut Coal Company awarded the contract for taking 
up their railroad track to Hyde, Kline & Co. 

The Messiah's Church of Toby was organized for incorporation in June, 
1869, with the following-named members: Elias Moyer, Adolph Kepler, W. 
Gibson, H. M. Gross, George Dills, H. Thompson, J. Coleman. Jacob Moyer, 
I. W. Hungerford, J. L. Taylor. J. W. Rogers, J. H. Graybill and Solomon 
Bachert. 

The Horton Township Grange (Coloma) was organized January 19, 1876, 
with twenty-five members. W. H. Horton was elected master; J. G. Harris, 
secretary; Mrs. J. Burchfield, Ceres, and Mrs. A. D. Alden, Pomona, and Miss 
Lilly Alden, assistant steward. 

Brockwayville was, in early days, what it is now, the center of a great coal 
aud lumber industry, but it was not until recently that the great coal fields 
developed to any extent. The town has a very good location, and the white 
pine, which grows abundantly, is another scource of health. The population 
is about 1,200. The town contains three churches, two graded schools, a fine 
opera house and numerous stores of all kinds, a brick bank building (erected by 
the late John G. Hall, of Ridgway). three or four first-class hotels and one 
newspaper (edited by Butler & Niver). In fact it has all the interests which 
make a prosperous town. Although in Jefferson county, it is connected with 
this section of Elk county in commercial and social life. 



670 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

The elections of Horton township in February. 1890, resulted in the 
choice of James Jackson and James Dillon, supervisors; A. B. Sparks, justice; 
A. D. Alden, treasurer; A. J. Allen, clerk; R. A. Cartwright and M. L. 
Richards, auditors; Thalius Wingfield and William Shank, directors: E. D. 
Alden, collector. 

JAY TOWNSHIP. 

Jay township lies east of the Boon mountain divide, with the exception of a 
small tract in the extreme northwest corner. Bennett's branch enters the town 
ship near the southwest corner, receiving Cherry run, Kersey run, Spring creek 
and Trout run (flowing southeast) and Laurel run (flowing northwest). The first 
named creeks have their heads up in the Boon mountain divide, and flow down 
with mountain sprightliness to join Bennett's branch. What services those 
streams rendered to the lumbermen of early days ma}' be learned when it is 
stated that all the square pine timber and spars were floated down such streams 
to the branch and thence to the Susquehanna via Driftwood and Sinnemahon- 
ing. In the pioneer history it is also recorded that one of the first bridal par- 
tie- canoed down the branch thirty-five miles in one day, or half the time oc- 
cupied in poling up the same distance. 

The highest measured elevation is 2.265 feet above tide on the Centreville 
and Caledonia road, just east of Auman's house. The lowest point is near 
Rockville, 1,110 feet, where the branch leaves the township. Almost any where 
the landscape is picturesque, but particularly so on the road from Horse shoe 
Bend southeast to Union church, or Goff's farm, and thence to Benezette vil- 
lage. The formation of strata is almost identical with that credited to Bene- 
zette township. 

In 1871 A. E. Goff opened a bed of Clarion coal, which, in later years, is 
known as Goff's big-vein opening. A number of years ago, said to be in 1843, 
coal was mined here by the Warners, the vein being sixty inches in depth. 
Reuben Winslow opened a bed northeast of Goff's in 1S74; another was opened 
near V. Denuison's house, some distance from Dill's saw-mill. Early in the 
" forties" John S. Brockway mined near the Spangler dwelling on the head 
of Spring creek, and during the "seventies" from 1.000 to l.">0O bushels per 
annum were shipped. The Turley mine in the neighborhood of the old log 
house (John Thomas') was an old producer. In 1876 the Burke. Cummins & 
Bateman mines were opened in this township. 

The resident tax payers of Jay township in 1844 were Consider. James. Han 
nah. Vine S.. Alonzo, John S. and Martin Brockway, Sain Bell. Charles Brook- 
ins, Elijah Bundy, Edwin Carnes, Charles Caldwell, Rensselaer and Schuyler 
Crandall, Henry Clinton, Starr Denuison. Sr. . and son, Vine Dennison (saw 
mill), Daniel Dennison. P, F. Dering & Co., Henry Dering, Al. Farley. George 
English, John. Shadrach, Oliver, Jr., George W. and Elisha P. Gardner, Ed 
win P. and Pot lei Goff, Palmer and Ray Giles. Dick ( rates, Ira Green, Zaccheus 
Huycks, James B. Hutchison A. Co.'s saw-mill, William Hicks, George Huller, 
Eusebius, Noah and Aimer in Kincaid, C. F. Luce, Thomas. Kllis and (l. W. 
Lewis, Benjamin, EH and Charles Leggett. Erasmus, Ameneda, Selah and 
Leonard* Morey, Dennis Moore*, Smith. John and Charles Mead. Sam Mosier. 
Martin Maynard, Ezekiel McClellan, Comfort Nicholls, John McCracken, 
Michael Noel, Sam Overturn II. B. Petriken*, Alfred Pearsall, Zopher Pascoe. 
Sam Paulley, Sol. Riggs, William and Lyman Robinson, Clarissa Rowland, 
Ebenezer Stevens, John Smith. Chester Thayer, John Turley. Adam and David 
Wheeler. Dr. Irwin H. Strong, Joel Woodworth. Patrick Whalen. Reuben, 
Carpenter, E. C. and Charles Winslow, R. C. Winslow (owner of o-iist and 

ers of silver v 



HISTOKY OF ELK COUNTY. 673 

saw-mill), Hezekiah Warner*, Jonathan Warner, A. B. Weed (owner of saw- 
mill, grist-mill and tannery), Peter F. and Frederick Weed and William 
Weaver. The unseated lands were owned by numerous persons. 

O. Shipman & Co. and J. Z. Lindeninuth were merchants in 1850, and J. 
Parkhurst, hotel keeper. Dr. Earley was physician at Kersey. 

The Cherry & Trout Grove Oil & Mining Company was incorporated in 
L864, for the purpose of developing mineral lands in Jay Township and other 
places. Long, Whitham, Price, Wright, Pollock and Grant, were also mem- 
bers of this company .... The Spring Run Oil & Lumber Company was incor- 
porated in March, 1865, with Dr. Newberry, W. T. Martin, L. I. Crans, 
Amandus Beck and Charles Webb, directors, for the purpose of mining for oil 
and coal in Jay township. The hemlock is now being stripped by the com- 
pany. . . .The Benezette Oil & Coal Company was organized in March, 1865, 
for the development of mineral lands in Jay township; William H. Martin, 
Dr. Hickman, E. J. Graham, A. E. Smith and Joseph Rex were members. 

In 1850 there were 50 dwellings, 51 families, 327 persons, 44 farms and 
7 manufacturing industries. . . .The population in 1880 was 600, including 70 
inhabitants in'the village of Caledonia. In 1888 there were 101 Republican 
votes cast, 67 Democratic and one Prohibitionist, representing 845 inhabit- 
ants. 

The elections for Jay township were held February 27, 1844. Selah 
Morey and E. C. Winslow were chosen justices; Charles Mead and Leonard 
Morey, supervisors; I. D. Pascoe, constable; John Gardner, assessor; Reuben 
Winslow, Vine S. Brockway, Selah Morey, Adam Wheeler, E. Kincaid and 
C. R. Gardner, school directors; Potter Golf, clerk; Reuben Winslow and A. 
B. Weed, poor overseers; C. F. Luce, D. C. Moore and E. C. Winslow, 
auditors; A. B. Weed, judge, with V. S. Brockway and Ray Guile, inspectors 
of elections; Jacob Ovel and John P. McCraeken, fence viewers. C. F. Luce 
was chosen justice in 1846; B. A. Weed, in 1849. The officers chosen in 
February, 1890, are George Scull, justice; Thomas Dornan and Thomas 
Frazier, supervisors; William Webb, treasurer; J. B. Miller, school director; 
W. P. Layberger, auditor; C. J. Dill, overseer of poor; J. Weed, clerk, and 
Eph Hewitt, collector. 

The Caledonia settlement dates back to 1815. A man named Boyd, of 
Schoharie county, N. Y.. owned a large area in that vicinity. This he offered 
to trade for farms in Schoharie and Montgomery counties, N. Y. , and among 
the families who moved hither were the Broekways, Warners, Wilsons, Huycks, 
Elder Nicholls (and his son-in law Vial), and Hortons. In 1827 a road was cut 
from this point to Ridgway, but in 1819 one was opened from Belief onte to 
Meadville, running from ten to fifteen miles south of the Kersey and Caledonia 
settlements. The village plat was made early in the " forties," and when the 
county was established the first courts were held there in the old seminary, a 
portion of which is still standing. 

The Caledonia Bridge Company was incorporated March 8, 1848, and 
Ignatius Garner, George Weis, Gerhard Schoening, Joseph Ganser, Adam 
Vollnier, George Schaffer and G. R. Barrett were apjxrinted commissioners 
to open books for subscription to the capital stock, such moneys to be expended 
on the construction of a bridge over Bennett's branch of the Sinnemahoning at 
Caledonia. . . . In March, 1882, the post-office was returned to Caledonia, from 
the Rothrock dwelling, with V. Zurden, postmaster .... The Caledonia Coal 
Company, of which W. S. Wallace is secretary, is a large and wealthy com- 
pany, owning one of the largest tracts of bituminous coal lands in the State, 

* Owners of silver watches. 



674 HISTORY OF II. K COl '■ I i 

the acreage of which, lying in Clearfield and Elk counties, aggregates nearly 
34,000 acres, and all is underlaid with fine -team and coking coals. The Elk 
Coal and Coke Company, one of the 1- • Caledonia Company, of about 

1,000 acres of this territory, is now successfully operating one of the finest 
coking plants in the State at Glen Fisher, near Caledonia, producing such a 
fine coke that it has sold the entire output of 100 ovens for a year to come. 
Various applications from other operators for leases are being entertained, and 
n is expected within the next few years to have the whole territory of the com- 
pany dotted with collieries and coking plants. 

Washington Camp, to7, P. O. S. of A. of Caledonia, was organized in L889. 

.Jay Grange, P. of H.. was organized March 1, 1876, with E. McCullogh, 
William Eewett, J. W. Mead. E. Hewett, R. Gardner, C. H. Scull, L. Rodgers, 
G. W. Webb, Peter Hollabaugh, Mrs. L. L. Lucore, H. M. McCullough, S. 
E. Eewett and Mrs. H. W. Rodgers. 

The Putnam Lumber Company was organized in May, 1882, with John E. 
Putnam, W. II. Sloan and James N. Kline, members. The capital stock was 

pla Lit $80,00 I, and Caledonia named as the place of business. The Caledonia 

mills were erected in 188'2 for this lumber company (at a cost of $100,000) 
with a pine capacity of 130,000 feet and 19,000 feet of hemlock, or 17.onit.iiDO 
feel during the season. In addition are the lath, shingle, flooringand planing 
machines. In 1882 this company purchased the Fisher tract of 5,000 acres 
on Bennett's branch and Laurel and Kersey runs. 

The old Putnam saw-mill and timber lands at Caledonia (late the property 

of Ji - Corcoran) was sold to A. H. Dill, in February. 1890, for $6,745, sub 

jecl to a mortgage of about $43,000. 

The post-office of Weedville is at the mouth of Kersey run. It lies on the 
Low Grade Railroad. . . .John Boyd, who was the firsi settler, built a saw-mill. 
Frederick Weed and Capt. Weed, who was the father of Judge Charles W eed, 
of Ridgway, bought the works of Mr. Boyd. 



CHAPTEE XIV. 

JONES TOWNSHIP. 



General Conformation Coal Basins and Mines— Resident Tax-payers 
in 1844 Elections— Sketch of the Early Histori of the TowNsnip— 
Villages, etc.— Wilcox What the Town is Noted for— Post-office- 
Business, etc. -Population— Churches Soi [eties 

JONES TOWNSHIP lies west of the Appalachian chain, with the exception 
of a small area in the Atlantic basin east of a line drawn north and south 
from Jarrett summit. 2,245 feet, whence the north fork of West creel;. Clear 
crook and the headwaters of Driftwood creek flow toward the Susquehanna. 
The headwaters of the Clarion flow into and through this township wesi of 
the divide, Seven Mile, Instanter, straight. Jarrett, Middle. Crooked and 
Johnson creeks entering the East Clarion at and above New Flanders. The 
West Clarion receives numerous tributaries in its course south through the 
center of the western half of the town-hip. which il lone- above Wilmarth at 
an elevation of 1,460 feet. Bio- Mill creek rises near the northwestern corner. 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 



675 



and Tionesta creek in that corner. The Johnson run basin east of Wilcox 
is the leading agricultural district of this township. Of the principal coal 
basins, on» lies between the East and West Clarion creeks, and includes the 
Bucktail mines, and the other between the West Clarion and the Bridgetown 
and Highland settlements. In the first, two layers of coal, three feet and three 
and a half feet, separated by eighteen feet of sandstone, shale and fire-clay 
were found before passing below 304 feet; while in the second, at the top of 
Pistner's hill, similar veins were found before reaching 297 feet as reported in 
I860 In both places inferior coal was found in seams at from 60 to 200 feet 
below openings. On the line between warrants 3295-6, west on road leading 
from the Catholic church to Pistner's, was Gen. Kane's limestone quarry, 
showing about eight feet of hard, massive, blue limestone, in 18(9, when it was 
quarried to be burned in a kiln adjoining. The elevation of the top of lime- 
stone at the quarry is 1,920 feet above tide, being higher than the coal at the 
Bucktail openings. 

The Bucktail mines were worked in 1883, under Foreman Vv . H. Harris. 
The elevation of the bottom at the lower of the two openings was 1,900 feet, 
and the dip of the bed, east of south, 2.5 to 3 feet per hundred. The two 
cangwavs were 36 feet apart, each running north for about 135 feet, when 
they changed to east of north and ran 275 feet, The average thickness of 
coal here was 2.9; although at five openings made prior to 1883 the bed was 
only sixteen inches thick. In 1876, however, a depth of three and a half feet 
was discovered back of the outcrop. 

In the eastern part of warrant 2610, a coal bed outcropped at an eleva- 
tion of 1 970 feet at Weitoff's farm, northwest corner of warrant 2ob4, at 
2 005 feet, and on Stone hill at 1,785 feet. At Westcott's old coal drift, south 
of the forks of road at Catholic church, the Clarion coal was opened prior to 
1883 and south of Rasselas depot the railroad was cut through a bed of this 
coal from two and a half to three feet in depth. In the northern part of war- 
rant 3291 a three-foot bed was worked, the shaft opening into bed being 1, / ia 
feet above tide, while the bed at Johnson's spring, in warrant 3293, was only 
1 740 feet above tide. In October, 1874, a Mr. Nolquist, under direction ot 
Gen Kane, made an opening near Silver creek, at 1,775 feet elevation 
where the Schultz mine was subsequently worked. Four hundred feet west 
of this at 1,825 feet, another coal outcrop was worked, and in June, 1878, 
coal beds were opened on the summit between Big and Little Mill creeks, 
the product resembling the old Montmorenci coal. 

The resident tax- payers of Sergeant township (later Jones township), in 
1844 were Rasselas W. Brown, Erastus and Nathaniel Burhngame, John \\ . 
Blake Peter Beckwith, Walter Brush. Jedediah Brownell (father of Judge 
Brownell of Smethport), Joel Demming, Joseph Freeman, Sumner Latham, 
D D Miner A B. Miner, John Montgomery, Enos Sweet, John Mowatt, 
Hosea Miriam, Tim B. Phelps, W. P. Wilcox, A. I. Wilcox, Ira Westcott, 
John C. Johnson, Miami York and Ebenezer Lee. A. I. Wilcox was assessor. 
In 1846 the names of Henry and G. T. Warner, Noah Strubble and Jacob 
Post are found among the tax-payers of this township. 

The elections for Jones township were held February 2/, 1844. Erastus 
Bnrhno-ame and Rasselas W. Brown were elected justices; Rasselas \\ . 
Brown" and Jacob Meffert, supervisors; Ira Westcott, constable; E. Burhn- 
oame, assessor; Ebenezer Lee, J. Montgomery, John W. Blake, Jacob Mef- 
fert, Ira Westcott and R. W. Brown, school directors; J. C. Johnson, clerk; 
D D. Minor and J. Montgomery, overseers of poor; S. Latham, D. D. Minor 
and Ira Westcott, auditors; R. W. Brown, judge, and J. C. Johnson and D. 



676 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

D. Minor, inspectors of elections. Henry Warner was elected justice in 1849, 
and It. W. Brown, C. H. Fuller and G". T. Warner in 1850. The officers 
elected in February, 1890, are E. O. Aldrich, justice; C. O. Carlson, clerk: 
C. H. Horner, collector; Martin Sowers, treasurer; Irving Schultz and 
James H. Wells, school directors; Irving Schultz and Aaron Larson, super- 
visors, and F. W. Aldrich, auditor. 

In Jones township, iii L850, were forty-five families and forty-five dwell- 
ings, 337 inhabitants, twenty-three farms and one industry (mill). The popu- 
lation in 1880 was 1.427. "in 1SS8 there were 218 Republican, 125 Dem- 
ocratic and 3 Prohibitionist votes cast, representing about 1,740 inhabitants. 
A large number of unnaturalized Swedes, and other foreign residents, swell 
the total considerably. 

In 1876 J. L. Brown contributed a sketch of the early history of Jones 
township to the school history prepared by Mr. Dixon that year. He states 
that the name is derived from Andrew M. Jones, who was owner of almost 
all the 120 square miles embraced in this division of Elk county. Oliphalet 
C'ovil was the pioneer who erected a log-house in 1836. In 1837 Isaiah 
Wilcox, Beckwith, Crandall, Butterfield, Hewey, Updyke, Dix, Minor and 
Buell located here. R. W. Brown, who came in 1838, was the only ante-forty 
settler, who was a resident in 1876. Col. W. P. Wilcox came in 1840, having 
settled just north of the line, at Williamsville in 1831. In 1S37 James 
Hewey was born, his being the first birth in the township. The first school- 
house was erected in 1842, on the St. Mary's road. In 1843 a stone house 
was built on the Smethport and Milesburg turnpike. The district was or- 
ganized February 27. 1S44. with R. W. Brown, Ebenezer Lee. Ira Westcott. 
J. Montgomery, Jacob Meffert and J. W. Blake, directors. Peter Hardy pre- 
sided over the school of 1842. until succeeded by Sibyl Beckwith. Octavia 
Howard. J. Burlingame, Clarissa Warner. Mary Warner, Mary Fall. Amanda H. 
Miriam (Mrs. Brown), E. Burlingame and Miss Walters taught successively 
here, until the building was sold in 1857. In the stone building, Olive J. 
Brown and J. Burlingame taught for a while. This house is still standing, 
but little used. In 1S46 a log house was erected on the road to the Sweet 
farm, near the junction with the turnpike, in which Clarissa Warner, Emma 
Howard. Miss Brown (Mrs. Chapin of Ridgway). Misses Medbury and Scull 
presided successively. The Weidert school was built in 1858, and opened by 
(1. It. Allen, followed by J. L. Brown. The stone school-house built in 1S5I*>. 
near the Warner farm, was abandoned shortly after. In 1859-60 the first 
school-house at Wilcox was opened by Matilda Horton. This was sold in 
1870, when the large school building commenced in 1868 was partly finished. 
In W>1 the Markert street house was built and opened by Jerry Burlingame. 

Williamsville is a village on the Milesburg and Smethport turnpike. Hon. 
William P. Wilcox used to reside at this place. It is near McKean county, 
and is one of the longest established post-offices in Elk county. 

This settlement, now called Rasselas, named in honor of Rasselas Wilcox 
Brown, has a Catholic church dedicated to the honor of the Holy Cross. As far 
a.- can now be ascertained, that parish dates back to 1855, as the baptismal 
records show, and was attended by the Benedictine Fathers of St. Mary's until 
September 20, L874, when it was affiliated to the Warren Mission, then in 
charge of Rev. M. A. Delaroque, still pastor of that mission. In 1878 Rev. 
Bernard Klocker became pastor of it. The new stone church was begun in 
1 S M. and in 18SI5 work thereon was discontinued. In 1SSS Bev. George 
Winkler took charge of the mission, and work was resumed. It is a solid 
stone church, 40x80, with slate roof of Gothic style. Forty families constitute 
the congregation. 




w~ 




/fc. <%c^*uf^A^ 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 679 

The Rasselas Lumber Company was organized in 1882, with J. L. Brown. 
P. S. Ernhout, W. W. Brown and H. H. Loomis, members. Their mills, at 
the head of Johnson's run near the New York, Lake Erie & Western Rail- 
road track, were erected that year, but were burned in 1884, when the present 
large mill was erected. The company owned 1.300 acres of land. 

Instanter, seven miles south of the site of Instanter of ancient times, is the 
name of a new depot on the new C. & J. Railroad. . . .The tannery of Shultz 
& Hoyt was established at this point, and opened in January, 1890. 

New Flanders was once the settlement of a colony sent here by the Belgian 
government. One Victor DeHam conceived the idea of colonization in Elk 
county, and in 1846 he obtained a number of Belgian colonists by contract, and, 
with DeHam as leader, New Flanders was founded. But DeHam had not 
carefully computed the cost of such an experiment, and in a brief period his 
money gave out, and the colonists, abandoning the enterprise, went to work 
elsewhere. Many descendants of these Belgians are still living in the county 
and are leading citizens. One old house, built in 1857, is all that remains of 
the old city of New Flanders. But the town is now full of life, and its enter- 
prises are backed by men of large means. Around on every side is a deep 
forest of valuable timber, and here, on these bottom lands in and around New 
Flanders, the mills will be built to do the cutting. Here are tine railroad and 
water privileges, and elegant locations for factories. It is a very pleasantly 
located village, consisting of two hotels, several stores, a meat market and 
other industries. It is about two miles from Ketner by wagon road, on the 
road from St. Mary's to Rasselas, and on the recently completed Johnsonburg 
& Clermont Railroad. At or near the old settlement is the new one of Olen 
Hazel. The name and wonderful growth of this little town came from the fact 
that the firm of B. F. Hazleton & Co. have lately built a large saw mill there, 
and are building miles of railroad,' peeling large quantities of bark, putting in 
logs and other numerous work, giving employment to a large number of work- 
ingmen who are the backbone of any lively business town. At this point the 
Johnsonburg & Erie Railroads separate. The station on the Erie is called 
Ketner, and was the post-office for Glen Hazel until recently. The town has 
several stores, restaurants, markets, boarding houses, etc. The post-office was 
established in July, 1889, with Mr. Watson in charge. 

Wilcoic, named in honor of Col. A. I. Wilcox, is located fourteen miles 
north of the county seat on the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad. It is noted for 
its immense tannery, for one of the best hotels in the State, for its palatial res- 
idences, its intelligent men and its charming women. The first post-office at 
the place was opened by A. I. Wilcox, in 1858 or 1859, with A. T. Aldrich as- 
sistant. The last-named was de facto postmaster, but was not commissioned 
until 1860, since which time he has filled this position. The sale of stamps for 
year ending June 13, 1889, amounted to $1,553. A newspaper correspondent, 
referring to this official in 1889, says: " It looked strange, yet it proved true, 
that a man who had been guilty of ' offensive partisanship ' ever since he was 
a man grown, was still receiving a salary as postmaster under a Democratic ad- 
ministration. The only explanation we could gather for this state of affairs 
was that no Democrat wanted the office who was qualified to hold it, therefore 
Aldrich was left in possession. It looks now very much like a life lease. At the 
post-office we met those old Republican war horses, Jim Malone and Joe Tam- 
bini, the former as hale and heartv as when he was serving his countrv in Com- 
pany F, of the old Fifty-eighth."" 

The pioneer store was built by A. I. & Lucius Wilcox, who carried on bus- 
iness until 1861, when A. T. Aldrich purchased the stock and carried on bus- 



680 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

iness until February, 1S66, in the old store, where the tanning and lumber 
company's store now is. The building and office in rear were destroyed by 
fire al that time, and immediately Mr. Aldrich erected his present store. 

The present Wilcox House was completed in the fall of 1858. and opened 
by Thomas J. Goodwin. He was succeeded by John A. Ross, Mr. Morrison, 
Mrs. Clemmens, Louis Arner, John A. Bell and Ed. Richmond, folic. wed by 
Capt. ( leveland, a colored employe of Maurice M. Shultz and a whaleboat man. 
who remained a few years, when Mr. Patterson leased the house, after whom 
came Fred Schoening and then the present host, H. N. Harris. The hotel is 
admirably conducted. . . .The elegant residence built by Col. Wilcox is now the 
property of Irving Schultz. 

The tannery at Wilcox was built in 1870 and rebuilt'and enlarged in L885, 
It employs 250 men inside and 50 outside. In the summer employment is 
given to 400 bark-peelers. It has 723 lay away vats, and 6,000,000 pounds of 
leather are tanned yearly, which represents 333,000 sides, over 1,000 sides of 
leather everj working day of the year. The tannery consumes from 24,000 
to 25,000 cords of bark yearly, which is peeled on the company's own lands. 
A well-equipped broad-gauge railroad, with cars, engines and side-tracks, is 
among the judicious accoutrements that enable the firm to transport bark and 
material from the forests to and around the complicated sidings that gridiron 
the property for six miles. As the supply of bark is one of the most urgent 
necessities of a tannery, the elder Shultz made liberal provision, to which the 
sons have made some very handsome additions, by way of increased acreage 
They now own in fee and control the bark and lumber on 40,000 acres of 
land in the counties of Elk and McKean. It is lighted by both electricity and 
gas. and so also is the town. Gas is used in the furnaces in connection with 
tan-bark for making steam. . There are thirteen boilers, representing about 
700 horse-power, which furnish steam for nine engines, eight large -team 
pumpers and five power pumpers. There are ten rolling machines, which are 
kept running night and day. Some very large buildings, constructed entirely 
of lumber, occupy the major portion of the land used exclusively for the tan- 
nery, chief of which might be mentioned the three drying, washing, ei 
polishing and vat-houses. Seven hundred and twenty-three vats, sev et 
wide by nine feet long, and five and one half feet deep, the actual capacity 
of the concern, make it pre-eminently the largest tannery in the world. This 
great industry was established by Maurice M. Schultz, who came into the wilder- 
ness about twenty six years ago. Over £1 .unit. (Kill capital are invested in the 
tannery, in the town of Wilcox, in the railroad tracks and sidings and general 
paraphernalia, indispensable to the successful conduct of such a mammoth 
establishment. Employer and employes work in perfect harmony at Wilcox, a 
hamlet having a population of 1,200 people, who subsist, directly or indi 
rectly. upon the prolific income of the business. Cozy two-story house- are 
provided for most of the tenants. A handsome residence is furnished the 
superintendent, A. A. Clearwater, who lives on elevated ground overlooking 
the hundred or more acres occupied by the town and tannery. The present 
owners are Norman and Irving Shultz. The former attends to the buying of 
hides and selling of leather in New York, while Irving resides at Wilcox, and 
looks after the management of the tannery and the extensive gas and oil 
interests of the company. 

The oil field, five miles north of Wilcox, at Burning Well, is controlled 
exclusively b_\ Mr. Shultz. 

In October. L887, Capt. John Ernhout leased the large saw-mill at Wilcox, 
and increased its capacity to 1 1.0,000 feet per day. and is still its operator. . . . 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 



The Wilcox Land & Mining Company was organized in January. 1867, with C. 
H Duhring R N. Batbbun, K. Bundle Smith, S. H. Horstman and A. I. 
Wilcox, members. The object was to develop the mineral lands m Jones 
township, and in the neighborhood of the Wilcox saw-mill. In 1S8< the 
property of this corporation was sold to H. A. Duhring. 

The banking house of J. L. Brown was established in the summer of LS85, 
and the present bank block was erected in 1887. 

Wilcox in 1870, claimed a population of 1,100, where three years before a 
little hamlet with a population of 100 existed. The tannery, completed m 
January, and in operation, employed 300 men. and the monster saw mil] 
employed about fifty men. Capt. Cleveland conducted the Wilcox House; 
James Malone, a jewelry store, and A. T. Aldrich, a general store. Six j ears 
later the Schultz well was drilled, and several oil ventures inaugurated. 

The Reformed Church of Wilcox petitioned for incorporation February 2D, 
1873 A B Preston, Andrew Fenn, Benjamin Bevier, J. L. Brown, Theo. 
Cook J B. Wells, H. M. Campbell, and E. G. Fuller were the petitioners. 
This society occupied a room in the public school until 1874, when the present 
church was completed. 

The Wilcox Presbyterian Church was incorporated May 20, 1.006, witn ur. 
A M. Straight, W. G. Brown, P. S. Ernhout. H. Winning and J. C. Malone, 
trustees. This society is the successor of the Reformed Church of ten years 
before and holds the property of the old church, worshiping in the house 
erected in 1874. Rev. T. S. Negley filled the pulpit for about six years prior 
to September, 1888, since which time Mr. Amy, of Kane, has preached here 
regularly. 

The Catholic Church of Wilcox dates as far back as the Kane congre- 
gation, but until 1889 the people had no proper church edifice. In that year 
steps were taken by the Bev. George Winkler, its pastor, to erect a new frame 
church. It has about twenty-five families, and cost $1,500. 

The Swedish Evangelical Lutheran church was erected in 1885. Services 
were given by the pastor of Kane. 

The Wilcox Cemetery Association was organized in January, 187b, with 
fifty-three subscribers, A.I. Wilcox, A. B. Preston. A. T. Aldrich. Irving Schultz, 
E. A. Westcott, Theo. Veiditz ami J. L. Brown, being directors. The 
improvement of the old cemetery was at once begun. 

State Deputy G. W. Brown, of Youngsville, Penn., organized a new lodge 
of Good Templars in May, 1877, called Wilcox Lodge, with twenty charter 
members, and the following-named officers: J. C. Malone. Laura M. Brown, 
W X Longreen, Amanda L. Wilcox, J. L. Brown, Bev. W. H. Hoffman. 
H. W. Campbell, Mary Praut, Charles Bower, Mrs. W. H. Hoffman, Mrs. A. 
H. Brown, Mrs. M. L. Malone, Mrs. Laura McPherran, Jessie Aldrich. Prof. 
W. S. McPherran; trustees, A. B. Preston, J. L. Brown and J. C. Malone. 

Wilcox Lodge, No. 571, F. & A. M., was constituted in June, 1887, bj 
the grand officers, when the following named officers were installed: O. M. 
Montgomery, W. M. ; J. L. Brown, S. W.; P. S. Ernhout, J. W. ; J. C. Malone, 
treasurer: Carl Oldoerp, secretary. The officers for 1888 were Gnrnee Free- 
man W M.; J. L. Brown, J. W.; P. S. Ernhout, J. W. For 1889: J. L. 
Brown, W. M. ; P. S. Ernhout, S. W. ; Dr. J. S. Wells, J. W. Messrs. Free- 
man. Clark and Van Ostin are members of the commandery. 

Hiram Warner Post, 594, G. A. R, was organized at Wilcox in December, 
18S9, with twelve members. A. A. Clearwater was elected commander. Col. 
J. M. Grosh and other soldiers from Ridgway assisted at muster in. 



tJS'J HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XV. 

RIDGWAY TOWNSHIP— BOROUGH OF RIDGWAY. 

Ridgway Township — Streams, Elevations, etc.— Coal — First Comers- 
Elections— Resident Tax-payers in 1844— Population— Villages— Mis- 
cell VXWII s. 

borol gh of rldgway location, etc.— the rldgways and other pio- 
neers >ome first things— post-office, etc.— municipal affairs — 

Fires— Manufactures— Banks— Hotels— Churches— Cemetery Associa- 
tion— Schools— Societies, ETC. 

RIDGWAY TOWNSHIP lies entirely west of the main divide. With the 
exception of a few rivulets rising inside the west line, and flowing south- 
west into Bear creek, all streams find their way to the Clarion — East branch. 
Power's run and Elk creek entering from the east; Big Mill, Little Mill and 
several smaller streams flowing south and southwest into the parent stream. 
From Bridgetown, in the center of Johnson's run coal basin, to a point south 
of Power's run, the river flows against the dip of the rocks: for the next 8,000 
feet the dip of the rocks increases, and the strike changes from northeast and 
southwest to a general westerly direction, while the river runs west in obedi- 
ence. At the mouth of Little Mill creek, it takes a southwest course for about 
eight miles, paralleling the strike of rock, and at fourteen places running to the 
strike, causing sharp angles rather than curves. At Ridgway it makes an ab- 
rupt sweep north of west, and after receiving the waters of Big Mill creek, be- 
low Ridgway, it takes the name "Clarion River." The hills rise from 300 to 
600 feet above the river bed, which, at the north line of the township, is 1,460 
feet above tide. At Boot Jack, said to be the highest point in this township, 
the elevation is 2,166 feet, while the lowest point is on the western line, near 
the Little Toby, 1,321 feet. 

From borings made for oil at Silver creek well, Johnsonburg well, Dickin- 
son well and Ridgway Gas Company's well, it is learned that the total thick 
ness of strata is 710 feet, or 285 feet in coal measures: 3"25 in Mauch Chunk 
and Pocono, and 100 in Red Catskill. Of this total, about 4(10 feet appear 
above the water level, and on the hills are huge sandstone and conglomerate 
rocks, some 30x20 feet, which are now being cut up for export to Erie. This 
rock is commonly called Johnson run sandstone, and is much prized by build 
ers; the front of the court-house is constructed of it. While much easier fco 
work and less expensive than granite, it meets all the requirements of granite. 
except for heavy cornice work. 

In January, 1879, a coal bed, two and one quarter feet thick, was opened 
on Hyde's hill by E. K. Gresh, which Carl! pronounced to be Marshburg 
coal. The Wilmarth coal tract, on warrants 3285-4850, was opened exten- 
sively - i..;i after ( 1S80), and given the name "(Tien Mayo," as it was operated 
by J. H. Mayo. The first mine on this tract was originally opened by Frank 
Whitney, a Chicago detective, and John V. Daugan. a conductor on the Phila- 
delphia & Erie Railroad. The elevation of this coal-bed is 1,908 feet above 
tide, or 4til feet above the track level at Wilmarth depot, or ninety-seven feet 
below the summit of the hill. Prior to 1883 a number of coal drifts were 






%1 




ic tonA-i /m^j 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 685 

opened, several wells drilled for oil, without success, while gas wells, notably 
Grant's, were successful. In 187G the Fairwood coal mines were worked by 
Heylmun & Woodward. 

About the time the first settlements were made in Fox township, David 
Johnson came from Salem, N. J., but when he learned of the Gillis settlement, 
near Ridgway, in 1821, he moved away. The Gallaghers came about 1825, and 
the following year a sister of Mrs. Gallagher (Hannah Gilbert) opened a school 
at Ridgway. 

About 1826 James L. Gillis commenced improving Montmorenci for Jacob 
Ridcway. A road from Marvins via Bunker Hill to Eleven Mile Spring was 
then in existence, and soon after opened to Ridgway. The Kersey saw- mill, 
nine miles southeast of Ridgway, was brought into connection with the north 
country later. 

At the first election for Ridgway township, held February 27, 1841, 
George Dickinson and Samuel Stoneback were chosen justices; Caleb Dill and 
Squire Carr, supervisors; David Thayer and R. B. Gillis, constables; W. H. 
Gallagher, assessor; James Crow, George Dickinson, James Gallagher, D. 
Thayer. John Cobb and Jesse Cady, school directors; Charles Horton, clerk; 
W. M. Redline and C. Horton, overseers of the poor; Henry Karnes, Thomas 
Irvin and R. B. Gillis, auditors; Riverius Prindle, judge of election, and 
Charles Horton and Caleb Dill, inspectors. A. I. Wilcox was chosen justice 
in 1846; James Gallagher in 1S47; George Dickinson and Henry Souther in 
1849; L. Luther, in 1850. The election for Ridgway township, in Feb- 
ruary, 1890, resulted in the choice of O. B. Grant and Jacob Steiss, school 
directors; John Otth and J. B. Bryant, supervisors; J. B. Bryant, O. of P.; 
F. C. Ely, auditor; B. F. Ely, treasurer; Peter Gulnack, clerk; Maurice Sher- 
man, collector. The elections in Rolfe election district of February, 1890. re- 
sulted in the choice of O. B. Grant and H. B. Edwards for school directors; 
John Otth and J. B. Bryant, supervisors; F. C. Ely, auditor; B. F. Ely, 
treasurer; Peter Gulnack, clerk; Maurice Sherman, collector. 

The resident tax-payers of Ridgway township, in 1844, were W. J. B. 
Andrews (who owned two carriages and two patent lever gold watches), William 
Armstrong (saw-mill), Watts Anderson (saw-mill), the Boston Lumber Company 
(who carried a mercantile business and large saw-mill). W. S. Brownell, 
Ephraim Barnes, Dave Beniger*, Pierce T. Brooks, Brooks & Morris, W. J. 
Baxter, John Cobb*, W. M. Clyde, Job Carr (saw-mill owner). Zenas D. Clark, 
Squire Carr, Philip M. Carr, Absolom Conrad, Jesse Cady, James Crow, 
Caleb Dill * (blacksmith), George Dickenson* (who owned a watch and car- 
riage). Adam Ditts, George Dull (saw-mill), Henry Dull, Dennis Eggleston, 
Fred Ely, Dave Fuller, Ezra W. Foster, Carlos Fuller, James Gillis* (owner 
of saw-mill and gold watch), Caroline Gillis (owner of a horse and gold watch), 
Ridgway B. Gillis, James Gallagher, William Gallagher, Silas German, John 
Given, Dyer Harris, Hughes & Dickinson (saw-mill owners), Chester G. Hays. 
Arthur Hughes, Peter Hardy, Joseph S. Hyde* (assessed §2,800), Charles 
Horton*, Nathaniel Ide, Isaac Keefer, Henry Karnes, John Knox, Homer 
Kendall, Thomas Lynde, John W. Blake, D. B. Hunger, Jacob Meffert, Rob- 
ert Mcintosh, Edward McQnone, Steve Miner, William My res, Payne & Wat- 
terson's saw- and grist-mill, Chester Payne, Jesse Paulley, Riverius Prindle*. 
Hatthew L. Ross. Willoughby H. Redline, Jacob Reeder, James S. Stratton*. 
Ephraim Shall, Samuel Stoneback, David Thayer*, Orrin Van Currin, Corne 
lius Van Orsdell, Genet Robert, Wilmarth & Co., widow Maria Wilcox, Miner 
Wilcox*, David Worden, Samuel Whisner, A. I. Wilcox, W. P. Weaver. Eben- 
ezer Lee, John C. Johnson, Frances C. Maybury, Alex Beck, Garrett Corwin, 

* Owners of lots. 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

David M. Fields (owner of a silver watch), Thomas Irvine, Alvin Rawley(hun 
fcer), Charles Knapp* (sawyer), Henry Thayer, P. J. Berlin. David Eeed. James 
James, Edward Derbj (owner of a saw-mill, buggy and silver watch). John J. 
Ridgway's grist-mill, Dave Luther's saw-mill, Libbins Luther, Silas Blake 
(saw-mill). Greenfield Blake, Hervej Gross, Peter Hufftailing, Thomas Scbram, 
Reuben McBride, Thomas Rielly, Michael White. Fred Marving, Jerry Carr, 
Andrew Shaul, William Evans, John Knobsnyder, William Payne, Washington 
Turk, Joseph Christie. Martin Campbell, David B. Sabins, Zachariah H. I 
Levi (t. Clover*. John Giant. John Lukins, Noble 1*. Booth. Fred Keefer, 
Charles B. Gillis (owner of a silver watch, and money lender). 

In 1850 J. S. Hyde & Co., Dickinson tV. Co. and Job Cobb, wen- dealers 
in Ridgway township, and David Thayer and P. T. Brooks kept hotels. J. C. 
Chapin and Henry Souther were the attorneys; Caleb Dill, postmaster. There 
were forty dwellings, forty families, 241 inhabitants, seven farms and 
mills in the township. In 1855 Jerome Powell purchased the Whitney & 
Horton interests in the store. The eld store, now the office of W. H. Hyde, 
was erected in 1852 53, and occupied as a store until 1876, when the Opera 
building was opened. There are twelve bands employed directly in this 
store, and the stock carried is about $50,000. The management of this large 
ston is left to C. F. Burleigh. 

The hotels in Ridgway township at present are as follows: At Jol 
burg, the Johnsonburg House, kept by John Foley: Central House, bj I 
N. Brown and the Haley House, by Mrs. Annie Haley. At Daguscahouda. 
the Mc( lovern House, by J ami's McGovern. 

The population in 1880 was 1,480, exclusive of the borough. In Novem 
ber, L888, the votes cast were 111 Republican, 107 Democratic and one Pro 
hibitionist, representing a population of 1,095. The great industries at John 
sonburg, however, employ a number of Swedes and others, who are not voters, 
so that the cumber of inhabitants maybe placed at 1,500. In 1850 there 

iily families of -41 persons in the township, forty dwellings, seven culti 
vated farms, and eleven saw-mills. 

Johnsonburg (or Quay) dabs its settlement back to the tirst decade of tins 
century, when the peculiar character described in the chapter on poineers came 
hither to make a home. On the approach of civilized man. he fled, leaving the 
wilderness without a white inhabitant for years. In 1882 one of the greatest 
leather manufacturing industries in the world was established here by Stephen 
Kistler's Sons, with Samuel Lowry as superintendent. The buildings were 
completed thai year, and the men in this busy hive, together with the bands 
required to get oul 12,000 cords of bark annually, transformed the place into 
an industrial center of no small importance. This tannery turn- out 2,720 
bides per week, and the value of annual product is placed at $665,900. The 
linn. Wilson, Ki-iii i ,\ Co., own 125 acres, the site of their work-. 
Imi through them an immense area of hemlock is stripped annually. A cor- 
respondent of the Etfie Observer, visiting this place in September, I s " 

ry of its modern progress. He writes: "Perhaps the finest mount 
ain scenery in the State, and certainly the least known to tourist-, is found 
in the Elk mountain region near Johnsonburg. To see the grandest part 
of the Elk mountains, one should take a carriage or horse from the John 
sonburg hotel and follow the excellent driveway to Rolfe, one mile, and 
continue to Wilcox, six miles distant. Striking peaks, sharp and 
ing as the Matterhorn, surround one on all sides. Crystal streams flow through 
every valley, and the fair Clarion river supplies immense water-power for in 

• Owni rs ol lots. 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 68 i 

numerable manufacturing plants. No lover of the grand or beautiful in nature 
should fail to take a drive through and around Johnsonburg. What is known 
as the Rocks is a wonderful piece of God's masonry. Solid ice may be broken 
off from these rocks in July and August. Besides being picturesque, John- 
sonburg promises to become the emporium of a great business mart some day. 
L. C. Horton is the leading merchant and business man of this place. One of 
the largest tanneries in the United States, and owned by Wilson, Kistler & Co . 
is situated at Johnsonburg Junction. The monster planing mill of Henry. 
Bayard & Co. employs a large number of men. There are several fine hotels. 
The Johnsonburg hotel, kept by L. C. Horton [now by John FoleyJ, is a fa- 
vorite place for summer tourists and business people. New buildings are 
going up daily, and the latest is the Park Opera House and billiard hall, built 
by Mr. A. Parks, one of our rising business men. Johnsonburg produces her 
own gas, and her churches and schools are all lighted and heated by gas. 
There is more freight handled here than in most towns of twice its size." 

Quay post-office was established at Johnsonburg in January, 18SS. with 
John Foley, postmaster. At this time the place did not have oil wells, but gas 
abounded. This, coupled with the unexcelled shipping facilities, brought the 
paper-mill, which in its turn built up the town, and has increased the business 
so fast that the post-office shows the receipts for the quarter ending August 1, 
L889, to be upward of $335. It is now probable that before the post-office 
is three years old it will be a presidential office, and before twenty-five years 
old it will be a first class office with free delivery. Isaiah Cobb is the present 
postmaster. 

The Clarion Pulp and Paper Company was incorporated November 26, 1888, 
for the purpose of manufacturing paper at Johnsonburg. The stockholders 
were M. M. Armstrong, L. D. Armstrong. W. S. Blakeley. Richard and Robert 
Wetherill and G-. B. Lindsey. The buildings were completed at once, and 
another great industry brought forth among the hills. 

On July 18, 1889, the Breeze was established, as related in the chapter on 
the press, and with this new exponent of her resources abroad in the land, the 
village bounded forward with gigantic strides. 

In 1884 religious affairs were represented by a small Sunday school and 
a society, the Willing Workers, of which the officers were: president, Miss 
Annie Golly; vice-president. Miss Mabel Reese; secretary. Miss Hattie Duncan: 
treasurer. Miss Alice Paxtou. 

The Catholic Church was first attended, about six years ago, by Rev. Ber- 
nard Klocker, and in 1S88 Rev. G. Winkler began to build the new frame 
church, which was dedicated October 6, 1889. The cost was $2,000. There 
are thirty families belonging to the congregation. 

The Methodist Society, of which Rev. J. E. Brown was pastor, worshiped 
in the school-house, or attended the Union Church at Rolfe. 

The Johnsonburg House is now presided over by John Foley, and the Si 
Charles by James McCloskey. B. Searles carries on a restaurant. Mrs. 
Wheeler conducts the Wheeler House, J. N. Brown the Central House, and 
other hotels are being erected. Store buildings are also multiplying, and on 
hill and in valley dwelling-houses of every character are being erected. 

On the night of February 28, 1890, two Swedes were burned up in a small 
building at Johnsonburg. The burning men were in full view of the 
onlookers. 

The Clarion Breeze of January, 1890, refers to the Armstrong Brothers' 
Pulp and Paper-mills, work on which commenced in November, 1888. It was 
opened in July, 1889, and now gives employment to 130 men. C. H. Glover 



088 HISTOBY OF ELK COUNT V. 

is superintendent and E. Emeigh paper-maker. The Armstrong Brothers' 
three gas wells supply fuel and light to the mills as well as to their forty ten- 
ant houses. The Union Tannery, across the river, gives employment to 100 
men. In one year the village grew from three hotels, one store and three or 
four dwellings to a town of forty- six business houses and a number of dwellings. 

Ttolfi is ;i neighbor of Johnsonburg, just across the Clarion. Here is the 
greal tannery of Wilson, Kistler & Co., referred to in the history of Johnson- 
burg. Here also is the 12,000,000-foot-lumber mill of Henry, Bayard & Co., 
now operated by W. L. Devine. Henry, Bayard & Co. own several other mills in 
this vicinity, and many thousand acres of timber, which will supply these mills 
for many y r ears. Their store is under the management of C. J. Johnson. Kolfe 
had, perhaps, more dwellings than Johnsonburg. in August, 1889, but not very 
many business places. A fine union church and a graded school building (not 
complete,! i are ornaments of usefulness that Johnsonburg then was wantingin. 
This Union Church association was organized in April, 1888, on petition of 
G. W. Willan, W. W. Gore, J. M. English, Samuel Lowry, C. J. Johnson, H. 
J. Baird and C. E. Danber. The Bolfe fire, of March 1, 1887, originated in 
Henry, Bayard & Co's. store, and swept it away, with the old store building of 
White iV. Co.. L)evme"s ice-house and the Philadelphia & Erie depot. 

Daguscahonda (or "The True Water"), a name suggested by Henry 
Souther (an act not yet forgiven), contained thirty buildings in 1884, includ- 
ing a school-house, a store, a large boarding-house, and a hotel not opened 
until early in 1885. The extract works of Jackson S. Schultz and the large 
-•aw mill of Henry. Bayard & Co., are the manufacturing industries. H. H. Eaton 
was superintendent of the extract works, which have a capacity of thirty-five 
barrels of ten-pound extract per day. Here i* the junction of the Earley 
branch with the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad, but. apart from the industries 
named, the glory of the place has departed, and there is nothing pretentious 
about it to-day, unless it be the strangely euphonious ( ?) name. In January. 
I ss l. the house of Simon Hanes. at Daguscahonda, was burned, and with it 
one of his children. L. N. Eggleston dashed into the fire and rescued the 
second child and its grandmother. 

The large saw mill, owned by J. S. Shultz, is operated by William Locke, 
for Hall. Kaul & Co. The extract works, built almost seven, years ago, are 
owned by J. S. Schultz and Xial T. Childs. John Klingel is foreman over 
fifteen workmen, while William Benson has charge of the office. The main 
building is 250x34 feet, and the other building proportionately large. The 
capacity is from fortj to fifty barrels of ten-pound extract per day. B. E. 
Taylor is general merchant and postmaster; A. P. Larson, meat dealer, and 

James McGovern, proprietor of the hotel The gas plant at Daguscahonda 

was completed in January, 1890. 

Wliistlrtmnt. —Cobb. Gallagher \- Fisher established a saw mill at Whis 
tletown in 1846, and it was run by water-power. Early in 1848 they Bold to 
Palmeter A Phelps, who operated the mill one year, when W. H. Post bought 
Phelps" interest, W. H. Schram contracting to manufacture the lumber. In 
L849Mr. Schram superintended the rafting of the lumber, and after market- 
ing it. ceased connection with the establishment. The mill war. sold to B. F. 
I'.h & Co., who disposed of it after some years, when Isaac Horton, Jr.. be- 
came owner. G. T. Wheeler subsequently had an interest in the concern for 
some time, but ultimately it became the property of Dr. Earley. In later 
years Henry. Bayard & Co. became owners of this old water-mill in its modern 
form. 'The name Whistletown was given to it. owing to W. H. Gallagher's 
penchant for whistling. In 1876 the first school-house was erected there, and 








~/ 



e&Z- 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 691 

Miss Lizzie Miller was appointed teacher. Previously teacher and pupils as- 
sembled in a barn loft. 

Miscellaneous. — The Crescent mills, built in 1851, by E. Derby, for the 
Portland Land Company, sixteen miles below Ridgway, were in operation in 
1851. The saw-mill had a capacity of 40,000 feet, while the grist-mill was 
simply built for small custom work. . . . At Wilmarth a school building erected 
years ago gave place to a new house in 1875, which was opened by J. E. Hew- 
itt. . . .The school at Gulnack's was opened in 1876, by Rev. I. Brenneman, and 
Eber Card opened another new school building at Gardner's — the old one hav- 
ing been cut up by the male pupils. At Laurel Hill, school was held in a dwell- 
ing-house for years, but abandoned in 1876, when the new school-house at 
Boot Jack was erected. 

In March, 1878, the Island Run colony scheme was extensively advertised. 
The owners of lands on warrants 4268-69 and 4376-77, five miles from Ridg- 
way, were Hyde, Bradley & Co., and Earley, Brickie and Hite. Their idea 
was to donate to each of one hundred settlers there twenty acres of land, re- 
serving minerals and merchantable lumber. The Allentown Weltbote pictured 
the beauties of the place, and, as a result, inquiries flowed in from all sides. 
The owners issued a circular of warning, telling intending settlers to wait 
until spring and not to come without money. 

BOROUGH OF RIDGWAY. 

Ridgway is beautifully located in Eagle Valley, near the junction of Elk 
creek with the Clarion, in longitude 1° 45' west and latitude 41° 26' north. 
The population in 18S0 was 1,100. In 1888 there were 161 Democratic, 158 
Republican and 12 Prohibitionist votes cast, a total of 331, representing 1,655 
inhabitants. The name is derived from that of Jacob Ridgway and John 
J. Ridgway, the latter of whom died at Paris, France, in November, 18S5. He 
was the only son of Jacob Ridgway, who, in 1817, purchased 80,000 acres in 
McKean county, and 40,000 in Elk. The old proprietor died in 1844. The 
early agents were Jonathan Colegrove, Paul E. Scull and James L. Gillis, all 
deceased. In 1852 W. J. Colegrove succeeded his father as agent. All of them 
favored this location for the county seat, and to them particularly the citizens of 
the town are indebted for having the seat of justice fixed here. 

Joseph Willis Taylor, who, in 1820, came to this county with his father, 
Libni Taylor, died May 1, 1885. He aided in clearing the Montmorenci farm, 
and it is said cut the first tree on the site of Ridgway, before James Gallagher' s 
arrival in 1825. Henry Souther, in a letter on the subject of James Gallagher's 
settlement, states that this pioneer preceded his family to the site of the pres- 
ent town, and built a small house, which stood back on the old Gallagher farm, 
when he purchased the property. Mr. Souther had the timbers of this house 
used in a wash-house, and in recent years this building stood on Main street, 
opposite the court-house. It was 16x20, one story, and used successively for 
various businesses. When Mrs. Gallagher and her sister, Hannah Gilbert, 
arrived, the house referred to was completed. 

Ridgway was laid out in 1833, when seven families resided here — the Ayles- 
worths and Caleb Dill, west of the creek; Enos Gillis, J. W. Gallagher, H. 
Karnes, Tom Barber and Joab Doblen on the east side. In 1834 the first 
bridge across the Clarion at Ridgway was built, and also one over the north 
fork at Bridgetown. 

Mr. Gillis, with Mr. Dickinson, Arthur Hughes and Lyman Wilinarth. 
owned the land north and west of the Clarion, in what is now known as West 
Ridgway, and engaged in the business of lumbering, under the firm name of 



692 HISTORY OF ELK CODNTY. 

Hughes, Dickinson it Co., which afterward became and continued Dickinson 
& Co. These gentlemen laid out some town lots, but the sale of them was 
very slow. Mr. Wilmarth had the one south of the turnpike, now Main 
street, between the mill race and the river; Mr. Gillis, one east of the turn - 
pike, as continued south to the race. John Cobb had two or three, and Caleb 
Dill some two or more. On the east side of the river Mr. Ridgway caused a 
village to !"■ laid out, bounded south by the warrant line, west by the river, 
north by Elk creek and east by -lames (Gallagher's land, and what was after- 
ward known as the •• Hough and Ready" property, lying on both sides of 
Gallagher run, James Gallagher had a plat of about three acres on the 
north side of the pike, and Enos Gillis a contract for the land north of Elk 
creek, bounded west by the river. 

Ridgway, in April. L836, as remembered by Mr. Schram, was a very little 
\ illage. Beginning at the western end of the present town, near the location of 
Grant & Horton's tannery, was Dickinson's boarding house, Henry Gross' 
house on the flat close by, then the saw-mill and a barn. There were no build- 
ings from that point until coming to the school-house (built in 1834) adjoining 
the "M burial ground, opposite and below the Rochester & Pittsburgh Rail- 
road depot of 1886. Next came Van Orsdall's plank dwelling. On the corner of 
the Smethport road, on the site <>f M. E. Lesser's residence, was Caleb Dill's 
dwelling, justice shop and post-office, and across the road was his blacksmith 
shop, -lust above lived Stephen Neiver; at the northeast corner was John 
Cobb's house, where Mrs. Dill resided in April, 1886. On the right side of 
Main street, a few rods east, was .lames L. Gillis' home, then the store of 
Gillis & Clover. Crossing the race bridge one came to George Dickinson's 
aom< on the south side, the store being on the north side. The mansion 
house was subsequently built west of the race on the north side of the street. 
Hid George Clyde occupied a log cabin toward the dam. The bridge was a 
I'K I '_' inch stringer, resting on cribbing; teams forded the river, and in times 
of high water, boats were used. On the east side of the stream stood the Ex 
change, owned by David Thayer, then Edward Derby's Old Red House, in the 
cellar of which was the famous spring, above where Dillon's meat market was 
located in 1886, Then came P. T. Brook's Lone Star Hotel, where Messen 
ger's drug store was in 1886; an old grist-mill stood back from the street near 
the present Hyde mill. On Main street was the dwelling of M. L. Ross and 
the old Dutch House of William Weaver; while on the right the court house 
was the only improvement. James Gallagher's store stood where was the 
telegraph office in 1886, while his dwelling, then used as a temperance hotel, 
-tood on the coiner. It was rebuilt in 1886 by John G. Hall. After leaving 
the corner of Main street, was Mrs. Wilcox's dwelling, occupied by Minor 
\\ ilcox, in 1886; Elk creek emptied into the Clarion at the point where is now 
Dickinson's dam. 

In the general history, it is stated that Reuben Aylesworth was the firsi 
postmaster at Ridgway. This office appears to have been established in L829. 
Caleb 1 >ill was ] lost master in 1886, and evidently served until 1850, when John 
Cobb was appointed. In November. I85f, the post -office was moved from 
Cobb's old building, in the lower part of Ridgway, to his new store. W. N. 
Whitney was appointed postmaster in June, 1853, vice John Cobb. Business 
about this time was trifling, and the main street of the village was so quiet and 
new that rattlesnakes sometimes appeared thereon. It is related that in Au- 
gust, L854, W. II. I'o-t killed a reptile with seven rattle-. Matthew L. Ross 

succeeded Jerome Powell about 1857, a- postmaster, and served until Mr. 
Luther was appointed. This Luther was serving in 1863, when Dr. Bardwell 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 693 

arrived. In 1867 G. G. Messenger was appointed postmaster, succeeding 
Lib. Luther. In 1869 J. H. Hagerty was commissioned postmaster, serving 
until 1887, when G. G. Messenger was commissioned. On August 1, 1889, 
Postmaster Messenger turned the office over to Mr. Hagerty. William A. 
Irwin, the veteran deputy, has been continued. 

Municipal Affairs. — The petition to incorporate Ridgway was dated Sep- 
tember 23, 1880. The petitioners were Madams G. G. Messenger, A. M. Scribner. 
J. Y. Barrett, Mary Service, M. E. Lesser and S. E. Johnson, and Messrs. Little. 
Oyster, Derby, Morgester, C. R. Earley, E. J. Miller, Kime, Bardwell, Wil 
lanl. Campbell, Holes, Head, Schram, Ross, W. C. Healy, Penfield, H. S. 
Thaver. Luther Hagertv, Dr. Day, Phil Lesser, Jr., Jerome Powell, W. H. 
Hyde, J. F. Dill, S. A. Olmstead, F. McGloin, J. M. Schram, W. S. Hamblen, 
Fred Schoening, W. H. Osterhout, W. O Geary, Gresh, French, Noon, J. R. 
Kime. Miles, M. E. Lesser, A. R. Chapin, Dr. T. S. Hartley and H. A. Par- 
sons, Jr. 

The first election was held February 15, 1881. Jerome Powell was elected 
burgess; D. C. Oyster and C. H. McCauley were chosen councilmen for three 
years; W. H. Osterhout and W. H. Hyde for two years, and W. H. Schram and 
H. S. Thayer, for one year. The school directors chosen for the respective terms 
were J. S. Bardwell andH.A. Parsons. Fred Schoening and E. E. Willard; H. M. 
Powers and W. S. Hamblen. W. C. Healy was elected assessor; J. D. Ful- 
lerton, justice of the peace; R. V. Kime (three years), Hugh McGeehin (two 
years) and T. S. Hartley (one year), auditors; George R. Woodward, high con- 
stable; B. P. Mercer, constable; D. S. Luther, judge, with John Flynn and 
A. W. Jones, inspectors of election; M. E. Lesser and R. J. Campbell, over- 
seers of the poor. The highest vote cast was 174 for Councilman W. H. Hyde. 
The office of burgess has been filled by Jerome Powell in 1882; M. S. Service, 
1883; John R. Kim... 1884 85; R. J. Campbell, 1886; W. H. Schram. 1887; 
Thomas Gillooly, 1888; L. S. Guth, 1889. W. C. Healy has served as re- 
corder of the borough since organization. 

The justices of the peace elected since 1881 are named as follows: A. Swartz 
Ross, 1882; E. K. Gresh, 1884; W. C. Healy. 1885; Rufus Lucore, 1889. 

In June, 1885, there were 55 votes cast for a gas and water-tax, and 1 
against, and 140 cast against a water tax and 2 for. In August, 1888, the vote 
on the respective questions was 146 and 3 and 185 and 15. In November, 1888. 
the vote to increase debt was 207, npposed by 1. 

The elections of February, 1890, resulted as follows: Burgess — A. Swartz 
Ross (D.), 226; no opposition. Council — W. H. Hyde (D.). 223; John Flynn 
(D.), 185: William Earl (R.), 117: J. C. Millin (R.), 133. School directors— 
S. W. Miles, 198; M. O'Connor, Jr. (D.), 197; Delos Dolliver (R. ), 96; B. P. 
Mercer (R.), 137. Justice of the peace — W. C. Healy (D.), 197; no opposi 
tion. Collector— Thomas Barry (D.), 149; Robert Morrison (R.), 176. High 
Constable— YV. M. Dill (D. ), 198; no opposition. Borough constable — W. 
M. Dill (D.j. 238; no opposition. Overseer of the poor — John Dwyer (D.), 
194; Jacob Butterfuss (R.), 124. Auditor— J. D. Messenger (D.), 210; no 
opposition. Judge of election — DuBois Gorton (D.). 205; A. Renburg (R.), 
118. Inspector of election — W. C. Beman (D. ), 213; John Larson (R. ), 118. 
Gas. — On November 26, 1885, the gas well was connected with the pipes 
at Johnsonburg, and in four minutes a volume of gas traveled six miles to the 
gasometer at Ridgway in rear of the Hyde House. That night the burner at 
the corner of Main and Broad streets was lighted, and the chase after the grim 
plumbers commenced .... The Ridgway Gas Company petitioned for incorpo- 
ration October 22, 1883, through the stockholders. C. R. Earley, D. D. Cook, 



694 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

F. W. Morgan, Charles 15. Earley, A. Thompson and S. A. Rote. The cap- 
ital stock was placed at $5,000. .. .The Ridgway Light & Heat Company 
was chartered September 16, 1885, with J>. C. Oyster, W. C. Healy, H. M. 
Powers, Dysan Rishell and Alfred Short, stockholders.. . .The Elk Gas Com 
pany was chartered by the State August 19, l s ^i'>. 0. B. Grant. W. H. Os 
terhout, G. F. Dickinson, H. S. Thayer and C. H. McCauley were named 
directors, representing twenty-eight stockholders. . . . A charter to the People's 
Ga Company of Warren was entered here in 1886, and one to the United 
Natural Gas Company the- same year: also one to the Northwestern Pennsyl- 
vania Natural Gas Company. .. .The New Era Gas Company petitioned for 
charter in April. 1889, through I. D. Bell. S. A. Rote, D. C." Oyster. Alfred 
Short and John C. Brady. H. M. Powers was named as treasurer. The ol> 
ject of this company was to mine for gas in Ridgway township to be consumed 
in the borough. 

Water. — In November. 1843, the water privilege of the large spring south 
of the town was granted to the county for the use of the proposed public 
buildings .... The Ridgway Water Company was chartered July 7. 1885, the 
stock being placed at $50,000, held by citizens of Williamsport. About 
this time the proposition of Peter Herdic. in behalf of this corporation, was 
made The company proposed, among other things, that "the borough of 
Ridgway grant a franchise for the building, constructing, erecting and main 
taining said water-works within said borough, and the exclusive privilege of 
maintaining and operating said works for a period of ten years, or until such 
time as they may be purchased by said borough, and during said period to 
rent or lease from said P. Herdic, his heirs or assigns, the twenty-five hydrants, 
at an annual rental of forty dollars each, to be paid quarterly. Should other 
fire hydrants be required hereafter, the rate of rental shall be thirty dollars 
each for such additional hydrants, payable quarterly as above mentioned." 
This and other articles were signed by Herdic, John R. Kirne, the burgess, 
and William M. Sweet. On January 7, 1889, water from the new works was 
turned into the pipes, and came with a rush into the borough. 

Fire Companies — The Laurel Fire Company. No. 1. of Ridgway. was incor- 
porated April 22, 1884. AY. H. Osterhout, D.C. Oyster and C. H. McCaulej 
were named directors, and among the subscribers were W. H. Hyde, H. S. 

Thayer. E. J. Miller, \\ . L. Williams and John A. Kime The Emerald 

lb isc Company elected the following-named officers in March, 1S90: Presi 
dent. Thomas B. Gillooly; first vice president, M. O'Connor; second vice-pres- 
ident. William Yanorrnan; recording secretary, Samuel Ross; financial secre- 
tary. Thomas Barry; treasurer. Daniel Fitzgerald; foreman, Thomas H. Led 
den; first assistant, Charles O' Conner; second assistant. Daniel Maloney; 
board of trustees, H. E. Yan Aken, one year, S. G. Coon, one year, R. E. 
McFarlin, two years; plugmen, J. J. Devoge and John Barry; fire police. J. 
H. El linger. Lib. Luther and Thomas Barry. 

The new hose company, organized in February. 1S90. elected the follow 
ing named officers: J. M. Schram, president; W. S. Horton, vice-president: 
L. J. A. Lesser, recorder; A. L. Bell, financial secretary; J. H. McEwen, 
treasurer; H. H. Wensel, foreman; Gus F. Rohde, first assistant; George 
McFarlin, second assistant: W. S. Horton, George Clark. W. Irwin. William 
Earl and F. H. Ely, trustees. Then' are forty members. 

.--In June, 1870, the first big fire swept the north side of the square 
from the site of the Ridgway Bank to Broad street, leaving the old Hyde 
Bousesafe. The fire of August, 1873, destroyed Lesser ct Debbie's wagon 
and the Eyde harness shop. In July. 1874, a building near Hyde's saw-mill 
was burned. 



HISTOKY OF ELK COUNTY. 697 

The Ridgway fire of September 29, 1882, was discovered between 2 and 
3 o'clock that morning in the Democrat block. The losses are given as 
follows: Commencing at Broad street, Dr. C. R. Earley's building, §3,000; 
Charles Holes' building (net), $2,500; Jerome Powell's building (net), |2,050; 
R. V. Kime's building, 8350: James S. Maginnis' building (net), §1,800; Fred 
Sehoening's building (net), $1,000; "Union Store Company's building §3,000; 
Bank building (net), §500; George W. Rhines & Son (net), §2,300; J. W. 
Morgester's building (net), §1,000; R. I. Campbell's store building (net). 
$1,500, and dwelling house, rented to G. A. Rathbun (net), $600. (In the 
above list of losses the value of buildings destroyed above amount of insurance 
is only given.) The Elk County Advocate office in the Powell building lost, 
ab ive insurance, §1.000, and the Democrat office was totally destroyed, except 
books, etc., in the safe. The loss on G. A. Rathbun's library and office in 
the bank building was about $1,325. Many others suffered small losses in 
personal property and mercantile stocks — the people saving the greater part of 
such property from the fire. The north side of Main street or of square from 
Mill to Broad street and back to the mill race was destroyed, except a barn in 
rear of Powell & Kime's store. The Hyde House escaped, through the 
efforts of the workers to confine the fire to one block; and Edward Derby's 
house, at the western end, was saved in the same way. A dwelling belong- 
ing to R. I. Campbell and one to Mrs. M. L. Ross, on Race street, were also 
saved, as well as the Hyde mills. It destroyed all the buildings, except one, 
on the north side of Main street, between Broad and Mill, and for more than a 
year thereafter many of our business men occupied shanties in the streets 
pending the construction of new buildings. What then seemed a disaster to 
the merchants and owners has, as in many cases, proved a benefit to the 
village and the community at large. The buildings destroyed were of wood, 
irregular in construction and unsightly in appearance, but have been replaced 
by substantial brick blocks. Scarcely had the heated ground cooled, than J. 
W. Morgester and Robert I. Campbell began the work of rebuilding, the 
former completing his building before the close of the year at a cost of $6,000. 
In March, 1883, work on the Union Hall (a $20,000 house), for Fred Schoen- 
ing and James McGinnis, commenced; also on Powell & Kime's Grand Cen- 
tral block, the Ridgway bank building, and G. W. Rhines' building. Mor- 
gester's building and three houses erected by Campbell in 1883 form a block 
with a frontage of eighty-nine feet on Main street. Up to 1889 this work has 
been carried on. The new building on the corner of Broad and Main streets 
was erected in 1889 by Hyde & Murphy for Frank G. Earley. P. Fitz- 
patrick was contractor for the brick work. The cost is estimated at $12,000. 
The fire of April 22, 1889, at Thompson's mills on Island run, two miles south 
of the borough, destroyed nearly 500,000 feet of hemlock and pine; also some 
lath, pickets and clap-boards, valued, altogether, at §5,000, was destroyed, the 
total loss in lumber, buildings and machinery being from $8,000 to $10,000. 

Mrs. William McNall and her four children, of Ridgway, sought safety 
in the cellar of their house from* the terrible storm of May 10, 1889. While 
there lightning struck the house, and the mother and three of her children 
were killed. The other child, a babe of a month, was alive and uninjured in the 
arms of its dead mother .... The destruction of a large section of the Eagle Tan 
nery took place Friday, July 19, 1SS9. Early that morning, the people of Ridg- 
way were alarmed by the report of a loud explosion, and looking in the direc- 
tion from which the report seemed to come, they beheld, just over the bark- 
mill of the Eagle Valley Tannery, on the north side of Elk creek, a dense cloud 
of black smoke, and flames were bursting from the roof of the building on 



698 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

every side. The alarming shrieks of the whistle were heard for miles around 
In less than five minutes a large crowd of the town people had gathered, and 
were assisting in taking care of the sadly injured workmen, and helping the 
tannery men to connect their hose with the pumps, to save as much of the 
property as possible. The Tannery Hose Company, assisted by the Emerald 
Hose Company, saved some of the principal buildings, leaving the bark-mill 
and engine room (containing two good engines). 45x100 feet, with cellar; leach 
house, 250x45 feet; bark-shed, 45x200 feet, containing 300 cords of rock-oak 
bark, worth $S to §10 per cord, and the "cooler." 20x50 feet, besides a team 
of horses valued at $450, to be destroyed. The buildings and bark, valued at 
$15,000, were insured. The human victims of this fire were named as follows: 
John Strycker, Swiss, cremated, aged about twenty years, single man. a 
nephew of Andrew Strycker; Andrew Strycker, Swiss, fatally burned, died 
Saturday night, aged about fifty years, leaving a widow and several children; 
John Fisher, Swiss, fatally burned, died Saturday night, aged about fifty-one 
years, leaving a widow and several children; John Westerline, aged about eight- 
een years, fatally burned, died Sunday morning, lived with his brother, parents 
being in Sweden; John Borjeson, Swede, very badly burned; John Ber- 
gendahl, burned on one arm and face, was in the leach house and was thrown 
some twenty feet by the concussion; George D. Smith, engineer, an American. 
burned severely about the hands, arms, face and neck, his escape being marvelous. 
The mill was not iu operation. The men had been cleaning up to change from 
grinding hemlock to oak bark. The engineer had just turned on steam, and 
the machinery had only commenced to revolve when the shock came, and the 
men were burned as with a flash of powder, and instantly the building was in 
flames. In clearing out the debris, the lantern held by John Strycker was 
found in the elevator, and it is supposed that while waiting for the mill to start 
up, he left this lantern on the works, whence it was carried up when the ma 
chinery was set in motion, and the light catching the bark dust caused the 
explosion. The company has established a fire department, the employes 
forming the force. A fine hose cart and a large amount of hose have been pur- 
chased, also other equipments. 

Manufactures. — The lumber trade had always been the leading industry 
up to 1S70, and still is, perhaps, in the number of men and amount of capitai 
employed. Although since the burning of Hyde's saw-mill on Race street, 
there are no saw-mills within the borough, there is a number in its immediate 
neighborhood and contributory to its mercantile interests. Whistletown, on the 
( llarion, three miles north, is operated by Henry. Bayard & Co. ; Eagle Valley, 
one mile north, formerly owned by J. S. Hyde; \\ esl End. owned by Dickinson 
Bros. ; Mill Creek, four miles southwest, owned by Bryant & Ewer: Elk (.'reek. 
on Elk creek, one mile east, owned and run by B. 1". Eh & Sons; H. S. Thayer's. 
on Big Mill creek, and J. S. Hyde's mill, on Gallagher run. near the borough 
line. All these are circular mills of large capacity: and the four on the 
Clarion are run by water-power. 

Enos Gillis came to Etidgway in 1 S 2T. and began the building of his saw 
mill and tannery immediately thereafter, placing James Gallagher in cl 
In L844 Enos Gillis moved to near Pittsburgh, and thence to Michigan. 

The Hyde estate lands aggregate aliout 15,000 acres in Ridgway, Horton. 
Spring Creek and Eox townships. The Hyde Hill, along Eagle Valley. is 
capped with sandstone bowlders, some of which are 30x20 feet and ten feet 
high. In recent years the Pennsylvania Railroad Company and several indi 
viduals have leased quarry tracts on this and on other hills west of the Eagle 
Valley mills from the estate, and dimension and common building stone quar 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. b\)\) 

ryiug lias become a great industry. The estate receives a royalty of fifteen to 
twenty-five cents per perch of stone. 

The Eagle Valley mills were built years ago, and the late J. S. Hyde was 
interested in their building. They are now the property of the estate. The 
capacit v is about 25, 000 feet per day. and the number of men employed is about 
fifteen "throughout the year .... The Gallagher Run mills were built about 
1882, and the railroad constructed ten miles up the valley that year for the 
transport of lumber. The road runs two miles up the run, and thence over 
the abandoned Shawmut road to a point near Shawmut. The capacity is about 
30.01)0 feet per day.... The old Elk Creek mills were owned by J. S. 
Hyde, up to the time of sale to Souther & Willis, who sold to B. F. Ely. . . 
The Hyde mills, in Horton township, are at the mouth of Brandy Camp creek 
and on Saw Mill run, two miles northeast of the former. Thirty men are em- 
ployed, and the capacity of both is 50,000 per day. . . .The Laurel Run mill is 
operated by White & Thayer, a mile above the mouth of that stream. A tram 
road connects with the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad, one and a half miles 
distant. The capacity is 40,000 per day, and the number of men employed 
twenty. 

The Portland Lumber Company comprise the quarter interest of W. H. 
Hyde, the quarter interest of the Hyde estate, the quarter interest of J. K. P. 
Hall, and a similar interest held by A. Kane, of St. Mary's. The unsold 
lands in Horton, Spring Creek and Ridgwav townships comprise about 18,000 
acres. On the tract there are 250,000.000 of hemlock, 40.000.000 of pine, 
some oak and other hardwoods. The hemlock is valued at $2 per M. , 
and pine at $10 per M. Throughout the Hyde lands, W. H. Hyde is en- 
gaged extensively in lumbering, and also on a lease from Grant & Horton on 
their lands. 

The Portland Company's mills, in Spring Creek township, are important 
industries, turning out 80,000 feet per day and giving employment to forty 
men.... The number of men employed in the woods by jobbers for W. H. 
Hyde and associate owners is at least 150, exclusive of those employed around 
the woods. 

There are two grist-mills in the borough, one owned by W. H. Hyde & 
Co., at the foot of Mill street, and run by water-power from Elk creek, one of 
the oldest mills in the county; the other, recently built by A. H. Buckland, 
is situated on the Ridgwav & Clearfield Railroad and South street, and is run 
by steam power. Both are noted for the good quality of their products, prin- 
cipally corn-meal and feed, and are run nearly to their full capacity. The 
Hyde grist-mill was erected years ago. and is still the old-style water-mill, 
with a capacity of 36,000 bushels of oats per annum. The grain, oats and 
corn are imported from the West, and here all the feed for the Hyde stables is 
ground. . . .The Cobb gristmill, which took the place of the one burned, was 
completed in June, 1850. 

The Ridgwav Company's planing- mill was erected in 1878 by Hyde & 
Ross, and the machinery of the old J. V. Houk mill on Centre street moved 
thereto. In 1883 Mr. Ross sold his interest, and in 1884 M. P. Murphy pur- 
chased. This mill gives employment to thirty-five men the year round. The 
building and machinery are valued at $25,000. 

In 1876 the firm of Hyde, Kline & Co., composed of W. H. Hyde & Co. 
and D. R. Kline, established a foundry and machine shop on Depot street. 
Their business is largely repairing, but they also do considerable in the way 
of new work, and have as specialties the " Carman Saw Guide" and the "Kline 
Natural Gas Burner." In January, 1889, Mr. Kline's term of partnership ex 



700 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

pired, and the works arc now operated by W. H. Hyde with K. I. Robinson, 
manager. The value of buildings and machinery is $15,000, and number of 
men employed is twelve. 

In 1885 the joint stock company of McEwen Bros. & Co., limited, was 
formed for the purpose of carrying on a machine shop and the building of 
engines, boilers, and saw-mill and tannery machines. They built a large shop 
on Main street at the crossing of the Ridgway & Clearfield Railroad. Hardly 
was the machinery set. before the whole plant was destroyed by tire, May 27. 
L886 With characteristic American energy they pushed ahead, and the works 
aii' again in full operation with better buildings and plant than before. 

The Hamilton Wagon Company, composed of W. H. Hyde, W. H. Oster- 
hout, D. C. Oyster and D. B. Hamilton, perfected organization in January. 
1889. The shops were completed on Broad street, near the depot, and opened 
in the summer following, and twenty or thirty employes are unable to supply 
the demand for their product. 

Grant & Horton were the second parties to locate a sole leather tannery in 
Elk county (the first having been built at Wilcox), and are at the junction 
of Aylsworth run with the Clarion, about one mile from the court-house, and 
west of the borough line, where they bought from Dickinson, and built in 
1867. The business is a very successful one. and grows in extent each year. 
Their works are called "Ridgway Tannery, ".and their leather is well ami fa- 
vorably known, a large amount being exported to foreign countries. After the 
opening of their works, they found the tannery cut off from communication with 
the railroads in the spring and fall, for during the rainy seasons the bottom of 
Main and Broad streets was way below the surface. To remedy this. Grant 
& Horton and the Dickinsons built a plank road from the tannery to the rail- 
road station at their own expense, an improvement that has since been kept up 
by the township and borough authorities. 

The Eagle Tannery may be said to date back to the fall of 1870, when W. 
H. Osterhout purchased, from J. S. Hyde, 135 acres of land for a building site 
an 1 1.700 acres of hemlock bark. He also purchased from J. S. Schultz 
1,000 acres and from others 3.000 acres of bark lands. He at once built the 
Eagle Tannery, with a bark mill of 18,000 cords capacity. The tannery com- 
pany was organized for incorporation August 13, 1888, with William H. Oster- 
hout. Calvin D. Osterhout, Jackson S. and Lonis H. Schultz and W. B. Benson, 
directors. The capital stock consisted of 6,000 shares of $51 1 each. < i. W.Childs. 
of Broome county. X. Y., was named treasurer. The cost of plant, etc., is about 
$200,000; sides of leather tanned per year. '250,000; amount of yearly sales of 
leather about $925,000; cords of bark used annually. 20.000; value of bark 
constantly in yard, from $75,000 to $100,000; L65 men are employed im 
mediately in and about the works. The great lire of 18SU caused a temporary 
stoppage of work in some departments, as related in the sketch of thai 
catastrophe. There are about forty-six dwellings, including Mr. Osterhout's 
own residence. The water supply was put in in 1889, by Mr. Osterhout, on 
the moral assurance that the borough would pay ultimately. Previously he 
had conducted the water from the springs on the hill above for the use of his 
tenants. The rebuilding and improvements of 1889 will amount to $20,000, 
extending the capacity considerably. The lands owned or leased by this 
tannery company amount to 25,700 acres 

Banks. The Ridgway Bank was established in l s 75 by Henry Souther, 
Albert Willis and Edward Souther, a- Souther, Willis & Souther, and »;i- 
conducted by E. Souther until 1 s7« >. when it was sold to the present pro- 
prietors —Alfred Short. D. C. Oyster and Hezekiab Horton, Mr. Oyster being 




Cn/nnJ 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 703 

the president. The office is almost opposite the court-house on Main 
street. The wealth and industries represented by this banking company 
compare with that of any other business association in this section of the State. 

The Elk County Bank was established August 16, 1874, with Jerome 
Powell, Dr. C. R. Earley, John G. Hall and C. R. Kline stockholders. The 
office was opened in Hall's brick block, where it has since been conducted. 
C. R. Kline served as cashier from 1874 to June. 1880, when M. S. Kline 
succeeded him. In 1877 Dr. Earley retired; in March, 1880, W. H. Hyde 
purchased an interest, and in January, 1888, Jerome Powell retired, selling 
his interest to John G. Hall. The same month M. S. Kline and C. H. 
McCauley entered the partnership, and in May of that year J. S. Hyde became 
associated with them. In July W. H. Hyde purchased his father's share, 
and he, with M. S. Kline and Messrs. Hall* and McCauley are present owners. 
The original capital was $50,000. a sum not since increased, although the 
present surplus is §24.2111. 

Hotels. — David Thayer, born in County Cavan. Ireland, in 1816, came 
to Ridgway with his family in 1836 or 1837, and died here in February. 1884. 
He built the Exchange Hotel at the east end of Clarion bridge, and con 
ducted it for fifteen or twenty years, and carried the mails from Ridgway to 
Warren. In later years he conducted the Thayer House until 1871, when 
he sold to Eieley and Brother. 

The Hyde House was built in 1858-59, and opened June 10, in the latter 
year, by Mr. Osgood, who leased it from J. S. Hyde. In 1861 he retired, 
and the house was conducted for Mr. Hyde some time, when Mrs. Cummins 
purchased it. She, with H. S. Belknap as manager, carried on the hotel until 
1867, when a Mr. Moore, now of Olean, bought her interest. In 1869 Mr. 
Schram became owner, and with the exception of ten months, in 1883, when 
Mr. Holly conducted the house, he has managed it successfully down to the 
present time. Dr. Day, his son-in-law, purchased the house in 1887, but con- 
tinued Mr. Schram in the management. The east wing of the proposed mod- 
ern Hyde House was completed in 1888. 

The hotels now in the borough of Ridgway are the Thayer House, kept by 
T. AVingfield; Hyde House, by D. B. Day; Clarion Hotel, by Mary J. Vaughan; 
Rochester House, by H. H. Deet; Bogert House, by Hugh McGeehin; McFar- 
lin Hotel, by James McFarlin; Broad Street Hotel, by Daniel McGovern; Re- 
vere House, by C. W. Barrett, and the Eagle Hotel, by Frank Showers. 

Churches. — There are seven church organizations and six church buildings 
in the borough, as follows: St. Leo's Roman Catholic church, on Depot street, 
is the finest and most expensive, as the congregation is the largest. Rev. M. 
Meagher, pastor, resides in a parsonage belonging to the parish, situate on 
the Brookville road. The German Lutheran church is on South street above 
Broad, and has a parsonage upon the same lot. The Methodist Episcopal, 
Protestant Episcopal and Congregational ist are on Centre, the former having a 
parsonage on " Zion's Hill," in Souther's addition, while the Episcopal rec- 
tory is on a lot adjoining the church lot. The Swedish Congregational church, 
recently built, is on Broad street opposite Osterhout's tannery, and the Pres- 
byterians occupy a hall, fitted up as a chapel, over Messenger's drug store, 
corner Main and Mill streets. Ridgway is thus amply provided for the moral, 
religious and mental instruction of its citizens. 

The Methodists organized here about 1833, with Reuben and Mrs. J. A. 
Aylesworth, Mrs. Gallagher and daughter, Emily, and Lueretia Gillis. mem- 

* While on a visit to England, Hon. John G.Hall died suddenly iu the cityol Liverpool, on Octobei 
7, 1889. 



704 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

bers. At that time Revs. Benjamin F. Sedwick aDd Abner Jackson were 
preachers; Rev. G. D. Kinnear came in 1S34, and Rev. A. Plimpton, in L835. 
In February, 1851, Revs. R.Edwards, of Warren, and S. B. Sullivan, of 
Youngsville, officiated at the Methodist quarterly meeting held at Ridgway Acad- 
emy. I. Blackford advertised this meeting as early as December. 1850. The 
Methodist church house was erected in 1873-74, during the pastorate of Rev. W. 
Martin, at a cost of $8,000. and was dedicated January 31, 1875, by Mr. Ives, of 
Auburn, X. Y. In 1879 part of this debt was unpaid, and members of the 
church expressed dissatisfaction. In explaining matters, H. Y. Talbot published 
i statement in August, 187U, in behalf of the trustees, and in 1880 the debt 
was extinguished during the pastorate of Rev. S. M. Clark. The Methodist 
Episcopal Church of Ridgway petitioned for incorporation August 2. 1^70. 
through W. H. Osterhout, E. K. Gresh, Jacob McCauley, C. E. Holaday, S. 
A. Olmstead, Charles Mead and T. S. Hartley. Rev. J. C. McDonald reports 
the membership at 120, and the value of property at $10,000. 

The old frame Catholic church, now standing on the hill, was not built 
until 1867-69. The priests of St. Mary's attended this mission [the church 
was formerly known as the Sacred Heart of Mary] until June, 1871. when 
Rev. M. Meagher was appointed to the charge, having previously served at 
Tidioute, and subsequently at Corry. In 1871 the congregation was below 
the 100 mark, since increased to 500. Among the leading member-- in 1^74 
were the Flynns, Mrs. Jackson and family, Fannings, Gilloolys, Maginnis. the 
Schoeuings, Healys, McGeehins, McGloins. Meenans. Hollands, Noons. Will 
iams, Singletons, Dalys, Riellys. Maloneys, Sheehans, McCauleys, O' Neils. 
Murpheys, Mulqueens, Powers, McGoverns, Hays. Barrys, Mrs. Dickinson 
ami family. Mays, Casserlys and a few other-. In 1 880 Father Meagher, seeing 
that the time for building a new house of worship had arrived, looked around 
for a location. Dr. Charles R. Early donated a lot. 136x227 feet, and on 
August 12, 1883, the corner-stone of the present building was placed by 
Bishop Mullen, of Erie, and dedicated September 6, 1885, by the same bishop. 
The church is a solid brick structure with sandstone facings. It cost $15,000, 
and was built after plans by P. C. Kieley under the direct superintendence of 
the pastor. This large church was almost paid for at the date of dedication. 
Father Meagher attends the people at Carman, Daguscahonda, Vineyard Run. 
Cameron and other places. The stained glass windows were presented 1>\ 
Hugh McGeehin, James Duffey. Mary E. Maginnis, Matilda L. Schoening. 
John Williams, J. J. Yaughan, Jeremiah Dennison, Ellen D'Arcy, William 
Fanning, Susan Campbell. Mrs. D. J. McDonald, John Healy, Jr., J. D. 
Meenan, John Fanning, Jr.. D. Canavan, Patrick Holland, Robert Power. 
Patrick Ryan. Kate O'Connor, the Sheehan family, the Meisinger family. 
George Dickinson. Patrick Murphy, J. W. Lahive. Dennis Flynn. Temperance 
Society and Rosary Society. 

Grace Protestant Episcopal Church of Ridgwav was incorporated Jul) 6, 
1866, on petition of E. Derby, J. G. Hall, H. Souther, t'. McVean, A. Willis. 
J. H. Mays. J. Powell. G. D Messenger. L. and L. C. Wilmarth, B. F. Ely. 
J. K. Whitmore and C. V. Gillis. 

The Lutheran Church was organized April 14. 1872, with George Walker. 
Phillip Lesser, Arnold Bruegger, Caspar Bruegger. .John Christ and John 
Wunderlich and their families, members. Rev. J. Brenneman was first pa-tor. 
followed by Augustus Schaeffer and Rev. A. 11. J. Graepp, the present pastor. 

PI ortier -tone of the present church house was placed -May 25, l s 7o. and 

the building was dedicated in October of that year. The membership is 200. 
and the value of property $10,000. 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 



705 



The Swedish Church of Ridgway may be said to date back to 1873, when 
the immigrants of 1870-71 were supplied with a preacher. In 1882 an or- 
ganization was perfected— Bethlehem congregation. Trouble at once ensued, 
and in 1884 a number of members withdrew, leaving the remaining ones to 
purchase a lot on Earley's Hill. Owing to troubles in title, the building there 
was not completed, but in October, 1887, they purchased a lot in west Ridge- 
way and later began building. M. A. Nordstrom was preacher at this time. 
"The Swedish Congregational Church of Ridgway was incorporated Novem- 
ber 15 1886, the trustees being J. E. Swanson. C. M. Johnson, A. Froberg. 
P. G. Greenwall and W. Johnson. J. E. Lundberg and J. T. Johnson also 
signed the petition. 

The First Congregational Church of Ridgway petitioned for incorporation 
November 11, 1882. The subscribers named were W. H. Osterhout. E. K. 
Gresh, W. H. Hyde, D. C. Oyster. Peter Gulnack, T. J. Reese and Jerome 
Powell. The corner-stone of the Congregational church was placed August 28, 
L882 by Rev. A. VanCamp. In June, 1883, the bell presented by J. S. Hyde 
was placed, and dedicated July 15, 1883. The total cost was about §10,000. 
The First Presbyterian Church was organized November 9, 18/5, with the 
following- named members: John and Elizabeth Winklebleck, Mrs. R. Lucore, 
E. J. Miller, Elizabeth Mcintosh. Mrs. S. R. Chapin, Mrs. L. A. T. Little and 
Horace Little, the present clerk. There are thirty-seven members. Rev. T. 
S. Neglen is pastor. 

The Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church was incorporated September 
16; 1884, with C. Lindgren, L. Carlberg, A. G. Moller, C. P. Green and John 
Nelson, subscribers. John Kolmberg was among the trustees. 

The First Evangelical Lutheran Church was chartered in May, 1884, with 
Rev. John Sander, Ferd. Sallach. J. A. Miller, J. Fuhrer, C. Briigger. John 
Otth, Jr. , and John Christ, directors. 

Cemetery Association.— The Ridgway Cemetery Association was organized 
in 1872 and on April 8, a petition for incorporation was signed by the follow- 
ing-named members: R. V. Kime, W. H. Hyde, Jerome Powell. Horace 
Little, C. R. Earley, George A. Rathbun, H. S. Thayer, J. G. Hall, C. H. 
McCauley, W. S. Service, G. G. Messenger, G. D. Messenger, James Pen- 
field. D. F. Farrand, L. C. Horton, Rufus Lucore, Edward Souther and 
Charles Holes. W. S. Hamblen was one of the trustees. 

Schools.*— The first school was opened in Gallagher's log house (near the 
central graded township school building), in 1826, by Hannah Gilbert and at- 
tended by the children of the three families then residing there. Subsequently 
Ann Berry and Betsy Hyatt taught in the " Old Red House." a dwelling. In 
1 834 a house for common-school purposes was erected near the Dickinson dwell- 
in^ by Messrs. Crow, Thayer, Gallagher, Dickinson, Cobb and Cady. directors 
and Betsy Hyatt installed. She was succeeded by Mr. Barnutz in 1835. A 
second building was erected close bv in 1838, intended for a graded school, 
and came down to our own day. In 1870, a S7,000-school building was erected 
this side of the Clarion, and opened with L. D. Rockwell, principal, and Addie 
P. Taylor, assistant. QR 

In 1874 three teachers were employed in the Ridgway schools. In 1880-50 
a wing as large as the main building was erected, and in 1887 the pupils re_ 
sidincT outside the borough were excluded. This necessitated the building of 
another school house on th e G. G. Messenger lot, Mill street, which was com- 

•Kidgway received S94 toward the old school-house, built in 1834, over which Barnutz presided to^ 1835; 

the I Sd^vaC and War.,,, Turn,.iK. .„„„,;„»• ,, nod s,h,k ; i. a .hare in the ••""^ < * V'* .V't J ' ■ ' "i 

000 ..1 tiie bank fund, together with moneys suhseril.ed tor other purposes. All this eame from the .-_ >, 

000 relief note issue. 



706 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

pleted in October, 1887, and opened by W. H. Devereaux, principal, assisted 
by B. E. Wilcox and Maggie Reese. In 1888 Prof. Kline was principal, and 
in ISS'.J Prof. Devereaux was re-appointed. C. J. Swift was principal of the 
borough schools at this time with Misses Little, Kime, O'Connor, Ross and 
Thompson, assistants. In April, 1889, the largest class ever graduated a1 
Ridgway, comprised Franklin Lesser, Amos Williams. Frank McFarliu, 
Henry Willard, John Flynn, Lynne Hamblen, Heber McDonnald, Maud Thomp 
son, Josephine Scribner, Mary Mulqueen, Mina VanAken, May Noon. Alice 
Schirk, Mary Logan, Willa Webb, Viola Metts, Eva Irwin. Louie Little. 

The school buildings are situated at the corner of South and Broad streets, 
and although built of wood are considered very good. The main part was 
erected in 1870 by Salyer Jackson, then of this place, built at a cost of $7,1 N H I 
The first teachers in the building were L. D. Rockwell, now a physician at 
Union City, Penn., and Miss Addie P. Taylor, who still resides in Ridgway. 
After Dr. Rockwell came a Prof. Urnholtz as principal. In 1873 and 1874 
George R. Dixon was principal, Misses Addie P. Taylor and B. E. Wilcox 
assistants. In 1874, Miss Garritt (now Mrs. E. T. Grant) also assisted. J. 

B. Johnson, J. D. Rishell, C. J. Swift, now county superintendent, and D. C. 
Murphy, the present principal, followed in succession. The staff of teachers 
comprises Miss Lizzie Thompson, Miss Maggie Flynn. Miss Maud Nates, Miss 
Ada Munro and Mrs. Emma Lane. Mrs. Lane is a graduate of the Mansfield 
Normal School and has received special training in kindergarten work. She 
has taught successfully in Wilkesbarre and Galeton. where important po 
were held. 

The Ridgway Academy was presided over in 1850 by W. H. Neiver . . . The 
convent schools of Ridgway are on Zion Hill, near the old Catholic church. 

Societies. — Elk Lodge, No. 379, F. <.V A. M., was constituted under 
charter January 15, 1867, with the following-named members: G. A. Rathbun. 
H. A. Thomas, C. R. Earley. Byron F. Ely, D. D. Cook, Henry Souther, 
Hiram Carman, Isaac Horton. Jr.. B. J. Jones, R. I. Robinson, J. L. Brown 
and \Y. A. Boyer. The past masters are named as follows: Henry H. Thomas. 
1867-69; C. R. Earley, 1868; W. C. Healy, 1870; G. T. Wheeler, 1871; 
Isaac Horton, Jr., 1872; E. P. Dickinson, 1873; E. J. Miller, 1N74: W. H. 
Schram, 1875; H. Warner. 1876; C. Y. Gillis, 1877: W W. Mattison. l^TS: 
P. R. Smith, 1879; A. B. Wheeler, 1880; 11. Carman, L881; .1. M. Schram, 
1882; W. F. Mercer, 1883; Dr. Fullerton, 1884: F. C. Ely, 1885; D. D. Cook, 
1886; A. B. C. Young, 1887-88, and George R. Dixon. 1889. The secreta 
ries have been Hiram Carman, one year; J. P. Whitmore. three years; G. L. 
McCracken, two years; D. B. Day, half a year; W. C. Healy. two and one- 
half wars; E. J. Miller, one year; G. R. Dixon, two years: W. C. Healy. two 
years; G. R. Dixon, two years;' W. C. Healy, in 1887-89. The officers for L890 
are W. S." Horton, W. M. ; W. D. Drysdale, S. W. ; Delos Dolliver, J. \\ . ; 
George It. Dixon, chaplain; B. F. Ely, treasurer (over twenty-one years |; W. 

C. Healy, secretary. 

Elk Chapter, No. 230, R. A. M. . was chartered September 13, 1870. with 
C. R. Earley, H. P.; G. T. Wheeler, K. ; C. V. Gillis. S. : D. D. Cook. T.. 
and William C. Healv. secretary. The past high priests are named as follows 
Dr. C R. Earley, 1870; GilmanT. Wheeler, 1871 and lsTT: C. V. Gillis. 1872; 
W. S. Service, 1873: Rufus Lucore. L874; W_H. Schram, 1875-76; John \V. 
Morgester, 1878; Nathaniel T. Cummings, 1S<9-81; Amos B. Wheeler. 1882; 
Eugene J. Miller, 1883-84: Jas. B. Wicks, 1885; Daniel D. Cook. 1886: \\ ilbur 
P. Mercer, 1887; John M. Schram. 1889. The chapter uses the Masonic hall 
meeting, but as an organization has no share in ownership. 





%#**& 



^r^^^y 



HISTOEY OF ELK COUNTY. 709 

There are fifty-four members. The secretaries have been as follows: W. C. 
Healy, in 1870; George L. McCracken, 1871-74; Horace Warner, 1874-75; 
Eugene J. Miller, 1876; W. C. Healy, 1879-89. The officers for 1890 are 
Frank C. Ely, H. P.; J. D. Fullerton, king; T. H. Claffey, scribe; B. F. Ely, 
treasurer, and W. C. Healy, secretary. 

Knapp Commandery, No. 40, was organized under dispensation March 29, 
1871, with the following-named officers: C. R. Earley, E. C. ; G. T. Wheeler. 
G. : C. V. Gillis, C. G.: W. C. Healy, recorder, and unofficial member. 
Samuel C. Hyde. The past commanders are C. R. Earley, 1871; G. T. 
Wheeler, 1872-73; C. V. Gillis, 1874; L. W. Gifford, 1875; Rufus Lucore, 
1876; E. J. Miller, 1877-78; G. T. Wheeler, 1879-1881; Hiram Carman, 
1882-86; Amos B. Wheeler, 1887; E. J. Miller, 1888; Frank C. Ely, ISM). 
The commandery. like the chapter, rents the Masonic hall. There are now 
forty- seven members, eleven of whom were admitted last year. The past 
secretaries are W. C. Healy, 1871-75; George R. Woodard, 1876-78, and 
William C. Healy, 1879-1889. There was no regular election from March, 
1877, to March, 1879. The election in March, 1890, resulted in the choice of 
J. M. Schram, C. ; W. S. Horton. G. ; W. C. Healy, recorder, and B. F. Ely. 
treasurer. In 1868 a committee was appointed to procure a new hall, and in 
September of that year this body reported and was authorized to purchase lot 
and building of Albert Willis, on Depot street. This was carried out and a 
part of the Willis building forms a part of the present hall, to which addi- 
tions have been made to accommodate the other Masonic bodies of the borough. 

The Elk Hall Association was incorporated August 8, 1867, for the pur- 
pose of erecting one or more buildings at Ridgway. The members were 
Henry Souther, Charles R. Earley, B. F. Ely, D. D. Cook, Hiram Carman. 
R. P. Saltsman, J. R. Whitmore, G. A. Rathbun, G. L. McCracken, D. C. 
Oyster, W. C. Healy, G. F. Dickinson, B. A. Dill, W. S. Service, Henry H 
Thomas, G. T. Wheeler, N. T. Cummings, A. Thompson, H. S. Belknap, Isaac 
Horton, Jr., R. J. Robinson. J. L. Brown, E. Kimm Scribner and Byron J. 
Jones. The lodge leased a room where Powell & Kime's store now is. 

Ridgway Lodge, No. 969, I. O. O. F., was chartered February 28, and in- 
stituted March 11, 1880, by D. D. G. M. Robeit Dick, with John Knorl, 
N. G. ; M. D. Cohn, V. G. ; Rev. C. A. Squier, secretary; N. M. Space, assist- 
ant secretary, and J. Colderbank, treasurer. Among the members admitted 
were W. H. Schram, I. W. Beckwith, L. Vankirk, J. A. Anderson, William 
Johnson, A. and George Fredenburgh, Thalius Wingtield, Joel Miller, J. A. 
Ross, F. A. Vanorsdall, C. H. Rhines, J. N. Rhines, F. Kiester, A. F. Kuhns, 
Sam Hildebrand. W. A. McChesney, Patrick Connor, Lewis A. Brendel, C. L. 
Chamberlin and H. H. Wensel. The past grands of this lodge since Septem- 
ber, 1880, are named as follows: Marks D. Cohn, John Ross, L. A. Brendel, 
William Cuthbert, T. Wingtield. C. H. Rhines, John A. Anderson, W. C. Mc- 
Millan, Reuben Mohney, Gus. Rhodes, M. D. Cohn. J. A. Gear, J. E. Logan. 
J. J. Hinkle, L. J. A. Lesser, A. Lindholm and James Davison. The past 
secretaries are Reuben Gross, J. W. Smith, John A. Anderson, 1881-83; 
William J. Cuthbert, 1883 to June, 1888, when L. J. A. Lesser was elected 
secretary. The present grand is R. I. McChesney. The present membership 
is about 55. In the tire of 1882 the hall in the Rhines building was de- 
stroyed, when the lodge lost all property except the secretary's desk and 
records. The insurance company paid $297 of this loss. Subsequently the 
lodge met in the Knights of Honor hall until their present quarters in the 
Ridgway Bank block were leased. The personal property is valued at $800. 
Only one death is recorded. The officers chosen in October, 1889, were W. 



710 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Johnson. N. G., and L. J. A. Lesser, secretary. In March, 1890, Henry E. 
Van Aken was elected presiding officer. 

Albert W. Perrin Post, No. 37o. (i. A. U.. was organized September 21. 1883, 
with D. F. Farrand (36th Wis. Inf. ), commander; Reuben Mohney (TSth P. V. 
L), V. ('.: DuBois Gorton (143d New York Begiment), -I. V. C. ; James Penfield 
(105th P. V. I.), Q M. ; O. T. Miner (11th Pa. B. I.), adjutant; W. L. Will- 
iams (62d P. V. I.), surgeon; M. E. Lesser (Pa. I. Co.), O. of D. ; Philip 
Shirk (111th P. V. I.), O. of G. ; J. C. Andrews (57th P. V. I.), chaplain. 
The soldier in whose honor the post was named, was a resident of Spring 
Creek township until the war. He died in Andersonville prison. The names 
of the other charter members of the post are Nathan Laugher (Pa. It. i. A 
Fulmer (10th Pa. Cav.), H. H. Wensel (148th Inf. i. J. K. Moore ( 105th Inf. ). 
J. A. Stroup (63d Inf. >, William Tierney (62d Inf. >, John Hamilton (2d W. Va. 
Inf.); J. H. Secor (56th N. Y. I. J. Bear (127th Pa.), S. E. Milliven (18th 
N. J. Inf.), Lewis Mohney (78th Pa.), A. G. Travis (6th U. S. Cav. i. Ray- 
mond Eastley (78th Pa.), Jonathan Mohney (21st V. R. C), Thomas i'» 
Johnson (1st V. B. C. ), W. P. Henry (160th Pa. I and J. C. Malone (58th Pa. ). 
Tin' present membership is forty-eight. H. H. Wensel was commander 
in L884, C. F. Yennie in 1885, Philip Shirk in 1886, J. M. Grosh (89th 111.) 
in 1887-88, and B. A. Park in 1889. James Woodward served as adjutant 
in 1884, W. M. Elliott in 1885, B. A. Parkin 1886-88 and W. S. Ross (5th 
Pa. H. A.) in 1889. The officers for 1890 are P. A. Mead, commander; 

B. I. Bobinson, S. V. C. ; W. S. Boss. J. V. C. ; T. B. Johnson, O. of G. ; J. 
A. Myres, O. of D. ; J. H. Secor. Q. M.. J. N. Brown, surgeon; Philip Schirk. 
chaplain. 

W. S. Boss Camp, No. 222, Sons of Veterans, was chartered October 13. 
1888, with L. T. Park, G. H. and Charles Secor, A. S. Grosh. R, E., P. C. aud 
S. E. Boss, P. B. Mercer. A. K. Houghtaling, A. J. Lewis, E. H. McCurdy, 
P. D. Walsh, F. A. Walshe, H. Lentz. J. M. Kennedy and Jerome Gordon. 

The names of soldiers buried in the cemeteries of Ridgway prior to May 
30, 1887, are Elisha DeGroat, Company F, 58th Pennsylvania Begiment. 
who died in 1880, in St. Leo's Cemetery; William Stephenson, Company D, 
100th Pennsylvania Begiment. who died in 1868; Willis Taylor, Company B. 
1 IDth Pennsylvania Begiment, who died in 1883; N. P. Lent, Company F. 56th 
New York Begiment, who died in 1881; A. D. Laymon, Company H. 143d 
New York Begiment, who died in 1886. Interred in Pine Grove Cemetery: 
Thomas J. Malin, Company K, 111th Pennsylvania Regiment, who died in 
1866; E. K. Scribner, Company G, 42d Pennsylvania Kegiment, who died 
in L869; Eli Bolle, Company I, 105th Pennsylvania Begiment, who died in 
1883, and Ephriam Shall, and also White, whose military records are unknow T n. 
in Bidgway Cemetery. 

Ridgway Council, R. A. M., was presided over, in ISS'.i, by Regent C. F. 
Burleigh, the other officers being as follows: W. H. Baker. C. F. Yennie, 

D. C. Murphy, Bobert Morrison, William Earl, D. C. Oyster, E. H. McCurdy, 
M. D. Cohen, J. E. Logan, G. F. Bohde. The trustees are J. T. Waid. W. 
H. Baker and Thalius Wiiigfield. The past regents are J. T. Waid and D. C. 
Murphy. C. F. Burleigh is regent and William Morrison, secretary i 1890) 

The P. O. S. of A. was organized in November. 1888, with the following - 
named members: B. B. Kline, D. C. Murphy, W. G. Kline, F. H. Ely. John 
G. Whitmore, C. F. Hartley, B. E. Taylor. '.Joe Messenger, F. O. Tinthoff, 

E. A. Sou,.,-. Clyde Rime. Ralph Ritter, 11. Schindler, W. S. Pittmau. Ed 
Kiiur. 1'. Baker, Harry Hyde, A. K. Houghtaling. P. R. Mercer. W. A. Locke. 

C. H. Taylor. E. H. McCurdy. S. Murphy. The names of past presidents are 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 711 

John G. Whitmore, F. H. Ely and D. C. Murphy. W. A. Fleming is secre- 
tary. The present number of members is fifty-four, and the value of property 
S150. F. H. Ely is now president. 

Knights of Labor Lodge, No. 9993, was chartered January 27, 1887. 

Ridgway Tent, No. 75, K. O. T. M., was chartered September 13, 1888. 
with W. C. McNutt, D. Cunningham, G. L. French, P. Schirk, J. B. Nicklin, 
S. T. Scott, W. L. Williams, C. F. Geary, John Fraser, Paul Johnson, An 
drew Johnson and John P. Johnson, officers in the order of rank. 

Laurel Green Division, No. 455, Sons of Temperance, was organized at 
Ridgway in January, 1854, with Caleb Dill, T. O. Hutchinson, H. A. Patti- 
son, F. J. Dill, Harvey Henry, Henry Souther, R. Maginnis. Charles Robin- 
son, Jerome Powell and James L. Gillis, officials in order of rank. 

Ridgway Lodge, No. 256, 1. O. G. T., was reorganized in May, 1877, with 
twenty-five charter members, and the officers named as follows: J. O. W. 
Bailey, Mrs. C. E. Holaday, Dr. James D. Fullerton, O. S. Davis, Docia 
Rhines, James E. Pugh, G. W. Gardner, Clara Brooks. Daniel Irwin, Ada 
Young, Ella Wade, Mrs. T. S. Hartley, Mrs. Fannie F. Olmsted, C. E. Hola- 
day and Dr. T. S. Hartley, and trustees: S. A. Olmsted, C. D. Osterhout, Dr. 
T.'S. Hartley. 

The Ridgway Temperance Society was organized December 16, 1881, with 

C. D. Osterhout, president; Horace Little, D. R. Kline, Ben Stewart, W. S. 
Hamblen, A. H. Head. G. F. Dickinson and George Gulnack, vice-presidents; 
Will Dickinson, secretary; F. C. Ely, treasurer; C. E. Holaday, Jacob Mc- 
Cauley, R. V. Kime, S. A. Olmsted, H. Gorton, S. H. Langley and C. Luther, 
directors. 

Ridgway Council of Royal Templars of Temperance was organized Janu- 
ary 18, 1884, by M. E. Peck, of Corry. The object of this organization is 
the promotion of temperance work, which is assisted by the beneficiary aid 
which members enjoy. The following-named officers were elected : C. J. Swift, 

D. Rishell, Rev. A. L. Goodrich, Miss H. Goodrich, Miss May Little, Miss A. 

E. McKee, Mr. L. C. Dingman, Mr. P. G. Wooster, Miss Alice DeHaas and 
Dr. C. L. Kellogg; physician, Dr. J. T. Waid; trustees, C. E. Holaday (three 
years), Dr. C. L. Kellogg (two years), C. J. Swift (oneyearl. 

St. Leo's Branch. No. 61. C. M. B. A., was chartered May 29, 1889. with 
the following-named members: Rev. M. Meagher, chaplain; John Flynn, 
president; Hugh McGeehin, vice-president; T. B. Gillooly, second vice-presi- 
dent; Albert Weis, recorder; Robert Powers, assistant; Thomas Lehan, F. S. ; 
James S. Maginnis, treasurer; John Dwyer, marshal; P. Ryan, guard; A. M. 
McClain, D. Pi. McDonald, John Nagle. John Lahhive and Cornelius Hogan. 
trustees. 

The W. C. T. U. was organized November 28, 1881, with the following- 
named members: Mrs. J. C. Houk, Mrs. H. Little, Miss Anna McKee, Mrs. 
S. R. Chapin, Mrs. D. C. Oyster. Mrs. W. S. Hamblen, Mrs. G. G. Messenger, 
Mrs. W. H. Osterhout, Mrs. C. E. Holaday, Mrs. D. S. Luther, Mrs. George Gar 
ritt. Mrs. Fred Dickinson and others. Mrs. G. G. Messenger is president. The 
names of secretaries in the order of holding office are Miss Anna McKee, Mrs. 
N. T. Arnold and Mrs. Annie E. Irwin. The present number of members is 
thirty. 

The Elk County Bible Society was organized February 25, 1887, ^ith J. H. 
Beadle, C. D. Osterhout, N. T. Arnold and Rev. T. S. Negley, officials. 

The Ridgway Silver Cornet Band was organized in March, 1S72, with Fred 
Schoening, president; T. S. Hartley, vice-president; E. J. Miller, secretary, and 
D. B. Day, treasurer. 



712 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

The Mill Creek Rod and Gun Club was organized in August, 1888, with 
C. H. McCauley, E. J. Grant, O. B. Grant, Irving Schultz, G. B. Horfcon and 
Norman Schultz, members. 



CHAPTER XVI. 

MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP— SPRING CREEK TOWNSHIP. 

Millstone Township Topography'— First Settlement— Mills— Popui. a 

tion— Election. 
Spring Creek Township General Conformation— Population— Ele< 

noNS, etc.— some First Things— Villages— Miscellaneotts. 

MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP, which juts into Forest county, is bounded 
south by the Clarion river. Into this river flows the creek after which 
the township is named, the east branches of which spread out north and easl 
to the Spring creek divide, and form a confluence with the main stream at a 
point north by west of Millstone village. Topographically the country is 
similar to Spring Creek township, but the plateaus are larger and the streams 
much less numerous. Here, after the forest strippers began regular lumber- 
ing, the woodman's ax was heard on every side, and within a few years the 
pine and hemlock clothing of the flat hills was carried down the Clarion to the 
-ic-ii mills, leaving the traveler of 1N7X to behold as rugged a country as 
might be seen in Scotland. The supposed existence of coal and gas here gave 
some hope for the future, but no one credited Millstone with even the preten- 
sion of being ever an agricultural valley. Years have brought with them im- 
provement, and the township of to-day, although robbed of its forests, gives 
promise of taking an important place among the divisions of Elk county. 

The first settlement dates back to 1826, when John Wynkoop located at 

the uth of the creek bearing his name. In 1832 the first school was i 

at Millstone village by Miss Graham; in 1834 the iirst school-house was built 
by the directors elected that year; in 1835 a second house, and the third house 
in 1847. Since that time school affairs have interested the people. 

The Millstone mills, near the mouth of the creek of that name, hav. 
operated by the Moore Brothers for many years. In 1884 -85 the water powei 
was changed for steam-power, and its capacity increased to 70.000 feet pe] day, 
. . . Raught's mills are also in the township of Millstone, on the Clarion river, 
seven miles from Arroyo. . . .The Crispin, Darragh & Moore shingle mill-, two 
miles north of the mouth of Millstone creek, were burned in 1876. 

The population in 18S0 was '200. In 1888 the voters were represented bj 
39 Democrats, 23 Republicans and 1 Prohibitionist, a total of 63, representing 
about 315 inhabitants. 

The Millstone elections of February. 1890, resulted in the choice of t he- 
following named officers: Adam Zimmerman, justice; H. Cutzs, treasurer; 
G. D. Donahy, collector; J. W. Lawton, clerk; J. W, Cutzs, assessor; C. T. 



HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 715 

Painter, constable; John Wilson and W. P. Painter, auditors; W. B. McCor- 
mick, Peter Heffron and Samuel Witherow, school directors; W. K. Moore and 
H. Aharah, supervisors. 

SPRING CREEK TOWNSHIP. 

Spring Creek township is named after the native creek, which enters the 
Clarion river at a point about one mile west of Irvin's mills. The main river 
enters the township about eight miles below Ridgway, flows west through a 
tortuous channel to Spring Creek village, where it turns southwest to form the 
extreme southwest line of the county (elevation 1,250 feet), as the dividing line 
' between Millstone township and Jefferson county. A little stream, flowing 
north through the extreme southeast corner, enters the river just west of the 
east line. This stream is called Little Toby branch. In the southwest corner 
is Maxwell's run, Laurel run and a hundred rivulets run into the streams 
named from the various summits. Near Lake City one of the largest plateaus 
in the county exists, and there, also, is the divide of the southwest part of this 
township. The northern divide is near the north line, between Bear creek and 
one of the sources of Spring creek. 

As early as 1852-53 coal deposits were developed near Spring Creek village, 
at Laurel Bun forks in 1871, and at Irwin's Mills in 1877. So well was the 
coal established in 1873, that it was proposed to build a narrow-gauge road 
eighteen miles from this point to Sheffield. 

The population in 1880 was 467. In 1888 there were 4 Prohibition, 120 
Republican and 119 Democratic votes cast, or a total of 243, representing 
1,215 inhabitants. The February election of 1846 in Spring Creek township 
resulted in the choice of Job P. Payne and Thomas Lynn for justices; Ruins 
Gallatin, constable; Ephraim Shaul and Thomas Beatty, supervisors; J. P. 
Payne, James Crow and George Rhines, school directors; John L. Givens, 
with Crow and Rhines, auditors; J. P. Payne, clerk; Jonathan Beatty, assessor; 
T. Lynn and W. M. Redline, overseers of the poor; James Crow, judge, with 
Thomas Irwin and George Rhines, inspectors of election. D. H. Damon and 
John Kenning were elected justices in 1841); Silas Blake and O. B. Thing, in 
1850. The elections of February, 1890, show 172 votes for A. Webster and 
53 for O. T. Minor, candidates for justice of the peace; C. E. McCrea was 
chosen school director; John Trimper and T. Jefferson, supervisors; E. C. 
Barrett, treasurer; John Hamilton, overseer of the poor; R. Mohney, collector; 
E. M. Rodgers, clerk, and P. R. Smith, auditor. In East Spring Creek, N. G. 
McClosky received 85 votes and A. Webster 82, for justice of the peace. 

The first assessment of Spring Creek township was made in 1846. Among 
the industries taxed were the saw-mills of William Armstrong, George Ryan, 
George Dull, and the saw- and grist-mills of Payne & Watterson. The other 
resident taxpayers were James Crow, Squire T. Carr, Henry Dull, William 
Evans, Jonathan Beatty, John Grant, John Given, Thomas Irwin, Robert Jew- 
ett, Thomas Lynde, Eben Lee, John Lukins, William Payne, W. Redline. 
Ephraim and Andrew Shaul, Rufus Gallatin, Silas Blake. Zach Double, Isaac 
Nichols, Orville Thing, Dan Wolford, Francis Mayberry and Peter Connor. 
The last named operated a shingle machine. 

In Spring Creek township in 1850 were fifteen dwellings, fifteen families, 
ninety-one inhabitants, four farms and three industries. 

The first settlements were made by Philip Clover and Sowers in 1831-32. The 
first school-house was built in 1840, at the mouth of Spring creek, and opened 
by the very primitive John Knox, Miss Crow and Horace Warner following 
successively. In 1846 Miss Clements opened a subscription school at George 



716 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Rhines' house on Maxwell run. In 1852 the directors authorized the building 
of a house at Arroyo: but this was not erected, and Miss Thorn was compelled 
to teach over the ox-shoeing establishment of Thomas Irwin. In 1856 a school 
house was erected between Arroyo and Spring Creek, at a cost of $338, $1 15 
of which were subscribed on condition that the building could bo used for 
religious and other meetings. 

Arroyo, in the township of Spring Creek, on the river Clarion, and ten miles 
from Ridgway, of which Thomas Irwin was the founder, is a lumber town. 
Arroyo post-office was removed from Irwin's in April, 1S80, to Beech Bottom, 
and E. W. Rogers was appointed postmaster. The Arroyo Bridge Companv 
was incorporated in April, 1883, with I'. Shaffner, E. M. Rogers, C. H. Smith, 
James B. Wickes and Charles Millen. directors. The object was to bridge the 
Clarion at Arroyo. 

Carman is a comparatively modern settlement. Here is the hospitable Cai- 
man House of Mr. Casey. Early in 1890 a society of the Protestant Episcopal 
Church was organized at this point. A large Catholic congregation assembles 
here at stated times to worship. Hiram Carman moved into this township in 
1858, and for thirty-two years has been prominent in the industrial, political 
and social life of the township. 

The Clarion River & Spring Creek Oil Company signed articles of agree- 
ment in March, 1865, with F. F. Bernadin, Gouverneur Emerson. James S. 
Bewley, Gustave English and Andrew K. Hay, stockholders. The object was 
to develop coal and oil lands in Forest and Elk counties. This company 
drilled one well in Spring Creek township. In August, 1889, indications that 
the territory in the vicinity of the Grant mill on the Clarion river would be fully 
tested for oil and gas were manifest, as preparations were made for drill- 
ing a number of wells. Those familiar with this territory, and in a posi- 
tion to know, express it as their positive belief that it will ultimately prove a 
great oil-producing center, and as soon as the Standard company, who now own 
or control by lease most of the land and have invested large sums of money in 
that section are ready, the new field will be opened up. Some of the best gas 
wells in the world are already found there, and in the neighborhood oil wells 
of some little moment have already been discovered. Millstone and Spring 
Creek will soon boom as an oil center. A venture of the Standard Oil Com- 
pany is now being made on one of the Powell lots. 

In the pages of the assessment roll for ISM) the following industries appear: 
Portland Lumber Company, 4,9 ( J0 acres in Spring Creek township, of which 
900 were stripped, with saw-mills; Horton, Crary & Co.. 7.046 acres unseated. 
184 acres seated, with tannery, storehouses, etc.; G. W. Rhines' saw-mill: 
Hall & Gardner's saw-mill; Empire Lumber Company's saw mill and 1,600 
acres; J. L. Ellis' saw-mill, and Craig, Henderson & Co.'s shingle-mill. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 717 



CHAPTER XVII. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES — RIDGWAY TOWNSHIP AND 
BOROUGH OF RIDGWAY. 

N. T. ARNOLD, attorney at law, Ridgway, son of W. W. and Margaret Ann 
Arnold, was born in Allegany county, N. Y. , in 1857. In 1858 he was taken 
by his father to Potter county, Penn., where he was reared and educated in 
the lower branches. Being desirous of obtaining an education, and his father 
being in limited circumstances, he taught school to obtain the money to de- 
fray his expenses at a higher school, and finally graduated from the normal 
school at Lock Haven in 1879. He bad determined to make law his profes- 
sion, and accordingly began his studies with D. C. Larrabee, of Coudersport. 
in 1881, and in 1884 was admitted to the bar. He began the practice at 
Ridgway, being associated with Dyson Rishell, and later, with W. W. Bar- 
bour, formed the present firm of Arnold & Barbour. Mr. Arnold takes 
great interest in his professional practice, and is also devoted to scientific 
studies, taking an especial interest in the study of astronomy. He is a Re- 
publican in politics, though not an active politician. He married Hannah 
Thompson, a daughter of Robinson and Cynthia J. Thompson, of Cedar 
Springs, Clinton Co., Penn., August 24, 1881. and they have two children: 
Laura (born in 1883) and Paul (born in 1889). Mr. and Mrs. Arnold are 
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and are among the prominent 
young people of Ridgway. 

WILLIAM W. BARBOUR, attorney at law, Ridgway, was born in Indi- 
ana county, Penn., March 20, 1863, a son of William and Elizabeth (Lee) 
Barbour, of Westmoreland and Lycoming counties, respectively. Mr. Bar- 
bour received an academic education in his native county, graduating from 
the State Normal School in 1883. He then came to Elk county and ac- 
cepted the position of principal of the high school of Wilcox, which he 
filled for one year, during which time he was elected professor of mathematics 
in the Indiana State Normal School, at Indiana, Penn. After enjoying that 
position one year, he resigned to enter the law office of Rishell & Arnold, 
of Ridgway, with whom he read law. He was admitted to the bar in L886, 
and immediately formed a partnership with Mr. Arnold, remaining in Ridg- 
way until September, 1888, when they purchased the law business of W. W. 
Ames, of St. Mary's, of which branch Mr. Barbour had charge till his removal 
to Ridgway, where he now resides. He takes an active part in Republican 
politics, and was the candidate of that party for district attorney in 1888. In 
that year he married Helen, daughter of Hon. Horace Little, of Ridgway. 
Mr. and Mrs. Barbour are members of the Ridgway Presbyterian Church. 

J. S. BARD WELL, M. D., Ridgway, was born in Warren county, Penn., 
February 17, 1834. In his childhood his parents moved to Yates county, N. 
Y., and later returned to Warren county, Penn., where he was educated and 
began the study of medicine with his brother, Dr. Richard C. Bardwell. He 
began his practice in Warren in 1857, but in 1863 removed to Ridgway, where 
he has since resided. After pursuing a regular practice several years, he at- 



718 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

tended the Vitipathic Medical College, at Cincinnati, Ohio, from which he 
graduated in 1883. In his practice he makes use of electricity and magnetic 
appliances and the application of hot-air vapor baths, and is pre-eminently 
successful in the treatment of spinal, heart, rheumatic and asthmatic troubles. 
In addition td bis profession he devotes considerable attention to agriculture 
and also has a fine dairy. From trees on his land was taken the first bark 
used for tanning purposes in Kidgway. Dr. Bardwell married, December '-1. 
1855, Edna C. Seeley, who died October 20, ISN:i, leaving three children: 
\ddie It. Bardwell, Clarice E. Bardwell and Stoddard William Bardwell. His 
present wife was Susan Cathbert. whom he married. January 1. INST). 

I. D. BELL, cashier of the Kidgway Bank, was born in Warsaw. Jeffer- 
son Co., Penn., in 1862, a son of John and Eleanor Bell. He received a 
good business education, completing it at the Williamsport Commercial Col- 
lege. Williainsport, Penn.. where he graduated in the spring of 1883. He was 
then employed in the general store of John Cuneo, at Brockport, four months, 
when he was employed as book-keeper in the Ridgway Bank, which position 
he filled acceptably until December, 1889, when he was elected cashier. He is 
a good business man, and in addition to attending to his duties in the bank. 
has been identified with J. H. McEwen & Co., machinists of Ridgway, Penn.. 
since May, 18S7, and is also secretary of the New Era Gas Company of the 
same place. Mr. Bell was married, in 1884, to Miss Ada E. Thompson. 
daughter of Peter Thompson, of Brandy Camp, Elk county, and they have one 
child, Cliff Ronald. In polities Mr. Bell is a Republican. He ami his wife are 
members of the First Congregational Church. 

I'. F. BOGERT, general merchant, Johnsonburg, Quay P.O., was born in 
Sullivan county, N. Y. , December 31, 1844. His parents. Peter J. and 
Rebecca (Fonda) Bogert, were natives of Fulton county, N. Y.. and farmers 
by occupation. Mr. Bogert was reared in Sullivan county. N. Y., and received 
but an ordinary education. At the age of twenty-five he engaged in the hotel 
business at Jeffersonville, Sullivan county, and in 1880 came to Ridgway, 
Elk Co., Penn., and established the Bogert House, which he conducted Poi 
five years. He then took a trip to San Francisco, Cal., and afterward located 
at Sheffield, Warren Co., Penn. He established his present business in 
February, 1888, under the firm name of Bogert & McGeehin. In 1870 he 
married Miss Hannah M.. daughter of Peter R. Mood, of Ulster county. X. Y. 
Mr. Bogert is a member of Sheffield Lodge, Xo. 969, I. O. O. F., and the 
Knights of Pythias. 

L. A. BRENDELL, groceries and provisions, Ridgway, is a native of Phil- 
adelphia, Penn., born in 1851, son of Ludwig and Barbara Brendell, who 
came to America from Germany in 1850. In his childhood his parents moved 
to Lock Haven, where he grew to manhood and completed his school days. 
After reaching his majority, January 22, 1872, he came to Ridgway. opened a 
grocery and bakery, and here he has built up a good trade. He keeps a full 
line of staple and fancy groceries, and fresh bakery goods, confectionery, etc, 
lie is also the owner of a fine farm, and keeps constantly on hand fresh dairj 
goods, butter, cheese, etc. November 19, 1874. Mr. Brendell married Miss 
Jennie Cuthbert, daughter of A. G. and Ann Cathbert, who came from Ci 
and are of Scotch descent. Mr. Brendell is a Republican in politics, and has 
served five years as overseer of the poor, his term expiring in the spring of 
1889. He is a member of the Ridgway Lodge. No. 969. I. O. O. F. Mrs 
Brendi II is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

N. M. BROCK WAY. lumberman. P. 0. Oyster, Jefferson county, Penn.. 
was born in Keystone, Perry Co.. Penn.. January 25, 1829, the second in a 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 719 

family of ten children born to Chauncey and Rhoda (Nichols) Brockway. 
natives of New York State, who came to Elk county in 1817 and located in Jay 
township, where they remained until 1820, when they moved to Brandy Camp, 
Penn. , and in 1828 settled in Keystone, where the father built a large mill, 
and was extensively engaged in lumbering. N. M. Brockway received a prac- 
tical business education, and has always been prominently identified with the 
lumber interests of Elk county. He is one of the leading lumbermen, and is 
regarded, socially, as a promoter of all good causes in the township. He 
married, October 14, 1848, Miss Catherine, a daughter of David and Betsy 
(Kriger) Taylor, of Elk county- 

A. H. BUCKLAND, merchant miller. Bidgway, is a native of England, born 
September 15, 1839, and is a son of James and Jane (Gilley) Buckland, also 
natives of England. His parents dying when he was very young, the subject 
of our sketch, when four years old, came to the United States to live with an 
uncle in Camillus, Onondaga Co., N. Y. Here he spent his boyhood days, attend- 
ing the common schools of the neighborhood, which early education he supple- 
mented bv attending night schools in Rochester, N. Y. At the age of eleven 
years he engaged as clerk in a store in Jordan, N. Y., remaining there but a 
short time, and then entered a paper-mill at Marcellus Falls, N. Y. , in order 
to learn the trade of paper-making; but this he soon abandoned to enter a 
grist-mill in the same place, and here he learned the milling trade. Mr. Buck- 
land has spent all his time since 1858 in the milling business, chiefly in St. 
Louis, Mo., and other large cities of the West, where he has remodeled and 
built several large dour-mills. In 1880 he left St. Louis for Olean, N. Y., 
in which place he built the large roller flouring- mills, now owned by the Acme 
Milling Company, the original proprietors being Chesbrough & Buckland. In 
1883 he came to Ridgway, where he has erected a flne mill, and is doing a 
large business. Mr. Buckland was married, June 26, 1868, to Miss Mary B. 
Ray, daughter of William and Margaret (Rowan) Ray, of Sparta, 111. He has 
always been a strong temperance man, and now, at fifty, has never tasted 
beer or liquor of any kind. He is a member of the Congregational Church, 
and a Republican in politics. 

JACOB BUTTERFUSS, harness-maker, Ridgway, a son of Christopher 
and Catherine (Baker) Butterfuss, natives of Germany, was born in Ger- 
many, September 6, 1844. He received his education in his native country, 
and when twelve years of age, he entered a harness shop as an apprentice, 
where he served two and one-half years. In 1865 he entered the German 
army, and served three years. In 1868 he came to America, and in 1873, 
located in Ridgway, where he established his present business. He married. 
August 4, 1874, Miss Louisa Meffert, of Wilcox, Penn., and they are the par- 
ents of two children, Emma J. and Christopher. Mr. Butterfuss is a member 
of Ridgway Lodge, No. 379, F. & A. M.. also of K. of H, No. 1644. 

ROBERT I. CAMPBELL, merchant, Ridgway, was born in Philadelphia, 
Penn., in 1842, a son of Thomas and Rebecca Campbell, natives of Ireland, 
who came from County Armagh, in 1840, to the United States, and were here 
married and located in Philadelphia. In 1850 they moved to Highland town 
ship. Elk county, where they both died in 1876. They had a family of seven 
children: Robert I., James \\\, Thomas, John, Mary, William and Alexander. 
Robert I. Campbell began business life as a lumberman, and, being an indus- 
trious, economical young man, accumulated considerable money, and in 1872 
moved to Ridgway and embarked in the general mercantile business, and is 
now one of the leading merchants of the borough, his genial, accommodating 
manner and fair dealing having gained for him a good patronage. He is a 



720 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Democrat in his political affiliations, and in 1871 was elected a member of the 
board of county commissioners and served one term. He is a member of the 
Masonic fraternity, Elk Lodge, No. 379: Elk Chapter. No. 240; Orient Coun- 
cil: Knapp Commandery, No. 10, and Blooiusburg Consistory, thirty-second 
degree. 

HIRA M ( 'A ltMAN, one of the leading lumber manufacturers of Elk county, 
and whose post-office address is Carman (the town of that name being named 
in his honor), is a native, of Grove, a beautiful rural town in the county of 
Allegany, N. Y. He is a son of Edmund and Lois (Bailey) Carman, worth} 
farming people of that county, and prominent members of the Methodisl Epis 
copal Church, the father, a native of Cayuga county. N. Y., and the mother of 
Vermont. The subject of the present writing was reared and educated in 
Allegany and Livingston counties, N. Y., and in 1854 he came to Elk county. 
locating at Wilcox, where for several years he was engaged in the lumber busi- 
ness. In 1858 he moved to Spring Creek township, and has since been en 
gaged in manufacturing lumber, being a member of the tirru of W. H. Hyde 
& Co., and also of the Portland Lumber Company. In 1856 Mr. Cai- 
man married Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Ira Westeott. of Onondaga county. 
N. Y.. and they have seven children: Lucy. Flora. H. Alonzo (married to Miss 
Alice Rumbough. of Clarion county, who bore him one child, Roland). Carrie. 
Ira Edmund, W. W. and Harry. Mr. Carman is an influential and active 
member of the Republican party, and served with marked ability as county 
commissioner six years, from 1881 to 1887. He is a member of Elk Lodge. 
No. H79, F. & A. M., and Knapp Commandery, No. 40, K. T. He and his 
family are members of the Episcopal Church. 

BURR E. CARTWRIGHT. Although a resident of little more than a 
decade in that portion of the State of Pennsylvania, of which this work chiefly 
treats, the gentleman, whose name heads this biographical record, has attained 
to a pre-eminence second to none among the business men (particularly in the 
lumbering industry) of this region; and this enviable position is not the issue 
of fortuitous circumstances, but the result of a life of close business applica- 
tion, piloted by an active mind largely endowed with nature's best and most 
useful faculties. 

Burr E. Cartwright is a native of Buffalo. N. Y. . born October 26, 1850, a 
son of Edward and Elmira (Hotchkiss) Cartwright, residents of near Buffalo, 
former a native of Wales, and latter of Connecticut. The subject of our sketch 
attended the common schools until fifteen years of age. at which time he en- 
tered the Hethcote school, where he remained until his nineteenth year. The 
first commercial experience of Mr. Cartwright was in the lumber business in 
Buffalo, when, in 1879, he removed to Ridgway, Elk Co.. Penn.. as purchasing 
agent, in the lumber trade, for the firm of Scatchard & Son, in whose emploj 
he remained until 1881. In that year he and W. W. Mattison formed a pan 
nership in the lumber business, which organization resolved itself, in 1883, into 
the Ridgwav Lumber Companv. the several members thereof being Burr E. 
Cartwright, D. C. Oyster. Alfred Short and W. W. Mattison. In the fall of 
L885 Mr. Mattison retired from the firm, W. H. Horton taking his place. In 
the following year Mr. Cartwright and Mr. Horton withdrew from the Ridg 
way Lumber Company, and entered into a co-partnership in contracting with 
the Northwestern Mining & Exchange Company, to cut the lumber and peel 
the bark on 8,000 acres. In 1888 Mr. Cartwright purchased Mr. Borton's in- 
terest in this enterprise, keeping, however, intact the former contract, made 
under the firm name of Horton & Cartwright. In order to fulfill this contract, 
Mr. Cartwright has in operation three saw-mills, having a capacity of 200,000 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 721 

feet per da}'. He also operates a shingle and planing-rnill at Horton City, a 
place located near the Mead Kun school-bouse, and in the carrying on of the 
enormous business, 500 men are constantly employed. He has, in all. seven- 
teen miles of standard-gauge railroad in operation, equipped with live loco- 
motives and fifty logging cars. In the spring of 1889, Mr. Cartwrigbt com- 
pleted a contract with the Northwestern Mining & Exchange Company, for the 
building of one hundred dwellings at Mead Run. He owns and carries on two 
general stores, doing an aggregate business of §15,000 per month — one store 
being located at Horton City for the convenience of his own men, the other, 
an outside enterprise, being at Mead Run. The Horton City saw-mills are, 
perhaps, the best equipped mills in the eastern part of Pennsylvania, being 
provided with circular and gang saws; lath mills are attached, with the latest 
improved labor-saving appliances, the whole being lighted by electricity. The 
daily shipments of bark and lumber from the several stations along Mr. Cart 
wright's line, amount to twenty-five cars. Thus, in his management of his 
gigantic lumber and bark interests and contracts, together with the necessary 
saw-mills, adjuncts and appointments; in the conducting of his mammoth stores, 
and the directing of his army of employes, it may be said of Mr. Burr E. 
Cartwright. that he stands in the front rank among the lumbermen of Penn- 
sylvania, and. perhaps, of the entire Union. 

In addition to the above-mentioned enterprises, Mr. Cartwright has, since 
the writing of this sketch, organized the Brock Coal Company (capital !J50.( 100), 
of which he is president. It is their intention to fully equip these mines 
(which are located at Brockwayville, Jefferson Co., Penn.) with electrical min- 
ing machinery, and they expect to have a daily output of 1,000 tons. They 
will commence shipping coal about May 1, 1890. 

In 1874 Mr. Cartwright was married to Miss Sophia Rouse, of Gaines, 
Mich., who survived her wedding -but ten months, and one son was born to 
them, Morgan Rouse, now attending Deveaux College, Suspension Bridge, N. 
Y. In 1877 Mr. Cartwright took for his second wife Miss Alice Jane Higham, 
who has borne him one daughter: Orrel Higham. Mrs. Cartwright attends 
the Congregational Church. Mr. Cartwright, who is one of the most active 
workers in the Republican party, served three years as chairman of the Repiib- 
lican county committee; in the fall of 18S8 he was named as the choice of 
Elk county for congress, and at the congressional conference held at Du Bois 
he was tendered the nomination, but owing to his vast business engagements, 
the constituency had, reluctantly, to accept his refusal. He is a member of 
the F. & A. M., Elk Lodge, No. 379; of Elk Chapter. No. 230, R. A. M. ; of 
Knapp Commandery, No. 40, K. T., and of Bloomsburg Consistory. 

E. F. CUMMINGS, station agent for the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad at 
Johnsonburg, was born in New Bethlehem, Penn., January 17, 1858, the 
only son of S. M. and Mary A. (Space) Cummings, natives of Pennsylvania. 
He was educated in his native town, and when twelve years of age was em- 
ployed in a store as clerk. When he was eighteen years of age he became 
station agent for the Allegheny Valley Railroad, and in 1881 went to Ceres, 
Penn., where he had charge of an office for the Bradford, Eldred & Cuba 
Railroad. In 1866 Mr. Cummings came to Johnsonburg, where he is station 
agent for the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad Company. He married, Decem- 
ber 17, 1884, Miss Mary, daughter of L. T. and R. C. T. (Fuller) Moore, early 
settlers in Cameron county, and they are the parents of one child, Eleanor. 

D. B. DAY, M. D., Ridgway, was born at Union, Broome Co., N. Y.. March 
16, 1847, and is a son of Augustus and Judith C. (Otto) Day, the former a 
native of Broome county, N. Y. , and the latter of McKean county, Penn. In 



722 HISTORY OF ELK CODNTY. 

his boyhood his parents moved to McKean county. Penn., where he completed 
his literary education, and began the study of medicine with Dr. Clark, of 
Brookwayville, in 1874. He later attended lectures at the Eclectic Medical 
Institute of Cincinnati, Ohio, where he graduated in 1877. Dr. Day first 
Incited at Kane. l>ut in the fall of 1S77 he moved to Ridgway, where he now 
has a good practice. In the course of his medical experience, he has prepared 
several formulas, which he is placing before the public in a more extensive way 
than could be done in a local practice and these are already giving him a wide 
reputation. He purchased the property known as the "Hyde House." which 
he lit- fitted up as a comfortable resort for invalids, and in the building adjoin 
ing is his drug store and laboratory. He has been very successful in his prac- 
tice, and is well known throughout this part of the State. The Doctor married. 
in L872, Miss Lucy A. Schram. daughter of \V. H. Schram, of Ridgway. and 
thev have two children — Edith and Grace. In politics Dr. Day is a Democrat. 
'WILLIAM L. DEVINE, Rolfe, superintendent for Henry, Bayard & Co., 
lumbermen, was born in the town of Liberty, Sullivan Co., N. Y. , September 
2 I. I^T)'2, and is a son of George and Catherine (Travis) Devine, both natives 
of the county named above. His father was a millwright by trade, but prin- 
cipally followed farming as a vocation. The subject of these lines is also a 
millwright by trade. In 1809 he moved to Williamsport, Penn.. remained 
there several years, and in 1882 came to Rolfe, where lie lias ever since held 
his present position. In October, 1876, Mr. Devine married Miss Alfaretta 
M. , only daughter of William D. Myers, of Lebanon Lake, Sullivan Co.. N. Y.. 
and to this union have been born children as follows: Maggie Louise (born 
at Gilman's Depot, Sullivan Co., N. Y., January 16. 1878), Maud .J. (born 
April 30, L880, at the same place, where, at the time, Mr. Devine was superin- 
tendent of mills for the late W. W. Gilmau, then of No. 10 Ferry street. New 
York City) and Clara J. ( born in Rolfe, Penn.. November 6, 1885). Mr. and 
Mrs. Devine also adopted, in their early marriage days, a little girl, Mamie E. 
Fahrenkrug, now a young lady and still a member of the family. Mr. Devine 
is a member of Ridgway Lodge, No. 369, F. & A. M. , and also of the lodge of 
the I. O. O. F. at Ridgway. He belongs to no church, although he liberally 
contributes toward the spread of the gospel and the support of the church 
generally, as is evidenced by the bell that hangs in the belfry of the Method 
ist Episcopal Church edifice at Rolfe, which was placed there through his gen 
erosity; the beautiful new school building, comprising four rooms, was also 
erected within the past year, through his untiring zeal and energy, at a cost 
of $2,500. This school at present is taught by three instructors, viz.: \Y. F. 
McCloskey, of Caledonia, Penn., principal; Miss Kate O' Conner, of Ridgway, 
in the intermediate department, and Miss Maine Schoening, also of Ridgway, 
in the primary department. These departments make use. at present, of three 
rooms, but, as they are now over-crowded with pupils, the fourth room will he 
railed into requisition within a year. In politics Mr. Devine is a Republican; 
he has served as school director of Ridgway township, and since 1884 has been 
postmaster at Rolfe. Mrs. Devine and children are members of the .Methodist 
Episcopal Church. 

GEORGE DICKINSON (deceased) was a son of Charles Frederick and 
(Abigail) Dickinson, and was born November 24, L807, in Goshen, Litchfield 
Co., Conn., where he was reared and educated until he was twelve years .it 
age, after which time he resided in Ontario. Cattaraugus and Allegany coun- 
ties, N. Y., until his coming to Ridgway in 1834. Here he engaged in the 
lumbering and mercantile businesses, in which lie was eminently successful, 
and resided here continuously until the day of his death. In 1838 he was 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 723 

united in marriage to Miss A. E. Goff, with -whom he had five children, all 
boys, three of whom are living. After twenty-one years of wedded happi- 
ness, his wife died in 1859, and for eight years he bore the burdens of life 
alone, when he married Esther Jane Thayer, daughter of David Thayer. 
George Dickinson was in many respects a remarkable man. Though never 
robust, physically, he was an untiring worker, and accomplished more in his 
long and active life than many who were blessed with a much stronger phys- 
ical organization. Mentally, however, he was strong and vigorous. His 
mind was of a judicial cast, and if he had been trained in the law, would 
have made an able judge. He was quick to perceive and prompt to act, and 
when his judgment was once formed, it was practically unchangeable. H<> had 
a high sense of honor, and in the various walks of life was ever zealous in 
the advocacy of the right and the condemnation of the wrong. His integrity 
was unsullied, and he leaves behind him a reputation that is a priceless legacy 
to those who bear his name. He was a life long and consistent Democrat, 
and so conspicuous was his ability and so excellent his judgment, that he was 
frequently called upon by his fellow-citizens to accept positions of public 
trust, including those of school director, county commissioner and associate 
judge, in each and all of which he reflected credit alike upon himself and his 
constituency. He was emphatically a lover of his country andher institutions, 
and always took a lively interest in public affairs. In short, he was a good 
man and a useful citizen, and his death creates a vacuum in the community 
that will not soon be filled. He died, after suffering from pneumonia for 
twenty-six days, and his remains were followed to the tomb by a large con- 
course of mourning friends and relatives. 

G. F. DICKINSON, lumberman, Ridgway, and the senior partner of the 
firm of Dickinson Brothers, was born in Ridgway, June 14, 1840, and whs 
there reared and educated. After the finishing of his education, he employed 
himself in farming and lumbering, afterward associating himself with a brother 
in the latter business. November '25, 1869, he married Miss Elizabeth Calla- 
han, daughter of Jeremiah and Margurite Callahan, and is now the father of 
three sons: George, born September 1'2, 1871 ; Charles Frederick, born April 
17, 1875, and Daniel S., born December 25. 1883. Mi - . Dickinson is a mem- 
ber of Elk Lodge, No. 379, F. & A. M.,andKnapp Commandery, No. 40. His 
politics are Democratic. 

GEORGE R. DIXON, attorney at law, Ridgway, was born in the town of 
Neversink, Sullivan Co., N. Y., July 23, 1848, and is a son of Henry and Cath- 
erine Dixon, natives of the county of Dutchess, State of New York. His par- 
ents dying when he was thirteen years of age, young Dixon found a home 
with Dr. J. L. Lamoree, of Grahauisville, N. Y., with whom he resided, work- 
ing for board and clothes, and attending the village school until about eighteen 
years of age. June 20, 1868, he graduated from the Monticello (New York) 
Academy, and in the fall of the same year he entered Rutgers College Gram- 
mar School, at New Brunswick, N. J. In the fall of 1869 he entered the fresh- 
man class of Butgers College, graduating with the degree of A. B. in June, 
1873, the same institution conferring on him the degree of M. A., in June, 
1876. While in college he supported himself largely by giving special lessons 
in English to Japanese students, who were sent to the institution by order of 
the government of Japan. In September, 1873, Mr. Dixon came to Ridgway. 
where he was principal of the schools for two years. In May, 1875, he was 
elected county superintendent of the schools of Elk county, which position he 
held four terms, or twelve years in succession. Mr. Dixon began the study of law 
with Rufus Lucore, Esq., at Ridgway, and spent some considerable time like 



724 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

wise in the law office of George A. Rathbun, also of Ridgway, and May 30, 
1878, while still superintendent of schools, he was admitted to practice in the 
courts of Elk county. On December 4. 1884, he purchased the Elk Democrat, 
of which weekly paper he is still the editor and proprietor. Mr. Dixon com 
bines law practice and journalism as a business, writing not only for his own 
journal, but also as a frequent contributor to the New York. Philadelphia ami 
Pittsburgh daily papers. While in school work, he attended educational con- 
ventions quite extensively as an instructor and lecturer, and became well known 
as such throughout the State. In 1871) he published a complete history of pub- 
lic-school education in Elk county, from its earliest settlements to date. Mr. 
Dixon is an elder in the Presbyterian Church at Ridgway. In politics he is a 
Democrat, and has several times been chairman of the Democratic county com 
mittee of Elk county. He is also prominent in Freemasonry, and in 1889 
filled the chair of worshipful master of Elk Lodge. No. 379, at Ridgway. Mr. 
Dixon was married in September, 1874. to Miss Louise Eaton, daughter of the 
late Horace Eaton, of Ellenville, N. Y. , and to this union have been born three 
children: Mabel, Helen and Clark. 

BYRON F. ELY. the well-known lumberman of Ridgway, is a native of 
the State of New York, born in Rusbiord, Allegany county, July 7. 1821. 
His early life was spent in the town of his birth, where he obtained the rudi- 
ments of an education. Becoming discontented with the narrow limits of an 
obscure village, young Ely, on a certain drizzly March morning in 1835, then 
in his fifteenth year, packed all his earthly possessions into a small valise, and 
went forth to tight the world single-handed. He first went to Olean, N. Y., 
then a great port of arrivals and departures, and here engaged to assist in run- 
ning a lumber raft down the Allegheny river as far as Pittsburgh. He became 
so enamored with this sort of adventurous life that he at once decided to take 
up the occupation as his own. On leaving Pittsburgh, he wended his way 
back up the river as far as Red Bank, and with his father. M. D. L. Ely. who 
had purchased a farm there, worked at agricultural employment during the 
summer. In the fall of the same year, he followed lumbering at Balltown, 
and in May. 1836, he again rafted lumber down the Allegheny to Pittsburgh. 
Tn June, following. Mr. Ely. with his father, came to Ridgway. where he 
found employment with Hughes & Dickinson, lumberers, and at other similar 
work, until about the year 1847, when he formed a partnership with David S. 
Luther, in the lumbering business. In 1852 Mr. Ely bought a one-third in- 
terest in the Whistletown mill property of Post t V Pal meter, with whom he 
was interested in the extensive manufacture of lumber. In 1 855 he entered into 
an arrangement with Charles and Isaac Hortou, under the firm name of Hor- 
ton, Ely & Co., and at the same place this new firm carried on business until 
L862 "i' 1863. In 1858, however. Mr. Ely bought property in Ridgway whither 
he removed, and in June, I860, he went to Portland, this county, having con 
tracted with Breedin & Co., of Louisville, to cut and put in the pine from 
1,200 acres of their Portland hinds. Here he was urging business with all his 
zeal, and fortune seemed to be smiling on him. when he was caught by the sweep 
Lag deluge of September 21, 1861. and till his interest both at Portland and 
Whistletown was carried away. Nothing daunted, however. Mr. Ely entered 
into a partnership with D. D. Cook (still of Ridgway), which continued, until 
July 22, 1S70, when he sold his interest to Mr. Cook, and returned to Ridg 
way with a competency. He then purchased of Souther cV Willis the prop 
erty when' he i-. now located, and owns from all his several purchase! 
2,000 acres of land. In 1878 he built his present extensive saw mill about 
. in' half of a mile east of Ridgway. This mill gives employment to some 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 725 

twenty-two men, has a capacity of about 5,000,000 feet per annum, and is 
fully equipped with all modern improvements, the shipping capacity being in 
the neighborhood of 80,000 feet per day. The residences occupied by Mr. 
Ely and his sons, with those of his men, together with all the attendant build- 
ings of the establishment, make a village of no mean proportions. Mr. Ely 
was married at Eidgway, February 28, 1847, to Helen, daughter of Zebulon 
Warner, a well-known citizen of Elk county, and three sons and two daughters 
were born to this union, as follows: Frank (married to a daughter of L. S. 
Garritt, of Ridgway), and Lewis, who have been in partnership with their 
father since January 1, 1884, under firm name of Ely & Sons; Fred, a law 
student; Mollie, wife of H. S. Thayer, a lumber merchant of Ridgway, and 
Carrie. 

JOHN FOLEY, proprietor of the Johnsonburg House, P. O. Quay, was 
«born in Cattaraugus county, N. Y. , June 9, 1854. His parents were John and 
Bridget (McCarty) Foley, natives of Ireland, but now residing in Chautauqua 
county, N. Y., the former a farmer by occupation. Mr. Foley followed 
farming, lumbering, etc., and in 1872 came to Elk county, Penn., and has since 
resided at Ridgway, Whistletown and Johnsonburg, purchasing his present 
hotel in September, 1887. In 1882 he married Miss Lizzie Wank, of Rasselas, 
Penn. , and they have one child, Lizzie. Mr. Foley is a supporter of the Dem- 
ocratic party, and a member of the Roman Catholic Church. 

J. D. FTJLLERTON, dentist, Ridgway, a son of Alexander and Catherine 
(Chandler) Fullerton, natives of Pennsylvania, was born in Brookvill,e, Penn., 
April 15, 1847. He received a practical business education in Brookville, and 
resided with his parents until 1868, when he began the study of his profession 
with D. B. Lowry, of Brookville, Penn., and remained with him until 1873. 
He married, March 13, 1872, Miss Caroline, a daughter of Jacob and Caroline 
Linsenbigler, of Rural Village, Penn.^ and soon after his marriage came to 
Ridgway, where he commenced the practice of dentistry, and is now enjoying 
a fine lucrative practice. He is a member of the Elk Lodge, No. 379, F. & 
A. M., and Elk Chapter, No. 230. 

PETER GAINOR, ex sheriff of Elk county, Ridgway, was born at Buffalo, 
N. Y., in 1846, son of Peter and Ellen (Foley) Gainor, natives of Ireland. 
When a child he accompanied his parents to Allegany county, N. Y. , and from 
there to McKean county, Penn. He was given good educational advantages, 
and after leaving school engaged in the lumber business; in 1869 he moved to 
Elk county and located in Spring Creek township, where he continued to 
follow the lumber business until 18S6, when he was elected sheriff of Elk 
county and removed to Ridgway. He has been an active worker in the ranks 
of the Democratic party, and filled the position of sheriff in an acceptable 
manner until the expiration of his term of office, January 6, 1890, having had 
the confidence of both his constituents and the opposing party in politics. In 
1880 Mr. Gainor married Miss Kate Davison, a daughter of Daniel Davison, 
and they have a family of six children, as follows: James A. Gaiuor, aged nine 
years; Nellie M. Gainor, aged seven years; Peter D. Gainor, aged five years; 
Katie M. Gainor, aged three years; Frank C. Gainor, aged two years; Bessie 
Irene Gainor, aged nine months. Mr. and Mrs. Gainor are members of the 
Catholic Church. 

J. K. GARDNER, lumberman, was born in Ridgway township. Elk county, 
Penn., January 28, 1848, and is a son of Nelson and Mary (Morey) Gardner, na- 
tives of Steuben county, N. Y., who came to Elk county in 1845, settling on the 
farm where the father yet lives. Nelson Gardner was by occupation a hunter, 
and he paid for his farm with the proceeds of the chase. The subject of these 



726 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

lines spent his boyhood days with his parents on the farm until 1868, when be 
embarked in the lumber business, which he has since followed. May 1. L871, 
he married Miss Ophelia M., daughter of Otis B. and Caroline (Nichols) 
Fitch, who came from Cattaraugus county, N. Y.. to Port Allegany. McKean 
county. Penn., lining among the early settlers. Mr. and Mrs. J. K. Gardner 
are parents of two children: Ella M and Earl. The parents are members of 
the Congregational Church at Ridgway. In politics Mr. Gardner is a 
Democrat, having twice been elected commissioner of Elk county, and 
from January 1, 1882, until January 1, 1888. He is now the managing partner 
of the linn of Hall. Gardner & Co., lumbermen, doing business at Hallton, 
Elk county. This firm was organized in 1882 as Hall & Gardner, and did 
business until August 1, 1889, when Mr. W. H. Hyde, of Ridgway boron _;h. 
became a member, and the firm name was changed to Hall, Gardner & Co. 
Mr. Gardner's house is in Ridgway borough, where he has lived since 1885. 

JAMES L. GILLIS was born in Hebron, Washington Co., N. Y., in 1T ( J2. 
The educational advantages were meager then as compared to the present day. 
and the common school was all that he was privileged to enjoy, and that only 
for three months in the year. In 1S<>8 his parents moved to Argyle. N. Y.. 
and there he served an apprenticeship of three years at the tanner's trad.-. 
Immediately after the declaration of war between the United States and Great 
Britain, in 1812, he enlisted in the mounted dragoons, commanded by Capt. 
C. V. Boughton. This was an independent company, which served as escort 
to Gen. Hull, who was afterward superseded by Gen. Van Rensselaer. When 
the regiment went into winter quarters, he again enlisted, this time in the regi- 
ment commanded by Col. Stone, and during this year was at Fort George with 
Gen. McClure. After the abandonment of this fort, and before the burning of 
Newark, Canada, Mr. Gillis was taken sick and was sent to Batavia, N. Y. In 
the meantime Buffalo, Lewiston, Youngstowu, Black Rock and Manchester 
were captured and burned, and in the winter of 1813-14 the company of Capt. 
Boughton was paid off and discharged. In the spring of 1814 Mr. Gillis 
again enlisted for one year, and during the following summer participated in 
the battles at Chippewa and Lundy's Lane. At the last-named battle his 
horse was shot from under him and he was wounded. August 7, 1814. he bad 
charge of sixteen men, who were sent on a foraging expedition, but they were 
surprised, four men being killed and nine, including Mr. Gillis. captured and 
confined at Toronto, Kingston, Prescott and Montreal. November 14, 1M4. 
In. with twenty-rive others, was put on board the transport boat "Stately," 
which was about to sail for England, but Mr. Gillis and live others escaped in 
a boat, landing near the city of Quebec. After wandering in the woods three 
days, they came upon the cabin of a Frenchman, who agreed to conduct them 
to a place of safety. He put them into a darkened mom. and went to the 
reconnoitre, returning after considerable time, and when the door was opened, 
they found the house surrounded by British soldiers. They were taken to 
Halifax and there kept until the spring of 1815, when the treaty of peace was 
signed. After the war Mr. Gillis lived at Victor. N. Y.. for some time, and 
then worked with his brothers, Enon and Samuel, at tanning and shoemaking. 
In L822 he moved to Elk (then in Jefferson) county and located sixteen miles 
from aii\ neighbor and seventy from any post office. He cleared up what is 
now the Mmtmorenci farm, and built a saw and grist-mill, and became the 
first extensive lumber manufacturer in this region. He was appointed associ- 
ate judge of Jefferson and Franklin counties, and held the office two terms. 
In 1840 he was elected to the Pennsylvania legislature, and served three years 
in the house and three years in the senate. In 1856 he was elected a member 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 727 

of congress from his district. He was an intimate friend of James Buchanan, 
and was a delegate to the convention that nominated him for the presidency. 
He was appointed Indian agent for the Pawnees in 1859, which was the last 
office he held. In 1862 he went to Iowa and lived with his son until the tragic 
death of the latter, and finally came to his death at Mount Pleasant, Iowa, in 
July, 1881. The long and notable career of James L. Gillis is an example to 
young men of to-day. He was a foremost actor in the stirring scenes of life, 
and was one of the pioneers of the now thriving county of Elk. He was mar- 
ried, in 1816, to Mary Ridgway, of Philadelphia, who died in 1826, leaving 
three children: Ridgway B. .Charles B. and Jeannette C. (now Mrs. Houk). In 
1828 he married Miss Berry, of New York, who died in 1855, leaving seven 
children: B. W.. a journalist of Richmond, Va. ; Claudius V., of Kane, Penn. ; 
James H., commodore, U. S. N. ; Robert S., of Iowa; Mrs. Porter, Mrs. Noxon 
and Mrs. Whiting. Mr. Gillis' father, Robert Gillis, was born in Boston, 
Mass., in 1740, three days after the landing of his Scotch parents. He spent 
his young manhood as a sailor on coasting vessels running from Boston to New 
Orleans and other American seaports. He married Jerusha Clark, of New 
Hampshire, and they reared a family of five children, all of whom passed the 
age of four score, and one son, John, lived to be ninety-three years old. The 
first wife died, and Robert then married Sarah Stewart, by whom there were 
six children: Enos, who died aged sixty-seven; Samuel, aged eighty four: 
James L. , aged eighty-nine; Thomas, born June 10, 1794, is still living; 
Elizabeth, wife of Elisha Ingersoll, died aged fifty-five years, and Hugh. 

E. T. GRANT, tanner, Ridgway, was born at Liberty, Sullivan Co., 
N. Y. , in 1853, a son of Hon. R. Y. Grant. He was reared in his native 
county, and was given good educational advantages, graduating from Monti - 
cello Academy in 1868. Coming to Ridgway in 1869. he entered the employ 
of the Ridgway Tanning Company, and has since been connected with same. 
He was married in 1876 and has two children — one son and one daughter. 
Mr. Grant is a member of Elk Lodge, No. 379, F. & A. M. He is a Demo- 
crat in politics, and an active worker for the interests of his party. He is a 
member of Mill Creek Rod and Gun Club, which owns ten miles of Mill Creek, 
a stream that furnishes the best fishing ground in the State. They have an 
elegantly fitted up club-house, furnished with all necessary accoutrements for 
pleasure seekers, and have a special policeman employed to guard the stream. 
The club is incorporated, and will soon become the greatest pleasure club in 
the State. 

L. S. GUTH, jeweler, Ridgway, was born at Callensburgh, Clarion Co., 
Penn., in 1853, son of Leopold and Theresa (Loll) Guth, the former a native 
of Freiburg, Baden, Germany, and the latter born and reared in Alsace. In 
his childhood the parents of our subject moved to Clarion, the county-seat, 
and there he was reared and educated. When fifteen years of age, he began 
learning the jeweler's trade of his father, working with him until twenty years 
old. when he went to Fryburgh and engaged in business for himself, but re- 
mained there only a short time, removing to Petersburg and from there to 
Petrolia, Butler Co., Penn. Later he went to Denver, Colo., where he lived 
six years, and then returned to Pennsylvania, and has since lived in Ridgway, 
where he now has a good business, and is numbered among the substantial 
men of Ridgway. September 29, 1886, at the Church of the Immaculate Con- 
ception, Clarion, Penn., Mr. Guth married Mary A. Meisinger, daughter of 
John and Anna (Gruber) Meisinger, both of Bavaria, and they have two chil- 
dren, Elizabeth and William. Mr. and Mrs. Guth are members of the Cath- 
olic Church. In politics he is a Democrat, adhering firmly to the principles 



728 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

of that party, and has just ended his term as burgess of the borough of 
Ridgway. 

J. H. HAGERTY, merchant, Ridgway, was bornin Hollidaysburg, Penn.. 
January 20, 1838, the second son born to James G. and Hannah (Mohney) 
Hagerty. natives of Pennsylvania. He received a business education in the 
district schools of Blair county. Penn., and lived at home until he was thirteen 
years of age, when he was employed as clerk in a general store in Mount 
Pleasant, Penn., remaining until he was nineteen, when he came to Ridgway. 
and engaged in the lumber business. Mr. Hagerty was married, July 16, 
1866, to Miss A. E., daughter of David and Sarah (.Stewart) Thayer, natives 
of Xew York State, who were among the early settlers of Kidgway. and built 
the Thayer House. Mr. and Mrs. Hagerty are the parents of two children: 
May (deceased) and Rena. at home. In 1867 Mr. Hagerty opened a general 
store in Ridgway, and in 1869 was appointed postmaster, serving until 1887. 
In 1884 he started a shoe-store, in which business he still continues. He has 
held various borough offices, and is one of the leading business men of Ridg- 
way. He is a member of Elk Lodge, No. 379, F. & A. M.., also a member of 
No. 1644, K. of H., Ridgway, Penn. Mr. Hagerty is a thorough Republican 
and was a delegate to the Republican National Convention that met in Chi- 
cago in 1888, and nominated the Harrison and Morton ticket. In June, 1889, 
Mr. Hagerty was reappointed postmaster of Rid-way. and is now doing active 
duty in his old position. 

W. S. HAMBLEN, attorney at law, Ridgway. was born in Standish. Cum- 
berland Co.. Me., February 15. ISoiJ, a son of I. and Lydia A. Hamblen. In 
November, 1840, the parents moved to Lovell, Oxford county, where our sub 
ject resided until August, 1850. He was educated in the common schools of 
Lovell, and the academies at Fryeburgh and Waterville, Me., graduating from 
the latter school in 1859. He was a hard student, and his close attention to 
his studies so undermined his health that he was obliged to give up a college 
course, and leaving school, he entered the employ of a lumber company, in 
Cambria county. Penn., as manager, remaining with them from 1859 to 1865. 
In 1865 he removed to Elk county, and engaged successfully in the manufact- 
ure of shooks, which he shipped in large lots to Philadelphia, from where 
they were exported to Cuba, and returned to the United States rilled with 
sugar and molasses. The insurrection in Cuba led to the relinquishment of 
this business by him in 1872. As he was located a long distance from an 
attorney, it became necessary for him to understand the law of contract-, etc., 
and this led him to read Blackstone, Kent, Greenleaf. and all necessary text 
books on contracts, lulls and notes. This he did for his own benefit, but on lo- 
cating at Ridgway, in 1870. was advised to enter the profession, and in 1 s7 1 was 
registered as a law student, and in 1876 was admitted to the bar. from which 
time he has been a thorough, reliable and responsible lawyer. He was instru- 
mental in organizing the Elk county Republican committee in 1867, and was 
its chairman until 1">72. when he refused to act in that capacity, as he was 
identified that year with the Greeley movement. He has been prominent in 
politics as a reformer, and has given his support to many enterprises of public 
benefit. Mr. Hamblen married Miss Annette D.. daughter of Martin P. and 
Hannah Ayers, of Conneaut, Ohio. They have one son, named Lynne Avers 
Hamblen, and also had a son and daughter who died in infancy. 

D. B. HAMILTON', wagon manufacturer, Ridgway. is a native of Mercer 
county. Penn.. born February -'2., 1847. He was reared on a farm, and in his 
youth learned the wagon-maker's trade. He was employed at the Conklin 
Wagon Factory, at (Mean. X. V.. until 1883, when he moved to Ridgway. and 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 729 

■engaged in the manufacture of wagons until 1886. when he became associated 
with D. C. Oyster, under the tirm name of D. B. Hamilton & Co., which part- 
nership was continued until January 1, 1889. when the company was changed 
to a corporation, under the name of the Hamilton Wagon Company (limited), 
the stockholders being D. C. Oyster, W. H. Osterhout and D. B. Hamilton, 
with D. C. Oyster, president, and D. B. Hamilton, secretary and treasurer. 
The Hamilton Wagon Company are on a sound financial footing, and give em- 
ployment to twenty-five or thirty men. Their wagons have a reputation for 
durability, and the demand is greater than the supply. They take special 
pains in the selection of the wood used in their manufacture, and their wagons 
find a ready sale in the home market. Mr. Hamilton gives his entire time to 
the management of his business, and although interested in the welfare of the 
city, has no time to devote to the cares of public office. He casts his suffrage 
with the Republican party. Mr. Hamilton married Miss Flora E. McCrea. 
and they have one daughter. They are members of the Congregational 
Church. 

W. C. HEALY. Ridgway. was born at Romeo, Macomb Co., Mich., in 1824. 
a son of Freeborn and Polly (Chandler) Healy. His father was a native of 
Wyoming county, N. Y. , where he was married, and in 1819 moved to Michi- 
gan, where he died August '29, 1825. The mother died in January, 1839. W. 
C. Healy was reared in Michigan, and educated at the common schools. After 
the death of his mother he came to Pennsylvania, and in 1848 located at Ridg- 
way, in Elk county, where, for three years, he was employed in a mercantile 
house, and then, for eight years, was engaged in lumbering, and later was in 
the mercantile business. In 1856 he was elected sheriff of Elk county, and 
served one term, and for a number of years has served as justice of the peace. 
He is one of the prominent citizens of the county, a Democrat in politics, and 
takes an active interest iu local affairs. He is a member of the Masonic fra- 
ternity, Elk Lodge. No. 379. Elk Chapter. No. 230. and Knapp Commandery. 
No. 40. Mr. Healy married. New Year's Eve, 1853, Martha A., daughter of 
Caleb Dill, a pioneer of Elk county, and they have two children: Mattie E. 
and Claude H. They are members of the Episcopal Church. 

W. S. HORTON, son of Isaac and Sarah (Sherwood) Horton, was born in 
Horton township. Elk Co.. Penn., in 1853. His grandfather, Isaac Horton. 
came from the Eastern States in a very early day, and located in what is now 
Horton township, where he engaged in farming and dealing in lumber, clear- 
ing his farm of timber. He subsequently moved to Ridgway, where he died. 
His children were: Lovisa, wife of Col. Wilcox; Minerva, wife of J. W. Tay 
lor; Charles, who was one of the first prothonotaries of the county; Isaac; Al 
vira; Hezekiah; Amanda, wife of Jerome Powell, and Matilda, wife of Col. 
Fred Schoening. Minerva, Alvita, Hezekiah and Matilda are the only ones liv- 
ing. Isaac was born at Brandy Camp, Horton township, and passed his life 
in Elk county, engaged in farming and lumbering. He was elected treasurer 
of the county, and moved to Ridgway, but died near Erie. He married Sarah 
Sherwood, who now lives at North East, Erie county. They had eight chil- 
dren: Loren C. ; Emma, wife of John Collins; Helen, wife of Alfred Short: 
W. S. ; Lucy; Milton O, a banker of Missouri; Ida, wife of Lester Chase, of 
Buffalo, and Walter. W, S. Horton was reared in Elk county, completing his 
education at Williamsport, and then engaged in the lumber business until 
twenty-two years of age, when he was appointed clerk in the prothonotarv's 
office, filling that position from 1S78 till 1884. In the meantime, from 1 881 • 
to 1883, he served also as deputy sheriff of the county, and iu 1884 was elected 
prothonotary, and was reelected iu 1887. He is an active worker in the Dem- 



730 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

ocratic party, and is also active in all public affairs. He is a member 
Masonic fraternity. Elk Lodge, No 379, Ridgway Chapter, No. 230, and Knapp 
Commandery, No. 40. Mr. Hortou married Ella Bennett in September. 1878, 
and they have three children: Isaac aged eight; Ealph W., aged six. and 
( llara, aged four. 

JACOB V. HOUK (d >ased). Fourteen years ago, on January 26, 1876, 

% there passed to his heavenly rest, after enduring excruciating sufferings, which 
he bore with characteristic Christian resignation, the universally respected cil 
izen whose name heads this biographical memoir. The career of the de< 
in his lifetime was one remarkable for its straggles and triumphs — a career 
adorned and made conspicuous by his liberality, public-spiritedness and zeal in 
l be cause of right, though his earthly pilgrimage was one of trial, tumult and suf 
fering. Mr. Honk was born, October 18, 1822. at Slippery Rock, Butler Co., 
Penn., in the vicinity in which he continued to reside until his twenty-fourth year. 
engaged in farming and such other labor as offered to him the best inducements. 
He then removed to New Brighton, Beaver county, where he followed lumber 
ing for about a year and a half, after which he went to Tidioute, Warren Co., 
Penn., and here also worked at similar business for about a year, when he found 
his way to Beech Bottom, Elk county, where he took a contract to run round 
timber for the Blake company. After a time he went to Lawrence county, and 
once more went to farming for about a year, at which time he again sought the 
wilds of Elk county. At Beech Bottom he found employment as an efficient 
all-around man, both in the woods and in the mill, with Cobb & Rulofson, and 
then, in a year or two, moved to Bear creek, where he built and operated a 
railroad for moving lumber from the places of skidding to the streams. While 
thus employed he became united in marriage, July 2, 1857, with Miss Jeannette 
C. Gillis, daughter of Judge James L. Gillis, one of the foremost pioneers of 
Elk county. To this union was born, September 9, 1859, one son, James L 
Gillis Houk, who died June 30, 1863. Mr. Honk, after marriage, took up his 
residence in Ridgway, and in connection with Judge James L. and Charles 
Gillis, built a section of the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad. This accomplished, 
he then formed a copartnership with J. S. Hyde in a lumbering business, at 
Mead Run, under the firm name of Hyde & Houk. but at the expiration of a 
year and a half he disposed of his interest in the Mead Run property to Will- 
iam Reed, ami in conjunction with Charles McVeah purchased the mercantile 
business in Ridgway of Coyne & Burroughs, the title of the Jinn being Houk 
& McVeah. Subsequently Mr. Houk bought out his partner's interest in the 
concern, and continued the business in his own right for a period of years, when 
the store passed into the hands of R. S. & C. V. Gillis. Mr. Honk's next 
venture was in the flour and feed business, in copartnership with J. S. Hyde and 
J. K. Whitmore, the firm being known as Hyde, Houk ,v Whitmore, fro a 
which, several years later, he withdrew, repurchasing the store from ('. V, 
(Tillis, which remained in his possession until his death. In the meantime he 
was engaged in other enterprises, most prominent of which was the planing mill 
of. I. V. Houk & Co. A man of large and vigorous frame, Mr. Houk was almost a 
giant in strength and endurauce, and up to about four year-, prior to his decease 
was c imparatively free from the many ills that flesh is heir to. Having been 
appointed receiver for L. F. & H. M. Powers, who had been lumbering . 
mont mill, on Spring creek, he entered upon the discharge of his duties with 
the vigor and earnestness which characterized his whole life, and in so doing 
exposed himself to many hardships. On one occasion, while running logs, he 
was struck by a handspike and knocked into the stream, He 'then, without 
changing his clothes, walked to Ridgway, a distance of twenty miles, through 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 731 

mud and slush. Through this he took a heavy cold, and from that time on he 
never enjoyed a single day of perfect health. In 1871 Mr. Houk was chosen 
one of the associate judges of the county, and often during the period of his 
illness was he found upon the bench, intent on the conscientious discharge of 
his duties, when he should have been in his room seeking to repair his shattered 
health. As a man, Mr. Houk was brave, true and honest, realizing that " an 
honest man is the noblest work of God," and so lived as to be entitled to that 
exalted position among men. As a friend he was ever true, often discommod- 
ing himself to relieve the necessities of those around him, and as a husband he 
was uniformly kind and devoted. 

C. L. KELLOGG, dentist, Ridgway, was born in Canada, September 24, 
1843, the third son in a family of nine children, born to Ira and Rebecca 
(Vinton) Kellogg, natives of New York State. His father was a dentist, and 
under his tutorship Mr. Kellogg became proficient in his chosen profession. 
In 1882 he came to Ridgway, where he has established a lucrative practice, 
and is one of the popular business men in the town. Mr. Kellogg married. 
September 24. 1874, Miss Ada T. Kellogg, of Canada, and they are the parents 
of two children: Etta M. and Nina E. 

JOHN R. KIME, clerk, Ridgway, was born in Mifflin county, Penn. , 
August 12, 1836, the eldest son in a family of six children born to G. W. 
and Ellen (Logan) Kime, natives of Pennsylvania. When he was nineteen 
years of age he went west, where he remained five years. September 22, 
1801, he enlisted in the service of his country, and was assigned to Company 
I. Seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, serving three months; then re- 
enlisted, this time in Company K, Forty-ninth Regiment, and was commis- 
sioned first lieutenant, serving three years. Mr. Kime married, September 
22, 1S61 (the day of his enlistment), Miss L. J. Hesser, a daughter of John 
and Sally (Ross) Hesser. of McVeytown, Penn., and they have been blessed 
with five children: Clyde (deputy recorder), H. M. (merchant at Ridgway), 
Brace (book-keeper for Hyde, Murphy & Co.), Daisy and Ed (clerk for Os- 
terhout & Campbell). In 1871 Mr. Kime came to Ridgway, and engaged as 
clerk for Powell & Kime, with whom he worked for seven years, and since 
1878, has been in the employ of W. H. Hyde & Co. In 1885 he was elected 
chief burgess of Ridgway, and served one year. In 1 887 he was elected as- 
sociate judge of Elk county. He is highly respected by his fellow-citizens, 
and is one of the leading men in the township. 

R. V. KIME, clerk, Ridgway, is a son of G. W. and Ellen (Logan) Kime, 
natives of Pennsylvania. They were the parents of six children, R. V. being 
the second son. He was born in McVeytown, Penn., September 29, 1839, and 
was reared and educated in his native town. When thirteen years of age, he 
commenced clerking in a store in McVeytown; in 1859 he moved to Elk county, 
and in 1863 came to Ridgway, and in company with J. Powell, opened a 
mercantile business; this partnership existed until 1887, when they dissolved. 
Mr. Kime acting as clerk for his former partner. Mr. Kime married, October 
5, 1861, Miss Olive A. Horton, of Chautauqua county, N. Y., and tbey have 
four children: George C, Ellen L., Maud B. and Claude V. Mr. Kime has 
been prominently identified with the interests of the township, and has held 
various borough offices. 

M. S. KLINE, cashier of the Elk County Bank, Ridgway, is a native of 
Clarion county, Penn., born in 1853. He is a son of Aaron and Elizabeth 
(Wiant) Kline. Aaron Kline is a native of Northampton county, Penn., but 
is now a resident of Clarion county, and was county commissioner there several 
years ago. Mrs. Elizabeth (Wiant) Kline's parents were natives of Bucks 



732 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

county, Perm. This lady died January 1. 1890, aged fifty five years. M. S. 
Kline, the Bubject of these lines, was reared and educated in his native county, 
and choosing the profession of law after leaving school, in 1874, went into the 
office of Hall & McCauley, as clerk and student. In 1878 he was admi 
the bar, and same war lie began the practice of his profession at Ridgway. 
Si ion thereafter he was appointed cashier in the store of W. H. Hyde & Co 
with whom he remained until L880, when he was appointed book-keeper and 
clerk in the Elk County Bank, being promoted in l^M tocashier, a position he 
has since held. He also represents several life, tire and accident insurance 
companies, operating largely through the northern part of the State. He is 
a stockholder in the Ridgway Light & Heat Company, and is its treasurer. 
He takes an active interest in local affairs, aiding with his influence aid 
every project to materially advance the prosperity of the community. 
served as deputy sheriff of the county, and for fourteen years has been a notarj 
public, and is now holding that office. Mr. Kline is not a politician, in the 

se f being an office seeker, although he does all in his power to further the 

interests of the Democratic party, and in 18S8 he was a delegate to the State 
convention. Mr. Kline was married September 2, 1880, to Carrie V.. daughter 
of D. S. Luther, a pioneer of Ridgway, and they have had four children, two 
of whom, Frederick Luther (aged seven years) and Hugh Earl (aged four 
years) are now living. 

JOHN LARSON, merchant, Ridgway. was born in Sweden, January 10, 
1866. He spent his boyhood days with his parents, and in 1883 immigrated 
to America, settling in Ridgway, Penn., where he worked as a laborer for W 
H. Hyde & Co., completing his education as he could, in his spare hours. In 
1SS7 he, in company with August Anderson, bought the stock of goods owned 
by E. K. Oresh, and they have since conducted a fine mercantile trade. Mr. 
Larson married, May 1, 1889, Miss Carrie, a daughter of P. C. Julin, of Ridg- 
way. Penn. 

L. J. A. LESSER, dealer in rubber stamps, etc.. Ridgway, was born in War 
ren county, Penn., December 21, 1863, a son of Philip and Caroline (Leon 
hart) Lesser, natives of Sundhausen, Alsace, Germany. They were married in 
1862, and with their parents settled in and about Warren, where are now 
many of their descendants. Philip Lesser is a blacksmith, who moved to 
Ridgway in 1868, and first occupied the house on Centre street, now owned by 
E. E. \\ illard: then he lived in a house on South street, now owned by B. E. 
\\ Me •.,. afterward building a home of his own on Centre street, directly oppo- 
site the place he first occupied. Mr. and Mrs. Lesser have four sons liv 
ing, viz.: L. J. A., Charles Edward. Franklin Theodore and Leonard Luther. 
L. J. A. Lesser was reared in the faith of the Lutheran Church, of which 
his parents are members, and was confirmed April IT.. ISM, by Kev. John 
Sander, A. M. , then pastor of the First Evangelical Lutheran Church at 
Ridgway, of which church Mr. Lesser is still an active member. For live 
years he was superintendent of the Sunday-school; in 1886 was elected a 
member of the church council, and is now the teacher of the Bible class in 
the Sunday school. He attended different select schools, and was one of a 
class of four, which was graduated from the Ridgway High School. May 30, 
1882, tlie graduating feature being introduced after he left school, and he re- 
turning to receive this additional honor. In October. lSSO. Mr. Lesser ob- 
tained a situation as clerk in the store at Brockport, owned by the Keystone 
Lumber Company, and after remaining there for two months, returned home 
and was immediately employed by the Northwestern Mining & Exchange Coin 
panj of Dagus Mines, as an agent at the Daguscahonda Railroad terminus, 



BIOGKAPHICAL SKETCHES. 733 

remaining here one month, when he was transferred to the central office at Da- 
gus Mines, where he remained one year, when he returned to Eidgway for the 
purpose of graduating, as already referred to. August 15, 18S2, he became en 
gaged in the manufacture and sale of proprietary medicines for D. B. Day, of 
Eidgway, in whose employ he has since remained. Mr. Lesser married, June 
7, 1888, Miss Annie, a daughter of George and Mary Ann Truman, of Sigel, 
Penn., and they have one child, Clyde Truman Lesser, born July 13, 1889. 
March 18, 1886, he was initiated in Eidgway Lodge, No. 969, I. 0. O. F., 
and has served as trustee for more than three years consecutively, being the 
present secretary; has passed all honors in the subordinate lodge, and is a 
member of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, having been representative to 
the same. In March, 1888, he joined Eidgway Council, No. 1081, Royal Ar- 
canum; he was also a member and secretary of the Laurel Hook and Ladder 
Company, from its organization to its abandonment. Mr. Lesser is an ardent 
Eepublican, and was corresponding secretary for the "Harrison and Morton 
Club," that performed such effective campaign work in 1888. He established 
his present rubber stamp and stencil business in 1881, and has a fine and 
growing trade in the manufacture and sale of these goods. 

HOEACE LITTLE, real-estate agent, surveyor, etc., Eidgway, was born 
in New Hampshire, September 17, 1832, and is a son of Eichard and Mary C. 
(Pillsbury) Little, natives of New Hampshire and Massachusetts, respectively. 
He was educated in his native State, and when twenty years of age came to 
Eidgway, engaging with his brother as a surveyor. The latter died in 1863, 
since which time Horace has been engaged in the sale of real estate, mineral 
mines, etc. He married, May 30, 1857, Miss Lucy, a daughter of Joseph W. 
and M. W. (Horton) Taylor, early settlers in Elk county. Mr. and Mrs. Little 
are the parents of five children: Arthur B., surveyor; May M., music teacher; 
Helen, wife of W. W. Barbour, attorney at Eidgway, Penn. ; Benjamin, sur- 
veyor; Jeanette, in Westmoreland county, Penn., and Louise V., at home. 
Mr. Little has held the office of county surveyor, and was one of the first jury 
commissioners elected in Elk county. 

SAMUEL LOWBY, superintendent for Wilson, Kistler & Co., Eolfe Tan- 
nery, P. O. Eolfe, was born in Clinton county, Penn., December 24, 1843. 
His parents, Jacob and Matilda (Moore) Lowry, were natives of Lancaster 
county, Penn. His father is>a millwright by trade, but is now engaged in 
farming in Clinton county. Mr. Lowry received a good education, and learned 
the tanning business with Kistler Brothers at Lock Haven, Penn. In 1882 he 
came to Eolfe, and has since had the entire charge of the Eolfe tannery, and 
under his management their business has grown from a capacity of 150 hides 
per week to 1,360 per week. He is also interested in the furniture business 
at Johnsonburg, Penn. , in partnership with Dr. H. H. Smith. Mr. Lowry was 
married in 1867 to Miss A. B. , daughter of Andrew Gibb, a native of Scotland. 
They have three children: Andrew, Stewart and May. In 1862 Mr. Lowry 
enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Thirty-seventh Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers, served nine months, and in March, 1864, he re-enlisted in Company K, 
One Hundred and Eighty- seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until 
the close of the war. He is a member of Wilcox Lodge, No. 571, F. & A. M. , 
also of John S. Bitner Post, No. 122, G. A. E. , of Lock Haven, Penn. He is a 
member of the Eepublican party, and has held the office of school director. He 
and wife are members of the English Lutheran Church, of Lock Haven, Penn. 

CALVIN HUDSON McCAULEY, attorney at law, Eidgway, the subject 
of this sketch, was born in Fox township, Elk Co., Penn., July 10, 1850. 
After receiving such advantages as the common schools of the county afforded, 



(34 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

he spent a year at the high school in Painesville, Ohio, and subsequently 
attended the university at Lewisbnrg, Penn. Iq 1809 he commenced the 
study of the law and was admitted to the l>ar August 7, 1S72, since which time 
he has devoted his entire time and attention to the practice of his profession. 
In 1876 he was elected district attorney of Elk county, which office he held for 
the term of three years. In 1881. upon the incorporation of Ridgway borough, 
he was elected a member of the borough council, and upon organization of the 
council was made president, which position he held for three years. In 1888 
lie was again elected councilman for three years, and upon the organization of 
the council was again made president. In 1882 he was appointed attorney for 
the Rochester & Pittsburgh Railroad Company for Elk county, and upon the 
reorganization of that company, under the name of the Buffalo, Rochester & 
Pittsburgh Railway Company, was appointed solicitor of the company for the 
State of Pennsylvania. He has also been counsel for the New York, Lake 
Erie & Western Railroad Company for several years. December 1. 1889, he 
was appointed solicitor for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company for the Forty - 
seventh district, composed of the counties of Elk and Jefferson. Mr. 
McCauley was married December 25, 1871, at Olean, N. Y., to Juliette A. 
McGibney, of Olean. As the fruits of such marriage there are children now 
living as follows: Ruby V. McCauley, Calvin H. McCauley. Jr.. and Katharine 
E. McCauley. 

J. H. McEWEN. of the firm of J. H. McEwen & Co., manufacturer- ol 
boilers, engines, etc., Ridgway, was born at Angelica. Allegany Co., N. Y.. 
in l"v>l. and is a son of Duncan S. and Susan D. (Ewing) McEwen, the former 
of Scotch and the latter of Scotch-Irish parentage. J. H. McEwen attended 
the Ohio State University at Columbus, where he took a course in engineering, 
and after leaving school he followed his profession in different parts of the 
country until 1885, when he came to Ridgway, erected suitable buildings, and 
began the manufacture of portable and stationary engines, boilers, circular 
saw-mills and tannery machinery, mill gearing, iron and bra-- castings, etc 
The linn was first known as McEwen Eros. & Co.. tint in ISSll Mr. McEwen 
became associated with D. C. Oyster and I. D. Bell, and the name was 
changed to J. H. McEwen & Co. This tirni carry on an extensive business. 
giving employment to about fifty men. and have a wide reputation for the 
excellency of the work turned out. Mr. McEwen "married Miss Jennie Thorn 
ton. of Angelica, N. Y., daughter of Henry and Jane (Eager) Thornton, of 
Irish descent, and they have two children. In politics Mr. McEwen is a 
Republican. He and wife are members of the Congregational Church. 

HUGH McGEEHTN, merchant. Ridgway, is a native of Ireland, born in 
October, L840, son of James and Bridge! (Connohan) McGeehin. He was 
reared and educated in his native country, where he remained until 1868, 
when he came to the United States and located at Ridgway, Penn. His th-t 
employment in tins country was with tin' Philadelphia & Erie Railroad Com - 
pany, but later he engaged in peddling dry goods and notions, in which he 

was 3uc Eul. He relinquished this business, however, in January, L872, 

and leased his old store building from W. C. Healy, Ridgway, where, in con- 
junction with a partner, he entered upon a general mercantile business. The 
lease of this building terminating at the end of three years, the property was 
purchased from Mr. Healy h\ the firm. The partnership continued until 
1883, and a good and prosperous trade had been done, but in the latter part of 
1882, however, Mr. McGeehin, seeing the necessity of making improvements 
in order to keep pace with the progress of the town, and thinking that his 
partner might not favor the idea, proposed a dissolution, and. in order to gel 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 735 

away from the old stand, which he did not consider to be very desirable, of- 
fered his interest in the real estate at so low a figure that bis partner 
promptly accepted the proposition. Mr. McGeehin then erected a new store 
in what he considered to be a more popular part of the town, and opened it for 
business in March, 1883, since which time he has been alone, and has carried 
on a trade second to none in the borough, considering the amount of capital 
invested. Mr. McGeehin is also a member of the firm of Bogert & McGeehin, 
at Johnsonburg, Penn., owning one-half interest in by far the leading general 
store in that prosperous town, it being conducted under the supervision of P. 
F. Bogert. In addition to his mercantile interests, Mr. McGeehin is also 
owner and proprietor of the Bogert House at Ridgway, a resort of no mean 
reputation and one that is conducted on a sound financial basis. This hotel 
he established in 1880. and leased to P. F. Bogert (his present partner at 
Johnsonburg), who conducted it for five years, and then went out worth $25,- 
000 more than when he came in. In 1886 Mr. McGeehiu took charge of the 
establishment, which he now conducts in connection with his other business, 
and, although a little out of his line, he has been very successful in securing a 
very large share of the public patronage. In fact, in all his varied enterprises 
he has exhibited a business ability of no mean order, and he is emphatically a 
self-made man. Notwithstanding the pressure of his private business affairs, 
he finds time to devote to the interests of his town and county, and has held 
several official positions in the township and borough. In politics he has 
always been a Democrat, and although not an office seeker, yet he has never 
been defeated when he allowed his name to be used in connection with local 
politics. In February, 1877, Mr. McGeehin married Miss Ellen Laughlin, 
who was born February 4, 1854, a daughter of Lawrence and Catherine (Col- 
lins) Laughlin, and to this union have been born four children: James Law- 
rence, born April 4, 1878; William, born August 28, 1880; Mary Catherine, 
born September 1, 1882, and died October 12, 1884, and John Hugh, born 
June 26, 1887. The family are members of the Catholic Church. 

J. S. McGINNIS, furniture dealer and undertaker, Ridgway, was born in 
the County Armagh, Ireland, in 1845, and in 1847 his parents came to the 
United States, locating in Boston, Mass., where they lived until 1857, in which 
year they moved to Allegany county. N. Y. , where they passed the rest of 
their lives. J. S. lived in Allegany county until 1865, when he came to Ridg- 
way and engaged in the lumber business until 1886, at the same time carrying 
on a billiard room. In 1S86 he opened a furniture and undertaking establish- 
ment, and now has a good trade, having one of the best stocks in his line in 
the city. Mr. McGinnis is a prominent citizen of the county, and has served 
as deputy sheriff, county commissioner and treasurer. He married Miss Mary 
E. Warner, of Steuben county, N. Y., and they have four children: Fred W., 
James E., Eva Evangeline and Gertrude Margaret. Mr. McGinnis and his 
family are members of the Catholic Church; in politics he is a Democrat. 

REV. MICHAEL MEAGHER, Ridgway, was born September 5, 1850, in 
the parish of Templederry, County Tipperary, Ireland, and is a son of Thomas 
and Mary (Kennedy) Meagher. His preparatory studies for the priesthood 
were pursued in his native country, and in the fall of 1869 he came to the 
United States. Here he entered St. Michael's Seminary, at Pittsburgh. Penn., 
where he studied philosophy and theology, and was otherwise prepared for his 
sacred calling. December 19, 1872, he was ordained sub-deacon, and Jan- 
uary 10, 1873, was ordained deacon at St. Vincent's College, Westmoreland 
county, Penn. , by the late Bishop Domenec, of Pittsburgh. July 6, 1873, he 
was ordained priest at the cathedral of Erie, Penn., by Bishop Mullen, and 



736 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

was immediately appointed to take temporary charge of the congregation at 
Tidioute, Penn. December 17, 1873, he was sent as assistant to Corry, Penn.. 
and June 10, 1874, was appointed rector of the united parishes of Ridgway 
and Emporium. He is still pastor of St. Leo's Church at Ridgway, and St. 
Mark's Church of Emporium, Penn., and an account of his labors in the two 
parishes named will be found in the chapter treating of the history of the 
churches of Ridgway and Emporium. 

B. P. MERCER, of Mercer Bros., proprietors of meat market, Ridgway, 
was born in Howard county. Md.. in December. 1851. son of Isaiah and Harriet 
A. Mercer, who were married in 1839, and were both natives of Howard county, 
where B. P. Mercer was reared and educated. He learned the blacksmith's 
trade, also, in his native county, serving an apprenticeship and working at it 
there until 1875, when he removed to Elk county, Penn., working at his trade 
until 1876, when he entered into partnership with his brother, W. F. Mercer, 
in the meat business in Ridgway, under the firm name of Mercer Bros. , and 
they now own one of the finest and best kept retail markets in Western Penn- 
sylvania They keep constantly on hand a good supply of all kinds of fresh 
and salt meats, and aim to meet the varied demands of their customers. Mr. 
Mercer is a Republican in politics. He has held various official positions, per- 
forming the duties devolving upon him in an efficient and satisfactory manner. 
He is a member of Ridgway Lodge, No. 379, F. & A. M. ; Lodge No. 164-4, 
K. of H, and Lodge No. 40, I. O. O. F. 

G. G. MESSENGER. Ridgway, was born at Sheffield, Warren Co.. Penn.. 
April 5, ISl'i, son of George D. and Henrietta Messenger, native Americans. 
He was given good educational advantages, completing his school days at 
Meadville, Penn. He began his business life at Ridgway in 1865, opening a 
drug store, and has built up a good trade, now having one of the best stores 
in the city. In 1881 Mr. Messenger was elected associate judge of Elk county, 
and was re-elected at the expiration of his term. In 1887 he was appointed 
postmaster at Ridgway, which necessitated the resignation of his office. He 
has been treasurer of the borough a number of years, and in all his official po- 
sitions has served to the entire satisfaction of his fellow-townsmen. He is a 
public spirited, enterprising man, and is one of the prosperous citizens of 
Ridgway. Mr. Messenger married Maggie L., daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth 
Iviniiier, natives of Ireland, and they have two children: Joseph D. K. and 
Twila Mary. Mrs. Messenger is a member of the Reformed Presbyterian 
Church. 

.J. VY. MORGESTER, merchant, Ridgway. was bom in Erie county. X. V.. 
in 1850, and lived in his native county until twenty years old, receiving a com- 
mon school education. His parents are Joab and Polly (Ensign) Morgester, 
the former a native of Germany, and the latter of Erie county. X. Y. In |S7<> 
he came to Ridgway, where he engaged in the lumber business about eight 
years, also in the meantime serving as deputy sheriff. In 1878 he embarked 
in mercantile business, dealing in groceries, crockery, flour and feed, hay. 
grain, etc., and has built up a good trade, which is constantly increasing. He 
is a man of good business ability, and by his integrity and fair dealing has 
gained the confidence of his patrons. Mr. Morgester married. June 6, 1878, 
at Brookville. Penn., Miss Jennie L.. daughter of Henry A. and Caroline I Rus 
sell) Parsons, and they have live children: Ethel L. : John W., Jr.: Laura 
M. : M ayble Tacoma, and Russell Ensign Morgester. Mr. Morgester is a stanch 
supporter of the principles of the Republican party, and has served as a mem 
ber of the borough council: is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and of 
the Knights of Labor. He and his wife are members of the Episcopal 
Church. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 737 

A. S. MOTTER, photographer, Ridgway, was born in Mifflin county, Penn., 
January 5, 1848, is a son of Peter and Sarah (Steele) Motter, natives of Penn- 
sylvania. He remained upon the home farm until 1870, when he came to In- 
diana county, Penn., where he worked as a laborer. In 1883 he went to 
Brookville, Penn., where he learned the art of photography, and same year 
<;ame to Ridgway, where he established himself in business, and is now con- 
ducting a fine gallery, with a constantly increasing patronage. Mr. Motter 
married, May 20, 1870, Miss Sarah Updegraff, of Beaver township, Jefferson 
Co., Penn., and they are the parents of one child, Nettie. 

W. H. OSTERHOUT. proprietor of the Eagle Valley Tannery, Ridgway, 
was born in Wawarsing. Ulster Co., N. Y., August 17, 1832, and is a son of 
Daniel and Catherine (Boggs) Osterhout, also natives of the county named 
above. Work upon his father's farm, the manufacture of lumber, peeling of 
bark and attending school occupied his boyhood and youth until he reached 
the portal of manhood, in JL853. In that year he entered the Lackawack 
Tannery, owned by Henry Bange, of New York City, in which he served an 
apprenticeship until the spring of 1856, when he proceeded, in company with 
G. W. Northrup and Gilbert Polen, to Canadensis, Penn., there to assist in 
building a tannery, with a view to taking charge of it, but before its comple- 
tion he was taken sick and had to return home. He then again entered the 
Lackawack Tannery, where he completed his trade. He afterward took a course 
of study at Liberty Normal School, and while there received a proposal from 
Hon. Jackson S. Schultz, to go to Glenwood, Susquehanna Co., Penn., in order 
to take charge of the Glenwood Tannery, then owned by Schultz, Eaton & Co. , 
and here, December 26, 1857, began his experience in the management of a 
tannery. August 17, 1858, Mr. Osterhout married Miss Helen Connine, 
daughter of Maj. Richard Connine, of Wawarsing; the only child by this 
union, Florence M. , is the wife of B. F. Overholt, of West Overton, Penn. 
Mr. Osterhout continued to act as foreman at Glenwood until September, 
1862, when, with A. A. Eaton, he purchased the Glenwood tannery, the part- 
nership continuing until April 1, 1S64, when Mr. Osterhout purchased Mr. 
Eaton's interest, transferring the same to Eli Rightmyer. After two years 
of prosperous business Mr. Osterhout bought Mr. Rightmyer' s interest, and 
conducted the business alone until February 1, 1870, when he sold the entire 
establishment to Black, Burhans & Clearwater. In the fall of 1870 the sub- 
ject of these lines removed to Ridgway, where he bought 135 acres of land 
from J. S. Hyde, and built his extensive Eagle Valley Tannery and other 
buildings, aggregating a model establishment, complete in all its appoint- 
ments, and famous on that account throughout the tanning world. The bark- 
mill building has four mills, which have the capacity of grinding sixty cords 
of hemlock bark per clay, or 18,000 cords a year. The leach-house is at- 
tached to the mill building, forming with it an L, and contains tweuty-eight 
square leaches, 16J-xl8x7^ feet. The liquid is pumped from the leaches by 
force-pumps, driven by a thirty-five-horse-power engine; the cooler-house con- 
tains ten coolers fifteen feet square and six feet deep; the boiler-house con- 
tains the large furnaces and ten boilers, each twenty- two feet long and four 
feet in diameter, and here is made all the steam for driving the engines and 
heating the tannery, store, and Mr. Osterhout's dwelling. The main build- 
ing comprises the beam-house, handlers, yard, scrub-room and rolling-room, 
and the machinery used is driven by a sixty -five-horse-power engine. In and 
about the tannery about 160 men are employed; the capacity of the tannery 
is 250.000 sides per annum, the daily cost of running tuis immense business 
being $2,200, and the capital invested runs up into hundreds of thousands of 



738 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

dollars. Mr. Osterhout attends to many of the details with an accuracy that 
is astonishing, and as a business man he certainly has few equals. In ad- 
dition to his immense tannery he has a store, managed by C. E. Holaday, 
where he carries a stock of general merchandise, his sales aniounting to about 
$70,000 per year. His beautiful residence, which is built in the form of a 
Greek cross, stands in the center of a handsomely terraced yard, commanding 
a fine view of the works, of the valley and of Ridgway. The residence of his 
foreman is a pleasant, home- like house, and on the terrace adjoining is the 
house of his brother, C. D. Osterhout. On the grounds are also a boarding 
house 'and forty tenement homes, arranged along wide streets, lined with 
handsome shade-trees. The buildings are located at the junction of the Phila 
delphia iV Erie and Ridgway & Clearfield Railroads. The entire cost of con- 
structing the dwellings, store and tannery buildings was about $200,000. 
In 1870 Mr. Osterhout bought from J. S. Hyde the hemlock bark on 1.700 
acres; from J. S. Schultz. 4.00(1 acres, and from other parties 3,000 acres. 
lie l,;i- since bought 5,000 acres and the bark on 12,000 acres, making a 
total bark acreage of 25,700. Notwithstanding the many cares of the greai 
concern which he manages, Mr. Osterhout has found time to serve the people 
in various local offices, such as county commissioner, school director and su- 
pervisor, and he is one of the trustees of the Warren Insane Asylum. He is 
a director in the Ridgway Gas & Heat Company, and in the Tanners' Mu- 
tual Fire Insurance Company, of Pennsylvania; is also a member of the Ham- 
ilton Wagon Company, of the firm of Osterhout & Ely, dealers in lumber, 
and of the Ridgway Publishing Company. He and his family are members of 
the Congregational Church: in politics Mr. Osterhout is a Republican. In 
January. 1889, Mr. Osterhout, in order to diminish his cares and give him 
time for travel, etc., formed an incorporated company, known as the Eagle 
Valley Tanning Company, he being its president, Mr. G. W. Childs, treasurer, 
and C. D. Osterhout. secretary. 

C. D. OSTERHODT, secretary of the Eagle Valley Tanning Company, and 
member of the firm of Osterhout & Campbell, proprietors of the Eagle Val- 
ley store, Ridgway, Penn., is a native of Lackawack, Ulster Co., N. Y. : was 
born October 9, 1847. and is a son of Daniel and Catherine (Boggs) Oster- 
hout, natives of Ulster county, N. Y. The subject of our sketch was reared 
on a farm, and received his primary education at the common schools of his 
native town, subsequently taking a course at Mouticello Academy. Mr. Oster- 
hout has been in the tannery industry most of the time since his first exper 
ience in business, and for a period of seven years he was foreman of his 
brother's Eagle Valley Tannery at Ridgway, and in 1888 he became a stock 
holder in the new firm, the Eagle Valley Tanning Company, of which, as 
stated above, he is now secretary, the other officers being W. H. Osterhout. 
president; J. S. Schultz, vice president, and G. W. Childs, treasurer. He is like- 
wise a member, as also stated at the head of this sketch, of the firm of < teter 
hoiit & Campbell, general merchants. In 1874 Mr. Osterhout was □ 

to Miss Lizzie, daughter of William and Cynthia Parks, and to this union have 
been born three children— two daughters: Nellie H. and Florence M., and one 
son. William P. The family are members of the Congregational Church. 
Mr. Osterhout is a member of the F. &A. M., and in politics is a Republican. 

D. C. OYSTER, president of the Ridgway bank, was born in Horton 
town-hip. Elk Co., Penn., in 1840. His father. Daniel Oyster, who was 
a native of Northumberland county, same State, located, in about 1832, in 
what is now Horton township, where he engaged in farming, and also erected 
a saw and gt'ist-mill. He was postmaster several years, and was so serving at 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 739 

the time of his death, in 1852. His family consisted of three sons, two of 
whom are living (one having been drowned in Lake Erie in 1884), and four 
daughters, all living. D. C. Oyster, the subject of these lines, was given 
good educational advantages, and after leaving school, he bought the old 
homestead farm, also .became proprietor of a hotel, and was appointed post- 
master at Hellen. In 1871 he was elected sheriff of Elk county, and served 
until 1874; was re-elected in 1877, and served until 1880. He sold the home- 
stead, in 1872, to the Lake Erie & Western Coal & Railroad Company, for 
135,000, having moved to Ridgway in 1871. In 1874 he was appointed 
cashier of the Ridgway Bank, which position he held until January, 1890, when 
he was elected president. Mr. Oyster has been a member of the council since 
the organization of the borough, with the exception of one term. He is one of 
the substantial business men of Ridgway, and is connected with various 
important enterprises in the borough. He is president of the Hamilton 
Wagon Company, the Ridgway Publishing Company, the New Era Gas 
Company, and of the'Manhattan Machine & Novelty Company. He was one 
of the organizers in 1875 of the Ridgway Light & Heat Company, which has 
proved very successful; is a member of the firm of J. H. McEwen & Co. (ma- 
chine shops), the Oyster & Short Lumber Company, D. C. Oyster & Co. 
(lumber), and the Ridgway Lumber Company, which manufactures 20,000,000 
feet of lumber annually. Mr. Oyster owns numerous extensive tracts of tim- 
ber-land, being one of the largest land-owners in Elk county, as well as owner 
of extensive tracts in the adjacent county of Jefferson. In 1884 he built a 
fine brick residence on the corner of Court and Center streets, opposite the 
court-house, which is one of the model residence properties in the city. He 
has always taken an active interest in public affairs, and his popularity is 
shown by the fact of his election and re-election to official positions in one 
of the strongest Democratic counties in the State, although he is a stanch 
supporter of the Republican party. Mr. Oyster married, July 4, 1807. Mary 
E., daughter of Frederick Mohney, of Clarion county, and they have two 
children: Frank R. and Hattie L. The entire family are members of the 
Congregational Church. Mr. Oyster is a member of the F. & A. M. , Ridg- 
way Lodge, No. 379, of Elk Chapter, No. 230, of Knapp Commandery, No. 40, 
K. of T., and of Bloomsburg (Columbia county) Consistory. 

JEROME POWELL, of the firm of J. & E. C. Powell, merchants, Ridg- 
way. was born in the borough and county of Warren, Penn. , in 1827, a son 
of Richard and Margaret M. (Holden) Powell. In 1 850 he moved to Ridgway, 
where he established the Elk County Advocate, continuing its publication until 
1855. He then embarked in mercantile pursuits, and later also in the manu- 
facture of lumber, in both of which branches he is still engaged. In 1865 he 
associated with himself, in the mercantile business, Mr. Robert V. Kime. 
'which firm was widely known under the firm name of Powell & Kime during 
the succeeding twenty-two years, Mr. Kime then retiring from the firm, but 
still continuing as active manager of the business. Mr. Edgar C. Powell, son 
of the senior member of the firm, then entered as partner, and the business is 
now conducted in their large three- story double brick store, on the same spot 
of ground, under the firm name of J. & E. C. Powell. In politics Mr. Powell 
is a Republican. Although in no sense an office seeker, preferring his own 
private business instead, he has held several local offices of some importance. 
In 1854 he married Miss Amanda E. Horton, who died in 1888, leaving two 
sons, named, respectively. Edgar C. and Robert J. Powell, both of whom are 
now living in Ridgway. The name of Mrs. Powell's father was Isaac Horton; 
her mother's maiden name was Lucv Warner. 



740 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

H. M. POWERS, attorney at law and insurance agent, Ridgway, Penn.. 
was born April 2i>, 1842, in Sweden, Oxford Co., Me., and is a son of Jacob S. 
and Charlotte (Kimball) Powers, the former a native of Sweden. Me., and the 
latter of Bridgeton, Cumberland county, same State. He received his early 
education in Sweden, and completed it at Fryeburg, same county, to which 
place the family removed in 1854. In 1862 he commenced the study of law 
at Portland, Me., in the office of Hon. Josiah Drumiuond, then attorney-gen- 
eral for the State, and in the fall of 1864 he was admitted to practice at the 
bar at Portland. Late in the year 1865, Mr. Powers came to Ridgway, where 
he remained during the following winter, being here admitted to the practice, 
and in April, 1866, he removed to Springfield, Ohio, where, in 1867, he was 
admitted to the bar. In March, 1870, we again find Mr. Powers in Elk county, 
whither he had returned, this time engaged in lumbering in Spring Creek 
township, where he built a saw-mill. In this he continued about a year, and 
then located in Ridgway, where he has been connected with the Ridgway bank 
and in the law and insurance business since 1873. Mr. Powers was united in 
marriage December 29, 1S69, with Mary A., daughter of John S. Webster, of 
Fryeburg, Me., and they have one child, Blanche Webster. The subject of 
our sketch is a member of Pythagorean Lodge, No. 11, F. & A. M., of Frye- 
burg, Me. He is a Republican in politics, has been chairman of the Repub- 
lican county committee several terms, and in 1884, was a Republican candi- 
date for member of the assembly. In educational matters he takes an active 
part, having been, ever since Ridgway became a borough, a member of the 
school board, of which he was president several years. 

GEORGE A. RATHBUN, attorney at law, "Ridgway. is a native of Le 
Roy, N. Y., born in 1837, and was reared and educated in his native town, 
attending the public schools, and also a private academy. In his youth he 
began the study of surveying, with the intention of making it his life-work, and 
in L85A was employed as civil engineer and surveyor on the Sunbury & Erie 
(now Philadelphia & Erie) Railroad. Before that he had determined to study 
law fur a profession, and in 1856 commenced reading under the instruction of 
C. F. Bissell, of Le Roy. In 1863 Mr. Rathbun was admitted to the bar, and 
began his practice at Le Roy, but in December, 1864, he returned to Ridg- 
way. Penn. Here, in 1865, he was appointed deputy recorder, which position 
he held until 1866, when he was elected prothonotary and recorder, without a 
dissenting vote, holding the office three years. On December 1, 1869. Mr. 
Rathbun becamo associated in the practice of his profession with the Hon. 
Hin f v Souther, which partnership continued until February, 1871, at which 
date Mr. Souther was appointed to the bench by Gov. Geary, Mr. Rathbun 
being left to continue practice alone. In March, 1869, he was admitted to 
the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, and in October, 1885, to the United 
States Supreme Court. Mr. Rathbun is a lawyer of much ability, and has 
met witli well-merited success. He has never sought political preferment, 
his main interest bring a successful practice : and he has achieved his 
early ambition to an enviable degree, as he now stands at the head of his 
profession. He is public-spirited, and favors all projects that will materially 
improve his city and county. Mr. Rathbun is president of the Elk County 
Bar Association, and is chairman of the examining committee. He is a 
member of the Masonic fraternity, Olive Branch Lodge, No. 39, and of Le 
Roy Chapter, No. 183, at Le Roy, N. Y. He received the Templar degrees in 
Knapp Commandery, K. T.. at Ridgway in 1871. Mr. Rathbun was married 
in December, 1866. He and his wife are members of the Episcopal Church: 
in politics he is an old-time Democrat. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 741 

A. S. ROSS, merchant tailor, Ridgway, son of James H. , Sr. , and Martha 
Ross, was born in McVeytown, Mifflin Co., Penn., in 1858. In 1870 his 
parents moved to York, Penn., where he completed his education. After 
leaving school, he worked for his father, who was proprietor of the National 
Hotel at York, and after the death of his father succeeded him in business. 
In 1877 he came to Ridgway and entered the employ of J. S. & W. H. Hyde, 
and for a time had charge of their mercantile interests at Brockport, and 
later at Ridgway. He then began the manufacture of brick, and made the 
brick placed on the market in Elk county. In 1879 he embarked in the 
general mercantile business at'Ridgway, and now has one of the best stores in 
that place. He is a supporter of Democratic principles, was elected justice of 
the peace in March, 1882, and served four years, resigning the office in 1886. 
He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Elk Lodge, No. 379; Elk Chapter, 
No. 240, and Knapp Commandery, No. 40. January 27, 1880, Mr. Ross 
married Jennie Stout, of Lock Haven, a daughter of Parley Stout. 

A. G. ROUNSEVILLE, druggist, Johnsonburg, Quay P. O., was born in 
Coudersport, Penn., June 17, 1868, and is a son of A. and M. (Holland) Rounse- 
ville, who were among the first settlers in Potter county. They were the par- 
ents of seven children, of whom A. G. is the third son. He was educated iu 
Coudersport, and entered the drug store of M. S. Thompson when quite 
young, where he remained one year; then for six months had charge of a drug 
store for Drs. Breisneck & Hastings, at Costello, Penn., afterward going to 
Austin, and working for N. H. Hastings. In 1886 he went to Kansas City, 
Mo., where he entered the laboratory of the medical college, and in 1887 he 
was appointed president of his class, under the name of Bifer. The same year 
he engaged with Park, Davis & Co., of Kansas City, Mo., as general manager 
of their wholesale and retail drug store, remaining there for some time, when 
he returned to Coudersport, Penn., and studied medicine a short time with 
Dr. Mattison. In 1888 he came to Johnsonburg, to work for M. A. Lillibridge 
& Co., in the drug business; they failed, and July 16, 1889, he bought the 
stock, and is now conducting a prosperous business. 

PHILIP SCHIRK, harness-maker, Ridgway, a son of Jacob and Cath- 
erine (Schuler) Schirk, natives of Germany, was born in Warren county, 
Penn., January 4, 1845, and remained at home with his parents until Feb- 
ruary 2, 1864, when he entered the United States service, and was assigned to 
Company D, One Hundred and Eleventh Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers, 
serving until July 19, 1865. He then returned to Warren, where he learned 
the harness-maker's trade. He married, November 15, 1870, Miss Amelia 
Reig, of Warren, and they are the parents of four children: Hattie L., Alice 
A., Leona C. and Katie M. Mr. Schirk came to Ridgway in 1879, where he 
worked for Jacob Butterfuss, and in 1886 established the shop he now owns. 
He is a member of Ridgway Post, No. 370, G. A. R. 

W. H. SCHRAM, proprietor of the "Hyde House," Ridgway, is a native 
of Belfast, Allegany Co., N. Y., born June 1, 1826, and is a son of John 
Schram, a wheelwright by trade. The subject of these lines received his edu- 
cation at the district schools of Cuba, in Allegany county, to which town the 
family had removed. In the spring of 1834 his father came to Ridgway, 
where he built the Dickinson mill, and the following winter he brought his 
family to the place. At this time the number of families in Ridgway did not 
exceed twelve, and of the members of these families, besides the Schrams, 
there are now living here only two, Mrs. Houk and Mrs. Dill. John Schram 
died in 1837. His son, W. H. , commenced life for himself at the early age of 
eleven years, and for some time followed various occupations in New York and 



742 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Pennsylvania, eventually moving to Jefferson county, Penn. , where, until the 
spring of. 1869, he was engaged in the hotel business. In April of the latter 
year he returned to Ridgway, and took possession of the Hyde House, of 

which lie has si been tin 1 genial and courteous landlord. To this hotel he 

built an addition in the summer of 1885. In February, 1852, Mr. Schram 
married H. A. Clark, daughter of Dr. A. M. Clark, of Brockwayville, Penn.. 
and they have had four children — two sons and two daughters: J. M. , in the 
hardware business with D. B. Day (firm name Schram & Day), Lucv A. mow 
Mrs. Dr. D. B. Day. of Ridgway), Nellie (now Mrs. E. J. Miller, of North 
Carolina) and \V. M. (who learned the trade of jeweler, married May G. Gor- 
don, and died five months later). Mr. Schram is a member of Elk Lodge. No. 
379, I'. & A M.; of Elk Chapter. No. 230; of Knapp Commandery. No. in. 
and of Caldwell Consistory, Bloomsburg. Politically he was brought up in 
the ranks of the Democratic party, but since the war of the Rebellion he has 
given his suffrage to the Republicans. 

\V. H. STACKPOLE. collector for the Ridgway Light & Heat Company. 
Ridgway, was born in McVeytown, Penn., July 27, 1864, the third son in a 
family of elevou children born to E. H. H. and Margaret (Glasglow) Stackpole. 
Datives of Mifflin county, Penn. W. H. Stackpole received an education such 
as the common schools of his county afforded, and when fourteen years of age 
was employed in a blacksmith shop as an apprentice. In March, 1883. he 
came to Ridgway, and worked at his trade for the contractors who built the 
B. R. & P. It. R. The same year he was employed as clerk in the real estate 
office of Dr. C. R. Earley, remaining one year, when he engaged with Hyde. 
Murphy & Co., as book keeper. Since November 15, 1885, he has been em- 
ployed by the Ridgway Light & Heat Company, as book-keeper and collector. 
In June, 1889, he, Id company with his brother, W. W. Stackpole. started a 
steam laundry in Ridgway. 

H. S. THAYER, lumberman, Ridgway, is a native of Ridgway, Elk Co.. 
Penn., born in 1847, a son of David and Sarah Thayer, former a native of New 
York, latter of belaud. They were married in Steuben county, N. Y., and in 
1836 located in Ridgway, where the father^was engaged in the lumber business, 
and also kept a hotel and carried the mail in an early day. His first hotel was 
Kept in a primitive way. but as the demands for good accommodations grew in 
Ridgway he advanced with them, and for several years was proprietor of one 
of the best houses in the borough, retiring in 1870. He died in 1 884, 
mourned by all who knew him, his widow surviving him but six weeks. They 
had a family of tlrree children: Esther J. (widow of Hon. George Dickinson), 
Albina (wife of .). H. Hagerty) and H. S. David Thayer was one of the first 
sheriffs of Elk county, and a prominent citizen. H. S. Thayer has spent his 
life in Ridgway, ami was given good educational advantages, attending school 
at Alfred Centre. N. Y., and Adrian. Mich. When he started out for himself 
he engaged in mercantile business, and has also for some years been largely 
interested in the manufacture of lumber. He casts his suffrage with the Demo 
cratic party, but is in no sense an office seeker. He married .Miss Mary E. 
daughter of B. P. Ely, and they have two children, Harry and Helen B. 

LLBERT THOMPSON, manufacturer of and dealer in lumber. Ridgway, 
is a native of the town of Berlin, N. H. , born February 28, 1839, ami i> 
a son of Benjamin and Sarah (Wheeler) Thompson, both natives of the State 
of Maine, the former of whom died in L881. Mr. Thompson was brought up 
on the farm, attending the common schools until the age of eighteen, at which 

time I ntered Gould's Academy at Bethel, Me., remaining one year. On re 

turning from school he studied dentistry with Dr. Josiah Heald, of Portland. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 743 

Me., and then located at Norway, Me., where he followed his profession four 
years. In 1865 he came to Ridgway and became a partner with G. T. 
Wheeler in the lumber business, which copartnership continued four years. 
Mr. Thompson then removed to his old home in New Hampshire, and there 
resided engaged in the lumber business with his father until 1881, in which 
year he returned to Eidgway, and immediately embarked in the lumber busi- 
ness in Elk county, which he is still conducting. His extensive establishment 
manufactures on an average 0,000,000 feet of lumber per annum. In INST 
Mr. Thompson made a tour through West Virginia, where he purchased some 
valuable timber lands, and in the following spring organized the Blackwater 
Boom & Lumber Company, of Davis, W. Va. , with himself as manager. This 
company has a cash capital of $100,000, owns 20,000 acres of land in West 
Virginia, gives employment to '200 men, and manufactures 12,000,000 feet of 
lumber per annum. In June, 1861, the subject of our sketch married Miss 
Mary E. Blake, a native of Norway, Me., and daughter of Jonathan and Eliza- 
beth (Crockett) Blake, by which union there is one son, Frank E., and one 
daughter, Sarah Maud. The son graduated from Dartmouth College, New 
Hampshire, in 1882, and came directly to Ridgway, Penn. , where he has since 
been engaged in the lumber business. He is a young man of considerable busi- 
ness ability, and assumes entire charge of his father's lumbering interests at 
Ridgway. At the age of twenty -one, Mr. Albert Thompson was made a F. & 
A. M., in Oxford Lodge, No. 18, at Norway, Me., and subsequently became a 
member of King Hiram Royal Arch Chapter of Lewiston, Me., and of Port- 
land Commandery, Knights Templar, of Portland, Me. In politics he is a 
stanch Republican; was elected to the State legislature of New Hampshire in 
1873, and re-elected in 1875, serving two terms. 

MRS. MARY VAUGHAN was born in Ireland in 1847, a daughter of 
John Healy, and came with her parents to America about 1850. They lo- 
cated in Schuylkill county, Penn., where they lived several years, a part of 
the time keeping a hotel. The mother is now deceased, and the father 
lives with his daughter. 

Mary Healy was married, in 1865, to John Vaughan, and with him engaged 
in keeping a hotel, and in 1880 took charge of the Clarion House. Mr. Vaughan 
died in 1877, and Mrs. Vaughan continues the business, in which she is very 
successful. She is a woman of tine business ability, and conducts her house 
with great credit, her table being furnished with the best the market affords, 
the Clarion House being a favorite resort for the traveling public. Mrs. 
Vaughan has three children. She is a member of the Catholic Church. 

J. T. WAID, M. D. , Ridgway, was born at Randolph, Crawford Co., 
Penn., in 1844, and was there reared and received his elementary education, 
completing his classical course at Allegheny College, Meadville, Penn. He 
began the study of medicine with Dr. A. P. Waid, of Centreville, Penn., 
and took one course of lectures at the University of New York. He after- 
ward took a course of lectures at the University of Buffalo, from which 
he graduated. He first located at Spartansburg, but in December, 1882. re- 
moved to Ridgway, where he now has a good practice. He is a member 
of the Elk County Medical Society, the Pennsylvania State Medical Society. 
American Medical Association, the Seventh International Medical Congress, 
and also the American Society of Microscopists. He is a hard student, and 
takes advantage of every opportunity offered to better acquaint himself with 
his profession. The Doctor is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Elk 
Lodge, No. 379; Elk Chapter, No. 230, and Knapp Commandery, No. 40. 
He is a member of the First Congregational Church, and takes an active 



744 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

interest in church and Sunday-school work; and is also connected with the 
local am! State associations of the Congregational Church. He was married. 
in L869, to Miss Louie Eberman, who died in 18>S2. His present wife was 
formerly Mrs. C. S. Spencer. The Doctor is a Republican in politics. 

WALTER LOWRIE WILLIAMS, M. D., Ridgway, the subject of this 
sketch, was born at Williamsburg. Clarion Co., Penn.. on April 13, 1844. and 
is the son of Amos Williams, the first treasurer of Clarion county. On July 
4, 1861, being then seventeen years of age, he enlisted in Company C. 
Sixty- second Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served three years, one year as a 
private and two years as chief bugler of the Second Brigade. First Division, Fifth 
Corps, under Gen. J. B. Switzer. During this time he passed through all the 
Peninsular campaign, and was engaged in nearly all the battles fought by 
this notable division. After returning from the army. Mr. Williams com- 
pleted his literary education at Reed Institute, Reedsburg, Penn., from which 
he graduated, and then commenced the study of medicine with Dr. Thomas, of 
Freeport, Penn. Later he attended lectures, and finally graduated from the 
University Medical College, of New York, in 1872. He began the practice of 
medicine at Fryburg, Penn., and from there removed to Strattonville, Penn. 
In 1879 he located at Ridgway. Penn., where he has since resided, and since 
which time he has given his undivided attention to the duties of his pro- 
fession. Dr. Williams was elected coroner of Elk county in 1880, and held 
that position until January 1, 1890. He has been surgeon for the Buffalo. 
Rochester & Pittsburgh Railway Company since 1882, and for the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad Company for a number of years. He is also United States ex- 
amining surgeon for pensions for Elk county. He has been a member of the 
Ridgway borough school board since 1887, and in 188S was elected president 
of the Elk County Medical Society. Dr. Williams was married on May 1<>. 
L867, to Miss Belle Frampton, of Clarion, Penn. As the fruits of such mar- 
riage children are now living as follows: E. Blanche Williams, who has at- 
tended the Conservatory of Music at Boston for several terms, and is now 
teacher of music in Hall Institute, Sharon, Penn. ; Samuel W. Williams, at 
present a student in Rensselaer College, Troy, N. Y. ; Amos T. Williams and 
Mabel A. Williams, both students in the Ridgway high school. 

THALIUS WING-FIELD, lumberman, was born in Jacksonville, Va. . in 
1846. He was reared and educated in his native city, remaining there until 
1865, when he moved to Sheffield, Warren Co. , Penn. . where he was engaged 
in the lumber business and was also proprietor of a hotel for some time. In 
1869 he moved to Ridgway, Elk county, and has since been one of the promi- 
nent business men. He is one of the leading lumbermen of the borough, and 
is also proprietor of the Thayer House, a first-class hotel, well patronized by 
the traveling public. Mr. Wiugfield married Hannah Miller, and they have 
three children. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Elk Lodge, No. 
379; Elk Chapter, No. 240. R. A. M., and Knapp Commandery, No. 4i>. K. 
T. In politics Mr. Wiugfield is a Democrat, and has served several years as 
justice of the peace. 

W. K. XI I'.Kl >K.\. merchant. Johnsonburg, Quay P. O.. was born in New 
Brunswick. March 1. 1S64. the only son in a family of six children born to 
Nicholas and Rebecca S. (Spofford) Zierden, natives of Germany and New 
Brunswick, respectively. They came to Williamsport, Penn., from New Bruns- 
wick, and were among the early settlers, moving from there to Caledonia, Elk 
county, where they permanently located. \Y. E. Zierden completed his edu- 
cation in the Lock Haven State Normal School in 1881. In 1887 he started 
in mercantile business in Caledonia, and June 26, 1888, sold his store and 



BIOGKAPHICAL SKETCHES. 745 

stock to M. E. Taylor, coming to Johnsonburg in January, 1889, where he has 
erected a tine brick store and is conducting a prosperous mercantile business. 
Mr. Zierden married, January 17, 1888, Miss Ella E., daughter of \V. E. and 
Sophia (Winslow) Johnson, who were among the first settlers in Benezette 
township. Mr. and Mrs. Zierden are the parents of one child, Cecelia A. 
They are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Johnsonburg. 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES— JONES TOWNSHIP. 

A. T. ALDRICH, postmaster and merchant, Wilcox, was born in Onondaga 
county, N. Y., April 1, 1826, a son of Abel and Nancy (Hibbard) Aldrich, the 
former a native of Rhode Island and the latter a native of Connecticut. His 
father was a Baptist minister by profession, and had charge of a church in 
Genesee county, N. Y., and also one in Onondaga county, N. Y. About 1840 
he moved his family to McKean county, Penn. A. T. Aldrich received an 
ordinary education, and learned the blacksmith trade, which he followed for 
some years in McKean and Potter counties. He also, with his brother, erected 
a saw-mill near Smethport. and engaged in manufacturing lumber for a number 
of years. In February, ]859, he came to Elk county, and located at Wilcox, 
where he has since been engaged in mercantile business. He was appointed 
postmaster by President Buchanan, in 1860. and has ever since held that office. 
He married, in 1852, Miss Sarah A., daughter of Joseph King, of McKean 
county, Penn., and they have four children living and one deceased: Ernest O., 
of Lock Haven, Penn., married Miss Dolly, daughter of Isaac Shaffer, of Clin- 
ton county, Penn.; Jessie M. is the wife of Dr. A. B. Bevier, of Wilcox, Penn. ; 
Bayard died at the age of twelve years ; M. W. and Edith are at home. Mr. 
Aldrich has always been identified with the Republican party. For five 
years he has served as justice of the peace of McKean county, and also five 
years in Jones township. Elk county. He has been on the school board for 
twenty-one years in the two counties, and for twelve years has been clerk of 
Jones township; he has also served as auditor and treasurer of the township. 
He is a member of the Equitable Aid Union of Wilcox, No. 460. His wife and 
family are members of the Presbyterian Church. 

CHARLES J. W. ASP, farmer, P. O. Kane, Penn.. is a son of Otto and 
Annie (Colson) Asp, natives of Sweden, the former of whom served as a soldier 
in bis native country for thirty-five years and came to Kane, Penn., in 1886. 
Charles J. W. Asp was born in Sweden, January 22, 1855, and when eighteen 
years of age, in May, 1873, came to Kane, McKean Co. , Penn. , where he worked 
for the railroad company for three months, subsequently entering a saw-mill, 
in which he worked six years. In November, 1876, he married Miss Eva Nil- 
sou, a native of Sweden, born September 13. 1850, and a daughter of Nils and 
Kathrina (Anderson) Nilson. Mrs. Asp arrived in New York in April, 1873, 
and. as will be seen, was married about three and a half years later. She has 
borne her husband six children, in the following order: Annie M. , in Kane. 
December 9, 1877; Jennie E.. in Kane, March 31, 1879; Charles A., at Dagus 
Mines, January 28. 1881; Augusta A., in Kane, April 10, 1882; Amelia E., in 



746 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Kane. July 23, L884, and Otto W. S., in Kane. August 2, 1886. Mr. Asp, ii. 
L878, purchased the farm in Jones township. Elk Co., Penn., on which hi- still 
resides, and which he cultivates with skill and profitable results. In politics 
he affiliates with the Prohibitionists, and he and his wife are members of the 
Free Mission Church. 

R. BRENNEN, merchant. Wilcox, was born in Genesee county, N. Y.. Ian 
nary 28, 1847. His parents. John and Mary Brennen, were natives of New 
York and Vermont, respectively. They were farmers by occupation and moved 
to Cattaraugus county, X. V. The father was killed in an accident on the 
Erie Railroad about 1800. The mother died in Allegany, N. Y. , in 1888. 
Mr. Brennen left Cattaraugus county, N. Y., at the age of eleven years and 
went to Wisconsin and followed lumbering for several years. He then returned 
to New York State and engaged in farming for a' short time. In 1868 he first 
came to Elk county, but soon after moved to Jefferson county. Penn., and 
thence to Butler county, where he built a portion of the Low Grade Road, and 
where he took the contract and built several miles of the Parker & Karns City 
road. He also resided in Corry, and owned forty village lots there. In 1 s 7 -"• 
he came to Wilcox, and purchased a farm and built fine trout ponds on the 
same, which are open to the public. He afterward built the Grant House in 
Wilcox and conducted the same for five years. February 1. L889, he estab 
lished his present general mercantile business. In 1S74 he married Miss Lena 
Hedsnecker. of Jones township. They have four children: Fred. John, Charles 
and Sidney. Mr. Brennen is a supporter of the Republican party, and is a 
member of the Knights of the Maccabees, of Wilcox. 

RASSELAS WILCOX BROWN. Among the early settlers of Elk county, 
probably no man was better known or more highly esteemed than Rasselas 
Wilcox Brown. 

Mr. Brown was born at German Flats, Herkimer Co.. N. Y., September 30, 
1809, and was one of three children born to Isaac and Polly (Wilcox) Brown. 
When Rasselas was sixteen years old. his father moved to Onondaga county. X. 
Y. , and located upon a tract in the town of Cicero, which Rasselas helped to 
transform into a productive farm. Upon this farm is located the cemetery, 
where at his own request Mr. Brown was buried. It is a beautiful spot over 
looking the village of Cicero and the surrounding level, prairie-like country, 
and contains the remains of several generations of the Brown family. Mr. 
Brown united with the Baptist Church, of Cicero, when eighteen years of age. 
and adhered to that faith throughout his life. He was married September 25, 
1832, at Fort Brewerton, N. Y., to Mary P. Brownell, the only daughter of 
Jedediah and Eunice (Watkins) Brownell. She was born at Trenton. Oneida 
Co., N. Y. , September 23, L815. Like her husband she early united with the 
Baptist Church, and has adhered to that faith ever since. At the present time 
(1890) she i-, in good health, and her mind is as vigorous as that of most 
women at fifty. She has been, and still is, a woman of wonderful energy and 
unconquerable ambition. No matter in what society she might live, she could 
lie nothing less than the acknowledged peer of the truest and best. No sacri 
lice was ever i leu 1a m lei 1 , or ever could be demanded, which she would > <>t 
cheerfully make for her husband and children. She enjoys the esteem of all 
who know her, and she glories in the unquestioned affection of all her children 
and children's children. 

Immediately after their marriage this couple settled at Fori Brewerton, 
N. Y.. where they lived two years, and then moved to Summer Hill. Cayuga 
county, where they lived for about three years. In 1SM7 Mr. Brown, in com 
pany with his brother in law. Judge Brownell. now of Smethport, McKean 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 747 

county, started on foot from Cayuga county to seek his fortune in the then 
western wilds of Michigan. On their journey thither they passed through the 
wilderness of Jones township. Elk county. Here Col. W. P. Wilcox, his uncle, 
had a few years before located, and he became exceedingly anxious that Ras- 
selas should settle near him. After two or three months passed in the journey 
to Michigan, the two travelers returned and decided to cast their lot in the 
wilds of Pennsylvania. It was late in the fall when they returned, and after 
employing a man to hew the timber, and leaving with him the means to pre- 
pare for the erection of a house early in the spring, Mr. Brown returned for 
his family. So poor were the mail facilities at that time that the letters from 
his friends in Pennsylvania advising him of the absconding of his hired man 
did not reach their destination until he had started with his wife and two little 
boys for their new home, which they reached on March Ui. 1838. 

With a will and energy that would not brook defeat, he went to work, and 
on April 21, a little more than a month after his arrival, he- was able to move 
into his new house. The desperate effort and great anxiety required to get his 
family under roof, resulted in his prostration on a bed of sickness, to which he 
was confined more than six months. Slowly recovering from his illness, the 
terrible truth forced itself, day by day, upon him that his eyesight was seriously 
impaired, and that the injury to his eyes would be permanent. Now came the 
time for his young and hopeful wife to show her worth and her ability. Would 
she prove equal to the occasion? It was evident that her husband could not for 
a long time, at least, perform the manual labor necessary to clear and cultivate 
a farm, and they must, therefore, seek some temporary employment where her 
skill and energy would count for the support of the little ones. The Will- 
iamsville Hotel offered such a place, and thither without delay they moved. 
They remained at the hotel until the spring of 1841. During a good share of 
the time the two did the entire work required to care 1 ' for their guests and the 
traveling public — the provisions and supplies for whom had to be hauled from 
Srnethport or Olean, and sometimes from Buffalo. This, of course, demanded 
the frequent absence of Mr. Brown, and threw upon his wife burdens that none 
but the most heroic of women could or would have endured. No wonder that both 
felt relieved when the spring of 1841 came, and they again assumed the some- 
times more exhausting, but always more agreeable, toil upon the farm. Here 
they lived together until the death of Mr. Brown, which occurred on June 27, 
1887. At the time they moved onto the farm the children had grown to four 
in number, and there was, if the wolf were to be kept from the door, to be no 
rest from labor and anxiety. The tract of land, out of which it was proposed 
to make a farm, was located mainly in the midst of a dense growth of pine and 
hemlock. To be sure the land was cheap, costing only §1.25 an acre, but the 
labor necessary to fit it for cultivation was enormous. There was no mill near 
to cut logs into lumber, and no market for the lumber if it could have been cut. 
In those early days there was, therefore, no alternative — both pine and hem- 
lock must be burned to ashes. The struggle was constant and sometimes des- 
perate, but never a failure. If the farm failed by ordinary means to make 
both ends meet, they always found some effective plan to supply the need. 
Sometimes the scheme had little profit in it, but if it availed to tide over a 
present difficulty, it was resorted to with cheerfulness and satisfaction. At 
times the plan hit upon was to manufacture by hand the pine trees into 
shingles; at others, to dig coal from a mine opened on the farm, and then to 
market these wherever a purchaser could be found — often fifty, and sometimes 
one hundred miles away. That the purchaser would only pay in goods, and at 
exorbitant profits, was little reason for breaking off the trade. The waiting 



748 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

ones at home must bo supplied, and therefore the product must go for what it 
would bring. Many times during the first years upon the farm at Rasselas 
[this name was given to the place in honor of its owner by Gen. Thomas L. 
Kane, president of the N. Y., L. E. & W. E. K. extension, when it was 
built through the farm and a station located thereon], butter as good as house- 
wife ever made was taken on horseback to Ridgway, sixteen miles distant, and 
sold for 10 and 12 cents a pound, store pay, the whole proceeds amounting to 
less than would be the expense of such a trip in our time. 

Isolated as was the home reared by this couple, it was in many respects a 
model one. The children, six in number, three boys and three girls, were 
taught not only obedience and respect for their parents, but kindness and 
love for each other. Self-sacrifice was the paramount law of the household. 
Nothing within the range of a possibility was ever left undone in behalf of 
the children, whether it pertained to their present needs or education and 
proper development; and in return the parents received homage as abiding 
as life itself. All alone in the wilderness, the family altar was kept burning, 
conspicuous by contrast, and yet its influence all the more enduring, because it 
was unique. The entire number of children born to Rasselas W. and Mary 
P. Brown are still living. The daughters are Olive J. Moyer and Eunice A. 
Hewitt, of Elk county, and Mary A. Allen, of Cicero, N. Y. The sons are 
Jefferson L., William Wallace and Isaac B. Sketches of the three sons will 
be found in this volume as follows: those of Jefferson L. and Isaac B., imme- 
diately after this of their father, and that of William Wallace, among the 
biographical sketches of Bradford. McKean county. 

Mr. Brown, notwithstanding the loss of his eyesight, was a leading mind 
in the county. In politics he was a Whig, and all alone in his neighborhood 
lie cherished, as only a Whig could cherish, the names of Washington, the 
Adamses, Clay and Webster, until the new era added to the immortals the 
names of Grant and Lincoln. There was but a single supporter of his polit- 
ical views in Jones township, and yet during the larger part of his active life 
at Ivitsselas, he held the office of magistrate, often by the almost unanimous 
voice of his neighbors. As a partisan he was never offensive, but he was as 
firm and unyielding in his political convictions as any man ever was with 
Scotch blood in his veins. 

Of his affliction he seldom made mention, and he was never known to com- 
plain, save, when in the days of his country's peril, the loss of his sight pre- 
cluded the possibility of his enlisting in her defense. It was his inability 
to serve as a soldier that induced him to yield to the persuasions of his young- 
est son, and allow him to enter the army at the early age of sixteen years. 
although his two other sons and two of his sons-in-law had already entered 
the serivce. To him the Republic was " a thing of beauty and a joy for- 
ever." and there was nothing in the earth so good or so sacred that he would 
not have freely sacrificed for her glory and her defense. With the close of 
the war and with his declining years came more rest and contentment. Though 
from choice he labored constantly until the last year of his life, the railroad, 
long looked for. had come, and with it a market for the forest still preserved, 
and this brought the means for such comfortable support as dispensed with 
the necessity of further toil or anxiety. Idleness had no place in his life. Every 
hour not given to labor was devoted to the acquisition of knowledge. Un 
able, from loss of his eyesight, to read, he invoked the aid of other-, to read Cor 
him. and in this way was able to keep abreast of current events, and to live in 
the history of the past. He had a very retentive memory, and possessed a 
fund of information, especially concerning the geography, political history and 
development of his country, truly wonderful. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 749 

As the end of life approached, he gave most abundant assurance to those 
about hirn, that long ago complete preparations had been made for the voyage 
to the country beyond. There was a brief, but comprehensive direction for 
the care of his surviving widow, a " share and share alike" to his children, a 
request that he might be permitted to sleep with his fathers in the land of his 
boyhood, and then a calm, majestic waiting for the final summons. Just fifty 
years to a day from the time the subject of this sketch, weary and foot-sore, 
came into the wilderness of Pennsylvania, he was borne in solemn triumph 
back to the burial place of his fathers. It is the mighty power of steam that 
carries the train as on wings of the wind! During the fifty years of Mr. 
Brown's sojourn in Elk county, that power had revolutionized the world! 
Henceforth the pioneer shall not go forth into the wilderness alone. Steam 
shall go before, and shall prepare the way for him. And yet, with all the aids 
to success which modern thought can bring, none who triumph in coming time 
will leave more honored heritage, or fall asleep amid the incense of love more 
sincere or more adiding than did Rasselas Wilcox Brown. 

JEFFERSON L. BROWN, eldest son of Kasselas W. and Mary P. 
(Brownell) Brown, was born at Fort Brewerton, Onondaga Co., N. Y., June 25, 
1834, and came with his parents into McKean (now Elk) county in March. 
1838. His early life was spent on his father's farm, in Jones township, upon 
which Rasselas, a station on the New York, Lake Erie& Western, and the Buf- 
falo. Rochester & Pittsburg Railroads, is located. Mr. Brown was educated at 
the public schools near his home, and at the Smethport academy. At eighteen 
years of age he commenced the work of his profession — surveying — which he 
has followed more or less up to the present time, and has been engaged in sev- 
eral engineering enterprises. In the summer of 1855 Mr. Brown purchased 
the Elk County Advocate establishment, and published the paper about one 
year. Not finding the business either suited to his nature or profitable, he 
disposed of the plant in July, 1856, and returned to the work of his profes- 
sion. In the autumn of Ls60 he moved to Onondaga county, N. Y., and en- 
gaged in the pursuit of farming. He taught school at Cicero in the winter of 
1860-61, and at Centreville in the winter of 1861-62. After selling his in- 
terest in the farm. Mr. Brown enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Eighty- 
fifth Regiment, New York Infantry, and served until the close of the Civil 
war. He took part in the movements of the Army of the Potomac, which be- 
gan March 31, 1S65, and closed with the surrender at Appominattox Court- 
house, April 0, the same year; and had the pleasure of seeing Genls. Grant 
and Lee riding in a carriage (of old Virginia style) together, on their way to 
Burkeville, Va., after the surrender. At the close of the war Mi - . Brown re- 
turned to Elk county, where he has resided ever since, having his home at 
Wilcox. In the autumn of 1868 he went into the employ of the Wilcox Tan- 
ning Company, and after April, LS70, had charge of, and an interest in, the 
large mercantile business of the tanning and lumber company, for ten 
years. In the political campaign of 1880 Mr. Brown was nominated a can- 
didate for member of the assembly by the Democratic convention of Elk 
county, and, after a hotly-contested struggle, in which the disaffected Demo- 
crats united with the Republican and Greenback parties in a combination 
against him, he was elected by a good majority. He was re-elected in 1882, 
and served through the extra session of 1883. Since retiring from the polit- 
ical field, Mr. Brown has been engaged in the lumbering, and later in the 
banking business. He is a member of the Rasselas Lumber Company (whose 
plant is Jocated on the old homestead), and at the head of the banking house 
in Wilcox, bearing his name. Mr. Brown was united in marriage with Miss 



750 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. • 

Amanda H. Merriam, the accomplished daughter of Noah and Mary Ann Mer 
!i,in. .if Cicero. Onondaga Co. . N. Y. Mr. and Mrs. Brown are the parents of 
three children — two daughters and one son. The eldest is the wife of Emmet 
Or. Latta, of Friendship, X. Y.. and has two sons, Jefferson B. and Raymond 
F. The second daughter. Miss Emma G. . has been for some time cashier in 
her father's bank. The son, Frank Kasselas. graduated with honors at 
the Pennsylvania Military Academy, at Chester, in 1889, and is now instructor 
in mathematics, engineering and military science at his alum muter. Mr. 
Brown is master of Wilcox Lodge. No. 571. F. & A. M. . of which he is a 
charter member. He is one of the elders of the Presbyterian Church at Wil 
cox, a member of the Hiram "Warner Post, G. A. R. , and of the Wilcox Divis- 
ion of the Sons of Temperance. 

ISAAC B. BROWN was born in Jones township, Elk Co., Penn., at the 
place now known as Rasselas, on the 20th of February. 1848. He lived 
at home with his parents, Rasselas W. and Mary (Brownell) Brown, 
working upon the farm until fifteen years of age, when he went to Syracuse. 
X. Y.. to attend school. He remained at school, working for his board 
and maintenance, until the summer of 1864, when he returned home and 
enlisted in Company C, Two Hundred and Eleventh Regiment, Pennsylvania 
Volunteers. He served in the Army of the James during the fall of L864, 
and subsequently in Hartranft's Division of the Ninth Army Corps. Arm\ 
of the Potomac. He was present w T ith his command in the engagements 
at Bermuda Hundred, Hatcher's Run, in the Weldon raid, the assault at 
Fort Steadman, and at the battle of Petersburg. Returning home at the 
close of the war, Mr. Brown attended school for four years, spending one year 
at the Smethport Academy and three years at Alfred University, from which 
he was graduated in 186U. During his school vacations he assisted his father 
on the farm. In the fall of I860 he taught at the Ridgway (Penn. ) Academy, 
and in December of that year commenced the study of law at Corry, Penn.. 
with Messrs. Crosby & Brown. During the years of 1870 and 1 NT 1 he was 
engaged in surveying the wild lands in Elk county for the Wilcox Tanning 
Company. In the winter of 1870-71 he taught school again, and in the fall 
of 1871 removed permanently to Corry, where he found it necessary to 
engage in some business in order to support himself while prosecuting his 
studies. He therefore formed a partnership with Mr. C. S. Tinker, and 
embarked in the insurance business. He soon became active in the politics of 
Erie county, and was elected clerk of the city of Corry in 1873. He then 
renewed the study of law. which he had discontinued for some time, and in 
1870 was admitted to the bar. In 1878 he was a candidate for tin' assembly. 
and received the Republican nomination, but was defeated at the polls by 
Hon. Alfred Short, through a combination of Democrats and Greenbaekers. 
In 1880 he was again nominated, and was then elected by about 3,000 
majority. In 1882 he was re-elected, and again in 1884, the last time by the 
largest majority ever given to a candidate for assembly in that district. Mr. 
Brown enjoys tin' distinction of being the only person from Erie county who has 
ever received the nomination and election for a third term. During his six years 
of service as alegislator, he seeiu - ed the passage of a large numberof measures 
of a public nature, among which may be mentioned that for tin • establishment 
of State White Fish Hatchery at Erie. He prepared, introduced and secured 
the passage of the bill to establish the Pennsylvania Soldiers' and Sailors' 
Home at Erie, and now is a member of the Board of Trustees of thai institution. 
In 1886 he was a candidate for the Republican nomination for Congress in the 
Twenty seventh District, but was defeated by Hon. C. W. Mackey, of Venango 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 751 

county. He continued the practice of law in Erie county until 1S87. when he 
was tendered and accepted the position of deputy secretary of internal affairs 
of Pennsylvania, which office he now holds at the State Capital. He has been 
an active member of the Grand Army of the Republic ever since its organiza- 
tion, and has held many prominent positions in that order. He served in the 
National Guard of Pennsylvania from 1874 to 1887; eleven years as captain of 
Company A, Sixteenth Regiment, and two years as judge advocate with the 
rank of major, on the staff of Gen. James A. Beaver, commanding the Second 
Brigade. He commanded a company during its service in the riots of 1877. 
Mr. Brown was married, on the 25th of June, 1870, to Miss Hannah Partington, 
of Providence, R. I., and he has now a family of three children — two daughters 
and one son. 

J. B. CLARK, of the firm of Clark & Blakeslee, lumbermen, P. O. Glen 
Hazel, was born in Hebron, Washington Co., N. Y., in September, 1845, and 
is a son of Eli and Mary (Warner) Clark. He was reared and educated in his 
native county, and afterward worked on the tow-path of the Champlain canal, 
which he followed four years. At the time of the oil excitement in Venango 
county, he located at Oil creek, and followed the occupation of driller and 
contractor for five years. Mr. Clark then engaged in lumbering at Spartans- 
burg, Crawford Co., Penn., for three years, and then at Columbus, Warren 
county, same State, for a period of seven years in the same business. Coming 
to Highland township. Elk county, he here followed lumbering until April 18, 
1885, when he removed to Jones township, where he is now carrying on an 
extensive lumber business. In connection with the saw mill, he operates a 
large shingle and handle factory. Mr. Clark's brother-in-law, James A. 
Blakeslee, has been associated with him in business since 1871, in which year 
he located at Spartansburg. Mr. Clark was married to Emeline Blakeslee, 
daughter of R. P. and Lydia (Lamona) Blakeslee, of Spartansburg, Penn., 
and by her he has had four children: Bertha, Thomas, James and Lydia. 
Mr. Clark has held the offices of school director and auditor of Jones township, 
and also that of treasurer of Highland township. He was two years and eight 
months in the Civil war, enlisting in March, 1863, in Company E, Fifty- 
seventh P. V. I., and was honorably discharged at the close of the struggle. 
He is a member of the F. & A. M. , and in politics is a Democrat. 

ANTONY A. CLAY. Rasselas P. O.. Penn.. was born in Vienna. Austria, 
February 17, 1839, when his father, the late Hon. John Randolph Clay, was 
United States secretary of legation to that country. He was educated in the 
city of Philadelphia, and in 1861 entered the three-months service of his 
country as quartermaster, with the rank of captain, on the staff of Gen. Pleas- 
anton, of Philadelphia. September 1, 1861. he entered in Company K, Fifty 
eighth P. V. I., as first lieutenant under Col. J. Richter Jones, and was after- 
ward promoted to adjutant and captain. He served during the entire service 
with the regiment, and on staff duty, acting as assistant adjutant-general and 
provost marshal for the subdistrict of Central Virginia until mustered out, in 
1865. He has resided in Elk county since 1866, and has had charge of large 
tracts of land in this and adjoining counties, and has also been engaged in 
lumbering and farming. In 1886 he was the Democratic candidate for the 
State legislature, and was elected by 1,142 majority, the largest majority ever 
given to any candidate for assembly in the county. He was again elected in 
1888, by 746 majority, is now filling his second term of office, and is one 
of a commission of three senators and four members of the house appointed to 
investigate the charitable and correctional institutions of the State. He mar- 
ried, in 1864, Miss Sybella S., daughter of John Seckel, of Philadelphia. Penn., 



752 HISTOKY OF ELK COUNTY. 

and they have four daughters, viz.: Estella A.. Sybella G., Ethel R. and Mar 
garet. Capt. Clay is a member of Wilcox Lodge No. 571, I'. & A. M., and of 
the Military Order of Loyal Legion of the United States, also of Lucore Post. 
(1 A R., of St. Mary's. His father. Hon. John Randolph Clay, was born in 
Philadelphia. Penn.. and was educated at the University of Virginia, after 
which he studied law with Hon. John Randolph, of Roanoke, Va., for whom 
be was named, and was admitted to the bar of Virginia. He accompanied John 
Randolph to Russia, when he was appointed United States minister, and was 
secretary of legation, and was afterward appointed secretary of " Legation and 
Charge d' Affairs'" at Vienna. Austria, and later minister to Peru, where he 
served eighteen years. He served altogether in the diplomatic service of the 
United States for thirty consecutive years. He married an English lady. Miss 
Frances Gibbs, daughter of Dr. John Gibbs. of Exeter. England. Mrs. Claj died 
in Vienna in 1840, and Hon. John Randolph Clay died in London. England, 
in 1885. The present home of Capt. A. A. Clay was first occupied by the 
father of Col. A. I. Wilcox, and later by Gen. Kane, until Capt. Clay pur- 
chased it, in 18(51). His family are members of the Episcopal Church. 

A. A. CLEARWATER, superintendent for the Wilcox Tanning Company. 
was born in Ulster county, N. Y., March 21, 1840. His parents, Richard and 
Rachel (Osterhout) Clearwater, were also natives of that county. His mother 
was a sister of W. H. Osterhout of Ridgway; his father was a millwright by 
trade and moved to Susquehanna county, Penn., in 1864, and for some years 
was a car builder in the Susquehanna shops. He was a member of the Repub- 
lican party, and filled various township offices. He was a deacon and BUperin 
tendent of the Sunday-school in the Baptist Church for many years, and died 
in 188'.!. The mother is still living and resides in Ulster county, N. Y. Their 
family consisted of nine children, of whom six are living: D. J. (of Scranton. 
Penn'.), A. A., W. W. (of Wilcox. Penn.). Mary C. (wife of Lafayette Hines. 
of Wayne county, Penn.), Ida E. (wife of B. E. Miles, of Susquehanna county. 
Penn.) and Leah F. (wife of Elder Campbell, of Ridgway, Penn.). A. A. 
Clearwater was reared in Ulster county, N. Y., and received an ordinary edu- 
cation. In 1861 he enlisted in Company D, One Hundred and Fifty sixth New 
York Infantry, and was appointed sergeant of his company. He was wounded 
at Port Hudson, June 14, 1862. and was honorably discharged in 1863. He 
then attended the Harford University in Susquehanna county, Penn., for one 
year, and then began to learn the tanner's trade with his uncle, W. H. Oster 
hout, at Glenwood. He served an apprenticeship of four years, and then took 
the superintendency of a tannery at Herrick Centre for four years, after which. 
in connection with two partners, he purchased the Glenwood Tannery. After 
conducting that two years he purchased the interest of one of his partners, 
and two years later became sole owner of the same, which he conducted for 
seven years. He then, in company with W. H. Osterhout, began operations at 
Penfield, Clearfield Co., Penn., which he continued for one year. In 1883 
be came to Wilcox, and has since acted as superintendent of the Wilcox Tan- 
nery. In 1872 he married Miss Ella B. , daughter of William D. Ketchum, 
of Herrick Centre. They have three children living, Bertha. Libbie and Will 
iani. One son, Allen B., died in L886. Mr. Clearwater is a member of 
Capt. Lyon Post, No. 85, G. A. R., of Susquehanna county, and the Nichol- 
son Lodge. I. O O. F. He is a Republican in politics, and for six years has 
served as school director of Jones township. He and his family attend the 
Presbyterian Church. 

DR. A. K. CORBIN. Wilcox, was born in Waverly. Tioga Co., N. Y.. No- 
vember '25, 1851. His father, John A. Corbin. was born in Bradford county. 



BIOGKAPHICAL SKETCHES. 758 

Penn., and his mother, Emily A. (Kelley) Corbin, was born in Schoharie 
county, N. Y. They now reside in Bradford, Penn. Our subject was edu- 
cated at the academy in Owego, Tioga Co., N. Y. He read medicine with 
Dr. H. N. Eastman, of Owego, and graduated from the College of Physicians 
and Surgeons of New York City, February 28, 1879, and first began the prac- 
tice of medicine at Hinsdale, Cattaraugus Co., N. Y. He moved to Clermont, 
McKean county, August 8, 1881, and in October. 1885, came to Wilcox, where 
he has since enjoyed an extensive practice. October 9, 1880, he married Miss 
Tressie, daughter of A. C. Torrey, of Hinsdale, N. Y. They have one child, 
Arthur LeRoy. Dr. Corbin is a member of the county medical society, sup- 
ports the Republican partv, and is a member of Clermont Lodge, No. 949, 
I. O. O. F. 

JOHN ERNHOUT, lumber manufacturer, Wilcox, was born in the city of 
Albany, N. Y., March 18, 1822, a son of Christopher Ernhout, who was a na- 
tive of Albany, N. Y. His grandfather, John Ernhout, was a native of Ger- 
many, emigrated to America with Com. Van Rensselaer, and was the first set- 
tler in Albany, N. Y. , taking up 400 acres of land on the present site of the 
city. He served as a private through the war of the Revolution, and was 
among the prominent men of his day. His wife was a native of Holland. 
They reared a family of thirteen sons and three daughters, of whom Chris- 
topher was next to the youngest. Christopher married Miss Lydia Powell, a 
native of Scotland, and they settled in Ulster county, N. Y. He was a soldier 
in the war of 1812; was a Jacksonian Democrat, and filled various township 
offices. He was twice married; his first wife died in 1842, and he afterward 
married Miss Polly Brannon. Eleven children were born to his first marriage: 
Hannah (widow of James Mcintosh), Betsy, Harriet, John, Lydia (deceased), 
James, William (deceased), Henry, George (deceased), Stephen and David. 
Mr. Ernhout was a prominent member of the Presbyterian Church; he died in 
1877. John Ernhout received a common-school education in Ulster county, 
N. Y. He was married. May 28, 1843. to Miss Milla Stoddard, daughter of 
Simeon Stoddard, of Massachusetts, the ceremony being performed at the res- 
idence of Phineas Stoddard, in Greenfield, Ulster Co., N. Y. In March, 1844, 
he moved to Callicoon, Sullivan Co., N. Y., where he remained one year, and 
in 1845 moved to Greenfield, Ulster Co., N. Y., where he engaged largely in 
the lumbering business for a term of years. In the meantime he built a large 
hotel in Greenfield, on the Newburgh and Woodbonrne plank road, and also 
bought the large farm formerly owned by Andrew Lefever. He next moved 
to Ellenville, Ulster county, and built another extensive hotel, with which he 
connected one of the largest halls outside the city of New York, and also built, 
as an appurtenance to the hotel, a mammoth barn. In the fall of 1857 he 
traded the Ellenville property for a tannery and saw-mill business, in Sand- 
burg, Sullivan county, which business he carried on successfully for nine 
years. This business comprised three saw-mills, one tannery, two stores, two 
blacksmith-shops with turning lathes, and a large quantity of land. In 1861 
he recruited in Sullivan, Ulster and Orange counties, N. Y., 445 men, and 
joined the Fifty-sixth New York Regiment, in which he served fourteen 
months, as captain of his company of 112 men, the balance of the recruits be- 
ing distributed among other companies of the Fifty-sixth. The captain was 
honorably discharged on account of sickness. For his meritorious act in re- 
cruiting so many men, he was offered the lieutenant-colonelcy of his regiment, 
but declined, as he had promised to remain with the first company he had 
raised. In 1867 he came to Wilcox, Elk Co., Penn., where he built its pres- 
ent tannery, afterward associating with him the Messrs. Maurice and Jackson 



754 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Schultz. About twelve years afterward Mr. Ernhout was obliged to retire 
from tbe company on account of ill health; be spent two years in California, 
eventually returning to Wilcox, where he La- since been engaged in tbe man- 
ufacture of lumber. His mill has a capacity of about one million feet of lum- 
ber per month, and he employs about seventy men to cany on bis business; he 
has a private railroad, with which to transport bis logs from the lumber dis- 
tricts. Capt. Ernhout own- 225 acres of valuable lands near Cuba, with 
fifteen oil wells and two excellent gas wells; also 800 acres of land near Kane, 
McKean Co., Penn. , upon which there are three producing wells, which he 
intends developing. Mr. Ernhout is an active business man. with marked 
ability, and is one of tbe representative citizens of Wilcox. He has always 
been identified with the Republican party; he is a member of the Episcopal 
Church. Mrs. Milla Ernhout departed this life in 1S77. having borne her 
husband four children: Perry S., the eldest son. entered the United States 
service with his father, and was promoted to the naval academy, at Annapolis, 
Md. , and from which he was graduated with high honors, but died in tbe 
prime of manhood; Marilda S., married Dr. William Scrosburg, of Ulster 
county. N. Y., and is now deceased; Phineas S. is a lumber manufacturer of 
Wilcox, and E. L. is a practicing physician of Omaha. Neb. 

P. S. ERNHOUT, lumber manufacturer. Wilcox, is a son of John Ern- 
hout. was born in Ulster county, N. Y., February 4. L851, and came to Elk 
county with his parents. He received a common-school education, and learned 
the tanner's tradeat the Wilcox Tannery. For five years he held the position 
of foreman of Osterhout's tannery at Ridgway. He was in business with Mr. 
J. L. Brown in manufacturing lumber, and in 1882 became one of the mem- 
bers of the Rasselas Lumber Company, and has since had the management of 
that company. Mr. Ernhout is also interested in the oil business at Kane. 
Penn. In 187*2 he married Miss Annie, daughter of Noah Merriam, of Onon- 
daga county. N. Y. They have one child. Merriam. Mr. Ernhout is a mem- 
ber of Wilcox Lodge. No. 571, F. & A. M., and of the Sons of Temperance. 
No. 285. of Wilcox. He takes an active part in the temperance cause, and is 
chairman of the County Prohibition Committee. He has served as school di 
rector of Jones township. He is also an elder and trustee in the Wilcox Pres- 
bvteriau Church. 

GURNEE FREEMAN, lumber manufacturer and farmer. P. O. Wilcox, 
was born in Tompkins county, N. Y., May 8, 1845. His parents. Stephen and 
Rosetta (Trowbridge I Freeman, were natives of that county and farmers by oc- 
cupation. The mother died December 25, 1S54. and tbe father still resides in 
Tompkins county. N. Y. They reared seven children, six of whom are living: 
Survillia. widow of William Burch of Ithaca. N. Y. : Mary, wife of George 
Williams, of Michigan; Gurnee; Catherine, wife of Elery Brown, of Michigan; 
Susan, deceased; Stephen and William, who live in Michigan. Gurnee Free- 
man received a common school education in Tompkins count}-. N. Y. In Jan- 
uary. L863, he went to Philipsburgh, Centre Co.. Penn., and engaged in 
the lumber business; be remained there until 1SS4. when he came to Elk 
countj and purchased his present farm and also engaged in manufacturing 
lumber. May 1. 1886, he formed a partnership with H. W. Horner in the 
manufacture of lumber, and also in a general store, under the firm name of 
Horner & Freeman. January 11. 1868, Mr. Freeman was united in marriage 
with Miss Henrietta, daughter of Ellis McClellan, of Centre county, Penn. 
They have the children: William. Harry. Charles. Ellis and Emma. .Mr. 
Freeman is a supporter of the Democratic party, and is a member of Wilcox 
Lodge. No. 571, P. cV A. M. He and family attend the Episcopal Church. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 755 

H. W. HORNER, lumber manufacturer and farmer, P. O. Wilcox, was born 
in Allegany county. N. Y. , July 7, 1840. His father. Timothy Horner, was also 
a native of that county, born April 26, 1819, and his mother, Lydia Ann (Cease) 
Horner, was a native of Delaware county. N. Y., born December 16, 1816. 
His father was a millwright bj trade, and operated a grist-mill at Angelica, 
N. Y. He was killed while repairing the Wilcox Mill at that place, December 
28, 1849. The mother soon after married again and moved to McKean 
county, Penn. Our subject was thrown upon his own resources at an early 
age. He was reared by his uncle and obtained but a limited education. He 
learned the trade of a miller, which he followed until twenty-six years of age. 
April 9, 1865, he married Miss Cassie, daughter of Thomas and Agnes (Daly) 
King, natives of Ireland, and among the early settlers of McKean county, 
Penn. In 1867 they moved to Michigan and engaged in farming until 1869, 
when they returned to Wilcox, where for several years Mr. Horner engaged in 
the butcher business. In 1875 they purchased their present farm in Jones 
township and began to manufacture lumber. In 1886 was formed the firm of 
Horner & Freeman. Mr. Horner has three children: Marion, Mabel and Mil 
dred. He is a member of Wilcox Lodge, No. 698. E. A. I'.; Wilcox Lodge, 
No. 571, F. & A. M. , and Wilcox Tent of the Knights of Maccabees. He has 
always taken an active part in Democratic polities. Mr. Horner's parent* were 
members of the Baptist Church. They reared three children: H. W., C. H. 
and Orpha (wife of W. W. Brewer, of Mount Jewett). Mr. Horner is a hunter, 
and has killed a great many deer. 

J. C. MALONE. jeweler and confectioner, Wilcox, was born in Fox township. 
Elk Co., Penn., March 20, 1844. His parents were both accidentally poisoned 
when he was about four years of age. He remained in Elk county until about 
fourteen years of age, when he went to Smethport, McKean county, and re- 
ceived a common-school education. He learned the jeweler's trade at Smeth- 
port, and first started in that business at Port Allegany. In 1861 he enlisted 
in Company F, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers; was appointed sergeant 
of his company, and served until the close of the war. In 1868 he came to 
Wilcox, Elk county, and has since been engaged in his present business. In 
1869 he married Miss Maria Louise, daughter of J. D. Leonard, of Kane, Mc- 
Kean Co., Penn., and they have one child, Maud H. Mr. Malone is a mem- 
ber of Wilcox Lodge, No. 571. F. & A. M. He has always been identified with 
the Republican party, and has filled the offices of auditor, treasurer, school di- 
rector, and at this writing is assessor of the township. Mrs. Malone is a mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian Church. 

ROBERT A. MANETT, superintendent of the wood department of the 
Wilcox Tanning Company, was born in Sullivan county, N. Y., June 3, 1842. 
His father, James Manett, is of Scotch descent, and was reared in New York 
City. His mother, Diantha (Avery) Manett, was a native of New England. They 
were among the early settlers of Sullivan county, where they still reside, en- 
gaged in farming. They reared ten children, all of whom are living: George 
(of Washington), Robert A., Clarissa (wife of Leonard Stratton), Lucinda (wife 
of Charles Shendler), Fannie (first married to Eliphalet Stratton, who died, and 
she is now the wife of William Cauthers), James Gilbert. Jonathan D., Harry 
(of Brockport. Penn.) Eugene and Emma. Mr. Manett received but a limited 
education, as his parents were poor and could not afford to send him to the sub- 
scription schools of those days. In 1859 he engaged with Jackson Schultz. at 
Lunenkill, Ulster Co., N. Y. , and has been in the employ of the Schultz family 
ever since, with the exception of two years, when he was engaged in the express 
business at Ellenville, N. Y. He came to Wilcox. Elk Co., Penn., in 1872, and 



756 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

has since held his present position as superintendent of the wood department 
of the Wilcox Tanning Company, peeling and hauling 25,000 cords of hemlock 
barb each year. In 1867 he married Miss Mary J., daughter of James Budd, 
i if [Jlster county, N. Y. They have three daughters: Lillian, Eula and Laura. 
He lias always been a supporter of the Republican party, casting his first vote 
for President Lincoln. He lias tilled the office of overseer of the poor, tax col- 
lector, supervisor and school director of Jones township. He joined the Ma- 
sonic fraternity of Ridgway, and is a charter member of the Wilcox Lodge. 
No. 571, F. & A. M., and is also a member of the Wilcox Tent of the Knights 
of the Maccabees. 

E. W. RHONE, superintendent of machinery for the Wilcox Tanning 
Company, was born in Clinton county, Penn., November 28, 1845. His parents, 
John and Elizabeth (Batdorf) Rhone, were natives of Germany, and farmers 
by occupation. Mr. Rhone was educated at the township schools of Clinton 
and Centre counties, and learned the machinist's trade. In 1867 he came to 
Wilcox, and has since been in the employ of the Wilcox Tanning Company. In 
1865 he married Miss Mary Ellen, daughter of Dickerson Cole, of Clinton 
county, Penn. They have one child, Evaline. Mr. Rhone is identified with 
the Republican party, and for the last eight years has been secretary of the 
school board. He is a member of the E. A. U.,of Wilcox, and he and his 
family attend the Presbvterian Church. 

MAURICE M. SCHULTZ (deceased) was born in Delaware county. X. V.. 
February 11, 1827, and died at Wilcox, Elk Co., Penn., May 18, L884. 
At the age of sixteen he embarked on a whaling ship for the Arctic seas, and 
returned to his native land after a voyage of four years. His voyage, and the 
hardships and experiences attendant upon it, gave him his stern and unswerv- 
ing peculiarities of character and his robust and hardy physique, thereby 
well fitting him for the hard and active service of his after life. After his re- 
turn from the sea, he became a tanner, and engaged extensively in that Imsi 
ness up to the time of his death. He operated a tannery at Sparrow Bush, 
N. Y., from 1860 to 1866, and during these years accumulated a goodly fort- 
une. At the time he disposed of his tannery at that place, he proposed to retire 
fn mi active life, but after a pleasure trip to Europe of a year's duration, he was 
again persuaded to embark in the tanning enterprise, this time at Wilcox, Elk 
county. From the summer of 1877, up to the time of his death, he was at 
the head of the firm doing business under the name of the Wilcox Tanning 
Company. Mr. Schultz had exclusive charge of the landed and manufactur- 
ing interests of this company, and by his energy, fidelity and perseverance, he 
commanded not only the implicit confidence of the other members of this firm, 
but also the admiration and respect of the community in which he lived. He 
was kind hearted and generous, and never turned a deaf ear to the appeals of 
the less fortunate in life. His wife, Mary A. (Atherton) Schultz. still sur- 
vives him, also two sons and one daughter: Norman (residing in New York 
City), frying I residing in Wilcox, Penn.) and Mrs. Edward Barnes (of Or- 
ange, N. J.). The Wilcox Tannery is now conducted by his two sons. Mr. 
Irving Schultz being the resident member, and having the general supervision 

<if the same. 

MARTIN SOWERS, retired. Wilcox, was born in German)', November 30, 
L831, a son of George and Barbara Sowers, and immigrated to America in 
is in. He first located near Philadelphia, Penn., where he engaged in farming 

for a Dumber of years. From there he moved to Clermont, and t In r to 

Williamsville, and then to Kane. McKean county, where for two years he was 
engaged in the restaurant business. He came to Wilcox in 1865, and conducted 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 757 

a mercantile business for twenty years. He also built his present hotel, which 
he ran for many years. In 1853 he married Miss Caroline Houserman, a 
native of Germany, and a resident of Philadelphia, Penn. She died in 1881. 
Seven children were born to their union, six of whom are living: George, of 
Wilcox; Mary, wife of Elijah Kroat, of McKean county, Louisa, at home; 
Frank, hotel-keeper of Wilcox; Edward, operator for the B. R. & P. R. R. at 
Ridgway, and William, at home. Mr. Sowers has been a supporter of the 
Republican party since its organization. He has served as school director and 
supervisor, and is treasurer of the township at the present time. He is a mem- 
ber of Wilcox Lodge, No. 571, F. & A. M. , and of the Reformed Lutheran 
Church. 

C. W. SPETTIGUE. general manager for the Wilcox Tanning & Lum- 
ber Company, Wilcox, was born in Wayne county, Penn., September 16, 1844. 
His parents, George G. and Grace Spettigue, were natives of England, and 
both died in Wayne county, Penn. They were farmers by occupation. C. W. 
Spettigue was given the advantages of the township schools, and has been 
engaged in the mercantile business since he was eighteen years of age. He 
was in business in Sullivan county, N. Y., for sixteen years, and in 1878 came 
to Wilcox, and has since held his present position. In 1871 he married Miss 
Annette, daughter of Nelson Thomas, of Delaware county, N. Y. They have 
one child, Lizzie W. Mr. Spettigue has always been a supporter of the 
Republican party. 

MARK D. SPROAT, resident member, at Wilcox, of the firm of Henry, 
Bayard & Co., of Philadelphia and Wilcox, was born in Elmira, N. Y. , April 15, 
1839, a son of Stephen C. and Mary (Schontz) Sproat, natives of Orange coun- 
ty, N. Y. , and farmers by occupation. Mr. Sproat was educated at Myron G. 
Peck's Academy, in Rochester, N. Y., and has been engaged in the lumber 
business since he was seventeen years of age. He engaged with Henry, Bay- 
ard & Co. in 1879, and he has been a member of the firm for seven years. 
They began manufacturing lumber in Elk county, Penn., in 1880, and Mr. 
Sproat has since resided at Wilcox. He married, in 1872, Miss Rebecca Lesher, 
a native of New York City. Mr. Sproat is a member of Acacia Lodge, No. 58, 
F. & A. M., of Cottage Grove, Minn.; has always been identified with the 
Democratic party, and is a member of the Tabernacle Baptist Church at Phila- 
delphia, Penn. 

M. H. TOOMEY, proprietor of the East Branch Hotel, Glen Hazel, was 
born in Fox Township, Elk Co., Penn., July 4, 1860, and is a son of Dennis 
and Mary (O'Hara) Toomey. He was reared and educated in his native coun- 
ty, and worked at lumbering several years, afterward clerking in a number of 
hotels in the county. In November, 1888, Mr. Toomey settled at Glen Hazel, 
and here built his present hotel, which he has since successfully conducted. 
In December, 1887. he married Josephine, daughter of Ferdinand and Mar- 
garet (Groll) Wank, of Jones township. Mr. Toomey is a popular landlord, 
and one who knows how to cater to every requirement of his guests. He is a 
member of the Catholic Church; in politics a Democrat. 

WILLIAM J. WANK, blacksmith, Glen Hazel, was born in Jones town- 
ship, Elk Co., Penn., February 13, 1863, and is a son of Ferdinand and Mar- 
garet (Groll) Wank, natives of Bavaria, Germany, and pioneers of the borough 
of St. Mary's, and later of Jones township. Ferdinand Wank was a carpen- 
ter by trade, but after coming to this country, he followed agricultural pursuits, 
and cleared and improved a farm in Jones township. He had ten children: 
Christopher W. (deceased), Mary R. (Mrs. John Stoltz), Lizzie (Mrs. John 
Foley), Albert G. (deceased), William J., Josephine (Mrs. Michael H. Toomey), 



758 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Ida (Mrs. Michael King), John A., Matilda M. and Jennie M. The subjeci oi 
this sketch was reared in Jones township, where he received a common-school 
education, and learned the blacksmith's trade, which he has followed for six 
years. He is the pioneer blacksmith of Glen Hazel. November 7. l^ ss . Mr 
Wank married Carrie Weis, of Clermont, McKean Co., Penn. He is a mem 
her of the Catholic Church: in politics a Republican. 

STEPHEN E. WATSON, liveryman, Glen Hazel, was born in Schoharie 
comity. X. V., February 13, L854, and is a son of James K. and Catherine 
(Halleck) "Watson. He was reared and educated in Delaware county, N. Y. , 
and began life as a teamster, an occupation he followed in Delaware county 
sis years. In 1S74 Mr. Watson located at Moose River, Lewis Co., X V . . 
where he learned the tanner's trade, and worked at the same for three years 
He then accepted a position as clerk in the tannery store, acting in that 
capacity during a period of four years. He then removed to Limestone, X. 
Y., where he was foreman in the tan -yard of Hoyt Brothers for one and a half 
years, and was then made superintendent of the Sterling Run Tannery, at 
Sterling Run, Cameron county, a position he held for two years. He then had 
charge of the office and tannery of George L. Williams at Salamanca. X. V . 
for one year, and in 1889 he moved to Glen Hazel, where he has a livery 
stable, anil is doing a successful business. Mr. Watson married. October 11. 
1N71. Emma, daughter of Arthur Bull, of Delaware county, N. Y. , and has 
one daughter, Mertie E. Mr. Watson is a member of the F. & A. M. and K. 
O. T. M. ; in politics he is a Republican. 

BENJAMIN WATSON, a member of the firm of Watson Brothers, dealers 
in general merchandise, Glen Hazel, was born in Schoharie county. N. Y.. 
July 9, 1858, and is a son of James K. and Catherine (Halleck) Watson. He 
was reared and educated in Delaware county, N. Y. . and began life as a clerk 
in a general store at Moose river. Lewis county, N. Y., where ho remained 
three years. Mr. Watson served in the same capacity at Albany, X. Y. for 
two years, and in 1883 he located in Salamanca, N. Y r . , where he held the 
position of book-keeper in the Salamanca Tannery for three ami a half years. 
In March. bSSS. lie settled at Glen Hazel, and erected the first store in the 
place, there embarking in the mercanl ile business in company with his brother. 
R. J. Watson, of Limestone, N. Y. The brothers have built up a successful 
trade that is daily increasing. Our subject is postmaster at Glen Hazel, the 
postoffice having been established June 7. 1SV.I. He married, in INN-l, Mary, 
daughter of W. C. Palmer, of Salamanca, N. Y., and has one daughter. 
Evelyn M. He is an enterprising, public spirited citizen, and in politics is a 
Republican. 

MICHAEL WEIDERT, farmer, P. 0. Rasselas. was born in Luxemburg. 
Germany, January 8, 18'28. His parents, Bernard and Mary (Bodevin) 
Weidert, immigrated to America in 1847. arriving in Elk county, Penn.. 
August 16. They remained at St. Mary's until the following September, when 
they located on the present farm of our subject, in Jones township. Here lie 
father died, in 1855, and the mother, in l^M. They were prominent members 
of the Roman Catholic Chinch. They brought eleven children to this country, 
nine of whom are still living: Mary, widow of John Myers: Catherine, wife 
of Joseph Hetznecker; Michael; John; Elizabeth, wife of Charles Nearing; 
Magdaliue, widow of Joseph Pistner; Mary, wife of Michael Miller; William, 
and Lena, wife of T. L. McKean. Mr. Weiderl was educated in his native 
country, and for eight years after coming to Elk county worked for Col. A. I. 
Wilcox. He has since been engaged in lumbering and farming. In L852 he 
married Miss Barbara, daughter of Francis Bonnert, of Jones township. Nine 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 759 

children were born to this union, five of whom are living: Maggie, "William M. , 
John, Charles. Edward, all at home. Mr. Weidert has always been identified 
with the Democratic party and takes an active part in politics. He was elected 
county commissioner in 1874 and served one year, was re-elected in 1875 for 
three years, and re-elected in 1878 for three years. During this time the com- 
missioners built the courthouse at Ridgway. He was elected justice of the 
peace, but did not serve. He has, however, filled nearly all the township 
offices. In 1885 he took a pleasure trip to his native country, remaining from 
May till September. He is a member of the St. John's Society of St. Mary's, 
and be and family are members of the Roman Catholic Church. 

JOHN WEIGEL. blacksmith and farmer, Rasselas, was born in St. Mary's, 
Elk Co., Penn., April 10, 1855. His parents, George and Barbara Weigel, were 
natives of Europe, and emigrated to America in 1844. locating at St. Mary's. 
His father, who was a blacksmith by trade, is now deceased; his mother is still 
living at St. Mary's. Mr. Weigel received a common school education, after 
which he learned the blacksmith's trade, and has always resided in Elk county 
with the exception of two years spent in Michigan. He located at Rasselas in 
1885. In 1879 he married Miss Mary, daughter of Joseph Smith, of St. 
Mary's, and they have three children: Julia, Edward and Frederick. Mr. 
Weigel is a supporter of the Democratic party. He is a member of St. John 
and St. Patrick societies. He and family are members of the Roman Catholic 
Church. 

DR. J. H. WELLS, Wilcox, was born in Ellenville, Ulster Co., N. Y., 
March 5, 1854, the son of J. B. and Mary (Hart) Wells, the former a native of 
Schoharie county, N. Y. , and the latter of Ulster county. In 1868 they came 
to Elk county, where the father has since been in the employ of the Wilcox 
Tanning Company, in the capacity of harness maker. Dr. Wells received a 
common-school education, and read medicine with Dr. Ernhout, then of Wil- 
cox. He attended the medical department of the Bellevue Hospital in New 
York City, and was graduated in 1884, since which time he has been practic- 
ing Iris profession at Wilcox. He married, in 1875, Miss Mary M. , daughter 
of Seymour Skiff, of Onondaga county, N. Y. , and they have one child, Mabel. 
Dr. Wells is president of the Elk County Medical Society, and is a member of 
the State Medical Society. He is a member of Wilcox Lodge, No. 571, F. & 
A. M. Politically he is a Republican, and has served as clerk and treasurer of 
the township. His wife is a member of the Reformed Church. 



?60 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 



CHAPTEK XIX. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES— FOX TOWNSHIP— 
HORTON TOWNSHIP. 

FOX TOWNSHIP. 

J. HENRY BEADLE, superintendent of stores for J. H. Steel] & Co., 
Dagus Mines, was born in Schuylkill count} 7 , Penn., September 14, 1851, a son 
of Jesse and Annie (Oldknow) Beadle, natives of England. Mr. Beadle re- 
ceived an ordinary education, and for tin- past lifteen years has been connected 
with J. H. Steell & Co., in different capacities. In 1878 he came to Elk 
county, and has since had charge of the stores at Dagus Mines. He is Repub- 
lican in politics, and was a delegate to the State convention in 1888; was ap- 
pointed the first postmaster of Dagus Mines, and is now serving his second 
term of office. He is an elder in the Presbyterian Church, and takes an active 
part in Sabbath-school work, having served as superintendent of the Dagus 
Mines Sabbath -school for a number of years. His natural disposition is gen- 
tle and unobtrusive; while, as a man of business, he is characterized by indus- 
try, energy and strict integrity. 

CLINTON A. BUNDY, lumberman, Kersey's, was born in Fox township, 
Elk Co., Penn., September S, 1840, a son of Elijah and Lavina (Vial) 
Bundy. During his youth Mr. Bundy was engaged in farming, until he 
entered the United States service. He enlisted in April, 1861, and was 
assigned to Company G, First Pennsylvania Volunteer Rifles, " Bucktail " Regi- 
ment. He served until April, 1863, when he was honorably discharged, but in 
.January, 1864, he re-enlisted in the same company, and served until the close 
of the war. Mr. Bundy married, March '22, 18(54, Miss Emma Sophronia, 
daughter of William and Elizabeth Meredith, and to them have been born five 
children, viz.: B. L. (of Kersey), William S., Mary M., Fannie and Free. 
He is actively engaged in the lumber business, and is counted as one of the 
live, enterprising citizens of Kersey. He is a Republican in politics, and has 
served as assessor and supervisor of Fox township. He is a member of Ridg- 
way Post, G. A. R., and of Kersey Lodge, No. 967. I. O. O. F., also of 
Rebecca Degree and the Sons of America. Mr. Bundy and family attend the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 

PATRICK CALLAHAN, farmer, P. O. Kersey's, son of Jeremiah and 
.Margaret I Keede) Callahan, was born in Fox township, Elk Co., Penn., in 
L84 i. and lias since been engaged in lumbering and farming. He was mar 
rii'd. .July 3, L883, to Miss Margaret, daughter of James Sheely, of Fox tows 
ship, and they have four children, viz.: Mary Cecelia, Jeremiah Frederick, 
Annie Margaret and Alice Agnes (twins). Mr. Callahan is an active worker in 
the Democratic party, is a member of the school board, and has also served as 
treasurer of the township. The family are members of the Catholic Church. 

WILLIAM CALLAHAN, farmer, P. O. Kersey's, was born in Fox town- 
ship. Elk Co., 1'etin., on his present farm, October 12, 1853, a son of Jere- 
miah and Margaret (Reede) Callahan, the former a native of Ireland, the latter 
of Luzerne county, Penn. Thej located, about 1S44, upon a farm in Fox 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 761 

township. Jeremiah Callahan was a Democrat in politics, and a member of the 
Catholic Church. He died in 1879; his widow still survives him, and makes her 
home with her son, William. They reared a family of twelve children, eleven of 
whom are yet living, viz. : James (in Penfield, Penn.), Patrick (in Fox township), 
Jeremiah (in Horton township), William, Elizabeth (wife of Frederick Dickiu 
son, in Ridgway, Penn.), Mary (wife of Stephen Fox, in Horton township). 
Maggie, Ellen (wife of Patrick Flynn, in Penfield), Catherine, Martha, and 
Emma (wife of John Beutzer, in Kersey). Mr. Callahan was educated at 
the township schools, and has always been engaged in farming and lumbering. 
In politics he is a Democrat, and is a member of the Catholic Church. 

JOHN COLLINS, proprietor of the Collins House, Kersey's, was born in 
Cork, Ireland, May 26, 1828, a son of John and Elizabeth (Ryan) Collins. 
The father came to America, obtaining employment as a day laborer, and after- 
ward, in 1836, sent for his family, finally moving them to Lancaster, Penn , 
where he obtained employment with the Side Water Canal Company. He died 
in that county, and the mother was afterward married to John Sullivan, who 
came to Elk county in 1841, and engaged in farming in Fox township. John 
Collins was the only child by the first union, and was eight years of age 
when he came to America. He obtained but a limited education, and early 
began to work in the lumber woods. In 1868 he established a hotel at Ker- 
sey, but had the misfortune to be burned out in July, 1880. He then pur- 
chased his present property, where he has since been located. He married, 
in 1850, Miss Ann Agnes Malone, a native of Elk county; she died in January. 
1875, leaving four children, viz. : Mary, who married John McMackin and died 
in May, 1882, leaving three children: James E., Harry L. and Edward — three 
other children born to Mr. and Mrs. McMackin died before their mother; Eliza- 
beth, the second child of John and Ann Agnes Collins, is living at home; the 
third died in infancy, and John James, the fourth child, died in August, 1887. 
John James had married Miss Alice Mann, by whom he had two children, viz : 
Thomas, at home, and Mary Rose, who died in May, 1889. Mr. Collins has 
always been an active worker in the Democratic party, and has served one term 
as county treasurer, also filled the offices of school director and supervisor of 
the township for many years. He is a member of the Catholic Church. 

CHARLES E. GREEN, farmer, P. O. Kersey's, was born in Fox town- 
ship. Elk Co., Penn., August 6, 1847. He was educated in the township 
schools and has always been engaged in farming. James Green, his grand- 
father, was born in Chester county, Penn., and was a shoemaker by trade. In 
politics he affiliated with the Whig party, and was the first postmaster of Ker- 
sey's, which office he held until his death. Johu Green, father of Charles E. 
Green, was born in Centre county, Penn.. October 12, 1799, and came to Elk 
county, with his parents, in 1817, where they entered a 200-acre tract of land, 
which they cleared and improved. John Green married, July 7, 1825, Ann 
Kyler, who died July 1, 1827, leaving one child, Eliza Ann, who married 
Aaron Harrington, and died, leaving three children, viz. : James Bruce, Benja- 
min Franklin and Mary. Mr. Green was next married, March 26, 1829, to 
Miss Mary Thompson, who was born in Centre county, Penn., August 9, 1809. 
Six children were born to them, five of whom are living, viz. : Catherine, wife 
of John Comley, of Centre county; Rebecca E., wife of John Nulf, of Horton 
township. Elk county; James R., of Fox township; Elizabeth, wife of John 
Bonham, of Centre county, and Charles E. Mr. Green built a log hotel on his 
farm, but afterward established the Green House at Kersey, which he sold. 
He was a prominent Republican in politics, and for many years was post- 
master of Kersey's; in religion he was a Quaker. He died October 23. L883; 



762 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

his widow is still enjoying good health at the age of eighty years. Charles [•; 
Green married. December '23. 1869. Miss Esmeralda Meredith, and t < > their. 
have been born five children, named as follows: Harry. Grant. Jennie. Mary 
Ethel and Claty C. Mr. Green, politically, is a Republican, and has served 
as auditor and constable of Fox town-hip. He is a member of Olympia 
Lodge. No. 967, I. 0. 0. F.; Patrons of Husbandry, No. 628. and Patriotic 
Order Sons of America, No. 40:-!. The family attend the Methodist Episcopal 
( 'lunch. 

\\DREW HAF, farmer. P. ( >. Kersey's, was born in Fox township. Elk 
Co., Penn., November 4, 1859, a son of Andrew and Walbergh (Heigle) Hau. 
datives of Bavaria, 1 Germany, who emigrated to America about the year L843 
Tln'\ were married in this country and settled on a farm in Pox township. 
The mother died September 28, 1872, and the father in 1884. The latter was 
a prominent Democrat, and filled various township offices, and was also a mem 

ber of the Catholic Church. Their family isisted of nine children, three of 

wliom are living: John A. (of Fox township), Andrew and Teressa I wife of 
Allois Ormann, of Kersey. Perm.). Andrew Hau received an ordinary edu- 
cation, and has been principally engaged in farming. Since 1887 he has 
acted as proprietor of the German House, at Kersey. He is a Democrat in 
politics, a member of the Catholic Church, and of St. Boniface Society. 

1'. \V. HAYS, justice of the peace and farmer, P. O. Dae-iis Mines, was 
born in Juniata county. Penn.. January 5, 1829, a -on of Edward and Cath 
erine (Gilnett) Hays, who moved to Elk county in 1841, and purchased 200 
acres of land in Fox township. The father died about one year after moving 
to the county, and the mother in 1S77. The living children are Catherine 
(wife of Elias Mover, of Fox township). Susanna (wife of Christian Graybill. 
of Snyder county, Penn.), Enos (of Fox township), John (of Oak Ridge. Mo. |, 
1'. \\\, Edward (of Luthersburg, Clearfield Co., Penn. » and Sarah (wife oi 
James Taylor, of Fox township). P. W. Hays received his education ar the 
log school-houses of that period, and at the age of twenty years purchased 
one half his mother's farm, which he worked for two years. He afterward 
began repairing watches, etc., and also learned the art of photography. In 
1855 In- was elected justice of the peace of Fox township, and has since held 
that office, with the exception of from L862 to 1865, when he served as sheriff 
<>f Elk county. He married. November 22. L855, Miss Elizabeth, daughter 
of Samuel Wilson, of Fox township, and they have five living children. 
viz.: Viola (wife of Joseph Starr, of Fox township), Carrie (wife of Walter 
Rogers, of Horton township). Charles (at borne), Ida (wife of Myron Rick 
aid. of Fox township) and Eva (at home, i Mr. Hays is an active worker 
in the Democratic party, and has tilled the offices of auditor, school director, 
treasurer, etc. For six years he was engaged in the mercantile business at 
Earlville. Penn. He is a member of the I. O. 0. 1'.. the Masonic fraternity, 
and the Patrons of Husbandry. He attends churches of all denominations. 

JOHN HEKSHEY. farmer. P. O. Kersey's, was born in Juniata county. 
Penn.. April 5. 1819. His parents, John and Catharine Hershey, were natives 
of York and Cumberland counties, Penn., and died when he was but a few 
years of age. He was reared in Huntingdon and Blair counties, and received 
an ordinary education. He began life a- a farm laborer, and worked for one 
man in Blair county for eigiit years. December 25, L855, h«> came to Elk 
count;, and Eor eight years was in the employ of .1. s Hyde, and drove a team 
from Ridgway to Warren. Jamestown and Clean. Be afterward was employed 
four years by Dr. Farley, of Ridgway. About 1868 he settled upon his pi 
farm in Fox township, and has since improved and cleared the same. He has 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 763 

always been a stanch Republican, and cast his first vote in 1840 for Gen. W. 
H. Harrison. He has served as township assessor for three years, and auditor 
for three years. He is an active member of the Presbyterian Church, and was 
one of the principal movers in erecting the church at Kersey. Mr. Hershey, 
although leading tbe rough life of a woodsman and lumberman for many years, 
has never used tobacco or spirituous liquors in any form, nor has he ever 
played a game of cards or base ball, or engaged in any such nonsense, because, 
he holds, all must render up a strict account for the precious time allotted each 
one whilst upon earth, and time and life are too valuable to be spent or wasted 
in such sports or pastimes. 

WILLIAM E. HEWITT, farmer, P. O. Dagus Mines, was born on his 
present homestead, in Fox township, Elk Co., Penn. , January 29, 1841, a son 
of Jeremiah and Sarah M* (Hoy t) Hewitt, the former of whom was born in 
Greenwich, N. Y., July 19, 1813, the latter a native of Vermont. Jeremiah 
Hewitt and wife both moved to Clearfield county, Penn., with their parents, 
and after their marriage, which occurred December 20, 1835, settled upon their 
present farm in Fox township. Mr. Hewitt has always been identified with 
the Republican party, and has tilled various township offices. For many years 
he has been steward of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His wife died in 
February, 1881. They reared a family of eight children, seven of whom are 
living: Leora, wife of Elias Horning, in Clearfield county; Rhobe M. , wife of 
Ransom T. Kyler, in Fox township; William E. ; Aurilla, wife of Norman G. 
Bundy, also in Fox township; Hiram W., in Minnesota; Armina C, wife of 
Charles Rogers, also in Minnesota, and John C, in Dakota. William E. Hewitt 
received an ordinary education, and enlisted in the service of his country Octo- 
ber 18, 1861. He was assigned to Company F, Fifty-eighth P. V. I., and 
served as corporal of his company until the close of the war. Since then he 
has been engaged in farming, and is also a partner in the grocery and meat 
business of Burchfield & Co. , of Brockway ville, Penn. He married. December 25, 
1865, Miss Eunice A., daughter of Rasselas W. Brown, of Jones township, and 
they have two children: Ellen M. (attending school at Syracuse, N. Y.) and 
Grace C. Mr. Hewitt is a Republican in politics, and has filled various town- 
ship offices. He is a member of Ridgway Lodge, F. & A. M. ; St. Mary' s Post, 
No. 216, G. A. R. , and Patriotic Order Sons of America, No. 403; he is a 
steward in the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

MICHAEL KEELEY, farmer, P. O. Dagus Mines, is a native of the 
County Galway, Ireland, and came to America in 1860, locating on his present 
farm in Fox township, Elk Co., Penn. He married, March 17, 1861, Miss 
Mary Keeley, by whom he has three children: John, Ellen and Winifred. He 
is a member of the Democratic party, and served as tax collector from 1883 to 
1889, except the years 1884 and 1S8S. He is a member of the Catholic Church. 

JOHN KOCH, merchant and hotel proprietor, Kersey's, was born in Bavaria, 
Germany, December 27, 1834, son of Joseph and Catherine (Braener) Koch. 
The family came to America in 1846, and first located at St. Mary's, Elk Co., 
Penn., but in the latter part of the same year they moved to Kersey, same 
county, where they purchased a farm, which they conducted many years; also 
established the Koch House at Kersey, one of the early hotels of the place. 
In 1864 Joseph Koch & Sons established a general mercantile business at Ker- 
sey, which has since grown to be one of the largest and best stores in this 
part of the county. In addition to these interests the firm also carry on farm- 
ing and lumber manufacturing extensively. John Koch, the subject proper of 
these lines, was married in 1857 to Miss Margaret Buntzer, also a native of 
Bavaria, who came to America in 1847, and to this union have been born five 



764 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

sons and three daughters: Peter, Joseph, Nicholas, Robert, John, Mary. Mag 

trie and Katie, all living at home. In 1864 Mr. Koch enlisted in Company A. 
Seventy-sixth Begiment, 1'. V. I., and served until the close of the war. He 

is identified with the Democratic party, and has served as postmaster at K.t 
sey's since 1884; has also been school director, tax collector, etc., for Fox 
township. He is a member of the G. A. R, Lucore Post. No. 216, "f Si 
Mary's, and is a member of the Catholic Church. 

ANTHONY KOCH, butcher, Kersey's, son of Joseph Koch, was bo 
Fox township, Elk Co., Penn.. September 15. 1853. He received a common 
school education, after which he learned the butcher's trade. In 1S87 he pur 
chasi d the Franklin House in St. Mary's, which he conducted for a short tim. 
In 1874 he married Miss Emma, daughter of Dr. H. Straessley. of Kersey, 
and by this union are born five children, named as follows: Minnie. Gertrude, 
Annie. George and Charles. Mr. Koch established his present successful busi 
ness in 1N80. He is a Democrat in polities, and has served as supervisor ol 
Fox township. He and family are members of the Catholic Church. 

R. T. KYLER, farmer, P. O. Kersey's, was born in what is now Fox tow rj 
ship, Elk Co., Penn.. June 12, 1880, a son of Jesse and Elizabeth (Packer) 
Kyler, natives of Centre county, Penn. John Kyler, the grandfather of J! T. 
Kyle]-, was also a native of Centre county, and came to Elk county with his 
family in 1813, and took up a tract of land in Fox township. Jesse Kyler was 
born in 1801, and always followed farming as an occupation. He was identi- 
fied with the Democratic party, and served as justice of the peace of Fox town 
ship for many years, two terms as county commissioner, one term as countj 
auditor, and also two terms as associate judge of the county. He died in 1880, 
and his widow in 1883. They were members of the Quaker Society. Their 
family consisted of seven children, four of whom are living, named as follows: 
Eli, of Warren, Perm. : R. T., Hays and Willis, of Fox township. R. T. Kyler 
was married, in 1855, to Miss Rhobe M. , daughter of Jeremiah Hewitt. He 
affiliates with the Democratic party, and has served as county auditor, jury 
commissioner, and in all of the important township offices. He is a member 
of the K. of P. of Kersey, the Patrons of Husbandry and the Patriotic Order 
Sons of America. 

HENRY LARGAY, farmer and lumberman, Kersey's, was born in what is 
now Fox township, Elk Co., Penn., February 11, 1839, a son of John and 
Catherine (McQuone) Largay, natives of County Armagh, Ireland, but who 
married in this country, and afterward settled upon the present farm of Henry 
Largay, in Fox township. They were members of the Catholic Church. Their 
family consisted of twelve children, nine of whom are living, viz.: Henry, 
Ann (wife Pasco Shaver, of Fox township), Ellen (wife of James Wins 
low. of Benezette township), Susan (wife of Patrick Jordan, of Fox 
township I, Catherine, Mary (wife of John Meenan, of Ridgway), John and 
Patrick (of Fox township), Rosa (wife of Decatur Hewitt, of Benezette). 
Mr. Largay was educated at the township schools, and has always been en 
gaged in farming and lumbering. In 1864 he enlisted in Company ('. Two 
Hundred and Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, and is a member of St. Mar} ' - 
Post, G. A. R. He is independent in politics, and has filled various township 
offices. He also is a member of the Catholic Church. 

REV. FATHER JOHN LINK, Kersey's, pastor of the St. Boniface par- 
ish, was born in the city of Allegheny, Penn.. December 23, 1851. He was 
educated in the city schools, and studied for the priesthood at St. Vincent's 
College, Westmoreland Co.. Penn., was ordained August 6, 1875, and was first 
located at Erie, Penn. By reason of his being familiar with both the English 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 765 

and German languages, he was transferred to Emlenton, Venango county, and 
East Brady, Clarion county, and he was active in building a new church in 
East Brady, Clarion county, and also organized a new parish there. In Febru- 
ary, 1884, he was assigned to his present parish, where he has since made 
many improvements in the church, and established a school at Kersey, which 
has been in operation six years, he acting as principal, and being assisted by 
nuns from St. Mary's, Elk county. 

JOHN A. MILLER, farmer and merchant, P. O. Kersey's, was born in 
Bavaria, Germany, July 12, 1833, a son of John and Margaret Miller, who 
came to America in 1842, and first located at Mountmorenci, near Ridgwav. 
Elk Co., Penn. ; they then moved to Ridgway, and afterward moved to Fox 
township and took up a tract of land. John A. Miller received 'but a limited 
education, and has principally been engaged in farming. In 1872 he pur- 
chased an interest in the mercantile business with J. J. Taylor; the latter died 
in 1883, since which time Mr. Miller has conducted the business alone. In 
1865 he married Miss Margaret, daughter of John Wunderley, a native of Ba- 
varia, Germany, and a settler of Elk county, Penn. To them have been born 
eight children, named as follows: Catharine (wife of Emmanuel Fox), Marga 
ret (wife of Alexander Fox), Esther (wife of Duke Emmett), Melinda, Caroline. 
Barbara, Lydia and Robert, living at home. Mr. Miller affiliates with the 
Democratic party, and has served as school director, supervisor, tax collector, 
etc., of the township. He is a member of the German Lutheran Church. 

CHARLES MILLER, merchant and tanner, Kersey's, and a son of Chris 
tof and Phelamene Miller, was born in Germany, in 183(5, and was married in 
that country in 1857 to Miss Mary Jassel, daughter of John and Annie Jassel. 
In 1866 they immigrated to America, and for one year remained in New York 
City, where Mr. Miller acted as foreman in a shoe factory. In 1867 he moved 
to Kersey, Elk Co., Penn., and engaged in shoemaking until 1872, when he 
established his present tannery, where he manufactures upper leather as a spe- 
cialty, which he ships to New York and Philadelphia. In 1879 he established 
his present general store. Mr. and Mrs. Miller have five children: William, 
Max, Charles P., John and Mary. Politically he is a Democrat, served as 
county auditor for three years, and for five years as school director of his town 
ship, being president of the board. He is a member of the St. Boniface Society 
and of the Catholic Church. 

HEZEKIAH B. MOYER, farmer, P. O. Kersey's, was born September 
24. 1850, in Fox township. Elk Co., Penn., a son of Joseph and Sarah E. (Hays) 
Moyer. His father was also born in Fox township and followed the occupation 
of a farmer; politically he was a Democrat, and filled various township offices. 
He died in 1871, and his widow afterward married James R. Taylor, of Fox 
township. But two of the children by her first marriage are living: Hezekiah 
B. and Wallace, the latter of Centreville, Penn. Hezekiah B. received his ed- 
ucation in the township schools, and has always followed farming. He married, 
in 1871, Miss Alice Taylor, of Fox township, and to them have been born three 
children, viz. : James, Joseph and Edward T. Mr. Moyer, politically, is a Dem- 
ocrat, and has served as supervisor and school director of the township. He is 
a member of the I. O. O. F., of Kersey, No. 967. 

ELIAS MOYER, farmer, P. O. Dagus Mines, was born in Centre count v. 
Penn., August 15, 1821, a son of Conrad and Elizabeth (Otto) Moyer, who came 
to Elk county in 1823, and entered a tract of land in Fox township. They were 
among the early prominent families of the township, and were members of the 
Presbyterian Church. Elias Moyer was educated at the township schools. He 
married, in 1842, Miss Catherine Hays, and three children were born to their 



766 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

union, all of whom are deceased. Mr. Mover affiliates with the Republican 
party, and has tilled various township offices. The family are members of the 
Advent Church, in which he is a deacon and trustee. He served in the late Re 
bellion in Company A, Seventy sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and is a mem- 
ber of St. Mary's Post, G. A.'R. 

CONRAD MOYER. farmer, P. O. Kersey's, was born in what is now Fox 
township. Elk Co., Penn. . March 10, L825, a son of Conrad and Elizabeth 
(Otto) Moyer. He married, in 1845, Miss Sarah, daughter of David Taylor, of 
Fox township, and twelve children were born to their union, ten of whom are 
living, viz.: John, in Fox township; Charles, also in Fox township; Wttmer, 
in Horton township: Enos. Marshall. Union and Elmer, in Fox township; Sa- 
mantha. of New York State; Louisa, of New York State, and Susanna, wife of 
David Pontius, of Fox township. Mr. Moyer has always lived in Fox town- 
ship, and is engaged in farming. He affiliates with the Democratic party. 

CHARLES A. MOYER, farmer, P. O. Kersey's, was born in Fox town 
ship, Elk Co., Penn., January 8, 1848, a son of Conrad and Sarah (Taylor) 
Moyer. He received a common school education and learned the carpenter's 
trade, but has since been principally engaged in farming. He married, in 
186 ( J, Miss Maria, daughter of Henry Warner, of Jones township, and they 
have live children, named as follows: Minnie, Winnie. Franciena, Amos and 
Felix. Mr. Mover has always been an active Democrat, and at the present 
time is auditor of Fox township. 

SILAS W. MOYER, farmer. P. O. Dagus Mines, is a son of Jacob Mover, 
who was born in Brush Valley, in what is now Clinton county, Penn., May 
13, 1813, and came to Elk county with his parents in 1823. In 1833 he mar- 
ried Miss Sidney Taylor, and has since resided in Fox township. They reared 
two children: Mary J., wife of Henry M. Gross, of Fox township, and Silas 
W., who was born in Fox township, Elk Co., Penn., February 4, 1843. After 
completing his education, he, in turn, engaged in teaching for some years. 
In 1881 he went to Rasselas, and acted as superintendent of the store for the 
Rasselas Lumber Company for six years. In 1887 he moved to his present loca- 
tion, where he has since been engaged in farming. He married, in 1863, Miss 
Olive Jane, daughter of Rasselas W. Brown, of Jones township. Mr. and Mrs. 
Moyer are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Moyer is a Re- 
publican with Prohibition proclivities. 

W. C. QUINN, physician, Kersey's, was born in Cottage, Huntingdon 
Co., Penn., August 14, I860. His father was a shoemaker of industrious 
habits, but limited means. Dr. Quinn, after the completion of his public 
school work, took an academical course at Mooresville, Penn., then taught 
school four consecutive winters, after which he engaged in the study of medi- 
cine under the preceptorship of Dr. W. S. Wilson, of McVeytown, Penn. He 
then attended the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Baltimore. Md.. from 
which he graduated with honors in March, 1884. The Doctor then opened an 
office. April 7, 1NS4, in Pine ( trove Mills, Penn., where he remained in the active 
practice of his chosen profession until the fall of 1885, when he went to Wil- 
sontown, Penn. In the spring of 1886, being specially induced, he moved to 
Centreville, Penn., where he enjoys an extensive and still growing practice. 
He married, in May. 1884, Miss Mary E. Lightner, daughter of Adam and 
Eliza Lightner, of Cottage, Penn. Dr. Quinn is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church and of the county medical society. 

DAVID ROBERTSON, P. O. 'Dagus Manes, was born in Glasgow, Scot- 
Ian. I. in L846, and received his education near the city of London, England. 
After leaving school, he served a four-years apprenticeship with the mechau 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 767 

ical engineering firm of Mitchell & Wallace, Glasgow, who made a specialty 
of coal-pit machinery. After a voyage to South America, in 1865. be came to 
the United States and entered the employ of the Delaware & Hudson Canal 
Company, at the anthracite coal mines near Scranton. Penn., working in vari- 
ous capacities inside and around the mines until 1873, when he was employed 
by the New York, Lake Erie & Western Railroad Company to take charge of 
the transferring of their coal from standard to broad-gauge cars at Waverly, 
N. Y. In 1874 he came to Elk county, as assistant superintendent of tbe North- 
western Mining & Exchange Company, and opened up the coal fields around 
Dagus Mines and on the Toby branch. Some years later he was promoted to 
superintendent, and is now the general superintendent of the Blossburg Coal 
Company and the Towanda Coal Company, whose mines and mills are in Tioga 
and Bradford counties, Penn.. operated by the New York, Lake Erie & West- 
ern Railroad Company. The Northwestern Mining & Exchange Company, ten 
years ago, mined less than 100 tons of coal daily, but are now producing 3,500 
tons per day, besides shipping a large quantity of lumber and bark. They 
employ about 1,200 men. supplying the New York, Lake Erie & Western Rail- 
road with coal, as well as doing a large commercial trade, including the Grand 
Trunk Railroad of Canada, the N. Y. , P. & O. R. R., and numerous other rail- 
roads, also steamship lines, including the Guion Steamship Company, the 
TJnion Steamboat Company, and others. The mines and mills of the North- 
western Company are at Dagus Mines. Toby. Kyler's, Hellen Mills, Mead Run 
and Clarion. Mr. Robertson is superintendent of the Toby Branch Railroad 
and the Daguscahonda Railroad, which connect with the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road system over which the coal, etc., is transported to market. In 1878 Mr. 
Robertson married Miss Annie Elizabeth, daughter of Ralph Bell, of Fox 
township. Elk Co., Penn., and by this union have been born three children: 
Edward, Jesse and David Mr. Robertson owns a tine farm, and pays par- 
ticular attention to the breeding of Jersey cows. He is a member of Elk 
Lodge. No. 379, F. & A. M., and of the American Institute of Mining Engi- 
neers. He is a Republican, but his life is too busy a one to permit him to 
take an active part in politics. He and his family attend the services of the 
Episcopal Church. 

PASCO SHAVER, farmer, P. O. Kersey's, was born in Schoharie county, 
N. Y., February 16, 1833, a son of George and Jane (Mulford) Sljaver. He 
was reared and educated in that county, and in 1859 came to Elk county, but 
went back again in 1861, and remained in New York State engaged in farming 
until 1873, when he returned to Elk county and has since lived on his present 
farm of 400 acres. He married, in 1861, Miss Ann, daughter of John Largay, 
of Fox township, and they have five children, viz. : Myrtie, wife of Harry 
Trude, of Fox township; Mary, Alvin, Charles and William, at home. Mr. 
Shaver is a Democrat, and is tax collector of the township. His wife is a 
member of the Catholic Church, while he belongs to the Protestant faith, and 
is a member of the Patriotic Order Sons of America. 

JOHN SPLEEN, merchant and lumber manufacturer. Kersey's, was born 
in Fox township. Elk Co., Penn., October 15, 1853, a son of Jeremiah and 
Catherine (Donovan) Spleen, natives of Ireland, who engaged in farming in 
Fox township, where the father died. The mother is still living. John 
Spleen received an ordinary education, and early began work in the lumber 
woods as a day laborer. At the age of thirty years he began to manufacture 
lumber for himself, and now operates two mills in Fox township, with a capac- 
ity of 6,000,000 feet. In September, 1888, he established his present gro- 
cery business at Kersey. He married, in 1886, Miss Annie Kramer, of Wil- 



768 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

eox, Elk county, and they have two children — a son, named John, and a daugh 
ter named, Florence. Mr. Spleen is independent in politics, and a member of 
the Catholic Church. 

GEORGE F. SPULLER, proprietor of the Spuller House, Kersey's, was 
horn in St. Mary's, Elk Co. Penn., February 20, L856, a son of Matthias and 
Barbara (Verner) Spuller, natives of Paris. France, and Alsace, German), re 
spectively. They were married in this country, first locating in St. Mary's, 
then settling in Kersey, where the father was for some years engaged in th<- 
butcher business. He was a Democrat in politics, and was a member of the 
Catholic Church. He died in 1882, but Mrs. Spuller still survives. Sixteen 
children were born to their union, nine of whom are still living, viz. : John, of 
Kersey; Joseph, of Smethport, Penn.; George F. ; Catherine, wife of Frank 
Showers, of Benezette; Barbara, wife of E. R. Emery, of Allegheny City; 
Elizabeth, wife of Joseph Pontzer, of Fox township; Mary, wife of John 
Wilhelm, of St. Mary's; Josephine, wife of Jonathan Davis, of St. Mary's: 
Rosa, wife of George McCloskey, of Johnsonburg. George F. Spuller moved 
with his parents to Iowa when three years of age, and came to Kersey at the 
age of eleven years. He received a common-school education, and has been 
engaged in book-keeping, clerking, etc., having lived in Baltimore. Md., Pitts 
burgh, and in Indiana county, Penn. In 1S80 he purchased his present hotel, 
which he has since conducted. In 1882 he married Miss Cassie, daughter of 
James McCloskey of Fox township, and they have three children: Fred G. 
Bernard F. and James M. Mr. Spuller is a Republican in polities, and has 
served as township auditor for three years. Mr. and Mrs. Spuller are mem 
bers of the Catholic Church. 

C. H. STRAESSLEY, harness-maker, Kersey's, was born in Clarion county. 
Penn., January 24, 1857, a son of Dr. Herman and Caroline (Grover) Straess 
ley, natives of Germany, who came to America and lirst settled in Lycoming 
county, Penn. The father practiced his profession in that and Clarion conn 
ties, and in about 1870 they moved to Kersey, where the father died May 20, 
L884 C. H. Straessley received a common-school education, and learned the 
harness-maker's trade, which he has since followed, conducting a store for one 
year in St. Mary's, and establishing his present business in 1879. In 1883 he 
married Miss Maggie, daughter of Peter Pontzer of Kersey, and they have 
three children: Herman, Mary and Edward. He affiliates with the Democratic 
party, is treasurer of the township, and is a member of the Catholic Church. 

LEWIS THOMAS, proprietor of the Exchange hotel, Kersey's, was born 
in South Wales, in 1842, a son of David and Barbara (Williams) Thomas, both 
of whom died in that country. Mr. Thomas came to America in 1866, and 
first located in Tioga county, Penn., where he found employment as a coal 
miner for nine months. He then came to Elk county and found employmei t 
a! the Shawmut mines until 186U, when he moved to Renovo, Clinton county; 
lived there until July 17, 1S70, when he moved to Ceutreville, Elk Co., Penn.. 
where he found employment as a coal miner until L880, when he established 
his present hotel. He married, in Wales, in 1864, Miss Ann Owen, and they 
have four children, named as follows: David Thomas (of St. Mary's. Penn.. 
married to Miss Tinuie Puncheon, and has four children: Lewis, Jeanette, 
David ami William), Lewis Thomas, Jr. (an employe of the P. & E. R. R.. 
married to Miss Anna S. Emmett, of Kersey, and now residing at Johnson 
burg. Elk county). Margaret and William John (at home). Mr. Thomas is a 
member of the Democratic party, and belongs to Renovo Lodge, No. 595, I. O. 
O. F. He and family are members of the Baptist Church. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 769 

PETER THOMPSON, carpenter and farmer, P. O. Kersey's, was born in 
Centre county, Penn. , November 15, 18P2, a son of Robert and Catherine 
(Wantz) Thompson, the former a native of Lancaster county, and the latter of 
Centre county. Penn. They came to Elk county in 1S24, locating upon a farm 
in Fox township. Robert Thompson was a weaver by trade, but followed 
farming after coming to Elk county. He was one of the prominent men of 
his time, and rilled various township offices. He died in Clearfield county, 
Penn., in 1868, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Peter Thomp- 
son came to Elk county with his parents, and in 1836 married Miss Sally, 
daughter of John Kyler; she died in 1838 and he was next married, in 1842, 
to Miss Eliza Dixon, who died in 1845, leaving one son, Prochorus, of Warsaw, 
Jefferson Co., Penn. His next marriage was in 1846, to Miss Hannah Rogers, 
and by her he has ten children, viz. : Elvira (wife of Alonzo Myers, of Ridgway, 
Penn.), Herbert (of Lake City, Minn.), Eugene (of Horton township, Elk Co., 
Penn.), Gilbert (of Forestville, Penn.), Simon (of Brandy Camp), Reuben (of 
Horton township. Elk county), George and Ida (at home). Eliza (wife of Daniel 
Clark, of Ridgway) and Ada (wife of Isaiah Bell, of Ridgway). Mr. Thomp- 
son has always been identified with the Democratic party, and has served as 
justice of the peace for fifteen years, also filled other township offices. He is 
one of the oldest and best-known residents of Fox township, and has been a 
deacon in the Baptist Church for many years. 

ALLOTS URMANN, proprietor of Elk Brewery, Kersey's, was born in 
Bavaria. Germany, July 4, 1861. a son of Ludrich and Teressa (Shimburger) 
Urmann. Allois Urmann came to America in 1881, and in 1884 engaged in 
hotel-keeping at Kersey. In this he was successful, and he continued in same 
until 1885, when he purchased the Elk Brewery, and has since conducted the 
same, proving himself to be a man of marked business ability. He married, 
May 9, 1883, Miss Teressa, daughter of Andrew Hau, of Fox township, and to 
them have been born four children: Andrew, Teressa, Wally and Emma. Mr. 
Urmann is a member of St. Boniface Society, and is a Democrat. 

HORTON TOWNSHIP. 

CHAUNCEY BROCKWAY, farmer, P. O. Brockport, is a son of Chauncey 
and Bhoda (Nichols) Brockway, natives of Albany county, N. Y. , who came to 
Elk county, Penn., in December, 1817, and located in what is now Jay town- 
ship. Consider Brockway, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, traded 
property in Albany county, N. Y. , for 400 acres of wild land, which was settled 
by his son, Chauncey. He was in the Revolutionary war. Chauncey, the father 
of Mr. Brockway, was a soldier in the war of 1812, and Chauncey, Jr., served 
nine months in the war of the Rebellion, in Company E, of the One Hundred 
and Seventy- second Pennsylvania Regiment. Chauncey Brockway, Sr. , built 
the first saw- mill in the township, and was extensively engaged in lumbering 
and farming. He was a Jacksonian Democrat, and was serving as county commis- 
sioner when Elk county was set aside from Clearfield county, and served as 
justice of the peace for thirty-one years. He and wife were members of the 
Free Will Baptist Church, in which he was a deacon for many years. He died 
December 10, 1886, and his wife in April, 1885. Jonathan Nichols, the father 
of Mrs. Brockway, was a physician and Baptist minister, and came to Elk 
county in 1819. Mr. Brockway' s family consisted of ten children, five of whom 
are living: Louisa, wife of Jacob Smeltzer, of Illinois; Lucy S., wife of Adam 
Shaffer, of Illinois; Chauncey; N. M., of Forestville, Jefferson Co., Penn., and 
O. C, of Indiana. Chauncey Brockway, Jr., was born at Brandy Camp, Horton 
township, Elk county, March 16, 1823, and received but a limited education. 



770 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

as be was put to work in the w Is at twelve years of age. to assist, in clearing 

the homestead. He has followed th cupation of a farmer, lumberman and 

gunsmith. He married, in IM 1. Miss Margaret, daughter of David Taylor, of 
York county. Penn., and two children were born to this union: Gilbert, born 
in October. 1S47. a merchant and farmer of Jefferson county, and Wilhelmina, 
born July 26, 1849. Mr. Brockway is identified ' with the Republican party. 
He is a member of the Church of the Messiah. N. M. Brockway. brother of 
the subject of this sketch, served as captain of a company in a three-months 
regiment, in 1863, at the time of Lee's invasion. 

CHARLES A BROWN, farmer, and superintendent for W. H. Hyde, P. O. 
Brandy Camp, was born in Elk county. Penn.. October 8, 1851, a son of An- 
drew J. and Harriet (Coleman) Brown. Mr. Brown attended the township 
schools, and has always followed farming, owning a fine farm in Fox town- 
ship. November 1. L888, became to his present location, where he superin- 
tends the farm and hotel for W. H. Hyde. June 3, 1873, he married Miss 
Georgia, daughter of Robert Mcintosh, of Horton township, and they have 
two children: Chester S. and Edna A. Mr. Brown is identified with the Re 
publican party. 

C. L. CHAMBERLIN, of the firm of Horton & Chamberlin, Brockport, was 
born June 28, 1854, received the advantages of a good academic education, and 
has followed book-keeping as a profession, having kept the books of W.H. Hor- 
ton for many years. In 1884 he established a grocery business at Brockport, 
under the firm name of Nulf & Chamberlin, which continued four years. At 
present Mr. Chamberlin and Daniel Nulf are conducting a pool-room, restau- 
rant and barber shop. In April, 1889, he became a member of the firm of 
Horton & Chamberlin, by purchase of the interest of W. H. Horton in the old 
firm. In 1883 Mr. Chamberlin was united in marriage with Miss Agnes. 
daughter of William Cheatle, of Horton township, and they have two children: 
Claude and Donald. Mr. Chamberlin is a Republican, and has served as 
auditor, school director, etc., and also served for several years as town treas- 
urer and treasurer of the school board. Mr. Chamberlin has two brothers: 
Celo W., of Punxsutawney, and William E., of Horton City. W. H. Horton. 
A. S. Horton (whose sketches appear elsewhere) and Mr. Chamberlin, are 
cousins. He is a member of Ridgway Lodge, I. O. O. F., and of the Patriotic 
Order Sons of America. 

GEORGE W. CLINTON, farmer, P. O. Brockport, was born in Steuben 
county, N. Y.. April 4, 1833, a son of Henry D. and Mary (Groves) Clinton, 
native-, of Vermont and Steuben county, N. Y. , respectively. In 1840 they 
moved to Potter county, Penn.. and in 1843 to Elk county; they next pur 
chased a farm in Huston township, Clearfield county, and finally located in 
Jefferson county, where the father died in 1872. The mother still survives, 
and make-: her home with her son, George W. They reared a family of nine 
children, seven of whom are living, viz.: George W., Joseph (of Jefferson 
county), Eliza (wife of D. H. Trude. DuBois, Perm.). Charles, William and 
Jeremiah (all of DuBois) and Henry A. George W. Clinton is the eldest child. 
He received an ordinary education, and has since followed farming, land sur- 
veying, etc., settling in Horton township in 1859. He is identified with the 
Republican party, and in 1882 was elected county surveyor, serving one term. 
He served ten years as justice of the peace of Horton township, and was ten 
years secretary of the Bchool board. He is a number of Cicero Lodge, No. 897, 
I' a \. M . of Brockwayville, Penn. 

JOHN CUNEO, merchant, Brockport. is a native of sunny Italy, born in 
L842. Coming to America in 1854, he located at Kersey, Elk Co., Penn., 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. (71 

where he engaged as a laborer until 1874, when he moved to Broekport, same 
county, and in 1875 established here his present general store, which he has 
since conducted. In 1861 he enlisted in Company F, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania 
Volunteers, and served with them one year. He was then transferred to the 
Seventh Massachusetts Battery, and was honorably discharged at Chapin Farm, 
Va., in 1864. He married, in 1872, Miss Mary Catherine Fopeano, a lady of 
American birth and Italian descent, and they have eight children: Cecelia, 
Allie A.. Phineas, Lucius, Thomas, Alena. Jennie and Ward. Mr. Cuneo is a 
Republican, and has served as postmaster of Broekport eleven years; at the 
present time he is one of the auditors of Horton township. The family are 
members of the Catholic Church. 

HEZEKIAH HORTON, farmer. P. O. Broekport, was born at what is now 
Brandy Camp, Horton township, Elk Co., Penn., March 1, 1824, a son of 
Isaac and Lucy (Warner) Horton, the former a native of Massachusetts, and 
the latter of Connecticut. Isaac and Lucy Horton were married in the State 
of New York, and in 1818 came to what is now Elk county, Penn., where they 
entered a tract of land on which Brandy Camp now stands, being among the 
very early pioneers of this region. Isaac Horton was instrumental in organiz- 
ing Elk county, and Horton township was named in his honor. He was active 
in Democratic circles, and served as associate judge of the county five years. 
In the war of 1812 he was drafted, but sent a substitute. The children born 
to Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Horton were as follows: Minerva (wife of Joseph Tay- 
lor, of Ridgway. Penn.), Almira (of Bradford, Penn.), Matilda (wife of Fred- 
erick Shoening, also of Ridgway) and Hezekiah. The subject of this biograph- 
ical record was reared in Horton township, receiving his education at the 
common schools, and has made lumbering and farming the chief vocations of 
his life. In 1850 he married Miss Hettie. daughter of Daniel Oyster, of Hor- 
ton township, and to this union have been born four children: Warren H. 
and Alonzo S. (of Broekport, Penn.), Ella A. and Minnie L. (at home). Mr. 
Horton, in politics, is a Democrat, and has filled various township offices. He 
and his family are members of the Universalist Church. D. C. Oyster, of 
Ridgwav, Penn., is a brother of Mrs. Horton. 

WARREN H. HORTON, Broekport. As a fair example of what a 
solid early training, a sound physical constitution, clear perceptions, mature 
judgment, an iron will and indomitable perseverance will produce, the subject 
of this sketch stands in the front rank in his county. Warren H. Horton 
was born October 23, 1851, at Brandy Camp, Horton township, Elk Co., 
Penn., eldest son of Hezekiah and Hettie (Oyster) Horton, the former a native 
of Horton township, and the latter of Northumberland county, Penn. The 
boyhood days of Mr. Horton were spent on the farm, his school advantages 
being no better than a fair average. The chief institution of learning 
which he attended was the Hellen School, which, added to a course at Har- 
risburg Academy, makes up his educational experience. About the time 
he arrived at maturity he began lumbering with his father, rafting and run- 
ning lumber on the creek, in the neighborhood of which they had contracts. 
In this way he spent winter and spring, while summer and fall found him 
employed by Clark Wilcox, of the firm of Short & Wilcox, in the woods on 
Bear run, which lumber operations he subsequently came to conduct as man- 
ager and owner, instead of working as a day hand. In 1874 Clark Wilcox 
died, and Mr. Short was left without an active manager. At that time 
Mr. Horton was twenty-three years old, but such was his shrewdness, sound 
judgment and acumen in business affairs, that Alfred Short could not fail to 
recognize in him a safe and capable man to manage a business concern of con- 



i (2 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

siderable magnitude. Accordingly, in 1876, a proposition was made to Mr. 
Horton to become a partner with Mr. Short, which he accepted, and while he 
bad but little cash capital to bring into the concern, he was possessed of 
keen sense and indisputable capacity, and under his sagacious control the 
business of the new firm of Short & Horton could not fail to prosper, and did 
prosper. In l^M a consolidation with D. C. Oyster enlarged the responsibil- 
ities of the young man by adding the Keystone property, and Mr. Horton 
remained, as before, the head and manager of the entire business. In 1883 
the property was sold to Gillingham, Garrison & Co., and this placing some 
leisure time on Mr. Horton' s hands, he concluded to enter the arena of poli- 
tic--, which resulted in his being elected to the legislature from Elk county. 
In 1885 he bought an interest in the Eidgway Lumber Company, operating in 
the Black Hills above Ridgway, in Elk county, and at Kinzua, in McKean 
county. Some time later the company purchased the timber on the 6,000 

' the Shawmut lands, and at once made preparations for operation- on 
a gigantic scale. A saw-mill was built at the Mead Run School-house, since 

Eori n City, and a contract awarded to Mr. Horton to peel the bark 
and manufacture the lumber. The time being limited in which to get the 
timber off this large area of territory, it became necessary to do a large yearly 
business, and preparations were accordingly made for a cut of 15.000,000 feet 
first season. This was so satisfactorily accomplished that in the summer of 
L887 everything moved on a still larger scale. In the summer of IssT Mr. 
sold out his interest in the Ridgway Lumber Company, retaining. 
however, his contracts for manufacturing and peeling. He is also interested 
in timber lands in Missouri and in some mining property in Arkansas. In 
lsT'.t the subject of our sketch was married to Miss Clara Ferman, by whom 
he has two children: Ernest Clark and Heck. Mr. Horton is a member of 
cieeni Lidice. N'n S'.iT, I. O. O. F., of Brockwayville, and in polities he is a 
I democrat. 

ALONZO S. HORTON, of the firm of Horton & Chamberlin, merchants. 
Brockport, was burn in Horton township. Elk Co., Penn.. March -. L856, a s in 
of Hezekiah and Hettie (Oyster) Horton. the former a native of Horton town- 
ship. Elk county, and the latter of Northumberland county, Penn. Alonzo S. 
Horton received a common-school education, and first began work as a log 
scaler in the lumber woods in the year 1876. which vocation lie followed six 
For two years he was engaged in the butcher's trade, then in July, 
L885, in company with his brother. YV. H. Horton. commenced his present 
mercantile business. This partnership existed until April 15, 1889, when C. 
L. Chamberlin purchased the interest of W. H. Horton. the firm name now 
being Horton & Chamberlin. Mr. Horton married, December 7, 1 SS 1 . Miss 
Eleanora, daughter of Uriah W. and Sarah M. (Taylor) Rogers, of Eos town 
ship. Elk Co., Penn., and they have had three children, viz.: Rena V. (de- 
cea ed), Edgar A., and Jay W. (deceased). Uriah W. Rogers was a son of 
Uriah and Hannah (Rogers) Rogers, natives of Fox township. Elk county, 
and Mrs. Sarah M. I Taylor) Rogers was a daughter of Joseph W. and Mar 
garel (Reesman) Taylor, also natives of Fox township. Mr. Horton is a 
Democrat in politics, has held the offices of township clerk for seven years, 

and has been auditor of the township. 

H. I). PARSON, farmer. P. O. Brockport. was born in Geauga county, 
Ohio, January 6, L836. His father, Lorau Parson, was a native of Massachu 

setts, where he married Miss Harriet Hovey. and they afterward moved to Ohio. 

where the father died about I860, and the mother in L873. They reared 

chil Irei >m are living: Orrin (in Geauga county, Ohio), 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 773 

Alvin (in Venango county, Penn.), Horatio (in Chautauqua county, N. Y. ), 
Van L. (in Steuben county, N. Y.), Adam (in Cleveland, Ohio), H. D. , Morti- 
mer (in Cleveland, Ohio) and Oliver (in Warren, Penn.). H. D. Parson was 
reared in Geauga county, and received his education at the public schools. In 
1869 he came to Elk county, and has since been engaged in farming in Hor- 
ton township. He served, during the Civil war, with the ninety-days men. 
December 25, 1864. he married Miss Emma, daughter of Amos Fox, of Hor- 
ton township, and she died April 9, 1877, leaving three children: Loran. An 
nie and Lillie. In 1879 Mr. Parson married Miss Maggie Holemyer, of 
Centreville. and they have two children: Emma and Louisa. In politics Mr. 
Parson is independent. 

RICHARD TORPIN, Jr., firm of Gillingham, Garrison & Co., lumber 
manufacturers, Brockport, was born in Warrington, Bucks Co., Penn., March 
8, L836, and was educated at the common schools of Montgomery county, and 
by his own study at home. His parents, Richard and Ann Jane (Crowley) 
Torpin, were natives of Yorkshire, England, and of Chester county, Penn., 
respectively. His father came to America in 1829 and engaged in farming in 
Bucks county, and in 1856 moved his family to Rock Island county, 111. In 
1857 Richard, Jr. , went from there to California to take charge of a ranch 
for his brother-in law. where he remained four years. He met with business 
reverses, and in 1861 went to Sacramento and obtained work as a day laborer 
for the Sacramento Valley Railroad. He then went into the freight depart- 
ment, and through strict attention to business, embracing every opportunity 
to win the good will of his employers, he was rapidly promoted. The flood 
of 1861 washed out the railroad, and while many men refused to work to re- 
build the road, Mr. Torpin went out upon the line to receive freight trans- 
ported by boats and teams until the road was rebuilt to Sacramento. In 1862 
he was nlade train-master, and located at Auburn Station. In 1863 he was 
made conductor, and while in this position had the misfortune to break his 
ankle, which disabled him for several months. As soon as able to be on duty 
again, he was appointed passenger and assistant freight agent, and afterward 
appointed general passenger and freight agent, in which capacity he served 
until the fall of 1865, when he came to Philadelphia and was united in mar- 
riage with Miss Ellen Elizabeth, daughter of William R. and Elizabeth Cash, 
by whom he has had four children. Not having any particular business, he 
took a course of study at the Crittenden Commercial. College, from which he 
was graduated March 1, 1866. He then secured a position as book keeper 
with the lumber firm of Taylor & Betts, with whom he remained until Septem- 
ber. 1869, when he was offered a similar position with his present firm, with 
the understanding that he should be made a member, and has been a part- 
ner since 1876. They purchased property in Elk county in L883, and after 
trying to leave their business to superintendents, Mr. Torpin found it neces- 
sary to move to Brockport, and has since resided there. He is treasurer of the 
firm and general manager of the Elk county department. In January, 1881, 
he was elected a director in the Kensington National Bank, of Philadelphia, 
and held that position until he resigned, in 1888. He is also a vestryman of 
Advent Protestant Episcopal Church of Philadelphia. Mr. Torpin' s first wife 
died April 21, 1877, and he then married Miss Maria Louisa, daughter of 
Lewis R. Willard, of Montgomery county, Penn. The children by the first 
wife are Caroline Elizabeth, wife of Jonathan D. Barnsley, of Olney, Md. ; 
Richard (third), of Philadelphia; Ellen Cash and Victorine Power. He is a mem- 
ber of Union Lodge. No. 58, F. & A. M. , of Sacramento, Gal., and at the pres- 
ent time is president of the school board of Horton township. Politically 
he is a Republican. 



ii4 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XX. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES— BENEZETTE TOWNSHIP- 
JAY TOWNSHIP. 



BENEZETTE TOWNSHIP. 



•lot IN' BARR, farmer, P. O. Benezette, was born in Lycoming county. 
IVim . Ma\ 20, 1825, a son of James and Margaret Barr, natives also of Penn- 
sylvania. They ujoved to Sinnemaboning in 1820. and there John was raised. 
He is the third son in a family of fourteen children. He worked for his 
father until twenty-one years old, and then commenced lumbering on his own 
account by taking contracts. In 1849 he bought the farm where he now lives, 
which at that time had some timber on it, and has since then given his atten- 
tion to clearing and cultivating his farm, and has also engaged in lumbering. 
In 1870 he was elected a county commissioner and Sferved three years: he bas 
also served the town in different offices and has given general satisfaction. In 
September, 1848, Mr. Barr married Miss Almira Mason, a daughter of James 
and Ruth Mason, and they have four children: Margaret I widow of Mark 
Radcliffe, who died in 1885), James, Minnie M. and Myrtle. Mr. Barr is a mem- 
ber of the F. & A. M. and I. O. O. F. 

HENRY BLESH, proprietor of Benezette Hotel, Benezette. whs l>om in 
Clinton county, I'enn.. January 14, 1837, a son of John and Elizabeth Ble>h. 
His parents died when he was ten years old. and he was thus early thrown on 
his own resources. He remained in his native county until 1863, beginning 
life as a laborer, but later dealt in lumber as a jobber. In 1863 he came to 
Benezette township and began work in the lumber district and continued that 
business until 1875 when he bought a hotel in Benezette, and has since had 
charge of one of the popular resorts for the traveling public in Elk county. 
also engaged in the mercantile business, carrying a complete stock and 
having a good trade. Mr. Blesh was married in December, lstjy. to Miss 
Sarah Saltsman, a daughter of Frank and Sarah (Rone) Saltsman, and they 
have a family of Beven children: Georgia M. (wife of Merrit Jones), Frank. 
Estella, William EL, Bertha, Laura and Emma. Mr. Blesh has held various 
township offices. He is a member of the Benezette Lodge, No. 988, I. O. O. F. 

B. \ BOOTH, farmer, P. 0. Benezette, was born in Putnam county, V 

V. March 19, L844, the only son of two children born to John and Eunice 

end) Booth, natives of New York State, who came to Bradford county, 

I'enn. . in 1853. He received a practical business education in the public 

scl I- of Bradford county, ami in 1864 entered the United State- service. He 

was assigned to Company A. Two Hundred and Seventh Regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania Volunteers, serving until .May 22, 1865. After his return home, hi' came 
to Elk county, where he engaged in lumbering ami farming, and litis since 
remained, with the exception of three years alter his marriage, whieh he spent 
at his old home in Bradford county. Mr. Bootli married, January 1. 1866, 
Miss LuzernaM., a daughter of Benjamin and Hannah (Overturf) Johnson, 
and they have reared eight children, all of whom are living. Mr. and Mr- 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 775 

Booth are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Mount Pleasant. 
He has held various township offices, and is one of the popular men of the village. 

JOHN DALEY, proprietor of the Daley Hotel, Benezette, is a native of Ire- 
land, born June 23, 1845, a son of Daniel and Margaret (Cronan) Daley, also 
natives of Ireland. He remained in his native country until eighteen years 
of age, and was there educated, and worked as a farm hand. In 1863 he came 
to the United States and located in Elk county, Penn., where he was employed 
as a laborer in the woods until 1867, and then worked on the railroad until 
1872, when he opened a store near Benezette, which he conducted about four 
years. In 1873 he moved to Benezette and opened the hotel, and has proved 
to be a popular and efficient landlord. He is a genial, whole-souled man, and 
his hotel is well patronized by the traveling public. Mr. Daley was married, 
April 22, 1867, to Miss Mary Nefey, daughter of Patrick and Alice (Higgins) 
Nefey. she, at the time of their marriage, being employed by W. H. Schram 
in a hotel at Brockwayville, Penn. They have nine children: D. 0. , Alice 
E. , Johanna V. , John, Jr. , James M. , Mary, Patrick H. . Catherine and Michael. 
In politics Mr. Daley is a Democrat. 

MILES DENT, lumberman and merchant. Dent's Bun, is a son of Thomas 
and Elizabeth Dent, natives of England, who were among the first settlers of 
Elk and Cameron counties. Miles Dent was born in what is now Gibson town- 
ship. Cameron Co.. Penn.. June 3, 1823. and in January. 1850, married Miss 
Lydia Miller, a daughter of Daniel and Mary Miller, of Gibson township, and 
they have reared a family of eight children, all still living: Isaiah, married and 
living at Dent's Run; Pebaney, wife of Charles Teller, of Warren county. 
Penn.; Austin, married and living at Dent's Run; Alice, wife of S. D. Bill- 
ings, at Dent's Run; Warren, married and living at Dent's Bun; Abel E., 
married and also residing at Dent's Run; Mary, wife of John R. Hicks, of Gibson 
township. Cameron county, and Jennie. Mr. Dent built, in 1865, one of the 
first grist-mills in Gibson township, and in 1866 built a small water-power 
mill. In 1881 he built a steam mill, the capacity of which is 30,000 feet of 
lumber per day. He also does a flourishing business in the store at Benezette. 
Elk county, where he resides, and where he is recognized as a practical busi- 
ness man. 

ISAIAH DENT, P. O. Dent's Run, is the son of Miles and Lydia (Miller) 
Dent, of Dent's Run, Penn., at which place Isaiah was born August 31, L850. 
His preliminary education, acquired at the school of his native town, was fin- 
ished at Bellefonte, Penn. As a minor, he worked for his father until twenty - 
one years of age, when he entered his father's store in the capacity of clerk, 
continuing in that position for eight years. August 10, 1879. he married Miss 
Etolia A. Smith, a daughter of Robert F. and Annie (Conner) Smith, of Dent's 
Run, who has borne him two children: Miles F. and Carl A., the latter de- 
ceased. Mr. Dent has served his township in the capacity of school director, 
and is an excellent business man. 

HENRY D. DERR. farmer, P. O. Benezette, is the eldest son in a family 
of five children born to William and Eva R. Derr, natives of Pennsylvania. 
He was born in Centre county, Penn.. May 22. 183-4, and was reared and edu- 
cate! in Bellefonte, Penn. He came to Elk county in 1851, and settled in 
Benezette in 1853. He worked in his father's blacksmith shop until 1858, 
when he engaged in blacksmithing on his own account until 1887, then he 
removed to his father-in-law's farm and cared for him until his death. Mr. 
Derr married. January 1, 1858, Miss Amelia, a daughter of Erasmus and Mary 
(Weed) Morey, whose parents came to Elk county, Penn., in 1813. Mr. and 
Mrs. Derr have a family of four children, viz. : Will E. : Mary E., wife of N. 



ill) HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

S. Shaffer, of Caledonia. Perm. ; Carrie Y. . wife of Byron E. Smith, of Ster- 
ling Run, Penn.. and Delia M., at home. Mr. Derr is highly respected bj ln- 
fellow- citizens, and has been honored with the offices of county auditor (serving 
three years) and of county treasurer (also for a term of three years), and has 
held various minor offices in the township. 

J. B. EBERHART, merchant, Benezette, was born in Union county. Penn., 
rune 23, 1858, son of Daniel W. and Elizabeth (Whitmere) Eberhart, natives 
also of Pennsylvania. He obtained a practical education in the schools of 
Centre county, Penn., and when seventeen years old began an apprenticeship 
at the miller's trade in the Mount Eagle Flouring Mill, and served two years. 
He was then employed in the flouring-mill of Duncan, Hale & Co., in Belle 
fonte, Penn., and in 1880 he came to Benezette and took charge of a flouring- 
mill. He also had charge of a gents' furnishing goods store, which was de- 
stroyed by tire in 1884, and he soon afterward formed a partnership with C. 
A. Haskins in the mercantile business. Mr. Haskins continued in the business 
but a short time, however, retiring from the firm, and Mr. Eberhart became 
associated with Henry Blesh. and they are now doing a large general mercan- 
tile business. Mr. Eberhart was married May 19, 1881, to Miss Isabella 
Kothrock. of Benezette, and they have three children, Charles V., Joseph L. 
and Arthur I. Mr. Eberhart has filled various township offices. He and his 
wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

J. E. FREE, physician and druggist. Benezette, is a son of Dr. A. C. and 
Emily (Kirby) Free, the former a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter of Cin- 
cinnati, Ohio. They reared five children, our subject being the eldest son. 
He was born in York county, Penn.. August 14, 1 Still, and was graduated from 
the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Baltimore, Md.. in 1882. Dr. Free 
commenced the practice of his profession in Harrisburg in the latter year, and 
came to Emporium in 1884. where he met Miss Alice M. Lloyd, a daughter of 
\\ . F. and Sue (Clark) Lloyd, of Emporium. They were married, June 30. 
1886, and in l^ST he returned to Harrisburg. He again came, however, to 
Benezette and iii May, 1889, he purchased of Eberhart & Blesh a drugstore in 
the town. Dr. and Mrs. Free are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

ALBERT GREINER, merchant, Benezette, is a native of Germany, born 
September 20, 1848, a son of George F. and Juliane R. Greiner, who spent 
their lives in their native country. He was given a practical business education 
in the schools of Germany, and when thirteen years of age began to learn the 
shoemaker's trade and served an apprenticeship of three years. He then worked 
as a journeyman eight years, and in 1 ST 1 came to the United States; he settled 
in Benezettein 1873, where he opened a boot and shoe store, which he conducted 
until 1885, w hen he added a stock of dry goods, notions, etc., to his other stock, 
and now has one of the largest mercantile stores in the town. October 17. 
1873, Mr. Greiner married Friedoline G. Kolb. a daughter of Johann Thomas 
and Margarethe Kolb, of Germany. They have a family of four children: 
George F., Ernest W., Otto A. and Esther G. Mr. Greiner has held the office 
of justice of the peace sinie |VS'_'; he has also filled the offices of town clerk. 
township auditor and tax collector, and was appointed postmaster in ISs'.t. In 
1882, Mr. Greiner, in company with his eldest son, GeorgeF. — thenseven years 
old — visited his native home, in Germany, and returned after an absence of 
I bree months. 

D. E. HEWETT. farmer. P. 0. Benezette, is a son of Gerdon and Elizabeth 
(Stevens) Eewett, natives of Pennsylvania, who reared a family of eleven chil- 
dren, the subject of this sketch being the fourth son. D. E. Hewett was born 
:n Wyoming county, Penn.. March 2, 1840, receiving Ids education in the dis 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. I i ( 

trict schools of the county, and worked upon the home farm until he attained 
his majority. He participated in the Civil war, enlisting in 1861, and, being 
assigned to Company H, One Hundred and Thirty second Regiment, P. V. I., 
served nine months. Upon his return home, he came to Benezette township, 
and engaged in lumbering. He married, August 20, 1876, Miss Rosa, a daughter 
of John and Catherine (McEwen) Largay, natives of Ireland, who came to Elk 
county, in 1827. Mr. and Mrs. Hewett have a family of three children, all at 
home. Mr. Hewett, in 1880, bought a farm in Benezette township, and in 1888 
purchased a dwelling-house and store in the village of Benezette, where he now 
resides. He is a Democrat in politics, and has held various township offices. 
Mrs. Hewett is a member of the Catholic Church. 

JACOB S. JOHNSON, farmer, P.O. Benezette, is a son of Thew and Sarah 
(Coleman) Johnson, the former a native of England, and the latter of Penn- 
sylvania. They came to Benezette in 1817, and reared a family, Jacob S. 
being the third son. He was born, November 6, 1830, in Benezette township, 
upon the farm where he now resides, and received his education in the common 
schools of Benezette. He married, in May, 1856, Miss Margaret Murray, of 
Benezette, a daughter of John and Hannah (Hollinsworth) Murray, and they 
have three children: Alice (wife of Andrew Overturf, of Benezette), Everett 
B. and Annie M. Mr. Johnson has served his fellow-citizens in the capacity 
of supervisor and school director. In politics he is a Democrat. Mr. and 
Mrs. Johnson are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

J. O. JOHNSON, farmer, P. O. Benezette, is a native of Benezette town- 
ship. Elk Co., Penn., born February 4, 1833, a son of Thew and Sarah 
(Coleman) Johnson, the former a native of England, who came to America in 
1802 and settled three miles east of the village of Benezette, and the latter a 
native of Pennsylvania. J. O. Johnson is the fourth son in a family of nine 
children. He was reared and educated in his native township, remaining at 
home and working on the farm with his father until his marriage, when he 
bought the farm where he now lives, which is one of the best in the township 
He has been a successful farmer, and is one of the representative men of Ben- 
ezette township. Mr. Johnson was married, March 1, 1859, to Miss Henrietta 
Hollen, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Overturf) Hollen, and to them were 
born four children: W. B., Harriet, T. D. and Thomas. Mrs. Johnson died 
in 1869, and in 1871 Mr. Johnson married Miss Elvina A. Freeman, daughter 
of Benjamin and Rebecca (Chandler) Freeman, of Emporium, Penn. They 
b a ve five children: J. O., Jr., Ralph, Frank H., Ella and Freeman. Mr. and 
Mrs. Johnson are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mi - . Jcrhnson 
has served his township in various official positions. 

W. H. JOHNSON, farmer, P. O. Benezette, is the eldest sou of Simpson 
and Therza M. (Woodworth) Johnson, natives of Pennsylvania. Simpson 
Jobnson was a son of Thew and Ann (Simpson) Johnson, English Quakers, 
who came to what was then Gibson towuship, Clearfield Co., Penn., in 
1817. They voyaged up the river in a canoe, built a log cabin, cleared a few 
acres of ground, and planted an orchard, some of the trees of which are still 
standing. They reared a family of thirteen children, of whom Simpson was 
the third son. W. H. Johnson was born in what is now Benezette township. 
Elk Co., Penn., May 30, 1840, upon the farm cleared and settled by his 
grandfather. In 1847, when he was only seven years of age, a heavy flood 
came in the night. Hearing water rushing, they arose, only to find the house 
surrounded by water. Tbe father, thinking the barn the safer place, carried his 
wife and three children thither and deposited them upon the haymow. The 
barn went adrift, and finally the logs parted, leaving them upon the hay. It 



778 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

was very dark, but finally they knew they had struck a tree, by some limbs 
striking them in the face. The father put his wife and children up among 
the limbs, then climbed up himself, where they were obliged to remain until 
the second morning, when the\ were rescued by some men on a raft. AY. H. 
Johnson's education was obtained in the common schools of Benezette town- 
ship, and he worked with his father upon the farm until June 4, 1S64. when 
he married Miss Emily Overturf, a daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth i Bess 
Overturf, of Benezette. They reared a family of four children. Mrs. John- 
son <lit'(l in February, 1 s74. and the following December Mr. Johnson mar 
ried Mrs. Mary Shawl (widow of Richard Shawl) and daughter of Henry and 
Ann (Bounce) Rinker, natives of Philadelphia, Penn. On June 1 and '2. 1889, 
the people in the valley along the Bennett's branch of the Sinnemahoning. 
suffered greatly from another flood by having their crops and other property 
swept away. Mr. Johnson having a daughter living at Lock Haven, and hear- 
ing that the supplies were cut off, owing to the railroad bridges being swept 
away, along with T. J. Shaffer, who had a sister residing at Lock Haveu. he 
procured a boatand some flour, ham and coffee, and went to see them. Mr. John 
son found his daughter (Mrs. McMillen) in fair circumstances, though many 
living there were in need. Upon returning home Mr. Johnson found that his 
barn, with all its contents and all his out-buildings, had been destroyed by 
fire, origin of the fire being unknown. Mr. Johnson is now building a 
roller-process grist-mill with a capacity of thirty barrels per day. He has held 
various township offices, ami himself and wife are members of the Methodist. 
Episcopal Church. 

M. D. JOHNSON, farmer, P. O. Benezette, is a son of Ralph and Rebecca 
(Brooks) Johnson, natives of Yorkshire. England, who came to Benezette ii 
1M2. and settled in what is now known as Grant, Elk county, on the Alle- 
gheny Valley Railroad, twelve miles west of Driftwood, Cameron county. Here 
they cleared a farm and engaged in lumbering, and in L830, Mr. Johnson built 
a saw-mill. They reared a family of thirteen children. M. D. . the second son 
was born March 31, 1814. He worked for his father until October, 1845, when 
he married Miss Massey Overturf, a daughter of Andrew and Hannah (Jordan j 
Overturf. of Driftwood, Penn. After marriage they removed to the farm 
where they now reside, upon what is known as Mount Pleasant. Mr. Johnson 
li.i been supervisor for one term, and has also held various township offices. 
Politically he is a Republican. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church, at Mount Pleasant. 

JULIUS JONES, retired. P. O. Benezette, one of the most suci 
farmers and lumbering men of Elk county and vicinity, than whom none is more 
highly esteemed by his fellow citizens, was born March 26, L81 I. His parents. 
Pellatire and Soviah (Stiles) Jones, were natives of Vermont, but aboul L813, 
settled at Schroon, Essex Co., X. Y., where Julius was born and educated. 
His mother died when he was but a year old, and his father at the age of sixty 
three years. Prom the time of his mother's death, Julius lived with David 
Stowell. until he was twentj two years of age. Mr. Stowell was a native ol 
Vermont, an early settler of Schroon, X. V. Mr. Jones was engaged in lum- 
bering in New York State until 1854, in which year he removed to Elk eounty, 
where he bought a tract of timber land, and continued in the lumber trade, 
carrying on farming in connection, until 1880, when he retired from act ive busi 
ness life, though still residing on the old homestead in Benezette township. 
In L836 Mr. Jones married .Mis^ Polly, daughter of Elihu and Mary (Tubbs) 
Griswold, the Eormer a native of Vermont and an early settler of Schroon, X. 
Y.. and the latter of Providence, Ii. I., and to Julius and l'olh Jones were 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 779 

born two children : Byron and Parrnelia, both now deceased. Mr. Jones is a 
stanch Democrat, and has always been an active member of his party. For seven 
years he was county commissioner, and for five years he held the position of 
associate judge, besides filling various local offices of trust. 

ELLIS LEWIS, farmer, P. O. Benezette, is a son of Thomas and Cynthia 
(Ellis) Lewis, who came to Elk county from Belief onte, Centre Co., Penn. 
His grandparents came from Wales before the Revolution, locating in York 
county, Penn., and his grandfather, Lewis Lewis, was the first surveyor in 
Centre county, at the time when that part of the State up to that county was 
all Northumberland county, becoming afterward deputy surveyor of all the 
land of that territory. He surveyed all along the Susquehanna river, and 
afterward up Bald Eagle creek to where Milesburg now stands; also along the 
Juniata river, and laid out the town of Lewistown, which was named after 
him, located some thirty miles from Bellefonte, and now the county seat of 
Mifflin county. In those days the experiences of surveying parties were 
fraught with much danger from both Indians and wild animals; and Mr. 
Lewis, perhaps more on the alert than others of his party, always kept a 
watchful eye, never knowing when a charge on them might be made by the 
savages. Mrs. Lewis, grandmother of Ellis Lewis, passed from earth in 1840 
at the patriarchal age of one hundred and eight years. 

Thomas Lewis, the father of the subject of these lines, in 1804 visited Elk 
county along with a surveyor named Webb, and then returned home. In 1811 he 
came to where Driftwood, Cameron county, now stands, and here planted a 
crop of corn on shares. He raised a good crop, and then once more proceeded 
homeward. This region must have possessed a strong fascination for him, 
however, for in December, 1817, he moved hither his family (including the 
subject of this sketch) from Bellefonte, Centre county, the journey being made 
mostly in a canoe. They came up the Susquehanna river to Big Island (now 
known as Lock Haven), and from there to the mouth of Sinnemahoning creek, 
up which they pushed to the mouth of the Driftwood branch, thence up the 
Bennett's Branch creek to their destination, settling near where Ellis Lewis 
now lives. At that time there were no roads, only a turkey path from Drift- 
wood up to the head of Bennett's Branch creek, an Indian trail continuing on 
through the wilderness to Sandy Lick creek, thence on to the Indian Reserva- 
tion on the Allegheny river. 

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Lewis reared a family of six children, of whom 
Ellis is the eldest son, born at Bellefonte, Centre Co., Penn., January 1, 
1808. He had no chance to obtain an education, there being no schools in 
this region at that time. He worked for his father until he was twenty years 
of age, when he learned the trade of a millwright, which he followed seven 
years. August 5, 1837, he married Miss Annie B., daughter of Jacob and 
Elizabeth (Butler) Michaels, who has borne him eleven children. In 183 ( J he 
came upon his father's farm, since which time he has been engaged in farm- 
ing and lumbering, and has been very successful in both pursuits. In 1851 he 
was elected county treasurer by the Republican party, which office he held for 
three years, and he has also held various local offices. Mrs. Lewis is a mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

LUTHER LUCORE, Jr., retired farmer, P. O. Benezette, was born in 
Emporium, Penn., October 28, 1833, the second son in a family of fifteen chil- 
dren born to Luther and Mary (Smith) Lucore, natives of Massachusetts and 
Pennsylvania. His father came to Emporium in 1818. Mr. Lucore worked 
upon his father's farm and at lumbering until September 26, 1861, when 
he entered the United States service, and was assigned to the First Pennsyl- 



780 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

vania " Bucktail " Regiment, serving two years; at the battle of Fredericks- 

irg In' was struck by a minie-ball, which resulted in the loss of a limb. Re- 
turning to Emporium, he was engaged as clerk in the hotel of C. C. Fay, 
he remained until 1865, when he went to Marion, Iowa, from which 
place lie came, in 1867, to Benezette, where he was in the mercantile busi- 
ness until 1871, when he sold his store and engaged as clerk for B. E. Morey, 
of Caledonia, Penn. He married, in May, 1S74, Mrs. L. E. Chase, widow of 
M. M. Chase and daughter of David and Jane (Cadwell) Wheeler, and they 
have two children: Emma L. and Mabel L. Mr. Lucore was a prominent 
farmer and is a wide-awake citizen: Ik- has held various township offices and 
is a member of the Benezette Lodge, No. 988, I. O. O. F., also of M. \V. Lu 
Post, No. 216, G. A. K.. of St. .Mary's. 

JOHN MAHAXY. farmer. 1'. O. Benezette, was born in Bradford county, 
Penn., June 15, 1844, a son of Jerry and Catherine (McCarty) Mahany, na- 
tives of Ireland. He is the third son in a family of eight children. YVhen 
twenty years old, he left home and worked in the lumber woods as foreman fen 
Finley, Young & Co.. until 1S76. when he was employed in the same capacity 
for Andrew Kaul. of St. Mary's, until the spring of 1877. He then went to 
Virginia, where he had bought a farm in 1869, and engaged in farming until 
1883, when he returned to Elk county, and again entered the employ of Mr. 
Kaul, and afterward bought the farm where he now lives. August 5. 1872, 
Mr. Mahany married Miss Eva M. Cross, daughter of Andrew and Eva Cross. 
Mis. Mahany died March 2t>. 188<>. leaving five children: Michael. John. 
Daniel, Catherine and Eva. October! 1 ). L887, Mr. Mahany married Mrs. Lena 
i Ernest) Gragory, widow of John Gragory, and they have one son. Arthur. 

W. G. MILLER was born at Lock Haven. Penn., August 28, 1863, a son 
of George A. and Maria (Mader) Miller, natives of Germany. In 1877 he 
was graduated form the Lock Haven High School, and in 1882, from Pough- 
keepsie Business College. He then engaged with D. J. McDonald, merchant 
and lumberman, in the capacity of book-keeper. He came to Dent's Run. 
July 1, 1887, and in company with W. A. Hatton, opened a general store, 
where they did a flourishing and safe business. 

ERASMUS MOREY, farmer, P. O. Benezette. a son of Leonard and 
Phoebe (Wheelock) Morey, was born in Charlton. Mass., May 16, 1796, and 
with his parents came to Benezette in 1813. His educational advantages 
were limited, there being at that time no schools in Benezette. He remained 
at home, working for his father upon the farm until 1824, when he mar- 
ried Miss Mary E.. daughter of Frederick and Nancy (Hoyt) Weed, of 
Benezette, and they reared a family of four children, viz. : Alvina. Lydia 
(wife of Thomas Tozier, Caledonia. Penn.), Amelia A. (wife of Henry Derr. 
of Benezette) and B. E. Mrs. Morey died August 19. 1873. After mar 
riage Mr. Morey settled on the farm he now owns, and where he has since 
resided. From a wilderness it has developed into one of the finest farms in 
the township. Mr. Morey has been very successful as a farmer and in all 
his business undertakings, and is now enjoying the fruits of his early industry. 

ISAIAH MURRAY, farmer, Benezette. is a son of John and Haunah 
(Hollinsworth i Murray, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Wharton town 
ship, Potter Co., Penn.. where they permanently settled. Isaiah Murray 
was born in Wharton, Penn.. January '2-1, 1831. and received his education 
at Mount Pleasant. Benezette township. He worked at the old home until he 
was twenty one years of age, when he married Miss Leah Hicks, a daughter 
of John C. and Sarah (Lewis) Hicks, natives of Pennsylvania, who came to 
Benezette township in 1813. After his marriage he settled in Benezette, 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 781 

where he still resides. Mr. and Mrs. Murray have had a family of nine 
children, of whom four are deceased. Mr. Murray has been supervisor of 
Benezette township for three years. He and his wife are members of the 
Church of the Messiah at Mount Pleasant. 

WILLIAM OVERTURF, farmer, P. O. Benezette, was born in Bene- 
zette township, Elk Co., Penn., November 17, 1850, the eldest son of 
four children of James and Delilah (Barr) Overturf, natives of Clearfield 
county, Penn., who were married December 26, 1841, and have since lived 
in Cameron and Elk counties. William received a practical business educa- 
tion, and worked upon his father's farm until he was eighteen years of age, 
when he entered the store of Edward Fletcher, of Benezette, where he 
remained two years. He married, January 7, 1872, Miss Julia Robertson, 
born in Buffalo, N. Y., July 27, 1854, daughter of Finley and Julia Ann 
(Nichols) Robertson, natives of Scotland and New York State, respectively. 
Mr. and Mrs. Overturf have two children: W right and Finley. Mr. Over- 
turf still resides upon the old homestead, and is employed as clerk by John- 
son & Overturf, of Penfield, Penn. He has been prominently identified with 
interests of the township, and the family are members of the Methodist Epis 
copal Church of Mount Pleasant, Penn. 

T. J. SHAFFER, merchant, Benezette. was born at Sinnemahoning, Penn., 
May 2, 1854, a son of Jacob L. and Nancy (Johnson) Shaffer, of German and 
Irish origin, respectively. His grandparents were among the early settlers of 
Cameron and Elk counties. After the completion of his education, Mr. 
Shaffer remained on the home farm until 1875, when he came to Benezette, 
engaging with W. E. Johnson as clerk in his general store. He was married. 
November 11, 1876, to Miss Belle M. , a daughter of James F. and Emley 
(Barr) Thomas, of Benezette, Penn., and they have been blessed with five chil- 
dren: Emley E. , Nelly, Curnce M. , Teoca and Jacob Cleveland. Mr. Shaffer 
was engaged in business for himself, as a lumberman and merchant, until June 
20, 18S4, when his store and entire stock were destroyed by fire, with a loss of 
$3,000 on the stock. He continued, however, in the lumber business until May 
22, 1889, when he again opened a general store at Benezette. He is a practical 
business man, and has been successful in all his business ventures through life. 
and has held various township offices. He is a member of Driftwood Lodge, 
F. & A. M., and of Benezette Lodge, I. O. O. F. 

H. F. WILSON, farmer, P. O. Benezette, was born in Benezette township, 
Elk Co., Penn., December 23, 1846, a son of H. R. and Jane (Johnson) W'ilson, 
natives of Pennsylvania, who came to Elk county in 1845. The father died in 
1880, and the mother still survives, making her home with her son, H. F., 
who still resides upon the farm settled by his father. They reared a family of 
seven children, H. F. being the second son. He was educated in the district 
schools of Benezette township, and worked upon his father's farm during his 
boyhood days. He married, September 30, 1873, Olive Lucore, a daughter 
of Luther and Mary (Smith) Lucore, of Emporium, Penn., who were among 
the early settlers in Cameron county. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson have one child, 
Clara J. , residing at home. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, of Mount Pleasant, Penn. Mr. Wilson is a Republican in politics, 
and has held various township offices. 

WILLIAM K. WINSLOW, farmer, P. O Benezette, is a son of Charles 
K. and Rebecca (Hicks) Winslow, the eldest of seven children, and was born 
in Benezette township, Elk Co., Penn., August 20, 1846, upon the farm where 
he now resides, and which he purchased in 1875. He received his education 
in the common schools of Benezette. He married, November 6, 1870, Miss 



I 32 HISTOKY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Minnie Lesh, of St. Mar) T 's, Penn. . and to them was born one child, Minnie 
(now deceased). His -wife died, August Id. L872, and in January. lsT"'. he 
married Mis-. Man M.. a daughter of Andrew J. and Eliza M. Johnston, of 
I>ul!<iis. Penn. Mr. and Mrs. Winslow have had a family of eight children: 
Eva Iv, Lorena M. (deceased), Bruce M. , Charles B. (deceased), Sylvanus J., 
William S., Merton H. and Ella E. Mr. and Mrs. Winslow are members of 
the Church of the Messiah, at Mount Pleasant. Penn. 

C. S. WINSLOW, farmer, P. O. Benezette, is a son of Charles K. and 
Rebecca (Hicks) Winslow, former of whom was born January 23, 1818, in 
Maine, and latter born November 2, 1820, in Pennsylvania. They were mar- 
ried February 20, L845, and reared a family of seven children — five sons and 
two daughters, of whom C. S. Winslow is the fourth son. He was born in 
Benezette township, Elk Co., Penn., October 3, 1852. and received a practical 
education in the district schools of the township. He has always lived upon 
the homestead which his father settled, and has for many years taken care of 
In-, mother, his father having died April 4. L869. 

GEORGE W. WINSLOW, farmer, P. O. Benezette, was born in Maine. 
Ma\ Jo. L820, the second son of ten boys and four girls born to Carpenter and 
Beulah (Keene) Winslow, also natives of Maine, who came to Clearfield 
county, Penn., in 1820. They lived here one year, then removed to Punxsu- 
tawney, Penn., where they remained until 1828, when they removed to Bene- 
zette township, Elk county, where George W. Winslow still resides. They 
w ere obliged to endure many hardship-- incident to pioneer life, bringing all pro 
visions in a canoe from Lock Haven, a distance of seventy live miles, taking 
two and one half days to push the canoe up the stream. George W. Winslow 
was educated in the common schools of Benezette township, and worked on 
the home farm until he was twenty-five years of age, when he purchased two 
hundred acres of land in Benezette township and began life for himself as a 
farmer. He has been successful in life, still retaining the farm he purchased 
in early manhood, upon which he has erected fine buildings, and which gives 
evidence of prosperity and thrift. His father and mother made their home 
with him during the latter years of their life. 

C. H. WINSLOW, inspector of timber, and blacksmith, Benezette, is a son 
of .lames and Elizabeth (Miller) Winslow, natives of Maine, who came to Jef 
ferson county. Penn., in 1818. They reared a family of twelve children. 
C. H. being the third son. He was born April 19, 1837, at Punxsutawnev. 
Penn., and here received an education in the district schools, working upon 
the farm with his father during his boyhood days. In July, 1858, he came to 
Benezette, and engaged with Reuben Winslow as clerk in a general store, 
where he remained until 1863. He married in July, 1864, Miss Ellen J.. 
a daughter of William and Eva R. Deer, natives of Union county, Penn., and 
they have had a family of ten children, seven of whom are still living. After 
his marriage, Mr. Winslow engaged in lumbering, and his time was divided 
between that business and blacksmithing, until 1887, since when he has been 
employed as a timber and log inspector. He has held various township 
offices, such as supervisor, school director, auditor, etc. Mr. and Mrs. Wins 
low are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

(i. I;. \\ [NSLOW, butcher and proprietor of meat market, Benezette, is a 
son of Ebenand Elizabeth (Hicks) Winslow. natives of Pennsylvania, and was 
born in the woods during the great flood of L847, it having driven the family 
from their home. He received a practical education in Benezette. Penn., and. 
his father dying, he was thrown upon his own resources at the age of fifteen 
rears. He went into the woods and cut timber, the second winter clearing 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 783 

$1,100; thus, when still a young man, securing a fair start in the world. He 
married, October 24, 1869, Miss Martha A., daughter of Benjamin and Mar- 
garet (Frisbee) Lee, of Caledonia, Penn. , and to them have been born sis chil- 
dren, all living at home and named as follows: Cora E., Ebon L., Roy, Byron, 
Jennie E. and Floyd L. In 1871 Mr. Winslow rented the Benezette Hotel, 
which he conducted until 1875, when he removed to what is now the Winslow 
House, where he remained until the spring of 1889, when he opened a meat 
market, which he still conducts with marked success in connection with his 
butchering business. 

JAY TOWNSHIP. 

JAMES BLAKE, Jb., blacksmith and wheelwright, Weedville, was born 
in Michigan, August 29, 1850, a son of James C. and Lucinda (McConnell) 
Blake. When fourteen years of age he entered a blacksmith shop as an ap- 
prentice, serving three years, and in 1868 he came to Elk county, Penn. , where 
he engaged in lumbering. In 1872 he opened a blacksmith shop, in Weed 
ville, which he has since successfully conducted. Mr. Blake married, in Feb- 
ruary, 1884, Miss Annie Beck, of Armstrong county, Penn., and they have 
three children, named as follows: James O., Charles A. and Franklin. 

E. L. BROOKINS, farmer, P. O. Caledonia, is a native of New York 
State, born in Montgomery county, January 8, 1836, a son of Charles and 
Betsy (Lindsley) Brookins, who came to Elk county, Penn., in the fall of 
1839, and lived in the old pine school-house the ensuing winter. They reared 
a family of ten children, the subject of this sketch being the fifth son. He 
worked for his father until he was twenty-one years of age, when he engaged 
in lumbering. He was in the Civil war, enlisting July 17, 1861, and was as 
signed to Company G, Forty-second Regiment, P. R. V. C, serving until the 
close of the war, and participating in many battles; was wounded in the right 
arm by a ball, and was honorably discharged June 28, 1865. His regiment 
was known as the old "Bucktail" regiment, which took part in nearly every 
battle fought by the Army of the Potomac, from Drainesville to the surrender of 
Lee at Appomattox Courthouse. He returned to his home, and in November, 
1868, was married to Miss Harriet, a daughter of S. R. and Phcebe (Pearsall) 
Gardner. She died, June 6, 1875, leaving three children: Alice E., Martha 
J. (deceased) and Harriet E. Mr. Brookins still resides upon the old home- 
stead, in Jay township, where his father lived and died. 

R. BURK, sawyer, Caledonia, was born in Northumberland county, Penn., 
March 24, 1844, the fifth son of six children born to James and Jane (Nieff) 
Burk, natives of Pennsylvania. The mother died when our subject was eight 
years of age, and from that time, until he was seventeen, he followed the 
canal. In 1861 he enlisted in the United States army, and was assigned to 
Company D. Third Artillery, Pennsylvania Volunteers, in which he served 
well and faithfully until the close of the Rebellion, in 1865. Returning 
home, he engaged with the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad as fireman, filled the 
place three years and was promoted to engineer, which position he held one 
year, when he came to Jay township, and entered the employ of O. Dodge, 
in the capacity of sawyer. Mr. Burke married, in July, 1867, Miss Elizabeth, 
a daughter of William and Catherine (Brumbach) Levan, of Reading, Penn. 
Mrs. Burk died in August, 1887, the mother of nine children, six of whom 
are still living. July, 188S, Mr. Burk married Cora B., daughter of David and 
Charlotte (Kinner) Dixon, of Jay township, and to them has been born one 
child. Mr. Burk is a member of Benezette Lodge. No. 988, I. O. O. F.; 



T - I HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

White Pine Lodge, No. ITS. K. of P., and Washington Camp, No. 437, P. 
0. S. of A. 

C. J. DILL, farmer, P. O. Caledonia, was born in St. Mary'-. Elk Co., 
Penn., December 21, 1849, a son of Joseph and Barbara (Schiessell) Dill, na- 
tives of Germany. They were, married in St. Mary's, and here they afterward 
resided. C. J. is the eldest of six children. When twelve years of age. he 
began working in the woods, cutting lumber. He was married, Octobei '■'■ l '. 
1^7 7. to Miss Mary M.. a daughter of Herman and Caroline (Groover) Strai — 
ley, of Fox township, Elk Co. , Penn., and to them have been born five chil- 
dren, named as follows: Herman J., Frances E., John A., Annie G. and 
William G. Mr. Dill is a Democrat in politics, and in November, 1888. he was 
elected jury commissioner; he has also served one term as township auditor. 
The family are members of the Catholic Church. 

O. DODGE, lumberman, P. 0. Caledonia, was born in Burlington, Brad- 
ford Co., Penn., October 2, 1824, a son of Loren and Jane (Head) Dodge, 
natives of Massachusetts. They reared a family of rive children, our subject 
1 >>■ i i iiX the second son. Mr. Dodge received a practical business education in 
the common schools of Bradford county, but worked at home on his father's 
farm until October 19, 1846, when he married Miss Amanda Smith, daughter 
of Rufus and Eunice (Mead) Smith, of Connecticut. In 1846 he also engaged 
in mercantile business, which he continued three years, when he returned to 
the farm, on which he passed another period of three years, after which he 
removed to Mississippi, and engaged in lumbering. In 1865 he came to Elk 
county, where he re-engaged in lumbering and still resides. Mr. Dodge has 
held various township offices, and is a successful business man. 

S. R. GARDNER, farmer, P. O. Caledonia, was born in Otsego county. 
N. Y.. August 4, 1819, a son of John and Polly (Abbey) Gardner, who came 
to Elk county in L822, settling in Jay township. S. R. Gardner is the eldest 
son of sixteen children. He remained at home until he was eighteen years of 
age, when he began life for himself by working for others, and was employed 
l>v one man for six years. He was married, in August, 1843, to Miss Phebe, a 
daughter of Peter and Hannah (Clement) Pearsall, who removed to Elk 
county from Saratoga. X. Y.. in 1822, and settled in Jay (then Fox) township, 
Mr. and Mrs. Gardner have reared a family of sixteen children, ten of whom 
are -till living. Before his marriage Mr. Gardner bought a small farm, which 
erward sold; the one where he now resides is owned by his son. He has 
taken an active part in local politics, and has held various township offices 

ABEL GRESH, merchant, Weedville, was born in Berks county. Penn.. 
March 7, 1842, a son of Daniel and Susannah K. Gresh, natives of that county. 
His Cither's family consisted of twelve children — seven sons and five daughters, 
he being the ninth child, and sixth son. His parents being poor, he was 
bound out at the age of ten years to an uncle, John Kooser, of Lawrence 
county. He served there eight long and weary years, toiling on his uncle's 
farm, not being permitted to visit his native home in all that time. He then 
was hired to a drover of the neighborhood, and assisted in driving a drove of 
cattle from New Wilmington, Lawrence county, to Harrisburg, occupying three 
weeks and one day on the journey. He then started by railroad to visit hi- old 
home, being nearly eighteen years old — a scuff suit on his back, and £17 in his 
pocket, with winch to battle the world for himself. He found his relative-, 
but hi- home was broken up, and a kind mother'- heart alone left to counsel 
and assist him. He worked at whatever his hands found to do, and attended 
common school in winter, for two years, when, having saved a few dollars, he 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 785 

attended school at Mount Pleasant Seminary. Boyerstown, Berks county. After 
attending the school for seven weeks, examinations for teachers were held in 
the neighborhood, and. entering one of the classes, passed examination suc- 
cessfully, being the second in a class of fifteen to receive a certificate to teach. 
He then taught a term of four months, and in the spring attended a normal 
institute, held in Fottstown, for ten weeks, after which he labored during the 
summer, and taught the following winter a term of six months. In the spring 
of 1863 he entered Freeland Seminary, afterward known as Ursinus College, 
at Collegeville, Montgomery Co. , Penn., where he continued his studies for 
five terms. In 1864 he received the appointment of assistant teacher and 
prefect at the house of refuge, Philadelphia, Penn. After discharging the 
duties of this appointment about six months, an enrollment was made to draft 
men to fill our serried ranks in the army. Being a single man, he felt it his 
duty to enlist, which he did iu March. 1865. enlisting in Company C, Two 
Hundred and Fourteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers. He was honorably dis- 
charged at the close of the war, and returned to Philadelphia. In May of the 
same year he came to Elk county, engaging as weighman in the coal mines at 
Kersey. In 1876, in company with his brother, Augustus, he engaged in 
lumbering at Gilbertsville, Penn., but he finally returned to Elk county, and 
assisted W. H. May, civil engineer, in surveying. He remained in his employ 
until December, 1877, when he came to Weedville and started in the mercan- 
tile business, which he is successfully conducting at the present time. Mr. 
Gresh married, in February, 1888, Mrs. Sarah J. Rader, widow of the late John 
Rader, and daughter of George Haue, of Armstrong county, Penn. They have 
had two children: Ruby and Pearl (twins), the latter of whom died August 
-■■'). lss'.t. Mr. Gresh has held the offices of justice of the peace for nine years, 
and various other offices of public trust, and is one of the wide-awake men of 
the township. 

W. W. HOOVER, jeweler, P. O. Caledonia, was born in Clearfield county, 
Penn., September 3, 1844, the eldest son of twelve children — nine boys and 
three girls— born to Abraham and Margaret (Murray) Hoover, natives of Clear- 
field county, Penn., and the former of German origin. Mr. Hoover received a 
practical business education in the public schools of Clearfield, and worked 
upon his father's farm until he was twenty-two years of age, when he engaged 
in the lumber business on his own account, coming to Elk county, in 1883, 
and conducting the same successfully until November 1, 1888, when he com- 
menced the jewelry business, dealing in watches, clocks, jewelry, silverware 
and glasses, and making repairing a specialty. He married in November, 1869, 
Miss Drucilla, a daughter of Ira and Margaret (Hicks) Greene, of Benezette, 
Penn., who were among the first settlers of Elk county, Penn. No children 
have been born to this union, but Mr. Hoover has reared two girls, both now 
married. Mr. Hoover, in 1874. joined Wallaceton Lodge, No. 411, Knights of 
Pythias, Clearfield county. He is now a member of White Pine Lodge, No. 478, 
Knights of Pythias, at Benezette; of the Ellsworth Lodge, No. 489, at Pentield, 
Clearfield county, and of Caledonia Lodge, No. 437, Patriotic Order Sons of 
America, and of the American Mechanics of Penfield. Mrs. Hoover is a mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Caledonia. 

J. B. MILLER, farmer, P. O. Caledonia, is the eldest son of Michael and 
Tracy (Craterer) Miller, and was born in Philadelphia, Penn., June 19, 1838. 
His parents were natives of Germany, and came to America in 1836. first locat- 
ing in Philadelphia, where they remained until 1847, when they removed to 
St. Mary's, Penn. They afterward purchased a farm in Jay township, where 



786 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

they remained the rest of their lives. J. B. Miller, worked upon the farm with 
his father until 1 SGI, when he enlisted in the service of his country. He 
served three months in the famous "Bucktail" Regiment of Pennsylvania. 
and afterward re enlisted in the Eighty fourth Regiment, Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers, serving one year, when he was discharged on account of disability. Af- 
ter his return home, he went to Chicago, 111., returning in the fall of 1865, 
when he married Miss Sophia, a daughter of George Zimmerman, of Williaurs- 
port, Penn. , and to them were bom six children, rive of whom are still living. 
Mr. Miller remained in Williamsport until 1N73, when he returned to Jay 
township, and engaged in farming. He has held various township offices, and 
is a member of White Pine Lodge, No. 178, Knights of Pythias, of Benezette. 

■I S. MILLER, farmer, P. O. Caledonia, was horn in Philadelphia, 
Penn., April '24, L844, a son of Michael and Tracy Miller, who came from 
Philadelphia to St. Mary's, Penn., in 1847, and settled upon the farm, where 
J. S. now resides, in 1850. During his early manhood Mr. Miller worked 
upon the farm with his father, the latter making his home with his son in his 
old age. In 1861 J. S. Miller entered the United States service, and was as- 
signed to Company I, Eighty-fourth Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers, and 
served until the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged from the 
57th Pa. V. V. and returned to his farm in Jay township. He married, in 
June. 1876, Miss Anna, a daughter of Matthias Huff, of Clarion comity, 
Penn., and they have three children: Maggie M , Lizzie A. and Tracy M. 
J. S. Miller has held various township offices, and is highly respected by his 
fellow-citizens. 

M A. OVELL, farmer, P. 0. Caledonia, was born in Jay township, Elk 
Co., Penn., June 1, 1862, a son of Jacob and Sarah B. Ovell, natives of Penn- 
sylvania, who settled in Jay township, where they reared a family of nine 
children. M. A. being the second son. Mr. Ovell was early in life thrown 
upon his own resources, his father dying, and leaving him. a boy of twelve 
years, to assist in the support of the family. When he was fifteen years of 
age be began working for others, and when twenty-one he removed to the old 
homestead, which had been left by his father to three surviving sons and three 
daughters in equal parts. The youngest daughter died unmarried and the 
other two sold their portions to David Dixon; our subject bought out Mr. 
Dixon for $660, and paid the sons 8300 each for their portions, and thus 
became sole possessor of the farm. This fact renders the old home and its 
associations an object of interest and regard to Mr. Ovell and his family. 
II b married, December 25, L882, Miss Lovern Stephens, who was born in 
nine Rock, Penh., May 28, 1862, a daughter of Jonathan and Almira (Welsh) 
Stephens, and they have been blessed with two children: Stella C, and 
Carrie < r. 

N. S. SHAFFER, manager of general store. Caledonia, was born in Sin- 
nemahoning, Cameron Co., Penn., September 12, 1861, the elder of two chil- 
dren bom to Joseph and Eliza (McCloskey) Shaffer, natives of Pennsylvania. 
B La practical business education in his native town, and remained 

with bis parent-- until lie was fifteen years of age, then worked in mills at 
Sinnemahoning and Benezette until he was seventeen, when he went to Cale- 
donia, Penn., where he was employed by Andrew Haul as a shipper of lumber. 
He worked for Mr. Kaul six months, and was afterward, for three years, in the 
employ of J. E. Putnam as lumber inspector and counter, since which time he 

bas I '■ engaged with W. E. Zierden, as general manager of a large store in 

Caledonia (since June 25, 1888, owned by M. E. Taylor), showing by bis sue- 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 787 

cessful management his thorough ability and understanding of the business. 
Mr. Shaffer married, January 12, 1886, Miss Mary E., a daughter of H. D. 
and Amelia (Morey) Derr, of Benezette, and they have one child: Edna Larue 
Shaffer. Mr. Shaffer is a member of Benezette Lodge, No. 988, I. O. O. F. ; 
Caledonia Lodge, No. 437, Patriotic Order Sons of America, and also of the 
Knights of Pythias,'Ellsworth Lodge, No. 189, Penfield, Penn. 

F. A. TOZIER, merchant, Caledonia, was born in Benezette township, Elk 
Co., Penn., January 5, 1851, and is a son of Thomas and Lydia (Morey) Tozier, 
the former of whom came to Caledonia from Maine in 1818, and the latter was 
born in Benezette township. They reared a family of eight children, F. A. 
being the eldest son. When a young man he developed unusual business 
ability, and when twenty years of age entered into partnership with B. E. 
Morey in the mercantile business in Jay township. After a few months, how- 
ever, his father employed him as foreman in the lumber business in Elk county, 
where he remained until 1875. when he entered the Williamsport Commercial 
College, from which he was eventually graduated. He then spent three years 
lumbering in Wisconsin, but finally returned to Pennsylvania, and was em- 
ployed by the Portland Lumber Company, of Vineyard Run, in the capacity 
of book-keeper. In 1885 he purchased an interest in the firm of G. W. Tozier 
& Co., and returned to Caledonia in March, 1889. Mr. Tozier has held the 
office of auditor of the township, and has always taken an active interest in 
the advancement and prosperity of the social and business interests of his 
town. He is a man of excellent capabilities in his management of business. 
He is a member of Ellsworth Lodge, No. 489, Knights of Pythias, Penfield, 
Penn.; also a member of Washington Camp, No. 437, P. O. S. of A., Cale- 
donia, Penn. 

SAMUEL UHL, farmer, P. O. Caledonia, was born in Germany, April 4, 
1840, a son of Christopher and Annie (Brunner) Uhl. The family came to Elk 
county. Penn., in 1840, and settled in St. Mary's. They reared a family of 
eight children, Samuel being the second son. When fourteen years of age 
our subject went to Sligo, Clarion Co., Penn., and was employed four years 
in the iron works, at the close of which time he removed to Centreville and 
engaged in lumbering. In February, 186S, he married Miss Tracy Cross, a 
daughter of Andrew Cross, of Fox township, and she bore him six children, 
five of whom are still living: Katie, William A., Josephine, Tracv L. and John 
E. Mrs. Uhl died in 1875. In 1869 Mr. Uhl purchased the farm where he 
now resides. He has been supervisor of the township, and is a highly re- 
spected citizen. He is a member of the Catholic Church. 

JUSTUS WEED, postmaster, Weedville, was born at what is now Weed- 
ville, Jay township. Elk Co., Penn., December 18, 1831, a son of A. B. and 
Charlotte (Mead) Weed, natives of New York State, who came to Elk county, 
Penn., in 1818. They reared a family of seven children, the subject of this 
sketch being the fourth son. He worked for his father until he was twenty- 
three years of age, when, in March, 1854, he married Miss E. J., a daughter 
of John and Elizabeth (Hunter) Tudor, who came to Weedville in 1S53. Mr. 
and Mrs. Weed have three children, viz.: Abijah B., Manley E. and Eva E. 
(wife of J. H. Webb, Falls Creek, Penn.). J. H. Webb was born in Weedville. 
and is a son of William M. and F. Elizabeth (Morey) Webb, both residents of 
that place. Mr. Weed purchased a farm in Jay township, and in 188^ en- 
gaged in the mercantile business in Weedville. He has always taken an active 
interest in the welfare and growth of the township, and has held various local 
offices, now being postmaster of Weedville. Mrs. Weed is a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 



788 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

THEODORE F. YOUNG, lumber inspector, Caledonia, was born March 
12, 1845, at Flemington, Hunterdon Co., N J. , and is the eldest son of Will- 
iam R. and Hatmali (Stires) Young, also natives of New Jersey. He came to 
Williamsport, Penn.. with his parents, in 1S54. and here he was reared and 
educated. When but a ladof seventeen years he entered his country's service, 
enlisting in August, L862. He was assigned to Company B, One Hundred and 
Thirty first Pennsylvania Volunteers, served nine months, and afterward re-en- 
listed in the Third New York Light Artillery. After two and one-half years' 
service he was wounded, and returned home to Williamsport. He married. 
ber 3, 1866, Miss Mary, a daughter of Lewis Carter, of Bethlehem. 
Penn.. and to them have been born three children, named as follows: Will- 
iam R (telegraph operator for the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad Company, at 
Williamsport), May B. and Minnie (both at home). Mr. Young was en 
as a shipper of lumber in his father's mill until in 1883, when it was destroyed 
by fire. Since then he has been employed in the same capacity with .). E. 
Putnam and Col. James Cochran, being with the latter at the present time. 
Mr. Young is a member of the Williamsport Post. No. 385, <i. A. it.. Cale- 
donia Lodge, No. t ; !7. Patriotic Order Sons of America: Williamsport Lodge. 
No 106, F. cv. A. M., Chapter No. 222, and William-port Lodge, No. 662, 
I. 0. 0. F. 




BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 789 



CHAPTER XXI. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES— BENZINGER TOWNSHIP AND 
BOROUGH OF ST. MARY'S. 

. C. L. BAYER, manufacturer and dealer in furniture, St. Mary's, was 
born in Baden, Germany, September 6, 1836, and is a son of Andrew and 
Catharine (Pfeifer) Bayer, who came to America in 1848 and settled in Ben- 
zinger township, Elk Co., Penn. Andrew Bayer was a wagon-maker by trade, 
and for a number of years carried on a shop in St. Mary's. He was the father 
of three children: C. L. , Theresa (Mrs. Joseph Arnold) and Andrew. Of these, 
C. L., whose name heads this sketch, was reared in Elk county from twelve 
years of age, and served an apprenticeship of five years at the cabinet-maker's 
trade in Philadelphia; after which he worked as a journeyman until the break- 
ing out of the Civil war, when, being in the South, he was pressed into the 
Confederate service at Jefferson, Tex. After serving about nine months, he 
left at Little Rock, Ark., and went to the Union army at Fayetteville, Ark. 
A few months after, he took employment at his trade in the cabinet department 
of the navy yards at Cairo and Mound City, 111., where he served till the end 
of the war. In 1866 he commenced a sash and door shop in St. Mary's, but 
after a few years changed to manufacturing and dealing in furniture, and 
has built up a large and lucrative business. In 1867 Mr. Bayer married 
Barbara, daughter of George and Clara (Prongratz) Gregory, of St. Mary's, 
and by her has seven children living: John S., Minnie, Lizzie, Andrew, Lena, 
Willie and Fred. Mr. Bayer and family are members of the Catholic Church. 
In politics he votes the Democratic ticket, and has served the borough as 
school director several terms. Father B. Bayer, one of the first priests in St. 
Mary' s and first doctor, was an uncle of C. L. Bayer. 

GEORGE W. BOYER, proprietor of the Franklin House, St. Mary's, 
was born in Shannondale, Clarion Co., Penn., October 1, 1846, and is a 
son of George and Elizabeth (Bartley) Boyer, both natives of Pennsylvania. 
He was reared in his native county, receiving his early education in the com- 
mon schools, and January 28, 1862, when but fifteen years of age, enlisted in 
Company C, Sixty-second Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. He was wounded 
in the foot at the battle of Gaines' Mills, Va., June 27, 1862. being also 
taken prisoner, and after spending three months in Libby prison he was 
released on parole and sent to Fortress Monroe. Three months later he was 
exchanged and placed on hospital duty in the Chesapeake General Hospital 
as wound-dresser and steward. He was here discharged from the service 
June 30, 1865, after serving nearly three and a half years. After the war 
Mr. Boyer attended Dayton Academy, Armstrong county, Penn., and also the 
select and public schools of Clarion county, same State. While attending 
the latter in 1867, he was chosen by the directors to take charge of a public 
school at Shannondale, to fill the unexpired term of a teacher who had 
failed. This he did successfully, and to the satisfaction of the directors and 
patrons of the school. He followed teaching for several years, as well as 



790 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

other occupations, and in 1877 removed to Elk county, where he taught 
school several terms; was clerk for D. Eldridge at Eureka Mines one year: 
was in the employ of Koch & Sons, Kersey, Elk county, as book-keeper one 
year, and for three years was deputy treasurer of Elk county under John Col- 
lins, treasurer. In March, 1887, Mr. Boyer purchased the Franklin House at 
St. Mary's, which he has since successfully conducted. He married, Novern- 
ber 25, 1868, Mary S.. daughter of Dr. H. and Caroline (Gruber) Straessley, 
of Millville, Clarion Co., Penn., and they have two children living: Charles 
\Y. and Caroline E., and two children dead. Mr. Boyer is a member of the 
Catholic Church and of the G. A. R. Politically he is a Democrat, and has 
held the office of township treasurer and clerk. 

MICHAEL BRUNNER, merchant. St. Mary's, was born in Bavaria, Ger- 
mans November 20, 1830, and is a son of George and Catherine (Hoffbaue'r) 
Brunner, who settled in St. .Mary's in 1844, where they resided until their 
death. They were the parents of four children: Magdalena (Mrs. Nicholas 
Heinffling), Margaret (Mrs. Balzer Wenzel), Barbara (Mrs. Sebastian Hahn) 
and Michael. The subject of these lines was reared in St. Mary's from four- 
teen years of age. and here learned the cabinet-maker's trade, which he fol- 
lowed as an occupation four years. He then taught school for several years, 
and in 18(52 embarked in the mercantile business, in which he has since sue 
cessfully continued. His wife, whom he married August 16, 1S5S, was Car- 
olina, daughter of George and Juliana (Weisenberger) Weis, of St. Mary's, 
and to this union were born nine children, as follows: Susan (Mrs. John 
Fochtman), Adeline (Mrs. Nicholas Tierney), Josephine, Julia, Mary. George, 
Annie, Albert and Clara. Mr. Brunner is a Democrat, politically, and has held 
the offices of school director and councilman of St. Mary's and also thai of 
count] treasurer one term. He and his family are members of the German 
Catholic Church. 

MARTIN DIPPOLD, mine boss, in the coal mines of Kaul & Hall. St. 
Mary's, was born in Germany, April 14, 1841, and is a son of Frederick and 
Margaret Dippold, who came to this country and to St. Mary's in 1855. The 
father, who was a farmer by occupation, cleared and improved a farm in Ben- 
zinger township, Elk county, where he died. They had four children: John 
(who was killed in the Civil war). Martin, Barbara (Mrs. Louis Vollmei 
Andrew. Of these, Martin was fourteen years of age when he came with bis 
parents to St. Mary's. He has worked in the coal mines twenty years, and has 
iieU his present position eighteen years. Mr. Dippold married Mary, 
daughter of Anthony and Lizzie Eves, of St. Mary's, and has by her thirteen 
children: Maggie, Frank. Kale. Lizzie, John, Barbara, Mary, Anna. Anthony 
and Bertie (twins). Carrie, Ida and Alfred. Mr. Dippold is a Democrat in 
politics; has served one year as constable, and is a member of the Catholic 
Church. 

FRANK A. ERICH, farmer and lumberman, P. O. St. Mary's, was born in 
St. Mary's, Elk Co., Penn., June 15, L 848, and is a son of Joseph and Elizabeth 
Erich, natives of Germany, who settled in Benzinger township. Elk county, 
in 1846, where they cleared and improved a farm, on which they lived and 
died. Joseph Erich was twice married, and by his tirst wife he had two chil- 
dren: Joseph and Mary A. (Mrs. Jacob Mallison) ; by his second wife, Elizabeth, 
he had six children: Elizabeth (Mrs. Jacob VVafford), Frank A.. F. Xavier. 
George, Mary (Mrs. Peter Bauer) and Katie (deceased). Of these, Frank A. 
was reared in Benzinger township, where he has followed farming and lum- 
bering as his principal occupation, and for one and a half years he was pro 



BIOGBAPHICAL SKETCHES. 791 

prietor of a green-grocer' s store in St. Mary' s. In 1869 Mr. Erich married 
Elizabeth, daughter of Joseph and Mary (Bock) Jacobs, of St. Mary's, and by 
her has ten children: Mary, Rosa, Bertha, Joseph, Edward, Tracy, Cai - o- 
line, George, Josephine and Michael. Mr. Erich is a member of the 
Catholic Church; in politics a Democrat. 

FRANK FISHER, proprietor of the Keystone House, St. Mary's, was 
born in that borough, June '24, 1853, and is a son of Charles and Mary (Hart- 
zop) Fisher, natives of Baden, Germany, who were among the poineers of St. 
Mary's. His father was a rope-maker by trade, but engaged in mercantile 
business in St. Mary's, at which he continued until his death. He had eight 
children: John, Philip, Mary (Mrs. Leonard Wittmann), William, Barbara 
(Mrs. William Schwab), Frank, Charles and Lizzie (Mrs. Charles Rorick). 
The subject of this sketch was reared in St. Mary's, being educated in the 
public schools, and served an apprenticeship of three years at the blacksmith's 
trade, at which he worked as a journeyman twelve years. He carried on a 
shop of his own in Kane, McKean county, Penn., two and one half years, and 
in 1SS1 he embarked in the hotel business in St. Mary's, keeping the Luhr 
House three and one half years. Afterward he filled the position of bar- 
tender at the City Hotel one and one-half years, and then entered into posses- 
sion of the Keystone House, of which he has been the genial host for one and 
one half years. In 1876 Mr. Fisher married Anna, daughter of Joseph and 
Mary (Schwab) Murray, of Centre county, Penn., and by her has one daugh- 
ter, Mary. Mr. Fisher is a member of the Catholic Church, in polities a 
Democrat. 

JOSEPH C. FRANK, merchant, St. Mary's, was born in Benzinger town- 
ship, Elk Co., Penn., April 14, 1856, and is a son of George and Maggie 
(Schauer) Frank, natives of Germany, who settled in Benzinger township in 
1848. where they cleared and improved a farm on which they still reside. 
Their children are John, Theresa (Mrs. George Weigel), Joseph C. . Francis, 
George, Charles and Anthony. The subject of this sketch was reared in his 
native township, receiving a common-school education, then for six years was 
a clerk in the store of Spafford & Finney, St. Mary's. In 1881 he embarked 
in the general mercantile business in partnership with Charles Luhr, under 
tin 1 firm name of J. C. Frank & Co., and they have built up a large and pros- 
perous trade. In May, 1880, Mr. Frank married Rosa, daughter of Charles 
and Elizabeth (Beleke) Luhr, of St. Mary's, and they have one daughter, 
Maggie. Mr. Frank is a member of the Catholic Church, of St. John's and 
St. Patrick's beneficiary societies, and of the Knights of Labor. In politics 
he is a Democrat, and has been auditor of St. Mary's. 

IGNATIUS GARNER, St. Mary's, was born in Alsace-Lorraine. France, 
May 14, 1816, and is a son of George Garner and Magdalena (Bueser) Garner. 
George Garner settled in St. Mary's in 1845, and died there. They reared a 
family of four children: Ignatius, Magdalena (Mrs. Jacob Schaut), Anna and 
Barbara (Mrs. John Lejeal). The subject of this biographical sketch came to 
America in 1832, and to St. Mary's in 1845, where he has since resided. For 
a number of years he was agent and general director here for the German 
colony. Early in 1845 he proceeded to Europe and returned in July of the 
same year with a number of substantial settlers. He was the first postmaster 
of St. Mary's, which position he held ten years; was again appointed in 1887, 
and was retired July 1, 1889. A prominent and talented musician, he was 
for twenty-five years organist of St. Mary's German Catholic Church, and 
thirty-three years ago built the organ still used in that church. In 1844 Mr. 



792 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Garner married Julia, daughter of Christopher and Johanna (Baumgardner) 
Weis, of Philadelphia, and they have six children: Louis H., Elizabeth. 
Charles, George, Bonaventura and Aloysius. Mr. Garner and his wife are 
members of St. Man 's German Catholic Church. He is a Democrat in politics, 
and has held the office of county auditor and commissioner several terms; also 
served as chief burgess, councilman and justice of the peace of St. Mary's. 

LOUIS H. GARNER, machinist. St. Mary's, was born in St. Mary's, Elk 
Co., Penn., October 7, 1845, and is a son of Ignatius and Julia W. (Weis) 
Garner. He was reared in his native town, and educated at St. Vincent's Col- 
lege, Latrobe, Penn., afterward serving an apprenticeship of three years at 
the machinist's trade in Ashland. Schuylkill Co.. Penn. On July -!. 1863. he 
enlisted in Company C, Fifty third Pennsylvania Infantry, and participated in 
the battle of Harrison's Landing, Va. ; also assisted in burying the dead at 
( tettysburg. After nine months' service, he was honorably discharged, and then 
resumed his trade at Ashland. Later he was employed in the Franklin Iron 
Works at Reading. Penn.; thence removed to Renovo. same State, and was the 
first machinist employed in the railroad shops at that place. Afterward he 
worked at his trade in the oil regions of Pennsylvania, and in 1866 he moved 
to Leavenworth, Kans., where he was employed on the Eastern Division of the 
Northern Pacific Railroad, from March until November of that year. He then 
returned to St. Mary's and here opened up for himself in the old Gen. McGill 
foundry, which he rented in April, 1868, put in running order, and melted the 
first iron in the county ; this he carried on two years; then erected a new shop on 
the corner of Mill and St. Mary's streets, which he conducted for five years 
iiinler the firm name of L. H. Garner & Bro. Selling out his interest in this 
concern, he then took charge of the Clearfield Coal Company's works at Tyler. 
Penn., as engineer, for two years, at which time he again returned to St. 
Mary's, where he was engaged as clerk with Hall, Kaul & Co., nine months, 
and then took charge of the foundry and machine shops of J. & A. Kaul for 
two years, when he assumed the duties of assistant postmaster at St. Mary's 
for two and a half years, when he resumed his trade. In 1871 Mr. Garner 
married Mary E. , daughter of Capt. Charles H. and Elizabeth (Brindle) Yolk, 
of St. Mary's, and they have six children living: George. Carrie. Lawrence. 
Irene, John and Louis. Mr. Garner is a member of the Catholic Church and 
of the G. A. R.. being at present commander of M. \V. Lucore Post. No. 216, 
of St. Mary's. In politics he is a Democrat. 

CHARLES B. GARNER, molder, St. Mary's, was horn in that borough, 
September 12, is 111. and is a son of Ignatius and Julia (Weis) Garner. He 
was reared in his native town, and received his education in the school of St. 
Mary's and at St. Vincent's College, Latrobe, Penn. ; afterward he learned the 
molder' s trade in the shop of his brother, L. H. Garner, which occupation 
be has followed since L868. In 1875 he married Mary Josephine, daughter of 
Wendel and Man J. I Hcrbstritt) Lion, of St. Mary's, and they have live children: 
Charles C. Lizzie. Julia, Mary and Clara. Mr. Garner is a member of the 
German Catholic Church, and in polities is a Democrat. 

ANDKK \\ GEECK, barber, St. Mary's, was born on the Rhine, in Bavaria, 
November 23, L852, and is a son of Francis C. and Franceses (Kuntz) Geeck. 
He was reared and educated in his native land, and, coming to America in 
L871, settled, in February, 1^7'J. in St. Mary's, where be worked as a journey- 
man barber up to November In. same year, at which date he opened a shop 
of his own. and has since succeeded in building up a successful business. Mr. 
Geeck married. June 8. 1N73, Elizabeth, daughter of Wendel and Mary J. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 793 

(Herbstritt) Lion, of St. Mary's, and by her has six children: M. Josephine, 
M. Magdalene, Francis 0. , Rose, Eugene and Aloys. Mr. Geeck is a member 
of the Catholic Church and of St. John's Benevolent Society, in which he is 
treasurer and secretary of the widow fund. In politics he is a Democrat, and 
has served as a member of the school board from 1882 to 1888; also secretary 
of the board four years. 

MATHIAS GERG, general blacksmith, St. Mary's, was born in that 
borough May 16, 1857, a son of Michael and Annie (Hoover) Gerg, natives of 
Germany, who were among the early settler of St. Mary's, the father being a 
wagon-maker by trade, which he has followed all his life. They reared a 
family of nine children: Tony, Frank, Anna (Mrs. John Schauer), Barbara 
(Mrs. Louis Gies), Rosa (Mrs. F. X Erich), Mathias, Tillie (Mrs. John Hoff- 
man), Charles and Katie (Mrs. George Bauer). Of these, Mathias was reared 
and educated in St. Mary' s, and learned the blacksmith' s trade in his brother' s 
shop, and since 1883 has been in business for himself, having proved a first- 
class workman. Mr. Gerg has been married twice: first, to Josephine, daugh- 
ter of Joseph and Kate Seel, of St. Mary's, by whom he had three children: 
Frank, Joseph and Willie; and afterward he married Anna, daughter of 
Joseph Deitch, also of St. Mary's, by whom he has two children: Katie and 
Lizzie. He is a member of the Catholic Church and St. John's Society; of 
the K. of L. and the borough council. In politics he is a Democrat. 

JAMES KNOX POLK HALL was born in Milesburg, Centre Co.,Penn., 
on the 30th of September, 1844, during the memorable presidential campaign 
of tbat year. His father, an ardent Democrat, bestowed upon him the full 
name of the great Tennesseean who was at that time the candidate and the 
ideal of his party. He is descended on both sides from Revolutionary stock, 
his ancestors having served with credit and distinction in the great struggle 
for the establishment of American liberty. His parents were Benjamin Mc- 
Dowell Hall, who died in 1873, and Susannah Geary Hall, who is still living 
at an advanced age. They had seven children, of whom the late Senator John 
G. Hall and Dr. Wm. E. Hall, both recently deceased, were the eldest; the 
subject of this sketch came next, and then followed Mrs. B. E. Wellendorf, 
Miss Mary Hall, B. Frank Hall and Harry Alvan Hall, all of whom are living 
and residents of Elk county, Penn. His youth was passed, when out of school, 
in farming and lumbering in the then wilds of Clearfield county, Penn., whither 
the family had removed when he was about ten years of age. 

Mr. Hall received a business education, and studied law with his brother, the 
late Senator, at Ridgway, where he was admitted to the bar as soon as he attained 
his majority. He was shortly after elected district attorney of Elk county, 
which office he filled with satisfaction to the people and credit to himself for 
three consecutive terms. As his abilities are of a high order and his attain- 
ments exceptional, he was most successful in his practice, but as opportunities 
presented themselves, his keen perception pointed out to him the wisdom of 
investment in coal and lumber enterprises, and with ready executive tact he 
pushed the development of numerous and extensive operations into successful 
action. The enterprises in which he was engaged soon became so numerous, 
and his business interests reached such magnitude as to claim his entire time 
and attention, and in 1S83 he was compelled to retire from the active prac- 
tice of his profession. He has since devoted himself exclusively to the man- 
agement of his business affairs. He is president of the St. Mary's Bank: a 
member of the firm of Kaul & Hall, proprietors of the Cascade and Hazel Dell 
bituminous coal mines, near St. Mary's, Penn.; a partner in the St. Mary's 



794 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Tanning Company, who own and operate a large tannery at St. Mary's; secre- 
tary and treasurer of the Penn Lumber Company, with offices at St. Mary's, 
Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which, with two or three other large companies, 
market the bulk of the Pennsylvania hemlock; president of the New York, 
Lake Erie & Western Coal & Railroad Company, with whose road are connected 
some of the largest bituminous coal mines in the State, in the operation of 
which thousands of men are given employment; secretary and treasurer of the 
Clarion River Railway Company, who are now building a railroad from Laurel 
Run i" Hallton for the purpose of developing a large section of timber Land; 
and a member of the Portland Lumber Company, who, in company with the 
EListlers, are now building an extensive tannery at Carman. He is also a mem 
her of the Beechwood Lumber Company, and these companies and the various 
other lumber concerns in which he is interested with his partner, Mr. Kaul. 
are the owners of over sixty thousand acres of timber lands in Elk, Jefferson 
and Cameron counties; he is also engaged in numerous merchandising and 
other business operations in connection with his lumber and coal inter- 
ests; In? is president of the St. Mary's Water Company, president of the 
Elk County Agricultural Society, and a large stockholder in the St. Mary's 
( ras Company. 

His charities have ever kept step with his wonderful successes in business 
affairs, and his heart and hand have always been open to the appeals of his fellow 
men, and none such have fallen unheeded upon his ear. Though so heavily 
weighted with business cares. Mr. Hall finds much time for both political and 
social affairs. He is an unswerving Democrat in his faith, and is prominent in the 
councils of his party. He has been twice nominated for Congress in his dis- 
trict, having withdrawn the first time in favor of Ex-Gov. Curtin, and having 
I n once defeated by the narrow margin of 142 votes. 

Jimanandy Park (named for himself and his partner by grateful friends who 
had enjoyed its hospitalities), which was erected by Messrs. Hall & Kaul solely 
for the entertainment of their friends, is one of the most unique institutions of 
the country. It is situated on a 3,000-acre tract of timber laud, in the mountains. 
-even miles east of St. Mary's. Seven hundred acres of this virgin forest is set 
aside for a hunting park, and through this roam hundreds of deer. A mountain 
-i ream, upon which numerous dams are erected, gives the expert fiy caster ample 
opportunity to display his skill upon the brook trout, with which the stream is 
yearly stocked from the hatcheries connected with the park. Just outside the 
entrance to the .leer park is a spacious cottage, in which are billiard-rooms, 
reading rooms, sleeping apartments and dining accommodations, which, with 
the stables attached, offer every comfort to sportsman and beast. 

In September, 1875. Mr. Hall was married to Miss Kate Hyde, the youngest 

ter <>f J. S. Hyde, the late millionaire lumberman. They have Eouj 

children living: Sallie. William, Genevieve and Lisle. He has recently removed 

from St. Mary's, where he had lived since L866, to Kidgway. and is now 

building a superb residence at the latter place. 

HAKKY A LVAN HALL, attorney at law, St. .Mary's, was born at Karthaus. 
I learfield ('<■.. Penn., October 7. L861, and came to St. Mary's with his par- 
ents in 1867. After spending some time under the tutelage of Rev. Edward 
is, a distinguished scholar of the Benedictine order, then stationed at 
St. Mary's, he attended, for a short time, the University at Lewislmrg and 
Dickinson Seminary at Williamsport, and finally received his diploma from 
\ale College, in 1881. The same year he was admitted to the liar in th ! SQ 
preme court of Connecticut. He engaged in business in New York, and during 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 795 

the next two years spent much of his time in traveling in Mexico and on the 
Pacific coast. In 1883 he succeeded to the law practice of his brother, J. K. 
P. Hall, Esq. , of St. Mary' s, and rapidly worked his way to the front rank in 
his profession. He was married in 1886, at Louisville, Ky. , to Miss Currin 
McNairy, a daughter of the late Col. Currin McNairy. of Nashville, Tenn. Mr. 
Hall is a tine linguist and a polished orator. He is of wide reading and broad 
culture, and is a frequent contributor to the current magazines and reviews. 
He is political editor of the Elk County Gazette, and was, in 1885, elected chief 
burgess of St. Mary's, which office he has held for five successive terms. His 
administration has been marked by the introduction of gas and water into the 
borough, of both of which improvements he has been an active promoter. He 
is prominent in political circles in the State, and in 1884 was secretary of the 
Democratic State Convention at Allentown, and a delegate to the National 
Democratic Convention at Chicago. 

JOSEPH A. HANHAUSER, merchant, St. Mary's, was born in Philadel- 
phia, Penn. , in April, 1846, and is a son of Anthony and Mary (Vollmer) Han- 
hauser. natives of Germany, who came to St. Mary's in the fall of 1847. Here 
the father engaged in the hotel business, and erected the Franklin House, 
which he conducted several years. In the meantime he had purchased several 
tracts of land in the township, and on retiring from the hotel business, he 
located on a farm one and a half miles east of the borough. This he cleared 
and improved, and resided upon for about ten years, when he returned to St. 
Mary's, and erected a store and dwelling north of the Franklin House. He 
died in 1867, at the age of seventy-four years, the father of three children: 
Joseph A., Louis F. and Mary E. (Mrs. J. M. Mecum). The subject of these 
lines was reared and educated in St. Mary's, and began life as a clerk in a 
general store. In 1878 he became a member of the firm of Hall, Kaul & Co., 
general merchants, with whom he has since been associated, being general 
manager of the store. In February, 1871, Mr. Hanhauser married Mary, 
daughter of Joseph and Crescence (Ritter) Wilhelm, of St. Mary's, and to this 
union five children have been born: Louis F., George, Frederick, Crescence 
and Clara. Mr. Hanhauser and family are members of the Catholic Church. 
Politically he is a Democrat; has served as a member of the Democratic com- 
mittee of Elk county, and has held the office of councilman of St. Mary's. 

WILLIAM B. HARTMAN. M. D., St. Mary's, was born in Williams- 
port, Penn., September 14, 1833, and is a son of Henry and Julia (Gehrhart) 
Hartmau. His paternal grandfather, Jacob Hartman, who was a native of 
Germany, became an early settler of York county, Penn., and was a soldier in 
the Revolutionary war. Henry Hartman, father of Dr. Hartman, a carpenter 
by trade, and a native of York county, Penn., was a soldier in the war of 
1812, and a pioneer of Williamsport, Penn., where he died at the age of 
eighty-nine years. The subject of this sketch was reared in Williamsport, 
educated in the public schools and Dickinson Seminary, of that place, and at 
Wyoming Seminary, Kingston, Penn., where he graduated in 1852. In 1853 
he began the study of medicine with Dr. Samuel Pollock, of Williamsport; 
entered Pennsylvania Medical College, Philadelphia, in 1854, and was grad- 
uated from there in 1856. The Doctor began the practice of his profession in 
June, same year, at Quincy, 111., where he remained until 1857, when he lo- 
cated at Linden, Lycoming Co., Penn. Here he was in practice up to the fall 
of 1861, when he was appointed by Gov. A. G Curtin assistant surgeon of 
the One Hundred and Sixteenth P. V. I. , in which capacity he served until July 
4, 1862, when he was promoted to the rank of surgeon of the same volunteers, a 



P96 BI8T0BY OF ELK COUNTY. 

position he held until the close of the war. In August, 1865, he located in 
St. Mary's, and was in active practice until L875, in which year he went to 
Cattaraugus county, N. V.. where he remained two years. He then returned 
to St. Mary's, where he now enjoys a large and lucrative business. Dr. Hart- 
man was twice married- lirst to Helen S., daughter of George R. Crooks, of 
Carlisle, Penn., and by her he had six children: Julia (Mrs. S. M. Taylor), 
RussellH., William, Fannie O.Irs. Mark Jones), Emma (deceased) and John 
His second wife 1 was Mrs. Naomi E. (Watts) Rogers, a native of England, and 
daughter of .lames Watts, and the issue of this union has been two children: 
Clifford E. A. and Clarence DeL. Dr. Hartman is a member of the K of P. 
and (1. A. K.. of the Pennsylvania State Medical Society, of the Elk County 
Medical Society and the American Medical Association. He is the 
regular graduate of medicine practicing in Elk county. Politically h( is 8 
Democrat. 

WILLIAM A. HARTPANFT, mill boss, St. Mary's, was born in Dela- 
ware township, Northumberland Co., Penn., .Inly it. 1N3S. a sou of Henry C. 
and Elizabeth (Bugh) Hartranft. He was reared and educated in his native 
county, learning the carpenter's trade, and in September, 1861, he enlisted 
in Company D. Seventh P. C, in which he re-enlisted in 1863. At LaVergne, 
Tenn., Mr. Hartranft was taken prisoner, and after twenty-nine days' confine- 
ment (part of the time in Libbj prison), he was paroled In June. 1864, 
being exchanged, he rejoined his regiment at Nashville, Tenn.. and in Sep 
tember, L865, he was honorably discharged at Macon, Ga. After the war. he 
worked at his trade and other occupations in his native State for a time, and 
in 1878 located in St. Mary's, where he has since been employed !>y Hall. Kaul 
& Co., as foreman of their Summit Mill. In 1866 Mr. Hartranft married Mary 
A., daughter of Andrew Nye. of Northumberland county. Penn.. and by her 
has had three children: Burton H., Edith (deceased) and George A. Mr. 
Hartranft is a member of the G. A. R.. and in politics is a Republican. 

JOHN B. HEINDL. farmer, P. 0. St. Mary's, was horn in Bavaria. Ger- 
many. June 17. 1*141, a son of Michael and Ursula (Beibrunner) Heindl. who 
settled in St. Mary's in September, 1846. The father, who was a carpenter by 
trade, which he followed most of his life, cleared a small farm on the present 
site of St. Mary's. He had five children: Lizzie (Mrs. Martin Sorg). Minnie 
(Mrs. Ed. Blintzler), Wally (Mrs. William Holland). Julia (Mrs. Joseph Fox) 
and John B. The subject of our sketch was reared in St. Mary's from five 
years of age. He followed various occupations up to 1876, when he engaged 
in farming, in which he has since successfully continued. Mr. Heindl married 
Marj M., daughter of Wendel and Mary J. (Herbstritt) Lion, of St. Mary's 

and has eleven children: Josephine (Mrs. John J. W'eis), Maggie (Mrs. Will 
iam Robinson), Michael W ., Frank, Joseph E., Lizzie. John, Ann. Fred. Clara 
and Charlie. Mr. Heindl is a member of the Catholic Church. Politically he 
i-. a Democrat, and has held various township offices. 

FRANK A. JACOB, of the St. Mary's Herald, St. Mary's, was born in 
that borough May 12, 1863, and is a son of Joseph and Mary (Bock) Jacob, 

natives of Bavaria, Germany, who immigrated to this country, and 1 

pioneer-- of St. Mary's. The father was a halter h\ trade, which he followed 
in the borough a couple of years, since when he has worked at the plasterer's 
trade. He reared a family of five children : Elizabeth (Mrs. Frank A. Erich), 
Simon (now deceased). John. Joseph and Frank A. The subject of tin- bio 
graphical memoir was reared and educated in St. Mary's, where he learned the 
printer's trade, an. I January 23, 1888, became connected with the St. Mary's 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 797 

Herald (a weekly journal), as one of its proprietors, and is now sole owner. 
Mr. Jacob married, October 6, 1885, Sophia, daughter of Thomas and Mary 
(Kerner) Ernst, of Benzinger township, Elk Co., Penn., and by her has two 
children: Francisca and Leonard. He is a member of the German Catholic 
Church, and secretary of St. Mary's Silver Cornet Band. In politics he is a 
Democrat. 

JOHN KAUL, Sr. (deceased), was born at Elbersberg, Bavaria, June 18, 
1814, and received an elementary education in the schools of his native village. 
He left Bavaria in 1844, with the intention of joining the colonists from his 
native country at St. Mary's, Penn., and on the 25th of July, same year, ar- 
rived at New York City, whence he went to Buffalo, N. Y., via Albany. Prom 
Buffalo he came to St. Mary's. He journeyed afoot, arriving at the latter town, 
September 2, 1844. Purchasing a building lot in the new town, on Michael 
street, south of Joseph Jacob's residence, he built a log house there. September 
4, 1844, his marriage with Kunegunda Brindle was solemnized by one of the 
Kedemptorist Fathers. They resided in the log house for about two years, 
when he purchased a tract of wild land on the Brussels road. He made the farm 
his home until the autumn of 1876, when the family moved to Mr. Andrew Kaul's 
residence, where John Kaul, Sr. , died February 26, 1877. His widow, who is 
still a resident of St. Mary's, was born at Elbersberg, Bavaria, May 8, 1815, 
and resided there until 1844, when she came with a party of three families to 
the settlement of St. Mary's. It was understood, however, that on her arrival 
here, she should become the wife of John Kaul, Sr., in accordance with the be- 
trothal in their native land, and, as related above, she was married to him in 
the fall of the year they arrived. The children of that marriage were Andrew, 
of St. Mary's; Joseph, who, born October 27, 1846, died in infancy; Kate, who 
married Joseph Lanzel in the fall of 1866, was born December 9, 1847; 
John, now associated in the lumber business with his brother, was born Sep- 
tember 13, 1849, and married Sophia Goetz; Kunegunda was born May 15, 
1851, and married Charles Kronewetter; Catherine was born March 8, 1853, 
and married Joseph F. Windfelder; Mary was born February 1, 1855, and 
married Louis Hanhauser, and Joseph was born April 30, 1858. and married 
Miss Barbara Bauer. 

Andrew Kaul was born July 15, 1845, at St. Mary's, and was educated 
in the common schools of the village. During his school days he assisted in 
the work of cultivating the homestead farm, and so continued until 1862, when 
he entered the employ of John Brooks as woodsman. During the following 
year he worked for Joseph Lanzel and Peter Kleixner, who were getting 
out square timber on the Sinnemahoning. In 1864 he and Mr. Lanzel 
took a contract to supply square timber to Col. Noyes and Simon Cameron, 
which contract they completed successfully, by delivering their rafts at Mari- 
etta, Penn. This partnership was continued, following up the first by a sec- 
ond contract, to cut and peel pine logs for Mr. Bryan of Philadelphia. This 
necessitated the employment of a number of men, and proved very success- 
ful. In 1865 their operations were transferred to West Creek, where they 
were the pioneers of the woods. Their contract was with Herdick, Lentz 
& White of Williamsport. The West Creek Manufacturing & Mining 
Company contracted with them, in 1866, to stock their mills, where Beech- 
wood village now stands. This contract was tilled in the spring of 1867, 
and the partnership with Mr. Lanzel then ended. Mr. Kaul now contracted 
to stock the above-named mills, employing a force of sixty men, and com- 
pleted the second contract with the West Creek Company in the spring of 



798 HI8T0BY OF ELK COUNTY. 

1868, being the most successful, financially, of the contracts up to that date. 
In 1868 he returned to St. Mary's, and purchased pine lands east of here, 
from Sebastian Weis, of York, Penn., and from Benzinger & Eschbach 
and others. During the summer, be built his first mill on the head of Iron 
run. being the second in the district. This mill he stocked and operated for 
about eight years, when the building was torn down and the machinery re- 
moved. In 1872 he built the Summit Mills, one and a half miles east of St. 
Mary's, which are still in existence. In 1873 he bought from John Brooks the 
Sterling Run Mills, also a large tract of timber, in which purchase George 
Walker, Joseph Lanzel, Charles Kronewetter and the Konley Brothers were 
interested, the company taking the title of Kaul, Walker & Co. They 
operated the mill for rive years, when the firm dissolved, Mr. Kaul purchasing 
the interests of his partners. He continued to operate this mill until 1884, 
when the great bush tire swept away this industry. The Benezette Mills 
were bought from the Kronewetter Brothers, in 1875 or 1876; these he sold, 
:n I 38 I, to Thomas Tosier. The Spring Kun Mills were erected in 1880 for 
Mr. Kaul, but they were destroyed in the great fire of 1884, together with a 
large quantity of lumber and camp buildings. In 1871 Mr. Kaul and J. K. P. 
Hall entered into partnership for the purpose of investing in pine lands, 
and in the same year Mr. Kaul visited Wisconsin, with the object of pur 
chasing pine lauds, and did buy a large tract, but sold it several years after 
ward to Brown, Early & Co. This was the beginning of the partnership 
which was reaffirmed by the Hall, Kaul & Co. partnership of 1876. In 1SN0 
Mr. Kaul and J. W. Gaskil of Philadelphia entered into partnership and 
purchased the 7,500 acres on West creek, together with the West Creek 
Manufacturing & Mining Company's mills at Beechwood. A 3 - ear later 
I. Iv. P. Hall purchased Mr. Gaskil' s interest, and this partnership has 
continued down to the present time. They, with Mr. C. It. Kline, are the 
present owners of this industry. Mr. Kaul was married November 11. L865, 
to Miss Walburga Lanzel, a daughter of Michael and Catherine Lanzel. 
Mrs. Kaul was born near St. Mary's, April 25, 1S47, and received her education 
here. The children of this marriage are John L., born October 3, L866 
(he is now secretary and treasurer of the Sample Lumber Company of Ala- 
bama); Andrew, born February 2, 1868 (now employed as book-keeper at the 
St. Mary's Tannery); William, horn June 9, 187<> (a student at Georgetown 
College, D. C); Joseph, horn March 6, L872 (also attends this college); 
Edward, born February 3, 1874 (attending the St. Mary' s schools) ; Frank, born 
January 26, 1876; Julia, born March 6, 1^7S (a student in St. Mary's 
convent); Josephine, born March 23, 1880 (also attending the convent 
schools); Bertha, born June 30, 1882; George, born March 3, 1886, died 
March 12. L886; -lames H.. horn June 16, 1887. Men speak of a country as 
one of illimitable possibilities, but in this instance, we learn something of the 
possibilities of the individual. Mr. Kaul, a native pioneer of Elk county. 
grew up among her great forests, strong and healthy like them. His youth 
was passed in the manner of the times forty years ago. In 1862 be tallied 
forth from the parental roof to hew out a trail to independence. How cl >selj 
he followed that trail is measured by his repeated successes. Throughoul the 
pages of local history of Elk and Cameron counties, his name appears at short 
intervals as the supporter of every project which gave promise of serving the 
people In this sketch reference is made to the establishment of his early 
mills; but to obtain a clearer conception of the great industries of which he is 
the originator or one of the active agents, the pages of local history must be 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 799 

referred to. Of everything constituting the highest citizenship, social and 
business morality and enterprise, he is the possessor, and in the exercise of 
those gifts he radiates good all round. 

J. C. KOCH, proprietor of a livery stable, St. Mary's, was born in York 
county, Penn., September 14, 1855, a son of John and Leah (Detter) Koch, 
natives of that county, the former of whom is a farmer by occupation. Mr. 
Koch's father was a captain of militia for many years, and was known as 
" Capt. John Koch." The subject of these lines received an ordinary educa- 
tion at the public schools of the county, and at the age of nineteen years went 
to Lock Haven, Penn., where he worked in the lumber business as a day laborer, 
also on the Susquehanna river, in the same capacity. In 1884 he came to Elk 
county, and purchased one hundred acres of wood land in Benzinger township, 
which he cleared of the timber. For one year he acted as foreman for the 
Arthur Coal & Lumber Company, at Swissmont Station, Elk county. In 1886 
Mr. Koch married Josephine, daughter of Lawrence (Wesnetzer), of St. Mary's, 
and purchased the Wesnetzer homestead. He has since resided at St. Mary's, 
with the exception of one year spent at Rasselas. Elk county, in the lumber 
trade, and February 15, 1887, he established his present livery business. Mr. 
Koch casts his vote with the Republican party. Mrs. Koch is a member of the 
Catholic Church. 

GEORGE F. KRELLNER, baker, of St. Mary's, was bom in Bavaria, 
Germany, January 16, 1837, and is a son of John and Margaret (Engelhart) 
Krellner. He was reared and educated in his native country, and there served 
a three-years apprenticeship at the baker's trade. In 1858 he came to Amer- 
ica, settling in St. Mary's, and lumbered in the woods up to 1861, in April of 
which year he enlisted in the First Pennsylvania Regiment " Bucktails,'' in 
which he served three mginths. Re-enlisting, he joined Company E, Sixth 
Pennsylvania Reserves, and was wounded in the battle of South Mountain, 
September 14, 1862, and was honorably discharged, on account of disability, in 
the spring of 1863. After working in the Government bakery, at Washing- 
ton, D. C. three years, he returned to St. Mary's, and again lumbered in the 
woods until 1872, in which year he opened a bakery in the borough, which he 
has since successfully conducted, having now the principal bakery in the place. 
Mr. Krellner was twice married; first to Mary, daughter of John Kline, of 
Louisville, Ky. , and by her has had two sons : Joseph and John. His present 
wife was Kate Kline, sister of his first wife, by whom he has three children: 
Mary, Clements and George. Mr. Krellner is a member of the German Cath- 
olic Church. He is independent in politics, and has held the office of council- 
man four years; school director, ten years in succession; assessor, collector and 
mercantile appraiser. 

CHARLES A. LION, proprietor of meat market, St. Mary's, was born 
in Sir. Mary's, Elk Co., Penn., August 21, 1860, and is a son of Wendel 
and Mary J. (Herbstritt) Lion, natives of Germany, and who were among the 
pioneers of St. Mary's, the father being a shoemaker by trade, which he fol- 
lowed up to his death. Their children were ten in number, viz. : Mary Mag- 
dalena (Mrs. John B. Heindl), Katie (Mrs. B. Wendler), Maggie" (Airs. 
Joshua Dreisbach), Josephine (Mrs. Charles B. Garner), Elizabeth (Mrs. 
Andrew Geeck), Frederick, Charles A., Frank, Joseph and John. Of these, 
Charles A. was reared and educated in St. Mary's, and in the fall of 1878 
embarked in his present business, in which he has since successfully continued. 
He married. May 14, 1884, Tressie, daughter of Joseph and Tressie Pontzer, 
of Kersey, Elk Co., Penu. , and has five children: Charles, Minnie, Edward, 



800 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

Frederick and Robert. Mr. Lion is a member of the Catholic Church. 
Politically he is a Democrat, and has held the office of councilman and school 
director of St. Mary's. 

CHARLES LUHR, merchant and brewer. St. Mary's, was born in the 
grand duchy of Baden, near Freiburg, Germany, September 25, 1830. and 
is a son of Joseph and Barbara (Loesch) Luhr. who settled in what is nuw St. 
Mary's borough. Elk Co., Penn., in 1846. His father, who was one of the 
first "hotel -keepers in St. Mary's, cleared the lot on which the Luhr House 
now stands, erected the building and conducted the hotel from 1846 to L869, 
when he retired from business. His family consisted of four children: 
Charles, Frank X. , Josephine (Mrs. Dr. W. James Blekley) and Henry. Our 
subject was reared in Germany until fifteen years of age, when he came to 
the United States, landing in New York in September. 1845. He attended 
school in Baltimore until July, 1840, when he set out to join his parents at 
St. Mary's, taking ten days to make the journey from Baltimore. Mr. 
Luhr remained with his parents until twenty-seven years of age, attending 
to the business of the hotel, teaching school, and for a short time acting as 
agent for the Ridgway Farm & Land Company. In 1S57 he embarked in 
the mercantile business, in which he has since been successfully engaged, and 
is now a member of the firm of J. C. Frank & Co., general merchants. 
September 9, 1876, with his brother, Henry, he purchased the St. Mary's 
brewery, which they have since operated. He is also interested in the real 
estate business, having purchased and made Luhr's allotment an addition to 
the borough of St. Mary's. Mr. Luhr was married November 30, 1857, to 
Elizabeth, daughter of Joseph and Margaret (Knickenberger) Beleke, of 
St. Mary's, and by her he has had ten children, six of whom are living 
now: Rosa M. (Mrs. J. C. Frank), Joseph J., Charles W., Frank E.. Fred 
A. and Alfred F. The deceased children were named Josephine J. (Mrs, 
Charles D. Miller), Henrietta B., Fredericka A. and Emma E. Mr. Luhr and 
family are members of the Catholic Church. He is a representative and lead- 
ing citizen; has filled the office of county auditor one term of three years; 
county treasurer one term (1863-64), and associate judge one term of five 
years. He has held all the leading offices in the borough of St. Mary's. 
including burgess, justice of the peace, councilman and school director. 
Politically he has always been a stanch Democrat. 

JOSEPH J. LUHR, merchant tailor, St. Mary's, was born in St. Mary's, 
Elk Co., Penn., May 5, 1864, and is a son of Charles and Elizabeth (Beleke) 
Luhr. He was reared in his native town and educated in the schools of St. 
Mary's and at St. Vincent's College, Latrobe. Penn. He began life for him- 
self as a clerk, and January 1, 1889, embarked in his present business in St. 
.Mary's. On September 2*2, 1885, Mr. Luhr married Frances, daughter of 
John and Caroline (Sternberger) Krug, of St. Mary's, and they have two sons, 
Augustin C. and Vincent H. Mr. Luhr is a wide-awake and enterprising young 
business man. He is a member of the Catholic Church, and of the Catholic 
Mutual Benefit Association of Emporium; in politics he is a Democrat. 

CHABLES W. LUHR, saloon-keeper. St. Mary's, was born in St. Mary's, 
Elk Co., Penn., December 25, L866, and is a son of Charles and Elizabeth 
(Beleke) .Luhr. He was reared and educated in his native town, and in L886 
embarked in his present business, in which he has since successfully continued. 
Mr. Luhr married, Maj 1. l s ^\ Theresa, daughter of John and Anna (GergJ 
Schaner. of St. Mary's. He is a member of the German Catholic Church, 
and St. John's Benevolent Society. In polities he is a Democrat. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 801 

HENRY LUHR, brewer, St. Mary's, was born in St. Mary's, Elk Co., 
Penn. , September 20, 1849, and is a son of Joseph and Barbara (Loesch) 
Lnhr, who settled in St. Mary's in 1846. He was reared and educated in his 
native place, where he has always resided, and at the age of eighteen entered 
his brother's general store as a clerk; afterward, for fourteen years, was en- 
gaged in the mercantile business. Since 1876, in company with his brother, 
Charles, Mr. Luhr has successfully operated the St. Mary's brewery. On No- 
vember 13, 1875, he married Amanda, daughter of Barnard B. and Mary A. 
(Fuegle) Weidenboerner, of St. Mary's, Elk county, and they have five chil- 
dren: Alois, Eugene. Edward, George and Mary A. Mr. Luhr and family 
are members of St. Mary's German Catholic Church; he is a member of St. 
John's Benevolent Society, and in politics is a Democrat. 

WILLIAM A. McCOY, assistant superintendent of the coal mines of Kanl 
& Hall, St. Mary's, was born in Milesburg, Centre Co., Penn., June 15, 
1843, a son of Thomas and Jane (Hall) McCoy, natives of Pennsylvania. He 
was reared and educated in his native county, where he served one term, 
1857 to 1860, as deputy sheriff. On April 19, 1861, he enlisted in Company 
A. Second Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, served three months, and was 
honorably discharged; then re-enlisted, July 17, 1863, in the United States 
Navy, and August 9, 1864, was honorably discharged. On August 17, fol- 
lowing, Mr. McCoy again enlisted; this time in the Forty-fifth Pennsylvania 
Regiment, in which he served until the close of the war, being mustered out 
July 17, 1865. He then returned to Centre county, and there followed farm- 
ing until 1869, when he commenced in the hotel business in Philipsburg, 
Penn., which he carried on until 1870, in which year he located in Clearfield 
county and engaged in the lumber trade for one year. In 1871 he came to 
St. Mary's, and lumbered in the woods until 1873, when he secured the po- 
sition of weigher of coal at Dagus Mines, Elk county, for the Northwest Min- 
ing and Exchange Company, remaining there until March 17, 1878, when he 
accepted his present position. On July 5, 1873, Mr. McCoy married Mary, 
daughter of James and Margaret (Casey) Sullivan, early settlers of Fox town- 
ship, Elk Co., Penn.. and has four children: T. Edgar, Laura. William A., 
Jr., and Maggie. Mr. McCoy served one term (five years) as justice of the 
peace of Benzinger township. Elk Co., Penn., but refused a second term. He 
is a member of the G. A. R., and in polities is a Democrat. 

CHARLES McVEAN, druggist, St. Mary's, was born June 4, 1827, in 
Oswegatchie, St. Lawrence Co. , N. Y. , where he was reared and educated. In 
1851 he settled in Ridgway, Elk Co.. Penn., where for two years he served as 
clerk for John Cobb in general business. He afterward acted in the same ca- 
pacity for J. S. Hyde for two years, and in 1859 entered into partnership with 
Mr. Hyde, with whom he was associated in business up to 1861, when he em- 
barked in general mercantile business with Jacob Houk, which partnership 
existed two years. In 1866 he located in St. Mary's, where he commenced 
the general merchandise business with James Coyne, which continued up to 
1868, when he opened out his present drug business. Mr. McVean has always 
been an active Republican, and has served one term as clerk, prothonotarv and 
recorder of Elk county. He was postmaster of St. Mary's for eighteen years, 
having been appointed during President Grant's first administration. 

CHARLES D. MILLER, merchant, St. Mary's, was born in the province 
of Nassau, Prussia, September 1, 1854, and is a son of Theodore and Mar- 
garetta (Schneider) Miller, the former of whom came to America in 1857, 
where he became a jobber in lumber, in which business he continued until 



802 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

1882, when he retired. The subject of these lines came to America when 
thirteen years of age, and worked on the Philadelphia «t Erie Railroad, until 
1ST:!. In 1874 he embarked in his present business in St. Mary's as dealer in 
books, stationery, tobacco and cigars, and has built up a successful trade. He 
was twice married — tirst to Josephine, daughter of Charles and Elizabeth 
(Bel i i Luhr, of St. Mary's, afterward to Clara, daughter of William Mech- 
leiser. also of St. Mary's. Mr. Miller is a member of the Catholic Church 
and St. John's and St. Joseph's Societies. He is a Democrat and one of the 
auditors of the borough of St. Mary's. 

ALFRED MULLHAUPT, physician and druggist St. Mary's, was born 
in White Hall township, Lehigh Co., Penn., August 30, 1859, and is a son 
of Mathias and Josephine (Meyer) Mullhaupt. He was reared in his native 
county, receiving a public-school education, after which he served an ap- 
prenticeship of four years to the drug business — two years in Catasauqua. 
Penn., and two years in Philadelphia — and was graduated from the Philadel- 
phia College of Pharmacy, March 10, 18S2. He began the study of medicine 
in that city in 1881 with Dr. S. Mason McCollin, and in the fall of 1882 en- 
tered Jefferson Medical College, where he was graduated April 2, 1884, during 
which time he practiced two years in Philadelphia. On July 18, 1884. he 
located in St. Mary's, where, with the exception of two months, he has been 
in active practice since, and has also conducteda drug store since February 
■l~i. L887. The Doctor married, December 30, 1886, Helena M., daughter of 
Dr. John and Sarah (Hoops) Davis, of Pottstown, Penn. , and by her has one child, 
Alfred. Mbs. Mullhaupt was graduated from the Woman's Medical College 
of Philadelphia in the spring of 1880; then practiced one year in the Woman's 
Hospital, and afterward in Pottstown, Penn., until the spring of 1885, when 
sin- went to Jacksonville, Fla. , as superintendent of St. Luke's Hospital in 
that city for six months, after which she resumed practice in Pottstown, and 
in January, 1SS7, she located in St. Mary's, with her husband, where she has 
built up a lucrative practice. 

HENRY A. PARSONS, Jr., St. Mary's, was born in Ridgway. Elk Co., 
Penn., May 26, 1852, and is a son of Henry A. and Caroline E (Russell) Par- 
sons, natives of Massachusetts and New York, respectively, who settled in 
Ridgway in IMS. The mother died December 30, 1866. The father, who 
u a- a shoemaker by trade, which he followed in Ridgway for twenty-five 3 ears, 
died in Nebraska. October 10, 1885. His children were Henry A.. Jr.. Clara 
\ 1 Mrs. F. H. Burr), Jennie L. (Mrs. J. W. Morgester), Laura L. (Mis. S. 
P. Fisher) and Orace (Mrs. Dickinson). Reared in Ridgway and educated in 
the public schools of that place, and the normal school of Edinborough, 
Penn., he learned the printer's trade at Ridgway and Emporium, and for four- 
teen years was editor and publisher of the Ridgway Advocate. Mr. Parsons 
was married March IT. 1ST:J, to Eva M. Fuller, of Edinborough, Penn., and 
has two sons: Frank H. and Edward A. He served six years in Ridgway as 
member and secretary of the first school board of that borough. Mr. Parsons 
located in St. Mary's in L887, ami was appointed postmaster of the borough 
.May 28, 1889, and" continued by the United State- Senate December 21, 1889. 
Political!} he has always been an ardent Republican; was chairman of the Ell 
Count} Republican Committee in 1884, and one of the conferees from Elk 
county to name the delegate to the convention at Chicago from the Twentieth 
Congressional District that year. He is tirst lieutenant of Company H. Six- 
teenth Regiment, N. G. P. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 803 

WILLIAM L. PRICE, photographer, St. Mary's, was bora in Baltimore 
county, Md., March 16, 1847, a son of Stephen R. and Mary (Laird) Price, 
and was reared and educated in his native county. In April, 1870, he went 
to Milford, Oakland Co., Mich., and married, March 19, 1872, Caroline E., 
daughter of Joseph Nute, of Oakland county, Mich. In 1881 he moved to 
Smethport, McKean Co., Penn. , where he learned the photographic art. in the 
gallery of S. L. Bergstresser, and in 1882 located in St. Mary's, where he 
worked as an operator in the photograph gallery of H. W. Bridges nine 
months. He then purchased his present business, in which he has been emi- 
nently successful, having secured, by his ability, a handsome patronage. Our 
subject is a member of the F. & A. M., and of the E. A. U. Politically, he 
is an advocate of Prohibition. 

FRANK G. ROTHROCK, merchant, St. Mary's, was born in Caledonia. 
Elk Co., Penn., May 8, 1859, and is a son of Robert and Jane D. (Hicks) 
Rothrock. His paternal grandfather, John Rothrock, a lumberman by occu- 
pation, settled, in 1850, in Caledonia, where he died the following year; and 
his maternal grandfather, John C. Hicks, was a son of Levi Hicks, who settled 
in Driftwood (now in Cameron county) in 1804. Robert Rothrock, father of 
Frank G., is now a resident of Driftwood, where he is a prominent dealer in 
lumber and real estate. The subject of our sketch was reared in Elk and 
Cameron counties, and educated in the public schools of Williamsport. Lycom- 
ing county, and at Selin's Grove Institute, Selin's Grove, Penn. He began 
active business life in the store of A. B. Noyes & Co., of Williamsport. since 
when he has been connected with mercantile trade at various points, and he is 
now manager of a fancy grocery store in St. Mary's, owned by his father, a 
position he has occupied since May 1, 1889. On November 4, 1879, Mr. Roth- 
rock married Kate, daughter of James and Clarinda (Hoover) Crossley, of 
Driftwood, Penn., and they have had four children: Eva, Ralph. Edward 
(deceased) and Paul. Mr. Rothrock is a member of the Episcopal Church; in 
politics a Republican. 

EBEN J. RUSS, M. D., St. Mary's, was born in Sunbury, Penn.. May 
24. 1840, and is a son of Eben and Rachel (Simpson) Russ. His father was a 
native of Monson, Mass., but early in life removed to Sunbury, this State. 
where he taught school for a time, later becoming engaged in the mercantile 
business, and married there. He studied law with the late Hon. Alex Jordan, 
and died shortly after at the age of thirty-nine years. The subject of this sketch 
was reared in Sunbury, having received his early education at the public and 
select schools of his native place, and at Dickinson Seminary, Williamsport, 
Penn. After a term of tutelage with his preceptor, Robert Harris Awl. M. D. , 
of Sunbury, he entered the medical department of Columbian University 
(known as the National Medical College) at Washington. D. C . in the full of 
1858, and was graduated in the spring of 1861. He immediately entered 
upon the practice of his profession, locating near Williamsport, Penn . but 
shortly afterward, upon the invitation of Hon. Simon Cameron, secretary of 
war. he went to Washington in order to appear before the regular army med- 
ical examining board, as an applicant for the position of medical cadet. Hav- 
ing passed a successful examination, he received the appointment, and. after a 
few months' service, was assigned to acting assistant surgeon duty. He served 
about one and a half years, when he was accidently poisoned, at New Creek. 
Va. , in consequence of which he was compelled to resign. He then returned 
to Williamsport, Penn. , and resumed private practice until 1866, when he set- 
tled at St. Mary's, where he has been in active practice of his profession ever 



804 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

since. July 28, 1875, he married Clare, daughter of Grundy and Louisa 
Bindle. He has one child, a son. The Doctor is an active member of several 
of the important medical associations, among which may be mentioned the Elk 
County Medical Society. Medical Society of the State of Pennsylvania and the 
American Medical Association. He has been a member of the mercantile firm 
of Coryell & Buss, one of the principal houses in the county, since 1873, and 
is largely interested in coal mining at St. Mary'sand Tyler. Clearfield county, 
in the manufacture of coke at the latter place. He is also identified with the 
Otto Chemical Company, at Sergeant, McKean county, being a member of the 
firm. Various other business enterprises, at Williamsport and elsewhere, 
claim his attention. In politics he is a Republican. 

JOSEPH M. SCHAEFEE. accountant. St. Mary's, was born in St. Mary's. 
Elk Co . Penn., in 1851, a son of George F. and Gereve (Werreth) Schaefer, 
former a native of Pforzheim, Baden. Germany, born February 19, 1812. 
George I". Schaefer came to the United States in 1837, lauding same year in 
Baltimore, Md. In L839 lie was married, and in 1845 he and his wife came to 
St. Mary's, where he became superintendent for Benzinger & Eschbaeh. 
Joseph M. Schaefer received his education in the common schools of his native 
borough, and in I ST 1 entered the office of J. K. P. Hall, in St. Mary's. In 
1S71 Mr. Schaefer married Alice McGill. daughter of R. C. McGill, and they 
have four children: Joseph Fred. Mary P., Charles J. and Gertrude. The 
parents are members of the Catholic Church, in politics Mr. Schaefer is a 
Democrat. 

IGNATIUS SCHAUT, proprietor of a planiug-mill. St. Mary's, was 
born m St. Mary's. Elk Co., Penn., July 9, 1854, and is a son of George and 
Sophia (Meyer) Schaut, natives of Prussia, who came to America in 1849 and 
settled in St. Mary's, where they reared a family of seven children: Ignatius. 
Mary. Mrs. Joseph E. Foster; Joseph J. P., Josephine. Edward. Lizzie and 
Louisa. The father was a carpenter and painter by trade. Ignatius Schaut 
ired in his native town, where, with the exception of four years, he has 
always resided. In August, ls7o. he commenced his present business, which 
he has since successfully continued. He married. September 2i>. ISM). Mary 
<;.. daughter of Bernard and Mary A. (Fuegly) Weidenboerner, of St. Mary's. 
and they have three children: Charles, Alfred and Florentine. Mr. Schaut 
and family are members of the Catholic Church. Politically he is a Demo- 
crat, and has held the office of auditor of Benzinger township. 

IM'.TI'.i; SHOUP, bottler and wholesale liquor dealer, St. Mary's, was born 

at Madison Furnace, Clarion Co., Penn.. October L9, L861, a son of Lawrence 

and Lena (Snyder) Shoup, former a native of Germany and latter of Pennsy] 

Lawrence Shoup was a resident of Clarion county about fifty years. 

and Joseph Snyder, maternal grandfather of Peter Shoup, a native of Ger 

n i ; i • i \ . was one of the pioneers of Knox township, same county. The subject 

of our sketch was reared and educated in his native county, and in 1881 came 

to El] C< unty, when' he worked in the lumber woods up to 1SS5. He then 

embarked in the hotel business in St. Mary's, becoming proprietor of the 

Luhr House, which he carried on two years, and in l ss 7 engaged in his 

usiness, which be has successfully continued since, having built up a 

lucrative trade. In January. L882, Mr. Shoup married Jennie, daughter of 

Mottmiller. of Paint township, Clarion Co., Penn.. and by her has 

four children: Bert, Nora, Mamie and Magdalena. Mr. Shoup is a Democrat 

in politics, and a member of the Catholic Church. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 805 

PETER STRAUB, brewer, St. Mary's, was born in Wurteruburg, Germany. 
June 28, 1850, a son of Anton and Anna M. (Eger) Straub. He was reared 
and educated in his native country, and came to America in 1869, locating in 
Allegheny City, Penn. , where he was employed in the brewery of Eberhart & 
Ober four months. He then removed to Brookville, same State, and in the 
breweries of this place worked two years, at which time he returned to Alle- 
gheny City, where he worked four months, and also at McKeesport, Alle- 
gheny county, four months. In 1876 Mr. Straub came to Centreville, Elk 
county, where he was employed in a brewery six months, and then met his 
wife and eldest child, re visited his native land, where they saw the exposition 
at Paris, 1878. On their return to their home in this country, he entered 
the employ of Joseph Windfelder, with whom he remained one year and eight 
months. In 1878 he commenced on his own account, and since November of 
that year has conducted a brewery and built up a successful business. Mr. 
Straub became united in marriage with Sabrina, daughter of F. X. Sorg, at 
St. Mary's, and by her has five children: Frank X., Josie, Anton, Anna M. 
and Jacob. Our subject is a member of the Catholic Church; in politics he is 
a Democrat. 

HENRY A. STURENBERG, with Hall, Raul & Co.. lumber dealers, 
etc., St. Mary's, was born in Philadelphia, Penn., December 24, 1849, fourth 
in the family of children born to Henry and Angeline (Nemond) Sturenberg, 
natives of Germany. The parents came to America in 1840 and remained in 
Philadelphia for a time. They moved to St. Mary's in June, 1851, where 
they resided until their death, the father dying in 1873, and the mother in 
1882. The subject of our sketch was favored with but meager school priv- 
ileges, and what education he did receive in boyhood and youth was in Ger- 
man, but, being quick and gifted with bright faculties, he soon made himself 
conversant with English. When quite young, he was employed as clerk in the 
store of Coryell & Bates, St. Mary's, with whom he remained seven years, his 
next engagement being with his present employers, Hall, Kaul & Co. , in 
whose service he has been for a period of fourteen years, which fact in itself 
is ample testimony to his reliability and correctness. Mr. Sturenberg was 
married, in 1872, to Martha Reynolds, by whom he has one son, James H, 
and one daughter, Carrie. He is a member of the Catholic Church, and in 
politics a stanch Democrat. 

N. J. TIERNEY, of the firm of Spafford & Tierney, merchants, St. 
Mary's, was born in Carbondale, Penn., August 17, 1860, a son of John and 
Catherine (Dunnigan) Tierney, formerly of the County Mayo, Ireland, who 
came to America in 1844, and located at Carbondale, Penn., where they car- 
ried on farming. In 1862 they moved to Benzinger township. Elk county, 
same State, where the father engaged as a laborer on the Philadelphia & Erie 
Railroad, and died in 1865. His widow resides with her son, N. J., in St. 
Mary's, whither she removed in 1866. Their children were seven in number, 
of whom six yet live: Mary (Mrs. John D. Cruise), Timothy B., John C, 
Catherine (Mrs. James McDevitt), Eugene S. and N. J. The subject of these 
lines was reared in St. Mary's, from six years of age, and received a high- 
school education. He started in life as a messenger boy for the Western 
Union Telegraph Company, learned telegraphy, and afterward filled most of 
the positions in the principle offices on the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad, as 
operator, for five years. Resigning in 1877 he has since been manager of the 
telegraph office in St. Mary's for the Western Union Telegraph Company, and 
has also been engaged in mercantile business in the borough, along with \Y. 



Mil - , HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

('. Spafford. Mr. Tierney married, October 7. 1882, Adeline, daughter of 
Michael Brunner. of St. Mary's, and has two children: Regina C." and Mildred 
A. He is a member of the Catholic Church, and has been president of the 
I. C. B. TJ. five years. In politics he is a Democrat, and has served as auditor 
one term. 

A. E. TIMM, merchant, and undertaker and embalmer, St. Mary's, was 
born in Fox township. Elk Co., Penn., January 10, I860, and is a son of 
Adolph and Catherine (Wachtel) Timm. His father is a native of Mecklenburg 
Schwerin, Germany, born September 19, 1821, a son of John and Sophia 
(Grushow) Timm, and was reared in his native land, where he served an ap- 
prenticeship of three years at the wheelwright's trade, and afterward worked 
as a journeyman for seven years. . Coming to America in 1850, he located in 
Bethlehem, Penn., for one year, and in 1851 he located in Elk county, where 
he worked at his trade in St. Mary's for three years; then moved to Centre- 
ville, and opened a shop on his own account, doing a successful trail' 1 up to 
1878, when he commenced in the mercantile business at Centreville. which he 
carried on four years. In 1882 he came to St. Mary's, where he now n 
The subject proper of this sketch was reared in Elk and Clearfield counties, 
and was educated at the public schools and Clearfield Academy. In 1^7<i he 
o St. Mary's, where he held the position of book-keeper in the general 
store of Joseph Wilhelm for eight years, and then embarked in his present 
business. Mr. Timm married in May, 1880, Catherine, daughter of Joseph 
and Mary D. (Fitter) Wilhelni, of St. Mary's, and they have two children 
living: Nellie and Emma. Mr. Timm is a member of the Catholic Church, of 
St. John's Society and the I. C. B. U. Politically he is a Democrat, and was 
elected auditor of Elk county in 1886, for a term of three years. 

JOHN E. WEIDENBOERNER, insurance and express agent and mer- 
chant. St. Mary's, was born in Philadelphia, Penn.. May 1. 1835, and is a -on 
of Barnard B. and Mary A. (Fuegle) Weidenboerner, natives of Hessia and 
Baden, Germany, respectively. Barnard Weidenboerner left home at sixteen 
years of age. landing in Brazil, South America, where he was pressed into the 
Brazilian army, in which he served two years. About 1827 he came to New 
York, and after traveling about the country for a time, located in Philadelphia, 
where he followed shoemaking (which he had learned in Brazil), and there 
married. In 1845 he settled in St. Mary's, Elk Co., Penn.. where lie followed 
his trade as well as farming, up to his death, which occurred August L0, L886 
His children were fifteen in number, ten of whom grew to maturity: John E 
Mary, (ieorge, Philemena, Theresa (Mrs. George Hintenact). Julia (Mrs. John 
Forster, Amanda (Mrs. Henry Luhr). Mary (Mrs. Ignatius Schaut). Egid and 
Rosa (Mrs. Nick Mangold). Of these. John E. was reared in St. Mary's, from 
ten years of age, learning the shoemaker's trade with his father. In Is.iS he 
began civil engineering, which he followed until 1861, when he enlisted in the 
One Hundred and Fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and took part in all the 
battles from Fortress Monroe to Richmond, Va., and after the retreat of Gen. 
McClellan, was discharged at Harrison's Landing. Ya. : then, after returning 
home, he resumed civil engineering in the United States and Mexico, follow- 
ing the vocation until 1S70. He then embarked in the mercantile business, 
in which he still continues. Mr. Weidenboerner has been agent for the Adams 
Express Company for about ten years, and has been in the insurance business 
since 1878. He married, in L864, Mary I... daughter of Joseph and Anna 
(Leisz) Dorner, of St. Mary's, and has two children: Mary L. and Andrew. 
Mr. Weidenboerner and family are members of the Catholic Church. He is a 
Democrat, and has held the office of school director several terms. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 807 

GEORGE WEIDENBOERNER, St. Mary's was born in Philadelphia, 
Penn., January 28, 1841, and is a son of Barnard B. and Mary A. (Fuegle) 
Weidenboerner, who settled in St. Mary's, Elk Co., Penn., in 1845. He was 
reared in St. Mary' s from four years of age, and received a common-school 
education. During the Civil war he was employed sixteen months in the Mil- 
itary Railroad Construction Corps in Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia and Ala- 
bama. After the war he engaged as a clerk in a store in St. Mary' s for a short 
time, and in 1867 he moved to Warren, Penn., where he served in the same 
capacity for three years. In 1870 he returned to St. Mary's and commenced 
in the hardware business, which he successfully conducted up to 1888, in which 
year he sold out. Mr. Weidenboerner married, May 19, 1877, Mary, daugh- 
ter of Lawrence J. Wesnetzer, a pioneer of St. Mary's, and by her has sis 
children: Emma, Henry, Joseph, Laura, Charles and Bertha. Mr. Weiden- 
boerner is a member of the Catholic Church, and in politics is a Democrat. He 
has served one term as treasurer of Elk county and one term as chief burgess 
of St. Mary's, also as councilman two terms. 

GEORGE EDWIN WEIS, merchant, St. Mary's, was born in Philadel- 
phia, Penn. , June 18, 1833, and is a son of George and Juliana ( Weisenber- 
ger ) Weis, who settled in St. Mary' s in September, 1844, and resided there 
until their death, the father being a merchant by occupation. They reared a 
family of seven children, as follows : Mary (Mrs. Joseph Windf elder), Charles. 
George E., Caroline (Mrs. Michael Brunner), William, Albert and Josephine. 
Of these, George Edwin was reared in St. Mary's from eleven years of age, 
and from boyhood has been engaged in mercantile pursuits. He married, 
January 10, 1860, Margaretha, daughter of Ambrose and Mary A. (Schrnoker) 
Forster, of St. Mary' s, and they have had ten children : Julia C. (Mrs. John 
Walker), Theresa, William, Louis, Edward, Carrie, Mary, Otto, Frederick and 
Bertha. Mr. Weis, in politics, is a Democrat, and has been chief burgess and 
justice of the peace of St. Mary's; served as prothonotary of Elk county two 
terms of three years each; county commissioner one term of three years, and 
is now serving his third term as associate judge. He is a member of the Catho 
lie Church. 

ALBERT WEIS, sewing-machine agent, harness dealer, horse dealer, etc. , 
St. Mary's, was born in Philadelphia, Penn., October 22, 1841, and is a son 
of George and Juliana (Weisenberger) Weis, natives of Germany, who set- 
tled in St. Mary's in 1844. Albert Weis was reared in St. Mary's from three 
years of age, and began life in the mercantile business as a partner of Weis 
Bros., in which he was engaged from 1866 to 1884. In 1871 he embarked 
in the livery business, and conducted a stable up to 1883. In 1879 he en- 
gaged in the harness business, which he has since successfully conducted, and 
in 1888 he was appointed agent for the Davis Sewing Machine Company. 
Mr. Weis was married October 27, 1863, to Mary G., daughter of Michael and 
Christiana Langenfeldt, of St. Mary's, and by her has nine children living: 
John J., Annie M., Albert O, Rose, Emma, Ida, Elizabeth, Jennie and Rob- 
ert J. Mr. Weis in politics is a Democrat, and has been councilman, con- 
stable, tax collector and school director of St. Mary's, and was elected sheriff 
of Elk County in 1883, serving three years. He and his family are members 
of St. Mary's German Catholic Church. 

JOHN J. WEIS, harness-maker, St. Mary's, was bom in St. Mary's. Elk 
Co., Penn., August 7, 1864, and is a son of Albert and Mary (Langenfeldt) 
Weis. The subject of our sketch was reared and educated in his native town, 
and learned the harness- maker's trade, which he has followed as a journey- 
man workman since 1882. Mr. Weis married, October 23, 1888, Josephine, 



808 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

daughter of John B. and Mary M. (Lion) Heindl, of St. Mary's, and they 
have one son, Richard Albert. Mr. Weis is a member of the Catholic Church, 
and in politics is independent. 

G. A. WESCOTT, foreman of the Gazeth office, took charge of the office 
in 1886. For three years prior to this date he had charge of the Ridgway 
Advocate, and was connected with that office for live years. He was born at 
Portland, nine miles below Ridgeway. in 1N60. His father, Roderick Wes- 
cott, is an old resident of this county, having settled in the Wilcox neigh 
borhood as one of the pioneers. • 

D. R. WILMARTH, of the firm of D. R. Wilmarth & Co.. publishers of 
the Elk County Gazette, St. Mary's, which journal was established in 1868, is 
a son of Frederick and Frances A. (Rolfe) Wilmarth, mention of whom will 
be found elsewhere in this volume. D. R. Wilmarth was born in Pittsburgh, 
February 1 1, 1866, but was brought to Rolfe, Elk county, when only two years 
of age. From that point the family moved to St. Mary's, in 1881, and here, 
in August, 1884, our subject entered the law office of Harry Alvan Hall, under 
whom he pursued his legal studies until April, 1VS7. when he and his precep 
tor bought the Gazette, of which Mr. Hall became the editor and Mr. Wilmarth 
the business manager and local editor. In January, 1890, Mr. Hall retired 
from the editorship and ownership of the Gazette, and Mr. Wilmarth became 
its sole proprietor. The paper, like its owner, is an advocate of the Demo- 
cratic party, and has met with success in a pecuniary way, as well as popularity 
with the reading public. Mr. Wilmarth is a member of Washington Camp, 
No. 376, P. O. S. of A., of Ridgway, Penn. 

FRANK WILMARTH, book-keeper for Hall & Kaul, St. Mary's, was 
born in Pittsburgh, Penn., in 1861, a son of Frederick and Frances A. (Rolfe) 
Wilmarth, the latter a daughter of the late H. M. Rolfe, of Pittsburgh. Ly- 
man Wilmarth, the grandfather of Frank Wilmarth, was an early pioneer of 
Elk county, Penn. (then part of Jefferson county), having come here in 1832 
from the State of New York, and, in conjunction with Arthur Hughe- (now 
living in Cleveland, Ohio, at an advanced age) and George Dickinson (now 
deceased), built a saw-mill at Ridgway. which in those days was considered a 
large concern, as it consisted of three sash saws. In order to get the neces- 
sary machinery for the mill to its proper location, they had to cut their own 
roads through the wilderness a greater part of the way, and their first prospect- 
ing trip was mad.' partly on horseback and partly on foot. Lyman Wilmarth 
married Lemira Dickinson, sister of Judge Dickinson, and they had nine chil- 
dren, five of whom were born in Elk county. Penn. Mr. Wilmarth once wrote 
a very interesting history of Elk county, from the time of its first settlement 
(about 1M 1| up lo 1866, which history was published in the county paper in 
.li" latter year. His death took place at Earley, Elk county, in 1867. Fred 
W ilmarth was born in Ridgway, Elk county, in 1837, and lived there when 
the then hamlet was forty miles away from any other settlement. From 1 s I" 
until 1864 he was an absentee, and on his return, the then thriving borough 
was within eleven hours' ride of Philadelphia. Frank Wilmarth. whose name 
heads this sketch, has been with the linn of Hall & Kaul since 1881, and is 
held hi high esteem by the firm and the public generally. He was married in 
lsss to Jennie M.. daughter of Salver Jackson, of Elk countv. 

CHARLES SEYMOUR WILMARTH, bank cashier, St. Mary's, was 
born in Pittsburgh, Penn.. November I. 1862, a son of Frederick and Frances 
A. (Rolfe) Wilmarth. and has been a resident of Elk county all his life, with 
bhe exception of aboui five years speni with his grandparents in Pittsburgh. 
In May. I^7 S . he entered the employ of the Pittsburgh & Castle Shannon 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 809 

Railroad Company, as a telegraph operator, and in the spring of 1880 he en- 
tered Duff's Commercial College, Pittsburgh, from which institution he grad- 
uated the following summer. In May, 1883, he became cashier of the St. 
Mary's Bank of Hyde, Hall & Co., and has rendered the utmost satisfaction 
to his employers ever since. January 4, 1887, Mr. Wilmarth married Miss 
Annie B. Denny, daughter of W. F. and Elizabeth J. (Wellendorf) Denny, and 
this union has been blessed by the birth of two children : Anita D. (aged two 
years) and Frances C. (aged eight months). Mr. Wilmarth has always been 
a strong Democrat, but, although a very popular young man, has never sought 
official position, nor has he ever been a candidate for one. 

C. G. WILSON, M. D., St. Mary's, was born in Milton, Northumberland 
Co., Penn., September 5, 1848, and is a son of William and Sarah (Brown) 
Wilson. He was reared in his native State and educated at Jersey Shore 
Academy, Jersey Shore, Penn., and at Princeton College, Princeton, N. J. In 
1870 he began the study of medicine in the office of Dr. D. H. Hunter, of 
Watsontown, Penn., attending a course of lectures at Jefferson Medical Col- 
lege, Philadelphia, Penn., the same year, and also a course at the medical 
department of the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, in 1872. In 1873 
he re-entered Jefferson Medical College, and was there graduated in 1874. 
The same year he began the practice of his profession in Watsontown, Penn.. 
and in July, 1876, located in St. Mary's, where he has since remained and 
built up an extensive practice. The Doctor married Til lie, daughter of Hon. 
J. M. and Susan (Hackenberg) Follmer, of Watsontown, Penn., and they have 
two children: Jay (now aged fourteen years) and Effie May (now aged four 
years). Dr. Wilson is a member of the American Medical Association, the 
State Medical Society, the Medical Society of Elk and Cameron counties, and 
is surgeon for the P. & E. R. R. ; is also a medical examiner for many of the 
leading life insurance companies, including, the Travelers' of Hartford, Mutual 
Life of New York, Union Central of Cincinnati, Ohio; Keystone, of Allentown, 
Penn. ; Northwestern, of Milwaukee, Wis. , and others. In politics he is a 
Democrat. 

SEBASTIAN WIMMER, civil engineer, St. Mary's, was born in Thalmas- 
sing, near Ratisbon, Bavaria, Germany, January 5, 1831, and is a son of 
George and Theresa (Hahn) Wimmer, and a nephew of the late Arch-abbot 
Boniface Wimmer, O. S. B. He was reared in Munich, Germany, from 
1833 to 1851, and was educated in the Polytechnic school at that place, from 
which he graduated in 1849. On June 2, 1851, he landed in New York, but 
located in Westmoreland county, Penn., for awhile, and finally secured, at 
Pittsburgh, Penn., a position with Hastings & Preisser, city engineers, from 
June, 1852, to November 15, 1852. He then went to New Orleans, remain- 
ing there six months, when he returned to Pennsylvania, and secured from 
Chief Engineer Milnor Roberts, in June, 1853, the appointment of assistant 
engineer in the building of the Allegheny Valley Railroad, having charge of 
the second division, from Tarentum to Kittanning. In October, 1856, Mr. 
Wimmer went to Minnesota, but came back and married Miss L. H. Blakely, 
at Pittsburgh, February 12, 1857; then returned and located in St. Paul, 
where, soon after (May, 1858), he was appointed assistant engineer of the Min- 
neapolis & Cedar Valley Railroad, which position he held until August, 1859. 
He then returned to Pittsburgh, where he left his family, and again proceeded 
to New Orleans, with a view of locating there, but on account of sickness was 
compelled to relinquish that idea; came again north, and graduated soon after 
from the Iron City Commercial College and accepted the position of book- 
keeper at Saint Vincent Abbey, Westmoreland county, Penn. , during which 



810 HISTORY OF ELK COUNTY. 

time be was instrumental in having a post-office and telegraph office established 
there, ami was appointed its first postmaster. During 1862 be was surveying 
"ii behalf of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company aline from Garland, on the P. 
,\ E. R. E., to Enterprise, Titusville and Oil City; was transferred in June. 
1803, on behalf of the same company, to St. Mary's, Elk Co.. Penn.. to take 
charge of "Edward Miller and Milton Courtright's contract" to complete 
the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad between Whetham, sixteen miles wesi of 
Lock Haven, and Warren, Perm., a distance of 143 miles. After finishing 
this railroad, he set out, March 29, 1865, for Mexico, via Cuba, and there took 
charge of the mountain division of the Vera Cruz & Mexico City Railroad, 
remaining over two years, then went to London, England, to settle the affairs 
of the company. On his return to Pennsylvania, he took charge of th< 
ern forty live miles of the Low Grade division of the Allegheny Valley Rail- 
road. After completing that work in June, 1S74. he became a candidate for 
the legislature from the Elk county district; was elected, and served two suc- 
cessive sessions. In 1^77 Mr. Wimmerwas appointed chief engineer of the 
Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad, after completing which, he was appointed 
Qgineer of the New York & Northern Railroad in 1879, acting in 
ipacity up to 1882; then revisited Mexico, and on his return became 
chief engineer of the Erie & Wyoming Valley Railroad (Penn.). In l sss he 
built the Yonkers Rapid Transit Railroad, from Van Cortlandt to Getty's 
Square, at Yonkers, N. Y.. and made surveys for the New York & Northern 
Railroad at and near Croton Lake. Mr. Wimmer is a stockholder in the 
Clearfield Coal Company, and has extensive landed interests in Minnesota; is 
a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, New York City, and 
politically is a Democrat. 

ERNEST J. WIMMER, attorney at law, St. Mary's, was burn in Pitts 
burgh, Penn.. .September 15, 1859, and is a son of Sebastian and Lavinia H. 
(Blakely) Wimmer. In 1871 he went to St. Vincent's College and graduated 
from that institution in 1878. In New York City he was an employe of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad, in the office of James McCrea, in the capacity of 
shorthand writer, for seven months. In the office of Calvin Goddard, Thomas 
Edison's secretary, he tilled the position of shorthand writer and telegraph 
i at the Mime time for the N. Y. City & X R. R. another year. He 
entered Columbia Law School, and graduated in New York City in 1881, and 
was admitted to the bar in Brooklyn, X. Y., in 1882. Eight months were then 
spent traveling in Europe. On his return he was admitted to tie- bar of 
Elk county, ami has been in continuous practice since. His talents were 
soon recognized, and he was elected district attorney in 1885. Heconvieted 
William C. Bush, in L886, of murder in the first degree, but the senti 
the man was afterward commuted to imprisonment for life. In 1888Mr. Wim- 
mer was re-elected district attorney of Elk county. He has been a resident of 
St, Mary's since 1863. Mr. Wimmer had the honor last fall of having the 
majority given to any candidate, except one. running over 200 ahead 
of Cleveland. He is an accomplished newspaper man. and his reputation at 
the bar is of a high order. Mr. Wimmer was the publisher of the St. Mary's 
Herald for nearly two years, but in 1889 withdrew from the newspaper busi- 
ness, ami has ever since devoted himself entirely to the duties of his profession. 

JOSEPH E. WIXDFELDER. grocer, saloon keeper and manufacturer of 
pop. St. Mary's, was born in that borough. August 13, 1852, a son of Jo- 
seph and Mary (Weis) Windfelder. His father, who was a native of Bavaria. 
Germany, came to this country and settled in 1846 in St. Mary's, where he 
commenced in the brewing business, erecting the first brewery in the town. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 811 

now known as St. Mary's Brewery, which he operated up to 1874. He was 
also engaged in other lines of business, and served as treasurer of Elk 
county one term. His family consisted of twelve children, of whom six sur- 
vive: Joseph F., Mary W., Josephine (Mrs. Frank Fey). Louis. Maggie and 
Isadore. The subject of this notice was reared and educated in St. Mary's, 
and began business for himself as proprietor of a restaurant and saloon (in 
which he is still engaged), embarking, in connection, in the grocery business 
in 1874, and in 1884 in the manufacture of pop and other soft drinks. Mr. 
Windfelder married, October 13, 1874, Kate, daughter of John Kaul, of St. 
Mary's, and by her has rive children: Rosa and Mary (twins), Albert, Andrew 
and Irene. Mr. Windfelder is a member of the Catholic Church; in politics a 
Democrat, and was deputy treasurer of Elk coivnty under his father's adminis- 
tration. 

LEONARD WITTMANN, manufacturer of and dealer in carriages, St. 
Mary's, was born in Bavaria, Germany, December 4, 1841. and is a son of 
George and Barbara (Fisher) Wittmann, who came to this country and located 
in St. Mary's in 1S45. The family soon after moved to a farm in Benzinger 
township, same county, which they cleared and improved, as well as part of 
another farm. The parents both died in St. Mary's. Their children were 
three in number, of whom the subject of this sketch is the only survivor. Mr. 
Wittmann was reared and educated in St. Mary's, and in 1858 he began the 
trade of a general blacksmith. After working in twenty-three different shops, 
during a period of seven years, he, in 1866, started a shop of his own in St. 
Mary's, which, with the exception of two years, he has conducted ever since; 
from 1873 to 1877 he was in the hardware business with George Weidenboer- 
ner. On June 27, 1865, Mr. Wittmann married Mary S. , daughter of Charles 
and Mary (Herzog) Fischer, of St. Mary's, and by her has seven children liv- 
ing: Mary B., Josephine M. , Edward G., Annie, Albert J., Louis B. and 
Henry J. Mr. Wittmann and family are members of the Catholic Church. 
Politically he is a Democrat, and has held the offices of councilman six, and 
school director nine years in succession. 

HENRY YAGER, member of the firm of Yager & Co: , harness manufact- 
urers, St. Mary's, was born in Roda, Sachsen-Altenburg, Germany, March 18, 
1850, an 1 is a son of Julius and Christiana (Roediger) Yager. He was reared 
in his native country, and served an apprenticeship of three years at the har- 
ness and upholstery trades, after which he worked nine years as a journeyman, 
and then for three years conducted business on his own account. In 1881 he 
came to America and located in St. Mary's, where he worked three years in 
the harness shop of Albert Weis; then embarked in business for himself in 
conjunction with Andrew Kaul, under the firm name of Yager & Co. , and they 
are now doing a successful and continually increasing business. Mr. Yager 
was married, December 12. 1878, to Bertha Prueger, a native of Dorna. near 
Roda, Sachsen-Altenburg, Germany. This lady died September 10, 1884, the 
mother of three children : Anna, Paul and Emelia, the last of whom died when 
six weeks old. April 5, 1885, Mr. Yager took for his second wife Katharina 
Leutung. also a native of Germany, and to this union one son, Frederick, was 
born July 18, 1886. Mr. Yager is a member of the Lutheran Church, and in 
politics is a Democrat. 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY 



FOREST COUNTY. 



CHAPTER I. 

TOPOGRAPHY AND NATURAL HISTORY. 

Boundary and Area— Population— Forests— Streams— Elevations— Min- 
erals—Oil Fields. etc.— Oil Litigation— Oil Mysteries— Scouts— Fires, 
etc.— Lumbering— Miscellaneous. 

FOREST COUNTY is bounded on the north by the south line of Warren 
county, on the east by the west line of Elk county, on the south by the 
north lines of Jefferson and Clarion counties, and on the west by the east line 
of Venango county, the east line being 1° 58' west of Washington, and the 
west line 2° 38' west. The area is 431 square miles or 275,840 acres. 

The population in 1860 was 988, increased by 1870 to 4,010, owing princi- 
pally to the fact that in October, 1866, five townships of Venango county 
were attached to the new county. The population in 1880 was 4,385. In 
November, 1888, there were 917 Republican votes, 612 Democratic, 72 Prohi- 
bitionist, and one Union Labor cast, or 1,602 votes, showing an estimated popu- 
lation of 8,010 inhabitants. 

The most of the land in Forest county is heavily timbered with beech, 
sugar-maple, hemlock, ash and cherry. White oak is also found here, and 
more than one mill gives almost exclusive attention to the sawing of hard 
wood. Years ago the great body of pine was removed, but to-day the hem- 
lock forests more than fill the place of the ancient pines, yielding material to 
the lumberman as well as to the bark peeler. Throughout the valleys are 
several productive farms, and on some of the plateaus the true agriculturist 
finds his labor rewarded. 

The Allegheny assumes the character of a large and beautiful river in its 
course through the western townships. For centuries it worked through 
those hills forming islands, changing shore lines and carrying away clayey 
substances, making for the present a well-defined channel with its bed on solid 
layers of shattered shale or heavy gravel. Here the aborigines had their 
lodges, and hither came the itinerant enthusiast — Zeisberger, to dwell for a 
term among the savages. The Tionesta, another large stream, enters the 
river at the county seat, forming a communication with the interior settlements. 
The minor streams are described as follows, the description being taken from 
Daniel Harrington's sketches written in 1879-80: 

" Salmon creek heads near Marien, the old county seat, or Blood's Settle- 
ment, as it was originally called. It runs a northwest course and empties into 
the Tionesta two and a half miles above Newtown Mills. Salmon creek and the 
Branch are both excellent water powers. The stream called the Branch, 
heads about three miles south of Balltown, runs a westerly course, about parallel 
with Tionesta creek, and empties into Salmon creek about a mile from its 



816 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

month. Hazeltou run comes into Tionesta from the north. One mile higher 
up Fork run comes in, also from the north, and opposite Salmon creek emp- 
ties from the south. One mile above these streams is Minister creek, on the 
north side of the Tionesta. The hills on both sides of these last mentioned 
streams have all been chopped over for the pine timber. Here and there a 
farm has been el. 'arc. 1 on the ridges. Just above the mouth of Minister stands 
the old Minister mill, now but a wreck of its former self. It was a water 
power, and in its day turned out millions of feet of lumber. The timber is gone, 
and there was no further use for the mill. Next come Buck Mills, or Panther 
Rock, one mile above Minister. The pine is getting scarce around this null, 
and will not last more than two or three years longer. Buck is also a 
water power. Some hemlock is now cut, of which there is a good sup- 
ply on the Hook lands. There is also considerable ash and cherry in the 
neighborhood. Panther run comes into Tionesta from the south. It is 
a small stream, only two miles in length. There is only a narrow ridge 
between its head and the Branch. Then comes Bob's creek from the north. 
It is a good sized stream at the mouth, but forks about a mile up. About all 
the pine timber is gone on both sides of this run. It is about two miles from 
Buck Mills to the mouth of Bob's creek. On the right of this stream is the 
highest ridge in all this section of country. A fire ran over il some years ago 
and killed all the timber. There is a splendid view from the top of the ridge. 
Eastward you can see down the valley of the Porcupine, which runs easterly, 
till it empties into the Tionesta, a mile above Balltown. You can see up Tion- 
esta creek three or four miles, and on the west you can see clear across the 
valleys of Big and Little Coon creeks into Clarion county, near Pryburg. 
This highest ridge belongs to Col. James Bleakley, in Franklin. As it has 
never been developed, it may contain mure wealth than the International Bank. 
Porcupine run empties into the Tionesta on the north side, one mile below 
Minister. Orris Hall has built a mill on the last named stream, and there is 
-..me lumber to run from that quarter. 

"At the mouth of Big Coon creek, six miles above Tionesta, was a great 
crossing for deer and bears. The wolves used to run deer in on the ice and 
kill them, so that the traveler could often see carcasses on the ice. Bluejay 
creel; heads up toward Marienville and it is about as large as Big Coon creek. 
At an early day it was full of trout, but constant fishing has made them scarce. 

The w Is along the stream were alive witli deer, bears and wolves. Several 

natural licks were Pound along the creek, which were frequented by deer nighi 
and day, unless some hunter molested them, which was very seldom. Bluejay 
cutnes into the Tionesta from the south. About three miles above Balltown are 
two little streams that Kingsley called the Blue and White Sheriffs. These 
names came about in this way. Sheriff Arthur Robinson, of Venango county, 
and Sheriff Littlefield, of Warren county, were laying out. the State road from 
themoutli of Tionesta creek, then in Venango, to Sheffield township, in Warren 
county. The road ran up the creek. One of the sheriffs was dressed in blue 
clothing, and the other wore a light summer suit. From this, Kingsley. who 
was .if a waggish nature, named the streams." Hickory creek rises in Linie- 
stone township, W arren county, and flowing southwest enters the Allegheny at 
Easl Hickory. Numerous stream- run south or southeast through Harmony 
township into the main river, while Millstone and Maple creeks belong to the 
southern townships. 

The ridge which runs in a northeastern direction, from Tylersbnrg in 
Clearfield county, at an elevation of l.fi'JT feet, to Howard Hill, in McKean 
county, is generally known as the "Big Level ridge." The summit of this 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 817 

ridge is a gradually ascending one from its southwestern to its northeastern 
end. At Tylersburg the elevation is 1,627; at Marienville, 1,728; near Sheffield 
Junction, 1,885; at Spring creek, 1,950; at Kane, 2,020, and at Howard hill, 
2, 249 feet. Along the crest of the ridge, from Tylersburg to Howard hill 
(forty miles, in an air line), there is scarcely a break, where its summit has been 
eroded more than fifteen or twenty-five feet below the line of this ascending 
plane. This ridge is capped with Johnson Run sandstone with overlying shale 
at some points. Among the measured elevations, old Pollard log-house, 1,770 
feet above tide; northwest quarter of warrant 3177, 1,810; at the Indian 
doctor's house (Harris), 1,790; Eldridge's summit, 1,860; Marienville summit. 
1,805; Marienville, 1,715; Oakwoods summit, 1,750; Hazlett's spring, 1,770; 
Nebraska bridge, 1,095; Tionesta hill, west of the Allegheny, 1_,595; Wheeler's 
ridge, 1,615; Hickory depot, 1,092; Cunningham's ridge, 1,750; Copeknd's 
hill. 1,680; Big level,"on Elk county line, 1,912; Kinnear's (Hunter's shanty), 
between the sources of Millstone creek and Wolf run, 1,770 feet; Byrom's depot, 
1,812; Redclyffe cross-roads, 1,615; hill opposite Foxburg, 1,500, and Tionesta 
depot, 1,058 feet. 

The general compiled section of the coal measures found in the county, 
and more particularly in Jenks township, showing 331 feet, is as follows: 

1. Shales and sandstones 50' 8. Shales and slate 10' 

2. Clarion coal bed 2' 3" 9. Kinzua creek sandstone, lower 

3. Johnson run sandstone 70' er member 40' 

4. Alton Upper coal bed 3' 10. Marshburg slates, containing a 

5. Shales and slates 5' to 10' coal bed two feci thick 10' 

6. Alton Lower coal bed 4' 11. Olean conglomerate 100' 

7. Kinzua creek sandstone, up 

per member 40' 

The first coal mined was at Balltown. In 1869-70 coal was sold at the old 
Everhart bank, two miles from Newmanville. for seven cents per bushel, while 
at Tionesta the price was 25 cents. In 1S75 William Heath opened his mine, 
followed by Peter Youngk. 

In 1845 an Indian from Wisconsin came hither to explore the mineral 
lands of which he heard the old men of his tribe speak. After a search of 
several weeks he returned disappointed. Some years before a white man was 
taken hither blindfolded, and the visor lowered to permit him to see the silver 
mines. In 1867 a Frenchman came hither from the west to search for the 
mysterious silver deposit, but was unsuccessful. W T ithin a mile of the old 
Daniel Huddlestone farm, in Tionesta township, on warrant 2827, are the 
ditches of prehistoric miners, which were first explored by James Evans, of 
Franklin. 

Two miles above the mouth of Little Hickory was the Cross furnace, which 
was abandoned after a number of years for want of more limestone .... From 
1826 to 1831 the Tionesta furnace existed near the west end of Creek bridge, its 
site being visible in 1870. The pigs were taken down the river in a seven-ton 
vessel, known as "Gen. Hay's Big Canoe". ... In C. Gillespie's water well 
at Whig hill, twelve miles up Tionesta creek, a four-foot vein of iron ore was 
discovered in November, 1867. 

Oil Fields. — From 1862 to 1865 residents of the county as well as travel- 
ers up and down the river asked themselves why oil did not exist in this section 
of the Allegheny valley as well as on Oil creek. To satisfy the querists, one 
or two ventures were made in the latter year. The well on the Holeman fiats, 
drilled in 1865, began to flow in November, 1867. On Sugar run, one and 
one-fourth miles below Nebraska, is the scene of the oil excitement of 1865- 
66, when a number of wells were drilled from 360 to 500 feet, oil being found 



818 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

in paying quantities only on the Conroy farm, near Wolcott's well of 1883 .... 
The well at Jamison's was shot in September, 1889, and proved a five-barrel 
producer. 

An old oil well on the Dawson farm, Stewart's run, was revived in May. 
1867. by a torpedo, and other abandoned wells were also subjected to a shaking 
up. . . . The Oldtown Petroleum Company's well was drilled 1,000 feet on the 
May farm, Tionesta creel;, by S. S. Hulings, in February, 1867; salt water at 
the rate of 150 barrels per day was produced. . . . The East Sandy gas well 
touched gas at 350 feet in January. 1868, blowing the tools thirty feet into 
the air, and, the gas taking lire, flames shut up 100 feet. ... In June, 1869, a 
twenty live barrel well was drilled on Jamison flats. 

Col. P. 1). Thomas leased several tracts in the borough to Bapti, Frost & 
Co., Col. Simmons and J. G. Gear, and Stewart & Andrews purchased up 
Tubbs run at the great pigeon roost, Prof. Shotwell. near Tubbs run. Shafer 
& Co., and others, in the vicinity. . . . The Ross run oil field was abandoned in 
January, 1870, leaving the hearts of many operators sore. The East Hickory 
oil stampede dates back to the spring of 1870, when the Dr. Winner and the 
Welton & Stephenson wells were drilled. . . . The Bird well (Irwin's) and the 
venture on the Tuttle farm, the McNair well on the Wilkin's farm. Bennex ' - on 
the Jones farm, the Scott well on the Scott farm, and the proposed wells on 
the Fagundas farms, by Neyhart, Grandin & Fisher, and at White Oak, kept 
West Hickory iu a sea of excitement throughout the summer of 1S70. 

On July 1, 1870, McNair No. 1 well on the Wilkins' farm was producing 
1,240 barrels, and No. 1 on the H. W. Sci >tt farm, 175 barrels. No. 2 was drilled 
WO feel close by, while McNair No. '1 was also drilling. One well on each of 
the following numbered lots was also being drilled: Lots 5. ''>. 7. "_' and 3; 
while on leases 9, 10, 11 and 1 the drillers were kept busy. Wells No. 1 to 
•j inclusive, on the Fagundas farm, were down from o.~.i> to I"' 11 feet .... On 
the Tuttle farm Irwin & Bird were pumping seventy-live barrels, and the vent- 
ure was yielding 200 barrels, while a number of wells were drilling, and Dick- 
son A: ('arson struck a twenty-five barrel well at West Hickory. In February. 
1870, the daily production at Fagundas was 1,600 barrels. ... In 1^7". Rev. 
William Richardson, superintendent for Orandin. Kelly & Co.. drilled on Hem- 
lock creek, and found oil. Kahle Bros, drilled four wells there later. In Jan- 
uary. 1 ^77, \Y. S. McMullen leased the abandoned oil territory on the West 
' oil farm, and began the work of pumping the old wells .... The 
& Hart well al Tionesta was drilled in the spring of ls7<>, and the 
Hunter well, near the depot, in lS7<>-77. Nichol'swell. on the Lander's farm 
in Harmony township, was producing about this time. ... In August, l^i 1, an 
oil well was drilled on the Cop, eland farm for Copeland & Gleason; Dr. Tow 
let'- well at Marien. the McLaughlin well on the Kepler farm, the Berry well, 
one and one half miles east of the first well near Balltown, a well on Logan 
run, tiie Brookston Tannerj well, and other ventures were made. . . . Blue Jay 
well. No. 1. near Foxburg, was a producer in November. 1880. 

In the Fall of 1882 the Cooper tract began to show its possibilities . . . .The 
Charles Shultz well came in inJanuary, l^ y o. with a production of500 barrels 
per day; the Clark & Foster well did not prove of much importance, though 
in October. 1882, the crude showed 15° gravity, whilethe Reno well was keep 
ing ii]> its production. The Grandin, Berry & Kelly No. '_'. at Balltown, also 
drilled in lss'_\ was reported dry on January 4. but the erection of two large 
tanks there led man) to believe in the inaccuracj of the report .... The Reed 
& Brenneman well was struck, beginning with 2,400 barrels per day and de- 
clining to siio. The Patterson & T dom well, on warrant 2735, was drilled 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 819 

dry by Both, Bock & Co. ; Galey Bros. & Stewart wells were also drilled, and the 
Beno began flowing 900 barrels per day, exclusive of the 5,000 wasted. Shan- 
non started with 200 barrels; while Fertig & Henne, Sherman Bros., Forest 
Oil Company and McCalmont Oil Company were all at work. Toward the close 
of January, 1883, the Union Oil Company's well reported a 3,000-barrel flow; 
James Walsh's Dutch well, on Porky run, was begun, and in February 
yielded oil, while round the new town of Forest City wells were being drilled 
on the Shannon lease, warrant 2735, by Murphy & Co. on 3198, and one by 
Agnew & Bogers. One-half mile east of this city, at the Beed & Brenneman 
well, was Gusher City, a village of ten houses. George Coyle, the terror of 
the two cities, was shot in the foot in February and died under chloroform .... 
Near Newmanville Searles & Co. located their wells in 1882-83, and in 1883 
Wolcott's well, below Nebraska, was drilled. Grandin & Kelly's No. 3, on 
the Cook lands, produced crude of 45° gravity in August, 1882 .... The Tio- 
nesta Oil Company began operations near Brace's mill, on tract 5218, in 
April, 1883, and in the same month and year the Hoodoo Oil Company 
was organized by the scouts, and a well drilled in the southwestern corner of 
warrant 3668. J. C. Tennent, .P. C. Boyle and L. A. Beaumont were the in- 
terested parties. It required forty feet of drive-pipe to reach the bed- 
rock, and the well was cased 450 feet. Salt-water was found in the Clarion 
sand at 587 feet, and a white pebbly sand was found at 1,475 feet, which af- 
forded five bailers of oil daily. Sand was encountered from 1,670 to 1,709 feet, 
and at 1,735 feet a red sand was discovered having a thickness of forty feet, 
and resembling the stray sand of the Cooper tract. From this level the 
drilling was hard down to 1, 900 feet. The formation from 1,900 to 2,030 feet con- 
sisted of shells and black slate. This well, drilled by the scouts, had a showing 
of oil which made prospecting in its vicinity alluring, and large expenditures 
were made in the endeavor to open up a new field. S. B. Hughes secured lands, 
and with John Johnson and M. Murphy drilled one well northwest of the Hoo- 
doo, and a second one 1,600 feet east of it. Both of these wells were failures; 
but, not to be discouraged, Hughes drilled a third well in this section, on a 45° 
line northeast of the Hoodoo well, and about sixty rods from the northern bound- 
ary line of the warrant, which was also a failure. Windsor & Co., of Titusville, 
completed two small wells along the eastern boundary line of warrant 3561, 
almost due south of the Hoodoo well. The Frost dry hole is situated on this 
warrant and southwest of the Hoodoo well, and Butts & Palmer added a dus- 
ter to the list on a warrant still further to the west .... In November, 1883, 
the gauge of the Balltown field showed a production of 3,350 barrels of oil. 
During that winter the L. Agnew building was erected, and additions made to 
Corah & Hawk's hotel.... In March, 1884, the guage of the Cooper tract 
showed 5,010 barrels from 182 wells, and of the Balltown tract, 3,376 barrels 
from seventy-six wells. Within the week ending March 26, fourteen new wells 
were completed and twenty-three shot in the Cooper tract, and in the Balltown, 
two new wells were completed and sixteen torpedoed. Barnum & Co. 's well, on 
warrant 3820, Green township, was drilled to sand in June. 1888, gas answer- 
ing the drill. In 1883 the Walters well was drilled, by Capt. Grace, on this 
warrant, two years later Barnum drilled one mile east of the Walters well, and 
in 1886 the Mealy Brothers drilled on their farm. 

Early in the summer of 1885 the old Kennedy & Hancock well, on Whig 
hill, was drilled deeper, and a fair show of good oil obtained .... The develop- 
ment of territory at Crisman's mills and at the mouth of Fool's creek, in the 
Gusher City neighborhood, commenced in July, 1885, after the Agnew & 
Proper well, two miles up the creek, was pronounced a success. . . .Tionesta 



820 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNT V. 

y's No. 2, on warrant 2825, a half mile northwest from their No. 
1, struck the deep or Speechlj sand in July. 1886, finding gas therein in gen 
.r<ms quantity. A small showing of oil was found. The well is located on 
the south line of the warrant, L,500 feet north of the southwest corner and 
al milt ten rods from ttie west line, on the Gilmore lands. The sand is thinner 
bere than is the first well by one-half, No. - liuding only forty feet of rock 
against eighty feet in No. 1. Allhouse, who drilled both wells, insists there 
is a better lowing of oil in No. '2 than was found in the first well. . . .Carna- 
han's well, on the Eepler farm, opened in July, 1887, yielded 600 barrels in 
two weeks. Stewart & Wood followed tin- discovery by the purchase of "J . '_' 7 T> 
acres, and Black Brothers by leasing 250 acres in the vicinity ... .The Mc- 
Cray well, on 5208, a mile south of tin 1 great gas well in Hickory township. 
rilled in April. 1888... .On the C. O. Baird lands, A. B. Kelly leased 
in 1887, and in September, 1889, his eighth well was completed. . . . In I s i i 
O. W. Proper built a rig at Cherry Grove, the first on tract 745, near the line 
of Forest county. This proved dry, when he went into the land business, giv- 
ing a little attention to local wells. In January, 1889, he and J. F. Proper 
drilled a well on the Matthewson farm in Harmony township, following their 
well on the Copeland lands. They have five producing wells on the Matthew 
son farm, and are now drilling on the Hill farm, six miles down the river from 
Tionesta. near the McGrew Brothers' wells (begun in 1888), one of which is a 
fair producer. 

Cooper tract adjoins the Balltown tract on the northeast .... J . M 
Clapp operates 200 acres of the C. J. Fox lands, near Foxburg in this dis 
trict, which yields about 300 barrels per month. He bought the property 
about seven years ago for a comparatively small sum. Capt. Haight, Anchor 
Oil Company, Reagan & Goff, T. W. Pratt and Bain. Fuller & Co. are oper 
ators. John L. Kenny's wells are in the neighborhood of Henry's mills. 
near the county line, and Horton, Crary .V Co.'s wells are east of Brookston. 

In the Balltown field A. B. Kelly & Co. have sixty wells; the Balltown 
Oil Company, seventy-six; the Porcupine Oil Company, fifty-four; Agnew, 
Wal-ho & Proper, twenty-one; Agnew, Haight & Proper, seven, and Clark 
& Foster, fifty-eight, a total of 276. About 300 wells have been drilled in 
this field, of which 150 are producers at present. Walshe & Grandin have 
eight wells on their 200- acre lease (warrant 5266), of which three are pro 
■ ■ • Fogle farm and other tracts owned by J. J. Carter, produce 
about 4,000 barrels per month. In the Dawson run field the Tionesta Oil 
Company's product is 300 barrels. On the O. Bayard tract, A. B. Kelly 
tees 3,000 barrels; on the Gorman run tract, Hopkins, Gorman & 
Setley, 500 barrels; on the Manderson tract, Proper Brothers and H. Col- 
lins, 000 barrels; on the Copeland farm (Bovee), 500 barrels; Kepler, Hale 
& Beaver farm (Carnahan), 600 barrels, while the old Faguudas field yields 
■ itt 500 barrels per month. 

The history of the Balltown field, as outlined by one of the producer--, is 
interesting and valuable. This field is the largest .and most prolific yet found 
tinty. It is situated in Howe and Kingslej townships, its present 
terminus being on the Green farrn, near the mouth of Fork run, from which 
point the bell is traced in a northeasterly direction about ten miles, through 
warrant, numbered 5266, 5267, 5268, 3133, 1821, 1=792, 3194, 3195, 3197 and 
3198, to the Cooper district. These warrants contain about 8,000 acres of 
land, though the oil belt, or pool, in places through them does not exceed eighty 
rods in width. Warrant- 5266 and 5267 are part of a large body of 7.000 
acres of land, known as the Cook estate, leased by 11. II. Ma\ (now deceased). 



HISTOEY OF FOREST COUNTY. 821 

A. B. Kelly and B. W. May, of Tionesta, Perm. Part of warrant 5268 is 
known as the Schooley lands, leased by J. C. Welsh, and part by the Anchor 
Oil Company. The Green farm was leased by J. C. Welsh & Co., and that 
part of the last named warrant owned by the Tionesta Oil Company, leased by 
Kelly, Grandin, Agnew & Proper; warrant 3133. owned by L. F. Watson, 
leased by Murphey & Davis; warrants 4S21, 4823, 4792. 3195, 3197. owned 
by the Pittsburgh & Forest County Oil & Lumber Company, and John A. 
Proper and J. B. Agnew, leased by J. B. Agnew in 1875 in connection with 
the Balltown Oil Company; warrant No 3194, owned by the Hall Estate & 
Miller, leased and purchased by Murphey & Davis and the Anchor Oil Com- 
pany, called the Porcupine Oil Company; warrant No. 3198, owned by J. B. 
Agnew, 400 acres leased to Haight, Proper & Agnew, and 300 acres leased and 
sold to M. Murphey, Union Oil Company and others. 

The first oil found at Balltown was a light showing of oil in a well drilled 
by Whisner and other New York parties in 1863-64, but was not sufficient to 
induce them to continue operations. In 1875 John A. Proper and J. B. Ag- 
new, who were then part owners of the 4,000 acres of the Balltown lands, be- 
lieving it to be good oil territory, began arranging for its development. On 
September 1, 1875, J. B. Agnew procured from the other owners a lease 
of the 4,000 acres of land, by which the Balltown Oil Company, then com- 
posed of Peter and David Berry, E. B. and J. L. Grandin, W. T. Scheidie, J. B. 
Agnew and John A. Proper, was formed. A year later Capt. J. M. Clapp 
purchased an interest in said company. In the spring of 1870 this company 
commenced operations by drilling one well at Balltown, the well being known 
as Balltown Oil Company's No. 1. But as this well made only a light 
showing of oil, the property being then isolated many miles from pipe-lines, 
etc., it only gave sufficient encouragement to try for better wells. The com- 
pany then having procured leases of about 5,000 acres of the lands of Drexel, 
Duhring & Wright and the Funk Estate, adjoining the Balltown lands, next 
proceeded to put down a well on the lands of Duhring & Wright on warrant No. 
4791, in August, 1877. Not finding oil in it in paying quantities, they next 
drilled a well on the lands of the Funk heirs without finding any good 
showing of oil. In 1881 they drilled another well at Balltown, near their No. 
1, that started off at about twenty-five barrels per day, but did not hold out 
well. They then, in 1882, proceeded with their fifth well near the last one 
drilled, which proved to be dry. They next drilled their sixth well on warrant 
4823, which proved to be a paying well, and which resulted in the opening of 
a large production in that part of the field. Mr. Agnew had, prior to this, 
made an agreement for a lease of the Cook property, but the company not be- 
ing ready to proceed with operations within the time allowed, he gave that Tip. 
and about 1881 Messrs. May & Kelly, who had purchased the timber on the 
Cook lands, took a lease of said lands, and commenced operations on warrant 
5266, and completed one well, which proved a failure. They commenced a 
second well, when an arrangement was made whereby the Balltown Oil Com 
pany became half owners with them in the lease of the whole 7,000 acres. 
Their second well not being a paying well, they started the third well, which 
was located by H. H. May (now deceased) who is said to have stuck his cane 
in the ground at the place where the conductor hole of the well was afterward 
started for the No. 3 well, at the distance of a half mile from the last wells 
drilled. This well was drilled a short distance into the sand in August, 1882, 
and showed for a large well, but was not fully opened until the December fol- 
lowing, when pipe-line connections and telegraph communication were estab- 
lished with the Balltown field. When drilled through the sand, this well 



822 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

started ;it the rate of 1,000 barrels per day, causing great excitement in that 
field and throughout the oil region, and having quite an effect upon the oil 
market This well, known as No. '■'< Cook lease, has been one of the largest 
and best wells in the field. It is still producing, and is said to have yielded 
between two and three hundred thousand barrels. 

Since that time some sixty wells have been drilled on warrants 5266 and 
5267, many of them starting at the rate of over 1,000 barrels per day. and to- 
gether have produced up to this time about 1,000,000 barrels, and still have an 
annual production of about 50,000 barrels. Large wells are also found on war- 
rants 5268 to the southwest, and a large amount of oil has been produced there- 
from. Immediately after the drilling of the Balltown Oil Company's well od 
warrant 1823, being their No. 6, the Porcupine Oil Company bought warrant 
8194 for $25,000, and commenced operations on it. striking a gusher for their 
first well that caught fire and burned up the rig before they were aware that 
they had penetrated the rock. This well, when opened, started at nearly 1,000 
barrels per day, and was immediately followed by the drilling of other wells 
by said company, some of which produced as much as 2,500 barrels per dav. 
At the same time this well was being drilled, the Balltown Oil Company was 
drilling oil warrants 1821 and 4792 wells that started at the rate of from 300 
to 500 barrels per day. afterward getting two wells that started at the rate of 
twenty -five barrels per day. This was followed by the drilling of a large num- 
ber of wells on all of said warrants and warrant 1823, some lull in number 
within two years, bringing the production of the Balltown field at one time up 
to about 8,000 barrels per day. 

In June, 1884, J. B. Agnew, John A. Proper and J. C. Welsh drilled a 
well on ninety acres of warrant 3195, owned by Proper & Agnew. and known 
as the Proper Reserve, that started at the rate of 1,300 barrels per day. and 
averaged SOI) barrels per day for the first month. This resulted in the open- 
ing of warrants 3195, 3197 and 3198; Agnew & Proper's well No. 1. Proper 
Reserve, having produced alone nearly 200.0(H) barrels of oil. they drilling. 
in addition to this, twenty wells on the Proper Reserve, and thirty acre- of 
said warrant, known as the Nickle Oil Company, in which L. Agnew and J. F. 
Proper were interested. Clark & Foster became the lessees of 500 acres of 
warrants No. 3195 and 3197, on which they got some large wells, and have 
drilled on it a large number of wells, which have produced over half a million 

barrels of oil. Taking the Balltown field altogether, with tl il produced 

from warrant 3198, that field has produced about 5.000.000 barrels of oil 
since 1883, and is yet producing from 8,000 to 10,000 barrels of oil per month. 

John Cook was the owner of the 3,000 or 1,000 acres which later consti- 
tuted the Cook estate situate on Tionesta and Bob's creeks, near Panther 
Rock or Buck .Mills. Cook was an Englishman, and resided in Philadelphia, 
be died. H. H. May and Orris Hall bought the pine timber from the 
administrators of the estate or trustees of the Philadelphia Blind Asylum at 
>1 per thousand, stumpage, and in 1879 obtained oil rights on Too acres. 
This right formerly formed a part of their lumber lease. After drilling two 
wells, which were condemned, the syndicate, of which .Mr. May was a member. 
secured 6,300 acres, Daniel Harrington, in his reminiscences speaks of Cook 
and i if hemlock, but never of oil. He writes in 1879 as follows: "During 
the war. while lumber was high, they coined mone\ almost as fast as one of 
"Uncle Sam's mints. No won, lei- that May is a banker, and can sit down and 
count his ten per cent. The pine timber is about all used up. Some twenty- 
five years ago Cook was here to view his possessions. He was an eccentric 
man, and a fine scholar. On one of his trips t • Tionesta village from the 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 823 

mills he was caught in a heavy thunder shower. He had a summer suit on, 
and got very wet. He stopped at our house, and went to bed while my wife 
dried his clothing by the lire. After his clothes were dried he got up. One 
part of his wardrobe was a white silk vest, which was badly stained by the 
tobacco he carried in one of its pockets. He made a great lamentation over 
that stain, more than some would if they had been in the mud all over. Mr. 
Cook was one of those men who cannot control their love for the substitute of 
hop bitters, and that, at last, hopped him off to the other shore. There is a 
very large quantity of good hemlock timber on the land, and the day is per- 
haps coming when there will be as much money in hemlock as there was in 
pine." Some time before Mr. May, of Tionesta, died, the old gentleman vis- 
ited Balltown to look over the land which he owned in that vicinity. While 
there he drove a stake into the ground and said he would like to see a well 
drilled at that spot. After his death his son, Ben May, mentioned the cir- 
cumstance to Mr. Grandin, and the latter said: " We will make a test at that 
spot." The stake was found and the well drilled, and it has been known as 
the Grandin No. 3, the largest well ever struck in the Balltown district. 

The suit relating to the ownership of warrant 4792 — 300,000 barrels of oil 
above ground and the lease of the land — was entered, but settled just before the 
trial, the Pittsburgh Company and Balltown Oil Company taking the oil and 
surrendering the property. The suit commenced in 1883, but was settled in 
January, 1884, when the Balltown Company was continued as lessees under 
the title of the Howe Oil Company. The oil right of this warrant was valued 
at $500,000, the most valuable oil right, in litigation in this county. Another suit, 
concerning the original lines of warrant 4821, involving the ownership of twenty- 
three acres which produced 58,000 barrels prior to the settlement of suit, was 
commenced in 1883 and settled in 1888, costing the litigants $40,000. Col. L. 
F. Watson was the principal plaintiff, and the Pittsburgh and Balltown oil 
companies principal defendants. The greater part of the $40,000 was for 
attorneys' fees and expenses of surveyors and witnesses, the leading lawyers of 
the district being employed. 

The "Shannon mystery" dates back to lSTfi, when Marcus Hulings began 
drilling for oil on the banks of the Tionesta at Foxburg — theu a hamlet of two 
dwellings, one barn and a school-house. The drill was driven by the water- 
wheel of the old saw-mill, and reached sufficient depth to urge Hulings to trans- 
fer his tools to the Bradford held. C. A. Schultz, a piano tuner, interested 
Morck, a watch repairer of Warren, in the abandoned oil field, and both leased 
the Fox lands and adjacent territory, embracing the Cooper farm in Howe 
township. Lots were sold on easy conditions and wells drilled; but oil would not 
respond. The anxious owners met P. M. Shannon, of Bradford, and offered 
him great inducements to develop Lot D in the Cooper tract. A. B. Walker 
and T. J. Melvin joined Shannon, and in the summer of 1882 had their roads 
cut and machinery on the field. Drilling commenced, but on July 25, when 
the drill reached 1,800 feet. Walker & Melvin, annoyed with delay, retired 
from the field. On the day following Shannon wrote to them to return, say- 
ing: "Can't stop her! She is a teaser! Bring'two or three as large plugs as 
you can get, and hurry here." Guards were placed round the "mystery," 
and a military system followed closely until the "mystery" was sold. Pratt, 
Bean & Fuller are the present owners of this old well. 

Scouts. — During the palmy days of scouting, when every important well 
was made a mystery, there were many exciting adventures encountered by the 
scouts in their midnight work. Guards were sometimes lonely in the still 
watches of the night, and amused themselves by firing their rifles, muskets or 



124 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

revolvers in a promiscuous manner, not calculated to encourage scouts prowl 
ing in the vicinity. In the history of McKeao county a good deal is written 
of the 3COuts and guards; but little is said of Cooper Hill and the Shannon 
mystery. A. C. Sue!], of the Era, speaking of the old days, describes the 
guards' square round the Shannon well as a ten-foot opening in the deep forest, 
some distance from the well, and rourt ling it with a sentrj box at each cor 
ner. In of the firsl scouts there, and managed to enter the mysteri 

ous circle unobserved and measure the oil in the tank. While making plans 

ape, be saw two lantern Lights carried forward through the forest. ju~t 

piards were changed for the night. The new guards also observed the 
red their warning round, when the lights went out. One guard, 
believing that the intruders would not venture closer that night, selected a spot 
near the derrick for shelter in preference to the sentry- box, but was not long 
there when another alarm was turned in. This guard rushing to his post, fell 
over Snell, and, though terribly scared, arrested the scout ami took him to ('apt. 
Haight's shanty, leaving his fellow guards to shout and tire as only guards ol 
that period could. Haight, after examining the intruder, failed to perceive 
that he had secured the information he sought, ami drove him into the wilder 
iii>s in the darkness. The men who were the cause of the alarm were Arm- 
strong and Cleminger, two Foxburg speculators. 

The Shannon mystery and the Cherry Grove pool had to be watched by the 

at the same time. On < lark night, when Tennent, in company witli 

•J. 11. Bathbun, a fellow-scout, remained on duty at the Shannon mystery, his 
earthly career came near being terminated. While moving along on all 
to get near the well, he grasped the limb of a dead log in order to draw him 
self over it. The twig broke with a loud report, and the guard, whose station 
was close at hand, tired. The bullet whizzed past Tennent' s ear and in close 
proximity to his head. Tennent mad" no mistakes in placing an estimate on the 
Shannon well, and the advancing market of the fall of 1SS2 found Capt. Jones 
loaded with oil bought at bottom figures. In December. 1882, May. Kelly & 
Grandin's No. 3 was drilled deeper after market hours, and responded at a rate 
which played havoc with the bulls at the opening on the following day. Tennent 
and the other scouts watched the well drilled deeper from points outside the 
guard lines. In his estimates on its production he reported it good for 900 
barrels in the first twenty-four hours. The other scouts rated it much lower, 
and those who gave the correct figures sent them out as Tennent'- estimate. 
The gauge ,ni tie 1 next ila\ showed the correctness of his judgment, which was 
ba ed on tie- length of flows and the interval between them. 1*. C. Boyle, 
aided by W. C. Edwards and Tennent, were theschemers who made the brill 
iant play of the year when they drilled the .May. Kelly & (irandin No. 1 be 
low the -.ami level, before the owners learned that the sand had been tapped. 
The methods employed and the financial pressure brought to bear on trusted 
employes will not bear analysis outside of the realms where mystery men and 

asure strength for results to be used in the halls where gambling in 

oil bears the stamp of respectability. Asa rule the -cat - directed their best 
energies to correct] >rts sent out by mystery men: but at the 

Grandin well thej took the aggressive and got the better of honest men. At 
the No. 1, which came in dry, and proved a grand surprise to the trade, Mr, 
Boyle, that most enterprising scout, had the guards out to keep intruders from 
the well, and when Mr. Hague came to the well one morning, with a ba 

older, le uld not gain admission to his own well until the contractor 

came to the guard line and gave orders to the guard to let him in. Boyle and 
Tennent did some tine work at the 1'atterson well north of the Coopei tract. 



HISTORY OF FOKEST COUNTY. 825 

Many were the wild rides to a telegraph office nine or ten miles distant, 
each scout anxious to file the first message. Oftentimes the owners of the 
wells were in the cavalcade, urging their horses with whip and spur, but there 
is no case on record when owners were not beaten by some of the hard-riding 
fieklmen. The best of horses were in demand, and the time made was, in some 
instances, remarkable, considering that the roads were of the roughest. Occa- 
sionally a horse, going at a mad gallop, would stumble over the rocks in its 
path and fall, throwing its rider over its head — but accidents were few. B. S. 
Tupper, the only one of the old time scouts who is constantly in the field yet, 
was thrown in this way on the road from Cooper Hill to Sheffield in the spring 
of 1883, and had his leg broken. He declined assistance from those coming 
after him, but refused to be moved out of the road to let them pass until they 
had taken his messages to deliver at the telegraph office. After filing the mes- 
sages they returned at once and carried him tenderly to the town. 

Fires, etc. — The oil line, on the Porcupine Oil Company's lease, in Howe 
township, burst in February, 1888, letting 125 barrels into Porky creek, 
where it was ignited by a gas jet. The derrick, boiler-house and tank were 
burned. . . .During the storm of July, 1886, Kelly, Grandin & Co. 's tanks, at 

Buck Mills, were struck by lightning and 1,000 barrels of oil burned 

•'Doc " Haggerty, of the Warren Torpedo Company, and the two horses which 
he was driving, were blown to atoms by glycerine, in December, 1888, while 
en route from West Hickory to Pleasantville. Not a vestige of the "Doc" 
has since been found. 

Lumbering. — In the chapter on pioneers, as well as in that devoted to the 
townships and villages of Forest county, references are made to the early 
lumbermen and their saw-mills in this region The Lumbermen's Associa- 
tion was organized in August, 1872, to oppose the Clarion River Navigation 
Company. The members were John Cobb & Sons, Henry Moore, of the Mill- 
stone Mills, Cyrus Thompson and others. D. B.Watson was elected president: 
T. W. Taylor, vice-president; Jeremiah Cook, treasurer, and T. B. Cobb, sec- 
retary. The object was to oppose the navigation company in their designs on 
the river below Raught's mills. 

In January, 1873, there were 13,000,000 feet of lumber piled at the Coon 
and Tionesta creeks, 5,000,000 of which were produced at Cobb's mills, up 
Coon creek; 2,250,000 at Root & Gillespie's mills, and the remainder at the 
mills of Payne, Porter Haskell, Melvin Rogers and Myers. Four miles above 
Lacytown, where the water mills of Cobb & Sons, built in 1868, stood, George 
Lacy built a steam mill. The output grew annually until April, 1883, when 
the Tionesta, Hickory and Cooksburg forests and mills appeared to turn out 
enough of lumber to supply the two Columbias. Daniel Harrington, who com- 
piled the lumber statistics that year, made the following estimate: 

Tionesta.— O. Hall, boards, 400,000; Wheeler & Dusenbury, 1,000,000 
boards, 120,000 timber; Eli Berlin, 200,000 boards; Ford & Lacy, 165,000 
boards; Jacob Sheasley, 150,000 boards, 26,000 timber; Porter Haskell, 175,- 
000 boards, 100,000 timber; James Bowman, 13,000 timber; Salmon Creek 
Lumber Company, 120,000 boards; W. Holebrook, 625,000 boards; Cornwall 
& Bonner, 1,000,000 boards; Russel & Sons, 2,000,000 boards; Dale & Law- 
rence, 350,000 boards, 90,000 timber, 60 cords of hemlock bark, and 10,000 
barrel staves; Catlin & Osgood, 90,000 timber; Kepler & Foreman, 25,000 tim- 
ber; William Tobey, 300,000 boards; May & Kelly, 300,000 boards. 

Hickory.— John Hunter, 200,000 timber; Watson & Freeman, 80,000 tim- 
ber; Wheeler & Dusenbury, 100,000 boards, 35,000 timber; H. Brace, 3,000,- 
000 boards, 50,000 timber; Kepler & Foreman, 50,000 timber; Frank Henry, 
2,000,000 boards, 75,000 timber. 



826 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Cooksburg.— Cook & Sons, 2,000,000 boards, 100,000 timber. 

During the year 1887 Wheeler & Dusenbury shipped seventy-two million 
feet of lumber, collected on their 13,000 acres, through which seven and a half 
miles of railroad were built by them, to which ten miles were added in 1888. 
.... Nine shingle-mills existed in Howe and Jenks townships in 1888, produc- 
ing 180,000 shingles per day. 

The lumber mills of the county, in 1889, are large, important industries. 
Years ago the pessimist said the hills would soon be bare, and the occupation 
of woodman and lumberman gone forever; but the following list of mills, with 
notes on capacity, etc., show no sign of diminution in supply. This list was 
carefully compiled and published in the Northwestern Lumberman of October 
5, 1889: 

*Byromtown (P. & W. R. R.), Baurnan & Hafele, pine, hemlock, hard 
woods, S 2; f jMiner, Green & Co., pine, hemlock, hardwoods, S 4 P. 

Clarington (shipping station Vowinckle, P. & W. ), J. B. Pearsall & Co., 
hemlock, hardwoods, S. 3 P. ; W. D. & S. H. Shields, R. 

Cooksburg (Clarion river). A.. Cook, two mills, pine, oak, hemlock, S 4, 
Sh 3; David Heffron, pine, oak, hemlock, S 2. 

East Hickory (shipping station West Hickory, W. N. Y. &P.), R. Chaffey, 
Sh; Normile & Tobey, hemlock, hardwood, S3: §William H. Stright, hemlock, 
pine, oak. S 3; * f Wheeler & Dusenbury, two mills, pine, hemlock, hardwood, 
S4P; L. D. Whitcomb, P. 

Eulalia (shipping station Sheffield Junction, P. & W., T. V ). •' Baurnan & 
Hafele, hemlock, hardwoods (mill at Pebble Dell), S3; J. L. Betts & Co., four 
mills, Sh; Enterprise Lumber Company, hemlock, S 4 P; Forest County Lum- 
ber Company, mills at Sheffield Junction, S 4, Sh 4 P. 

Gilfoyle (P. & W.), * Curll, Campbell & Co., hemlock, beech, maple, S 3, 
Sh 3; N. Gilferd, hemlock, hardwoods, S 2. 

Golinza (shipping station Tionesta), G. J. & F. C. Lacy, pine, hemlock, 
hardwood.-.. S '■', Sh. 

Guitonville (shipping station Tionesta, W. N. Y. &P.), R. J. Wade (J. T. 
Wade & Bros., owners), pine, hemlock, hardwoods, S 2 P. 

Marienville (P. & W. ), Baker, Hammond & Co., pine, hemlock, cherry, hard 
woods, S I, Sh I; Hammond &Messenger, pine, hemlock, hardwoods, S 3, Sh 3; 
§H. H. Hensil, hemlock, maple, S 3 P; Charles S. Leech, hemlock, beech, ma- 
ple, S 3 P; J. H. Morrison, S 3 P. 

Nebraska (shipping station Tionesta, W. N. Y. & P. ), *~t Collins, Darrah & 
Co., pine, hemlock, oak, S5P; Collins & Watson, pine, hemlock, oak (mill at 
Pine Hollow). S 3. 

Newtown Mills (shipping station Tionesta, W. NY. & P. ), Wheeler, Dusenbury 
& Co., pine, hemlock, hardwoods, S 3; Whiteman & Baur, pine, hemlock, hard 
woods, S 2. 

Pigeon (shipping station Frosts, P. & W.), Fos& Crain Co., hemlock, hard- 
woods (saw for S.Crawford ,V Co. ), S 4; \V. H. Frost, hemlock, two mills, S4; 
S. Crawford >V Co., hemlock, St. 

Tiono-ta (W. X. Y. & P. ). " T. Brace & Co., hemlock, oak, S 3: SjDingman 
& Dale, oak, pine, S3; N. S. Foreman, hemlock, pine, oak, S3; J. M. Kepler, 
hemlock, pine, oak, S 3; Lawrence & Smearbaugh, oak, pine, hemlock, S 3; G. 
\V. Kohinson, pine, hemlock, oak, S 3 P; George F.Watson, pine, oak, hemlock, 
S 3; Zeiglor & Co., hemlock, oak, ties, S 3. 

•Letters Indicate kind ot business: S, saw-mill; P, planlng-mUl or machinery; Sh, shlngle-mlll; w, 
wholesale dealer; K. retail dealer. Figures, dailv eapaeitv in feet : j. '..inki to ni.ooO; 3, 12,000 to 25,000; 4, 
30,000 to 50,000; 5, 60,000 to 100,000. tBand saw-mill; fmlll Is portable; ^logging railroad; general store 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 827 

West Hickory (W. N. Y. & P.), Orion Siggins, W. E. 

Miscellaneous. — While the " Alleghany " was the first boat to ascend the 
river to Olean, in 1830, it is to the " William D. Duncan," Capt. Crook, that 
the credit for being the first boat to ascend to Franklin belongs. On Friday, 
February 22, 1828, the "Duncan " left Pittsburgh for Franklin and Warren, 
but owing to the low stage of water, ascended no higher than Oil Creek Furnace. 

In 1852 a great destruction of lumber took place at the mouth of the Tionesta. 
Large quantities were rafted, run to the mouth of the creek, and let lie there, 
without starting any down the river. In consequence the mouth of the stream 
was so closed up with rafts that a sixteen-foot plank reached from one raft to 
another across the channel. There came a cold snap, with considerable snow, 
which soon formed slush ice. The ice formed against the rafts, and there was 
no vent or outlet for it. It backed up the water of the creek until the cables 
could hold no longer. Then the lines parted and the whole thing, rafts, slush 
ice and all, went booming down the Allegheny. One man's raft was seen on top 
of another man's raft. Of course the under man had to wait for his lumber 
till the top man got his. Large quantities were broken up and destroyed. 
The spring floods of April, 1865, cleared the river and streams rapidly, carry- 
ing down large bodies of logs and timber. Ice-flow and flood of February 18, 
1886, struck the Tionesta within twenty minutes after the rise of the waters was 
first observed. The ice, which had gorged in the main channel at the head of 
Dustin Island, half a mile below town, forced the entire body of floating ice 
through the channel between the head of Dustin and Hunter islands. This 
great body of water, thus being almost wholly without an outlet, was forced 
back with great rapidity, some asserting the water rose at the rate of an inch 
a minute, followed soon by large cakes of ice, which remained piled high over 
most of the flooded district. Every cellar, and a large majority of the rooms 
on the first floor of the dwellings standing along the river bank, were flooded, 
entailing a heavy loss on the owners, who considered themselves fortunate in 
being rescued by the aid of boats, not seeming to care or having the time to 
look after household effects, or articles stowed in the cellar. Among the 
heaviest losers were E. L. Davis, Moses Hepler, John Hart, W. Y. Siggins, Mrs. 
Dr. Hunter and family, J. H. Dingman, Wm. Guiton, Ed. Sanner, J. E. Chad- 
wick, Isaac Shimp, Mrs. Saul, S. S. Canfield, J. Gr. Carson. The flood of 
June 1, 1889, did comparatively little damage at this point. 

The county in early years was the favorite resort of all the wild animals of 
this latitude, and many are the hunting stories told by the pioneers of adventures 
with panther, bear, wolf and deer, and of them not a few are related in the 
pioneer chapter. In 1868 Uncle Bill Craves killed the largest buck known to 
hunters in this county; in December, 1868, Chris. Zuendel killed a wild cat 
measuring four feet. An American bald eagle was captured by William Bradish, 
on Hunter run, in September, 1889. But modern times have changed the 
homes of the large game; the lumberman, the bark-peeler and the oil man have 
left them not a refuge, and they have fallen before the hunter or fled to wilder 
regions, there to roam in comparatively uninterrupted security. 



V_S HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 



CHAPTEE II. 

INDIANS AND PIONEERS. 

Introductory— Indian History a Century Ago— David Zeisberger— 
Indian Legend— Indian Warfare— The Pioneers— Samuel I), [rwin's 
\< count of Them— Some First Things— Cyrus Blood and Others— 
Early Coal Mines, Mills, etc. — Daniel Harrington and His Ex- 
periences— Reminiscences of Abner Phelps— German Settlement- 
Other Pioneers— Hunting Adventures and Casualties, etc. 

THE historic period of this section of Pennsylvania dates back to 1749. 
On July 29, of that year, the French Capt. Celeron, deposited a leaden 
plate at Venango, to stand as evidence of his country's claim on the territory. 
1). mlii less other plates were buried at the camping places of the little com- 
mand, along the Allegheny, which have not yet been unearthed. In 
November, 1758, the French evacuated Fort Pitt, and proceeded to Venango 
In July i if that year this post was evacuated, and the troops proceeded to 
Niagara. In 17S7 Fort Venango was occupied by Capt. Hart of the United 
States service. 

Eighteen years after the French relinquished control of the Allegheny 
Indians the Moravian missionaries came among the Monseys here, the date 
being placed in the year 1767. Zeisberger then established a preaching and 
supply station at Goshgoshunk, near the mouth of the Tionesta, and subse- 
quently at Hickory town. In 1770 the mission and station were moved to 
Friedenstadt. On April 17, 1770, this migration took place, Lawunnakannock 
was left to the god of famine and want, who ruled here in 1770. After the 
famine (in 179'.!) Senecas or Cornplanters came hither. In October, 1806, Dr. 
Allison alleges the Cornplanters assembled at East Hickory for their annual 
squaw dance. The musicians were Dorkaway and a brother Indian named 
Locke. The 'lance continued through the night until a war-whoop alarmed 
the revelers before the dawn, and soon a party of Indians joined in the dance 
and introduced the whisky which they brought with them. A little later the 
singer, Locke, lay drunk near the lire. On him John Ross, the jealous half- 
breed, looked savagely Eor a while, then advanced and called upon the brute 
and sing,' but not receiving a reply, he seized Locke, and leaning his 
head on a log, chopped it off. 

Samuel D. Irwin, who in 1869 contributed many valuable historical 
sketches to the Prexs. and in 1 S 7 ( ) wrote the centennial history of this country 
speats .if Zeisberger as follows: 

Beyond doubt, the earliest incidents connected with the history of our little county 
of Forest, arc these recorded in the plain and truthful annals ef the Moravian mis- 
- true, this curries us beyond the century a little, but \\ e have a very well defined 
and plainly marked history by a truthful and rigorous writer. The records contained in 
>i and in Loskiel'a history, are of too extraordinary a com- 
plexion to be pa ssed ever in silence, and. while it sometimes reads like a romance, it has 
truth foi 'n)ii, well defined. 

/., isberger was au Austrian, and the best linguist of all his people. He understood 

which gave him great power with the savages of our land. 

That admirable book, his life by Bishop Scheintz, consists of ever 700 pages, and his notes 

show the endurance and energy of the man. Fortunately for history. Zeisberger kept 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 831 

full notes. This extraordinary man determined, it appears, in the summer of 1767, to 
make an exploratory trip to the Indians of the Allegheny river, and took with him a com- 
panion, whom he called Anthony. His friends tried to dissuade him from going into the 
howling wilderness. He struck the Allegheny river in Butler county, it is supposed. The 
Seneca Indians there tried to dissuade him from going farther, depicting the danger of 
his route. But the good man proceeds, although told that the Indians at Goshgoshunk 
were very ugly, full of witchcraft, and would murder him; that they were of the Mousey 
tribe, who were especially hostile. But he proceeds, and arrives at Goshgoshunk on the 
16th of October, 1767, which, in point of fact, consisted of three towns near the mouth 
of Tionesta creek. Zeisberger and his friend stopped at the place now known as Hole- 
man's Flats, from the description given. Although he had traveled among Indians 
before, he found himself, according to his own recorded testimony, among the worst lot 
he had ever seen. They resembled demons, aud to a congregation of murderers and 
Indian roughs he preached the first sermon they had ever heard. He understood their 
language to perfection; was known and culled by an Indian name, and so got the blind 
side of these desperadoes; got their attention aud "laid down to them the truth in its purity. 
He writes in liis journal. " Never yet did I see so clearly depicted in the faces of Indians 
the blackness of hell and the power of the Gospel." A fine painting was made of this by 
Mr. Schussele, a Philadelphian artist, for Mr. John Jordan. Jr.. which is in the art collec- 
tion at the Centennial Exhibition. John Sartain, the celebrated engraver, struck some 
engravings from it, a proof copy of which was presented to John Thompson, Eli Berlin 
and James K. Clark, commissioners of Forest county, by the Historical Society of 
Pennsylvania, as well as an original copy of Zsisberger's own handwriting, being a 
receipt for going express for the governor to the enemy Indians, ending with their 
characteristic words. 

Forest county also has a copy of his life, presented by the same society. The 
history tells of the pow-wows and rookeries the Indians got up; of the struggles of 
this good man with one Wangomen, who' opposed his messages. How Wangomen was 
"flaxed out" in debate in the end, and was a conquered man. Yet still the false Indian 
prophet gave him trouble at times. These pagans were divided in opinion, as wiser people 
were of old; yet the majority requested the missionary to remain among them and teach 
them Christianity and civilization. He left for a short time in 176«, came back, and by 
this time found a few bad traders in the camp; how the Indians, early in 1769 destroyed 
more than 2,000 deer on the Allegheny river; how it was determined, on account of fresh 
outbreaks of the Pagans at Goshgoshunk, to remove to La-wun-ak-hanck (East Hickory), 
as the word is translated, " meeting waters," (Beaver and Hickory) and how a misson 
was established there, on the eastern bank of the river, and a few miles above the first 
mission where Senseman and the civilized Indians removed in April, 1769. How they 
remained there until April, 1770, when this mission was broken up, and in canoes all 
-tailed down the river and were joined at Goshgoshunk by a few of the Christian Indians 
there, as they all floated down the river to Fort Pitt, where they arrived May 1. 

An Indian legend, from the pen of Daniel Harrington connects this county 
with the days of border warfare. He says: 

Perhaps as early as 1796 an Indian trail or footpath was used by the first white set- 
tlers in crossing from the river, at the mouth of East Hickory creek to Tionesta creek, 
striking the latter stream about ten miles from its mouth. At the time the story which I 
am about to tell begins, this path was used more by Indians than by the whites, fur the 
red men then were the more numerous. A little over two miles from Tionesta, and 
directly on this path, there is a large, strong spring of pure water, known as the Belisle 
spring. It took its name from a man who had a hunter's camp at the spot. The spring is 
the source of Jughaudle run, said to have been named by Kingsley and Paul Wolcott, 
under the following circumstances: These two were ascending the creek in a canoe, 
and stopped at the run to quench their thirst. In passing the jug from one to the 
other the handle came off, aud Kingsley called the little stream Jughaudle, the name 
it bears to this day. Belisle, whose name was given to the big spring, was a tall, 
athletic man and a sure shot. His long black rifle, when held to his shoulder, seemed 
like part of the man, so steady was it in his grasp, and so sure the eye that directed its 
aim. Between Belisle and the red men there was a deadly hatred, and the former never 
failed to execute his vengeanoe on an Indian when an opportunity was presented. If 
we go back ten years in the life of this Tionesta hunter, we find him living on Lycoming 
creek with his wife and child. One day, on returning from the woods, where he had 
been in pursuit of game, he found his house a smoking ruin, aud his wife and child gone, 
he knew not where. After a careful search he could rind no remains of those that were 
dear to him. and he knew that they had been carried away into captivity. He made his 
preparations to follow the trail of the murderous savages aud started alone, with his 
tru9ty rifle, buoyed up by the hope that he would be able to rescue his wife and child 
from their clutches. The Indians who had committed the outrage were four in number, 

45A 



832 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

and their trail led due west, toward the mountains, which fact led him to believe that 
they belonged to one of the tribes west of the Allegheny river. On the second day he 
came to a spot where his enemies had camped the night before, and during the day 
he found a remnant of a dress hanging on a bush. He carefully followed the trail up 
the mountain, closely scanning every tree, rock and thicket large enough to conceal a 
redskin. At night he was afraid to build a fire lest it should reveal his whereabouts, 
satisfying his hunger with parched corn and dried venison, and sheltering himself as he 
best could. At the close of the third day, while crossing a high but thinly limbered 
ridge, he discovered in the valley below him a dim light, which he had no doubt was the 
camp fire of the Indians he was pursuing. Creeping up to arise of ground that overlooked 
the camp he discovered the savages. Three of them were lying with their feet to the fire, 
and one was keeping guard over the slumbers of his companions. Belisle determined to 
watch until they would all fall asleep. He saw where their guns were stacked against a 
tree, and concluded to get between them and their arms, so as to lessen the chances 
against him. The captive woman was seated, with her babe in her arms, resting her 
back against a tree, while the waking Indian guarded her. Watching till the after part 
of the night, when he perceived the guard nodding, Belisle crept up on his hands and 
knees and brained the unsuspecting Indian with one blow of his tomahawk. Quick as 
the lightning's Hash lie shot two of the sleeping Indians, one with his own gun, aud the 
other with a gun that belonged to the party. The fourth Indian made his escape. The 
joyful meeting of Belisle and his rescued wife and child, no pen can describe. On the 
next morning they began their weary journey homeward, arriving footsore and weary. 
Their little cabin was soon rebuilt, only to be again destroyed some two years later by an 
other incursion of savages. This time the wife fell a victim to their barbarity. Two 
little children, one born since the rescue we have described, were also ruthlessly slaugh- 
tered. Belisle was terribly affected by this last blow. He became a wanderer. It seemed 
as if he were constantly trying to get away from himself, aud was always going to aud 
fro in the woods. He sought death in vain, aud was always looking out for new adventures. 
On the path leading up leather's run from the Allegheny river, is a spot called Devil's 
Pass. The path is hemmed in by high rocks, with barely room enough for tneu to pass in 
single file. Belisle, with two companions this time, again followed the trail of the mur- 
derers of his family. The pursuit led in the same direction as before. The trail crossed 
the mountains, and as near as could be ascertained the murderous party consisted of six 
warriors, who were making for the Allegheny at Hickory. Our three avengers followed 
them like sleuth hounds. After consultation it was determined Belisle and his comrades 
should separate, one following the trail, while the other two should head off the Indians 
and ambuscade them at the Devil's Pass. Belisle and Traverse left their comrade and 
started for the pass. On the fourth day the trailer halted at night in sight of the enemy's 
camp tire. Belisle and his companion steadily followed their course, and on the sixth day 
crossed the ridge between the waters of the Tionesta and the Allegheny, and in the evening 
began descending the little ruu in which the pass is situated. They selected a rock which 
effectually concealed them from view, about sixty yards from the pass, where their nuns 
would rake the narrow passage from end to end. They had been in position about an 
hour when the Indians hove in sight, traveling in single file. By arrangement Traverse 
fired first, and two Indians fell. Belisle's shot followed in quick succession, and two 
more dropped. The remaining two wheeled to retreat, but were met by him who was 
following the trail, and one of them killed. The last attempted to pass over the dead 
bodies of his companions, but Belisle and Traverse, having reloaded their guns, he also 
fell dead with two bullets in his body, Prather's run empties into East Hickory, not 
more than a mile from the river, and runs through the farm formerly belonging to T. II. 
Prather. After his death his heirs sold the land to an oil company. The run is about 
three miles long. Prather had a small grist-mill on it for the purpose of grinding corn. 
When I first came to Tionesta, in 1828, Belisle's old camp was standing at the spring. 
What became of the proprietor is not known; but how should he have died except on the 
warpath, in pursuit of those he had sworn to hunt down — the murderers of his wife and 
little ones? 

* Toward the <■ I ■ >s»< i if August, 1 71(0, a large body of Indians appeared at the 
frontier settlements of Westmoreland county, but the settlers tied, leaving their 
homes as prey. After destroying the cabins, the Indians returned to Tionesta. 
On their trail followed ninety armed residents of Westmoreland, who, on the 
third day out, arrived at the mouth of Tionesta creek, and on the morning of 
the fourth day discovered the Indian camp a short distance up the river, on 
the western bank, to which the savages were crossing in canoes. The riflemen 
fell back to Tionesta, crossed the river, and by a rapid march, flanked the In- 

* Jeremiah Bonner's Interview with David Walters, is~>i. 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 833 

dian camp, where they saw plainly that the red men were preparing for another 
expedition. After watching a short time, the riflemen closed their line, and, 
creeping down the hill within range, lay there until the morning of the fifth 
day. Arrangements were then made to select a center for attack, and open 
the battle by making an Indian a special mark for a bullet. The first volley 
left few of the savages living, a few fled into the river, but were shot while 
crossing, two only reaching the eastern bank, one of whom, shot in the hip, 
was subsequently found and killed; the other running to the Indian town, on 
East Hickory, to give the alarm. The riflemen proceeded up to the village, 
where they found an old woman, whom they spared. They burned this village, 
destroyed the cornfields, and made such an impression that the Indians of the 
Tionesta never again engaged in plunder and rapine. 

The Pioneers. — From 1868 to 1882 the work of writing the history of the- 
pioneers of Forest was not overlooked. In the first named year Samuel D. 
Irwin began writing the valuable sketches which won for him an honorary 
membership in the State Historical Society, while, later, the pioneer, Daniel 
Harrington, contributed his valuable reminiscences to the pages of the Spectator 
and other journals. From the files of the Press (through the courtesy of Editor 
Wenk and S. H. Haslet), the following sketches of pioneer days, from the pen 
of Mr. Irwin, have been obtained: 

Eighteen years after the Declaration of Independence was signed, or in April, 1794, 
came the surveyors, with their chains and the old Rittenhouse compasses, to survey the 
lands taken up by the old Holland Land Company, which were afterward patented, and 
titles perfected, to a large portion, by the Hollanders. This Holland Land Company, I 
find, by examining the old surveys, consisted of Wilhelm Willink, Nicholas Van Stop- 
hurst, Christian Van Eighen, Hendrick Vollenhoveu, and RutgerJan Sehemmelphennick. 
names which sound similar to those of the Knickerbocker times at New Amsterdam. At 
that time the lands were classified in Districts No. 5 and 6, of the purchase from the In 
dians of 1784. The tracts to the east of us were laid out after leaving the river, usually in 
1000-acre lots. Other prominent early warrantees were Jonathan Mifflin, Gen. Harmer, 
George Meade (ancestor of Gen. Meade) and others; while west of the river, some of the 
tracts were patented by Pierce Butler, who was a man of note in early times. The farms 
of George S. Williams and Isaac Siggins. near West Hickory, were on the Butler war- 
rants. This whole territory was then embraced within the limits of Northumberland 
county, which seems almost incomprehensible, considering that the county now known 
by that name lies about 200 miles toward the rising sun. 

The history of early settlers, coming through first hands almost, is consequently re- 
liable, or nearly so, and from its nature is biographical rather than traditionary in most 
instances. The first settlers, upon the authority of Judge John A. Dale, were the Valen- 
tine family, who settled on what is now known as the Jamison Flats, in an unbroken 
wilderness, some three years before Eli Holeman came, or 1797. Mrs. Valentine was a 
superstitious woman, believing in witches, etc. She brought with her to the country 
George Tubbs, a son by a former husband, who lived just below the run. Mr. Valentine 
cleared up a piece of land and planted out a large orchard of apple trees. This homestead, 
Valentine and his wife dying, became vested by will of Mrs. Valentine in Mrs. Barbara 
McGee, and her husband, John McGee. John, after living there five or six years, became 
dissatisfied with the country, and to use his own words, "dislocated himself to Colum- 
biana county," having in the meantime sold the old Valentine property to John, son of 
William Middleton. The latter settled on the Allegheny, and built the " Red House," so 
called. His settlement is dated 1802. He was the first school teacher in our borders. To 
the late Dr. William F. Hunter, I am indebted for the following humorous sketch of the 
" Red House:" It was the largest house in this section; it was built by Middleton, on the 
Jamison Flats, with an eye to a private house and church together, one room being set 
apart for the church. About the time it was dedicated as a church, a pioneer (who com 
bined, like the house, more than one qualification, being a surveyor, justice of the peace 
and preacher) came and preached. The subject of the text was the meeting of Solomon 
and the Queen of Sheba, but the original manner in which the text was handled, with the 
attending circumstances, called forth some humor on the part of the pioneer audience. 
The speaker, enraged, changed his tactics, and charged on the people, threatening them 
with the terrors of the law, and the general judgment, in hoe modo. " You may laugh 
now, you brats of Babel, but methinks I see a dreadful time approaching; yes, see it a- 
coming, there will be a terrible time. Volcanoes will burst forth hither and yon, and 



$34 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

waves of liquid fire will flow higher than these hills, and rocks and great trees-ah will 
sweep howling by in empty apace-ah, borne by a tempest of fire-ah! And I tell you, 
brothers and sisters, about that time it will not b ■ '" This church 

did nol break up as the Moravian missions had done before ii in 17T0. No steeple adorned 
it, but while Middleton remained in it he initiated St. Paul at Home, " In his own house 
receiving all who came unto him." Spending half his time in church, he literally lived 
by the altar. 

Eli Holeman, father of Alexander Holeman, lately deceased, settled at Holeman's Ferrj 
in the spring of 1800, and he continued there iritil his death, in 1835. He established a 
ferry, which hears his name to this day, on his farm, at that point where the State road 

that led from Milesburg, on Bald Eagle Creek, to Waterford, crossed the Allegheny 

Most of tie- early settlers crossed at this place. Eli was liorn in Chester county, in 1755. 
In the Pennsylvania Militia he participated in the battle of Brandywine, Germantown 
and otlu-r conflicts for independence. When he removed to Forest county his nearest 
neighbors were Moses Hicks, who lived where David (5. Hunter now lives, and Patrick 
McCrea, an Irishman, who settled at what is now known as Eagle Mock, Hicks moved 
down the Ohio about l s(l "> Holeman was familar with the noted chief. Cornplanter, 
otherwise called (apt O'Bail, who often stopped at his cabin. His headquarters were 
in the neighborhood of Warren. Alexander Holeman,* the son of Eli, was horn in Ly- 
coming county in 1790. lie died honored and respected in this county, about om 
ago. Before his vision passed the long train of emigration that crossed his father's ferry 
on that old Bald Eagle road. But few of those emigrants now remain in the land. Un- 
witnessed the dawn of civilization here, and stood a witness of its progress. He saw the 
wigwam of the savage deserted, and the white man's cabin rise beneal u the trees." Thus 
passed before him. as it were a picture — a moving panorama of life, such as will not be 
the late of any reader of this sketch to witness. In brief, whether we view him as county 
audi i or, commissioner, justice of the peace, associate judge, or member of the legislature, 
he filled every office with honor to himself and profit to the people; and. beyond and 
above all. he impressed people as one of nature's noblemen. What more can be said? 

The Erst settlers east of the Allegheny, within the limits of what is now Forest county 
(said Judge Holeman to the writer), was John Range, 8r, lie settled at Tionesta, on the 
bank of the Allegheny river, a few rods above where the bridge now stands He came 
about 1815. From the late Jacob Shriver. of Tionesta. I obtained the following parlicu 

lars of John Ravage, Sr.-I He was born in the eastern pari of the. State in 1746. He died 
in Tionesta in 182B, aged eighty years. He was a lieutenant in the Kevolutiotiarv war. 
d in 1785 he obtained a land warrant for his services, which was taken out in the name 
hollas Range, his eldest son. He examined the country in 1808. in company with 
other soldiers, and afterward located at Tionesta in 1816, with his family. The lottery 
warrant, No. 511, dated May 17, 1785, includes 252 acres, taking in a large scope of bottom 
land extending from Tubbs run. to include the Hats on which George W. Dithridge now 
lives This whole tract was called by the name of " Sa-qua-lin-get," which is, by inter- 
pretation, "placeof council." Council run takes its name from the fact that near its 
mouth Indian councils were formerly held. One work of his skill still remains, that is 
his canal," as he was pleased to call it, which, although filled up in places, can be 
plainly trace,! by the eye to this day. It was a large drain beginning at the swamp just 
back of Col Thomas' residence, and ending at Jacob Wenk's tack channel of 

'In- A llegheny river. To daj it teaches us a lesson on industry Xo engineer could have 
■■ ith his levels a better grade or devised a scheme to effect the object any better 
Mr Range used to relate concerning a party of about 100 settlers who pursued In 

dians from Allegheny and Westmoreland counties into these parts. This party found the 
Indians they were after, in tin- wood- up the Allegheny; the scouts all hid behind trees, 
each man selecting his victim. All the Indians who were not Killed by the first fin W( re 

pursued and shot while crossing the river. This corrobates the statements related by 
David Walters, Jr., in which the whole circumstances are given in detail, as they were 

related to .1, remiah Bonner, who kindly furnished the writer with a Statement from 
the venerable William 'Walters himself, to him, Bonner, in the year 1851 

[ni872hemo ta. 't the period of Ms settlement tin only white family between the 

location and Franklin. ,,, n,, u,. ( ,,.;,- t,isi 



i Eta k. The Indians 

His. Iii mi he repri sented Veni 
a who n sided within what is do* 

-henvop]' - 

id IiimiIi. «, i erniilaiiter. Hull 
i '. , I : 

i the Identical Individual, who i than 

Ident was elected, is udl acquainted with the 

l>s ,,f til.- Alle-hem. Ileal tile liVI 

erved tot that purpose. Id the real 

was the first person buried In the cemetery, adminim: He- Mcthcdist Kpiscopal 



t, reserve,! f,,r thai purpose, m ihc ,, 

in-led a, i leinetery, adjoining the Mi " 

, , seine years lat'i. I,\ lieiia. 

.,-,...,,,.. ,..,.,*,,,_.,,..,._,.,.,,, i,|ee Flats. Thesliol • 

elghbor who was si ting at ducks on the creek, when tin 



which now is inn. Another brother mel os later, bj being shot throi 

,all. while walking along Dithridge Flats. Tie - nal. having been fired bj 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 835 

George Tubbs settled in 1800. He girdled Middleton's apple trees excepting two, 
which can be pointed out to this day. The Valentines have all removed from this section. 
Poland Hunter came from Westmoreland county and settled at Tionesta in 180o. He 
had a large family. He died in 1840, at a good old age, in the midst of his kindred. Of 
his children William Hunter is the only survivor. His first settlement was on the island 
known by his name. He afterward removed to the west side of the river, opposite the 
island Although not a man of education, he was a man of strong mind. Asa Dodge 
came in 1815 and settled on the Daniel Stowe place. He lived alone, and followed basket 
making for a business. Judge John A. Dale tells me he has known of his making an 
entire set of harness out of oak splints. After living in various places within the limits 
of this county, he froze his feet, and becoming discouraged, returned to Genesee county, 
N Y 

In 1800 the first township officers were elected (said Judge Holeman), when the terri- 
tory now embraced in the western half of the county was all included in the township of 
Allegheny It was about this time the first taxes were assessed. Col. Samuel Dale was 
the deputy surveyor. Dale was succeeded by John Irwin, who carried on the surveys 
from 1802. Ebenezer Kingsley (after whom Kingsley township was named) was one of 
the pioneer settlers on Tionesta creek. He had wandered from Genesee county, N.Y.,came 
down the river on a raft, and was not slow in perceiving that all kinds of game abounded. 
He first settled at Oldtown, but soon removed to what is now called Newtown. He was 
a man about six feet in height, and well proportioned, possessing good judgment, yet 
lacking education. His kindness and hospitality are well remembered by the early set- 
tlers on Tionesta creek. He gave most of the names to the streams in the vicinity of his 
settlement. As for instance "Juehandle, " because he broke the handle of his jug there. 
" Jake's run," from the name of a man who built a shanty on its banks. "Bear creek." 
so named because lie killed a bear near its water. "Salmon creek," because he shot a 
salmon near its mouth. " Lamentation run," because the pioneer heard doleful cries of 
animals near its mouth, etc. Kingsley wanted no neighbors, two or three settling within 
a mile of him. He sold out his lands to Hamilton Stowe, who was a man of great energy 
of character, and correct business habits. He was joined by Wheeler & Dusenbury. who 
turned the resources of the forest to account, as they lumbered on a scale that had not 
been known before their time. 

Another of the earlv settlers was Henry Gates, who came to the country and settled 
near Oldtown about the year 1806. That year was a very cold one throughout. The set- 
tlers were obliged to dig up their seed potatoes to subsist on. He came with his son, 
John, and his 'son-in-law, Anthony Coussin, and for many years after, in conjunction 
with Holeman and Hunter, supplied the surrounding country with corn, and gave the 
Tionesta creek settlement the name of " Egypt." He died and was buried on the mount- 
ain side near Oldtown. 

About the year 1816 John A. Dale and his brother, Joseph G. Dale, now an associate 
judge of Forest county, and grandsons of Henry Gates, came to the county from Centre 
county, and they attended the first school on Tionesta creek. Mark Noble and his family 
strayed into this region shortly utter Gates came, and, with his family, settled near the 
mouth of Tionesta creek. Maj. James Hulings* came here from Allegheny county, He 
took an early and active part in the settlement of this section. At Tionesta, he built the 
first hotel in 1834. He is well remembered by our oldest inhabitants. He died at Tionesta in 
1860, at the advanced age of seventy-three. Contemporary with Maj. Hulings came Rev. 
Hezekiah May. who settled first ne'ar oldtown, which was the site of an Indian village. 
He brought with him all the energy peculiar to New England: clearing a farm at Old- 
town, he left it with a couple of sons, and moved to Tionesta village and purchased tin- 
James Range farm. Before coming hither he preached at Franklin for a year, and wrote 
the description of the burnt woods of Maine for Morse's geography. This, when it is 
considered that he was said to be a graduate of Yale college, is not surprising, lb- died 
July 4, 1843, aged seventy years. His widow, Margaret White, a descendant of Peregrine 
White, died July 4, 1868. Three sons and one daughter of Hezekiah May are yet living. 
Benjamin May and Selden T. May removed to Norristown, Penu., where they now live. 
Huntington H. May and Mrs. Thomas, his sister, still live at Tionesta. 

Cyrus Bloodf, the founder of Forest county, was born in New Hamp- 
shire," in March, 1775, and in 1797 was a teacher in Chambersburg Academy. 
In 1833 he moved into this wilderness to seek health as well as a wider field 

*S. S. Hulings, son of Mai. James Hillings (who died April 21, 1860), was born at Tionesta. n, -t.iii.-r 'J7. 
is;j. ami n-siil.-.l there until his death. November i'7. lsi'-s. In lsi;r» he married Miss Lizzie A. Waizor, of 

Philadelphia. In polities lie was a stroll- I>ei -rat. and to him many of the milr-hrUum vi. -tones of his 

party in this enmity an- credited. His political and business character won him many friends and honors. 

1 John Ii. Hunt, horn in Vermont, in 1811, came to Maii.-nville in 1833, with Cyrus Blood; died Sep- 
tember is, 1887. He married .Marion LSI I in 1843. 



836 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

for money-making, and established Blood's Settlement, named in later years 
Marienville, after his daughter who married John D. Hunt. The pioneer died 
here January 12, I860, after twenty-seven years devoted to building up the 
interests of this section. He was a scholar, farmer, surveyor, commissioner 
and associate judge. Col. Hunt accompanied him into this settlement, hew- 
ing a road thereto through the woods. Within a few years came James 
Eldridge, Jacob Mercelliott, John F. Gaul, S. F. Bohrer and Aaron Brockway 
— all often referred to in this volume. 

Major Goodman and Alex. Henage were soldiers of the Mexican war, serv- 
ing under Taylor and Scott, and doubtless in the desperate battles under 
Shields. The former was in Garland's regiment, and the latter in the Fourth 
United States Infantry .... Quintain Jamison came in early years', and settled 
on the Middleton laud. Gilbert, his son, lived there in 1876, among the apple 
trees planted by Middleton, which escaped the vengeful hand of Tubbs . . . . 
< l.i irge Siggins* came from County Sligo, Ireland, in 1793, and in 1800 married 
June Young of Centre county. In 1801 he settled at Stewart's run, but, find- 
ing that his farm was on lands claimed by the Holland Land Company, moved 
to West Hickory. During the war of 1812, at its close, he marched to tin- 
frontier; returning, he cleared the flats at the mouth of West Hickory, where he 
resided until his death in 1865. 

The first coal mine in the county actually worked, was that at Balltown. 
In 1875 William Heath opened the second on his farm, and Peter Youngk a 
third on Coon creek. . . .The first mills were built by Middleton in 1800, just 
below the Jesse Dale farm. In 1803 George Siggins built one at the mouth 
of West Hickory. 

Daniel Harrington came to this section in 1828, and same year visited the 
Tionesta valley, ten miles to the saw-mills ithen just completed by Kinnear, 
Stockberger & Noyes), where in 1868 stood the Green & Gordon mills. At 
that time there was no such thing as a wagon road — the canoe or bridle path 
meeting all the requirements of travel. At Oldtown a preacher named Heze- 
kiah .May resided; Hyner's cabin, or reach, was just above, occupied by the 
hermit— old Dodge. John Elder's cabin was just below the mouth of Boss 
run (named after the half-breed, John Boss), and Ebenezer Kingsley's cabin. 
at Newtown, later known as Stowe Flats. The Dodge cabin was on land 
owned by Henry Bottsford. and the latter, finding him there, evicted him so 
summarily as to win from the hermit the following description. " Bottsford 
talked like vengeance, kicked me out of doors and took peaceable possession." 
Writing in 1881, this pioneer says: " My first experience on Tionesta creek, 
fifty three years ago, was at Pearson's mills, four miles below Sheffield, 
II and William Pearson had built a double saw-mill, ten miles above Ball 

town, and 1 went there to superintend that lumbering establishment, and was 
there until thej sold the property to Mead. I remember the fine sport I had 
in those days catching trout below the dam. I could catch them as fast as I 
could throw in my line and pull it out. The main creek was full of them — 
the largest trout I ever saw. Then a man could catch ten pounds in half an 
hour, and when you were tired of trout you could go to a lick and kill a 
deer at an\ time you wanted venison. The woods were full of deer and other 
game. While sitting there I have seen trout trying to swim up or over the 
dam. where the water fell at least three feet perpendicularly. They would 
sometimes have to make three or four attempts before they could succeed. 
The trout is the most active fish that swims. Our best deer licks were on Blue 
Jay. two miles from the mills. That was long before oil was thought of. 
us, who died at West Hickory in 1883, was there in 1312. 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 837 

Blue Jay is about twice the size of Two-Mile run, above Franklin. That is 
my recollection of the stream, though I have not seen it for forty years, and 
my memory may be at fault. 

In the fall of 1889 the old gentleman moved away. His celebrated old 
rifle — five feet two inches in length — was presented to S. H. Haslet. This 
lengthy instrument of destruction was built by Henry Elwell as a flint-lock, 
but the date is not inscribed. 

Mr. Harrington further says in his interesting narrative: " James Hulings 
was an old keel-boatman, who, with his brother Samuel, boated the munitions 
of war for Perry's fleet from Pittsburgh to Waterford, by way of Allegheny 
river and French creek. James built the first hotel in Tionesta, and kept it 
a number of years. Samuel kept a hotel in Pittsburgh, and also about ten 
miles up the Allegheny for several years. Both died of inflammatory rheu- 
matism, produced by exposure. The next of the keel-boatmen were John and 
Joseph Kelly. They lived at Kelly Station, below Kittanning on the Allegheny 
Valley Railroad. James Hulings was an eccentric man. At one time, when 
the common price of a drink of whisky was three cents, a man who was in the 
habit of getting the worth of his money called for a drink. Hulings set down 
the bottle, and the man poured out a tumbler-full and swallowed it. 'How 
much is it?' asked the customer. 'Two cents,' said Hulings. 'How is that?' 
said the man; ' I thought you sold it at three cents.' ' So I do,' said Hulings, 
'but I can afford to sell it a little cheaper at wholesale.' 

"Poland Hunter was the father of the late William and David Hunter. His 
residence was on Hunter's Island at the mouth of Tionesta creek. He was a 
pretty rough specimen of Irish humanity. He would sometimes take on board 
more tanglefoot thao he could walk straight under, and staggering against a 
stump would say, ' H —1 agin a stump and Poland agin that." Hunter's Island 
was once a fine piece of land and very productive, but the wash of the river has 
destroyed it. Poland Hunter shot a man by the name of Kinnear, who had a 
warrant for his arrest. Hunter peppered him with shot about the legs. The 
wound was not mortal. Hunter said that shooting him had made him a store- 
keeper, and, if he would let him shoot him again, he would make a wholesale 
merchant out of him. William Hunter was a chip of the old block. When- 
ever he took too much crooked whisky his temper got the better of him, and 
everybody was in his way. He and a man by the name of Groff always fought 
when they met. Groff was small, but full of grit. In one of their fights 
Hunter bit Groff's finger. The next da) T Groff was crossing the river to Hun- 
ter's grist-mill. He halloed to Hunter when half-way over the river, 'I'm 
bringing you another grist of finger nails to grind.' During the war of 1812, 
William Hunter, Green Elder and others were called out to resist the landing 
of the British at Erie, and had it not been for the capture of the British fleet 
on the lake, the bravery of those pioneers would have been tested. 

"Ebenezer Kingsley* was another old settler, hunter and trapper. He 
camped at the Big Meadows, on the head waters of Horse creek. When I 

♦Ebenezer Kingsley, said to be the pioneer hunter of Tionesta creek, settled at Newtown; but so 
soon as other pioneers came into that vicinity he sold his cleat-inn and moved twelve miles north to Blue 
Jay mow Foxburg , where he resided until the sale of his farm to Fox, and bis removal to Missouri. < )f 

his two sons. Klija.li caught a young panther, which 1 arn.-.l home and sold to a fur dealer, who in turn 

sold him to the owner of a menagerie. In after v.-a's this Kliiah \isited Waterford. and there saw the 

panther, which he caught two yars before, a circus captive. Another son named I'll Terry a ipanied 

hisfather to the limiting shanty, when twelve, utlni teen years old. On <•iisii.ii the' father .11.1 not 

return until after dark, when he missed the boy. The old hunter concluded that the youth had left foi 
home seventeen miles distant, and set out to overtake him. The boy seeing himself pursued, and. forget 
ting or thinking it impossible that his father could he the pursuer redoubled his gait, but after a cbii.se of 
nine miles was overtaken. At Broken Trap Eddy he came within;, few feet of the b.n and called to him. 
but this had only the ert'eet of hastening the frightened youth's steps. Even after being caught, some time 

ensued before I oul.l realize that bis father was the pursuer. As a memorial of this chase the creek is 

called "l'il's Run." 



SiiS HISTORY OF FOKEST COUNTY. 

came to Tionesta, in 1S2S, he was living on Newtown Flats, which he held by 
virtue of squatter sovereignty. Kingsley was a very eccentric man. Nature 
had done her full duty by him. Had he lieen educated, his destiny would have 
been different. An incident, between Kingsley and John Siverly caused some 
fun at the time. Judge Moore, president of the court at Franklin, had been 
up at Kingsley' s and staid all night. Of course he partook of Kingsley' s hos- 
pitality, which consisted of unlimited bear's meat and venison. A short time 
afterward. Kingsley and Siverly were going to Franklin to attend court. On 
the way down Kingsley made a bet with Siverly that Judge Moore would rec- 
ognize him, and come down from the bench to shake hands with him. The 
wager was a hat. After court was called, Kingsley placed himself in such a 
position that he thought the Judge would surely see him, but the Judge was so 
deep in official business that he did not see Kingsley. Siverly said he thought 
he had won that hat. 'Yes,' said Kingsley, 'he has forgotten when he was 
into my bear's grease up to his elbows.' 

••William and Henry Pearson built a double saw-mill at Mead's Island. 
twelve miles above Balltown, and six miles below the forks of Tionesta. I 
superintended the mills until they sold them to David Mead. At that time 
there wire no wagons nor roads to run a wagon on. The only mode of convey- 
ance was a canoe, and supplies were carried in canoes from Franklin to Tio- 
ii. -ia. and up the creek to the mills. Johnson Smith and J. L. Williamson were 
once pushing a loaded canoe up to the mills, and staid all night at Kingsley's. 
the usual stopping place. It was warm weather, and each of them had a new 
pair of buckskin moccasins, made of skins not very well tanned, and little bet- 
ter than raw hide, when wet. They left their moccasins in the canoe over night, 
and the dogs ate them. On discovering their loss in the morning they said. 
• whether they be easy to digest, or not, it is the dogs' lookout not ours." 

•• Isaac Ball, Luther Barnes and William Manross, were manufacturing 
lumber at Balltown. Manross, while drawing up a log one night caught his 
baud between the bull rope and the shaft. His arm was drawn into the shoul- 
der, and how many times he went over the shaft before he could make them hear 
him at the house, he never knew. His arm was useless afterward, except as an 
ornament. It used to be said that the usual supply of the necessaries of life 
at Balltown was one barrel of flour and two barrels of whisky. Deer, bears 
and wild turkeys were very plenty. I was watching Blue Jay licks one evening 
and a riock of turkeys at least a hundred in number, passed close by me. They 
looked so pretty that I did not shoot among them at all. Stockberger and Now- 
used to make boards at a mill at Bear creek, since owned by Green & Gordon. 
Noyes used to say that it was his business to get what he wanted, and it was 
the people's business to get their pay for it. 

•• .b 'lin Elder came from the east of the mountains at an early day. He first 
settled in Warren county, near what is now Thompson Station. In 1813 he. 
with others, was called out and marched to Erie to resist the landing of the 
British, but Perry's victory on the 10th of September enabled the defenders 
to return to their families. John Elder taught the first school in Deerfield 
township. Warren comity. In 1823 or 1824 Elder moved to Tionesta township, 
on Tionesta creek, near the mouth of Ross run. This run was named after an In- 
dian. Elder bought a small improvement of Jacob Gates. which Gates held by vir- 
tue of squatter sovereignty; Gates went to Rockland township, Venango county. 

He was a g 1 w o. .dsiuan. and was frequently employed by land owners to help 

them to find their land. He would sometimes lead them over very rough places 
— over some rocky knob or through a laurel thicket — on purpose, to make them 
abandon the land, thinking it was worthies--, which the most of it was for any 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 839 

other purpose than to hold the world together. I may mention, as I go along, 
that no water ever ran out of the earth equal to that which flows from these 
hemlock side hills. In 1S40 John Elder went west in search of better soil or 
sunset. He settled in Iowa, and killed himself trying to become acclimated. 

"Asa Dodge was one of the old settlers of Tionesta township. In 1828 
he lived at the foot of Hyner's Reach, in a small log-house. He had no family 
with him. He was an old man then — somewhere about sixty-five or seventy — 
and his physical strength was impaired, as well as his mental capacity. Dodge 
had the foolish idea that his feet, would be warmer without stockings than with 
them, and to test his theory undertook to walk from Tionesta home one cold 
day, without stockings, and froze his feet so badly that he lost his toes. 

"Robert Hyner, who came into possession of the Dodge improvement, 
lived on it for a number of years, and then traded it for a bouse and lot in 
Tionesta village. Before the oil excitement he traded his Tionesta property 
for a farm on Pithole creek. This Pithole property he sold for a big figure — 
$75,000. Mr. Hyner went west, but came back. The last that I heard 
of him, he was living in Vineland, N. J. He was one of those that 
money did not make a fool of. Thomas McCalmont had a little log grist- 
mill at the mouth of Stewart's run, five miles below Tionesta. Many times 
have 'I been to mill' there. Mill and miller are both gone, but whether 
the dust of the old gentleman's coat was a cure for sore eyes or not 1 don't 
know, but I never heard of him making the mistake of giving a customer the 
toll instead of the grist. The run is there yet. James Dawson had a mill 
where the Tionesta road crosses Stewart's run, five miles above McCalmont' s 
mill. That mill and miller are also gone. Mr. Dawson was one of the early 
settlers, and a very sociable man. He could tell some of the richest of hunting 
stories. He must have settled on that old farm as early as the beginning of 
the century. The woods were then alive with all kinds of game. He was also 
among the patriotic band that went to Erie. His house was always open to 
the tired traveler; the latch-string was never pulled in. Always in a good 
humor, nothing ever seemed to roughen his temper. He died about IM I. 
Just above the mouth of Stewart's run, on the side hill, was a big deer-lick, 
within gun-shot of the road. I have sat there in the night, when it would seem 
as if that lick was full of deer. 

• ' Robert Elliott lived where President village now is. He was one of the 
early settlers of the county. He had a grist-mill seven miles below Tionesta, 
and a good farm on the river bottom. William Elliott, son of Robert, was in 
business in Franklin in company with Hugh Henry, and afterward in the 
foundry business, as Elliott & Eply. He was prothonotary of Venango county 
and a good man. The grist-mil! was a water-power at the mouth of Hemlock 
creek. The property now belongs to E. E. Clapp. Mr. Clapp has expended 
considerable money in making roads, and in the erection of a large hotel on 
the river bank. I should have mentioned that Mr. Ralph Clapp, the father of 
the present owner, had a furnace on the property, and manufactured pig-iron 
for a number of years. He sometimes preached the gospel to his neighbors, 
and was an able and eloquent man. 

" The next settler on the river was Edgar McCrea. McCrea was a great 
hunter, but unfortunate with a gun. He mistook his brother-in-law for a bear, 
and shot him. A short time afterward while drawing his gun out of a canoe, 
with the muzzle toward him, the hammer caught on something, raising it high 
enough to explode the cap, and the charge entered his thigh. The wound was 
terrible, but careful nursing brought him through safely. The hills along the 
Allegheny and its tributaries no longer echo the report of .the rifles of the early 



840 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

hunters. They, with few exceptions, sleep the sleep that knows no waking. 
Hugh and John McCrea occupy the old farm at McKee's Rocks. The farm 
was sold for oil purposes, but as very little oil was found on it, they repur- 
chased it. 

" At Henry's Bend lived John Henry. His was the first house above Pithole 
riffle, and a good place of entertainment. John's son Hugh I have already 
mentioned as a partner of William Elliott in mercantile business at Franklin. 
William, another son, was in partnership with Mr. Pickersgill, in the shoe 
business, in Pittsburgh. I think he is now in Philadelphia. Michael, another 
son, died at Tionesta, a few years ago. There was one brother in the Henry 
family that was an invalid and never walked. His head and shoulders were 
those of a full-grown man, while his legs, from the hips down, were those of a 
boy. The cause of his helplessness, I think, was rheumatism. He always 
seemed cheerful, and he was certainly intelligent. He was well-educated, and 
spent the most of his time reading. The Henrys were a good family of men 
— -sociable and intelligent. William Henry was somewhat of a hunter while he 
lived at the river. There was plenty of deer in the woods. Wild turkeys 
were plentiful, also, up to 1840, when the deep snow of that year exterminated 
them. The wolves were starved out that winter. On the last day of Decem- 
ber I went to Balltown on business. The creek in some places was frozen 
clear across, and in other places there was only a little ice along the shore. 
The snow on the ground was about knee deep. I took my rifle, thinking I 
might get a shot at a wolf. I saw one on my way but too far away to shoot. 
That night I staid at Balltown, and it snowed twenty-two inches, making four 
feet of ' the beautiful ' for me to wade through ten miles to get home. But I 
was young then, and not easily discouraged. Where there was ice on the creek 
the snow had turned into slush, and did not come over my boot tops; where 
there was no ice I had to take the shore, and then it was wallowing rather than 
walking. About a mile below Panther Bock there was a house. There the 
woman of the cabin got dinner for me, and I thought it was the best meal I 
ever ate. I reached Newtown, three miles from home, the next day about noon. 
My wife was not much frightened about me. She said she thought I would 
get home. And during that winter and in that snow the wolves and the wild 
turkeys all perished. 

" Krastus Gibson was one of the old settlers of Tionesta. He lived, with his 
family, one mile above Balltown, on the south side of the creek. A man 
named Shephard and myself had been rafting over an old piece of lumber that 
had lain in the water all summer. We had worked hard, but darkness came 
on us before we got to Gibson's, and we could not see to navigate through a 
\\ indfall that was in our way. We halloed to Gibson, and he pushed up to us 
in a canoe and took us down to his house, where we staid all night. Some 
time after that I was at a certain boarding-house at Tionesta, and Gibson was 
there also, with a number of others. It was said that the landlady was not 
quite as tidy about her cooking as some other housewives. We had buck- 
wheat cakes for dinner, and Gibson was what a sailor would call ' three sheets 
in the wind.' He took a cake on his plate and was picking it all to pieces. 
Someone asked him what he was doing. Said he. 'I'm trying to see what 
this d — d pancake is made of.' Gibson emigrated to the west, in search of 
the place where the sun sets. 

" William White* was an old settler on Tionesta. He owned some laud on 

•Win. White, who died at Delphos, Kas., October 26, 1878, came to Forest county In 1837, and with 
John Hunter took a raft down Hunter's run The rollowin;: sprim: he took a raft from tin- Tionesta 
I" I'ittvliiir^h in Mtf.-ti. In [838, when Hamilton Stowe commenced liiiiilii-rim: at Newtown. White rafted 

and lobbed toi aim, and afterward for w heeler and Dusenbury. in 1871 7- this pi,. i raftsman mm e.i t,> 

Kansas 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 841 

the creek, and sold it when the people were crazy about oil, for $10,000. 
The company put down a well on it, but did not get enough oil to grease a 
gimlet. But White got the money, and he was one of the few that money 
did not make a fool of. He invested his cash in bonds, and emigrated to Kan- 
sas. He was a man of more than ordinary intelligence. He used to say there 
were three classes of professional men that he wanted no dealings with — lawyers, 
doctors and preachers. I once heard a joke that occurred between him and John 
A. Dale. Dale met White in company, and said: 'White, when I first saw you 
I thought you were a fool, but when I became acquainted with you, I changed 
my opinion.' White replied: 'When I first saw you I thought you were a 
fool, and when I got acquainted, I did not alter my opinion a bit. ' 

" Thomas Nugent lives in the woods, ten miles south of Balltown and five 
miles north of Marienville. He is now about seventy years old, and has been in 
the wilderness upward of thirty years. He says he is half German and half 
Irish. He was born on the Alleghany mountains, and came to Forest county 
with his parents when he was only five years old. Their mode of travel was 
on pack-horses, over a bridle-path through the woods. He remembers that he 
rode on an old mare that had a mischievous colt that amused itself on the way 
by catching in its teeth the clothing on which he sat, and trying to pull it 
from under him. In one year he killed forty deer, and thirty-six the next. 
After that, as game became scarcer, his quantity was reduced. Perhaps the 
deer became better acquainted with his skill, and kept themselves at more re- 
spectful distance. Several old bucks that he wounded tried to use their horns 
on him, but he was never seriously injured. Once he caught a bear in a trap, 
or rather the bear caught the trap and walked off with it. Nugent followed 
him for eight days. He came in sight of him once but was unable to get a 
shot. The old gentleman thinks that bear may yet be carrying that trap 
around the country. One day he caught a bear in a pen, and when he discov- 
ered him he killed him with his knife, for, like the Dutchman's anchor, his gun 
was at home. These bear pens were built of solid logs, with a log floor. 
Without the log floor a bear could dig out as fast as a man with a grubbing 
hoe. Sometimes bruin will eat his way out of a pen built of good-sized logs, 
if ho has time enough before he is interviewed by the trapper. Mr. Nugent was 
out one day and started a buck, which ran across a hollow and stopped one hun- 
dred and fifty yards away. He shot at him and dropped him. Then, instead of 
reloading his rifle, which a hunter should never forget to do, he ran up to the 
buck to cut his throat. But, when he reached the spot, the buck had so far 
recovered as to get upon his fore feet. Mr. Nugent stuck his knife into his 
game, and the handle catching in the skin, the deer was in a fair way to take 
it from him. The buck kept getting better and better, and was soon able to 
run as fast as Nugent. At length they came to a high log, on top of which was 
a fallen birch. In jumping the log, the buck's horns became tangled in the 
brush, and Nugent succeeded in stabbing him to the heart. He was almost 
entirely out of breath, and thought he would never regain it. At another 
time Mr. Nugent was hunting with a comrade named Sam Kirkpatrick, on 
Spring creek. Sam had slightly wounded a buck, and sent a young dog after 
him. The dog was slowly following the trail, just ahead of Sam. Coming 
to a fallen tree, the dog put his fore feet on the trunk to look over. The buck 
was lying on the other side, but little the worse for Sam's shot. He jumped 
up and ran after the dog, and the dog ran after Sam. It was a race for life, 
with the chances in favor of the buck. Sam used his legs to good advan- 
tage, expecting every moment to feel how sharp that buck's horns were. The 
buck ran past the dog and turned his whole attention to Sam, as the larger 



842 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

object of the two. At last the dog, recovering courage, caught the buck by 
a hind leg, and drew his attention from Sam. This enabled Sam to put a 
tree between him and the buck, when he loaded his gun and ended the difficulty. 

''Daniel Fleming was one of the old settlers of Tionesta township. Ve 
nango county. He made the improvements on Fleming's Bottom, and lost his 
labor by a defective title. He also had the misfortune to lose a leg at Mil 
ler'a Eddy, by getting caught in a raft line. He owned a farm situated about 
half a mile from West Hickory, on Fleming hill; so he was not a tramp. Who 
would be a one-legged tramp? John K. . Andrew, William and Daniel were 
sons of Daniel Fleming, Sr. They were all good, steady men — not a black 
sheep in the flock. Andrew Fleming had a good education, backed by good 
sense, and he became a first-class pilot on the Allegheny and Ohio rivers — fol 
lowing that for an occupation. In the latter part of his life he had poor 
health and became a dyspeptic, dying about two years ago in Crawford county. 
The next in order is the Siggins family. George Siggins, Sr., emigrated 
from Ireland and settled on the west side of the Allegheny river in an early 
day, and the farm on which he settled showed his good sense in choice. No 
better body of land lies on the river between Irwin's farm, at the mouth of 
Brokenstraw, and Kittanning. It is so high that it is not subject to overflow 
by the river, and raft freshets do not destroy the fences or wash off the soil from 
the plowed fields. James and Isaac are the only two living. 

"Thomas Hicks Prather, who owned a farm on the Allegheny river at the 
mouth of East Hickory creek, was a noted man in his day. The farm is 
known far and near as the Prather homestead. Hicks Prather (as he was 
always called) had acquired it by inheritance from his father, who was. per 
baps, the original settler. At least two generations of- the Prather family 
lie buried on the place. Hicks Prather lost his first wife, and married a sec- 
ond. By that marriage he got a woman several years younger than himself. 
It was a very fortunate venture for him, for when he broke down physically 
and became superannuated, she took his place at the plow and elsewhere, where 
work and oversight were needed. She managed the farm better than it had 
ever been managed under his own superintendence, and proved by practical 
demonstration that she knew something about farming. She made a good 
living for the family, and he, appreciating her worth, left the farm to her 
when he died. Hicks Prather was an eccentric character. He could not do 
too much for a man he liked, and he could not do too much to injure a man 
that he disliked. He had an ungovernable temper, that he could not control. 
That temper often got him into trouble. Hicks Prather died about twenty 
years ago. The old homestead was sold for oil territory, but its only pro- 
duction in that line was dry holes. 

•" Robert Guiton, an old trapper and hunter, now living in Green town- 
ship, has killed more deer and bears than any other living white man. He 
thinks he has averaged fifty a year. I should think he exaggerates a little, for 
since deer have become comparatively scarce, an average of titty is more than 
I should want on my conscience. Guiton is about sixty years old. and there 
is yet greyhound enough about him to run down a deer. 

" Samuel Feltou. with his young wife, Catharine Felton, came to Tionesta 
about 1833 or L834 He became an expect hunter and trapper. A deer had 
to look sharp if Sam did not get a shot at it. and a shot lYotn Sain generally 
counted. He had a long, heavy rifle, made somewhere in Kentucky. It car- 
ried a heavy charge of powder, and when I heard the report I could tell it 
from any other gun. Felton and myself once went on a hunting tour, to lie 
gone from home over night. It was some twentv eight vears ago. when game 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 843 

was plenty. In the evening Felton killed a buck. It was pleasant weather 
in October, and we camped under a bushy hemlock, and roasted a part of the 
buck for supper, after which we lay down, hunter fashion with our feet to the 
fire. In the night Felton awakened me, saying, ' Hear the wolves!' There 
appeared to be two gangs of them by their howling — a pack on each side of 
us. They came so close that we could hear them walking on the leaves. We 
kept the tire burning brightly, which kept them off. Had they attacked us 
they might have got into trouble. When it became light enough to see objects, 
we took our guns and got in behind a fallen tree top with the leaves on, 
between the two packs, and while lying there could hear them walking around 
at the butt of the tree. But the leaves were so thick that we could not see 
them, and we did not get a shot. Wolves were plenty in those days. I 
remember killing one with a club that I cut with my jack knife. I had run a 
raft to Pittsburgh, and on my way home thought I would look at a trap that I 
had set some time before. The trap was about a mile off my direct route 
home. When I got to the spot I found that some animal had taken the trap 
away, and I had trouble in following it. The chain attached to the trap was 
only about eighteen inches long, with a clog run through a ring at the end of 
the chain. The snow was frozen hard and the trail could be seen only now and 
then. At last I found where my game had been fast, and discovered some 
gray hairs. Then I knew that I had business with a wolf. I did not follow 
far until I started him. The trap bothered him so that I could easily outrun 
him, and he was the largest gray wolf I ever saw. He jumped over an old 
hemlock log, and one of the springs of the trap caught on a knot and held 
him. I cut a witch hazel about five feet long, and went over the log to get a 
rap at him. The wolf jumped back over the log and got loose. We had 
another race, and I ran him into Little Goon creek. The stream was frozen 
over, but not hard enough to carry him, and he broke through the ice. I 
walked out on a log, and knocked him on the head. I took his twelve-dollar 
topknot and left the rest of the carcass in the creek. The wolf and the lamb 
did lie down together that night. 

"Evan Roberts was a native of one of the eastern counties of the State. 
He was master of the German and French languages, and could tell as good 
a Dutch story as a Dutchman himself. The early settlers were not particular 
about boundary lines. Eli Kingsley thought that Roberts & Hendricks were 
cutting timber on a lot that he held by virtue of squatter sovereignty. Kyigs- 
ley called on Roberts, and said : ' Mr. Roberts, where does your line run ? ' Mr. 
Roberts replied: ' Wherever there is good timber. ' 'Dod! I thought so,' said 
Kingsley, and that was all the trouble there was about it — no sheriff's fees, no 
court charges nor lawyers to pay. A few words between the two men, in 
good humor, settled it all. 

''During the winter of 1824-25, Sheriff Robison, of Venango, and Sheriff 
Littlefield, of Warren, visited, Kingsley' s cabin, while surveying the State road 
from Tionesta to Sheffield. The owner recited for them the following story : 
' Soon after I came to the flats [meaning the low ground where he then resided], 
I had an adventure that I shall never forget. About four years ago I started 
out one morning for a hunt, taking provisions for a two days' stay. The first 
day out, just in the evening I killed a four-pronged buck, which I dressed and 
hung up out of the reach of wild animals. I then built a fire close to the 
spot where I had hung the deer, and, after eating a hearty supper, rolled my- 
self up in my blanket, with my feet to the fire, and was soon asleep. In the 
middle of the night I was awakened by a great noise, and on turning over (lis 
covered a large bear, trying to pull the dead buck out of the tree where I had 



844 HISTORY OF FOKEST COUNTY. 

hung it. I grasped my rifle, and taking as careful aim as I could, in the dim 
light, I fired at the bear, who went off with a growl. In the morning I saw 
stains of blood on the ground, and started on the track. After following the 
trail some distance I came to the mouth of a cave among some rocks. There 
I saw a pool of blood, and had no doubt of my game being in the cave. I 
procured a pine knot, out of which I made a torch, and after the manner of 
Gen. Putnam proceeded to enter the opening. The entrance was small, and I 
I was obliged to crawl in on my hands and knees, but as I advanced the cavity 
grew larger, until finally I could stand erect. I was feeling my way alono- 
cautiously, when I heard a growl, and before I could use my rifle the bear 
sprang upon me from behind a projection in the rock, knocking me down and 
severely wounding me on the left shoulder with her claws. The torch that 
I carried was extinguished by the shock, and I was left to fight for my life in 
the dark. I succeeded in getting out my hunting knife, and made several 
vigorous thrusts in her neck and sides. The blood from the bears wounds 
spurted in my face and nearly blinded me. The bear finally relaxed her bold 
and made for the opening of the den. I followed, but in the darkness could 
not find my gun. At the mouth of the cave we had another close encounter, 
that lasted, as near as I could judge, about fifteen minutes. After the bear 
had stripped me of all my clothing, except a pair of buckskin breeches, I suc- 
ceeded in killing her. I then hunted another pine-knot, made another torch, 
and went into the cave again to get my rifle. I found it in the far end of the 
cavern, and also found two little cubs, about two weeks old. The floor of the 
cave was pretty well covered with bones. I was unable to hunt for three or 
four weeks after this rough experience, and was never in my life so near hand 
ing in my checks. ' 

"John White, who also lived in Tionesta in those .lays was a native of 
Ireland. He was an excellent mechanic, and could make almost anything that 
was to be made of wood. He was at work at the mills during the above- 
mentioned fight. Many old settlers will still remember Johnny White, as he 
was familiarly called, and his eccentricities. He, too, was fond of a 'drop.' 
as he termed it, and when he took one, that drop became very lonesome and 
required company, and before Johnny knew it, he was half-seas over, not to 
the old country, but to the tipplers' paradise. There was a young man at 
East Hickory, named Sylvester Bailey, who had practiced so successfully in 
mimicking White that Johnny used to say: 'Be jabers! Bailey can talk more 
like Johnny White than Johnny White can talk like himself.' 

"John White owned property on West Hickory creek — a saw-mill and 
some land. During the oil fever he sold it for .$20,000, and emigrated I 
Canada. That windfall enabled him to live very fast while he did live, which 
was not long. 

' ' William Armstrong, who settled at Clarington in 1828, was the true 
founder of that village, and one of the great lumbermen of sixty years ago. 
On the point, <>ne mile above Horse creek, on the north bank of the Allegheny 
river, lived James Downing, in a log- house sixteen feet square, more or less. 
In this humble cabin Mr. and Mrs. Downing made raftmen welcome to the 
best they had, generally got up in good shape, and plenty of it. The lodging 
was not what would be termed first class in this age of the world. Instead •>{ 
spring bedsteads, matresses and feather beds, it was two deep on the floor. 
But. to make things balance, there was no charge for beds. Raftmen, as a 
rule, never complained about the lodging. If they could get enough to eat 
they were always satisfied. They would build a fire on the shore, if they had 
no shanty on the raft, and sit around it all night, or lie down, hunter- fashion. 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 845 

with their feet to the fire. Mr. Downing sometimes kept a jug of something — 
which we would now suppose was hop bitters — for raising the spirits when a 
man had the blues. Sometimes he would take a dose of his own medicine, and 
then he would be full of good humor. Liquor never made him cross, but 
he would get as independent as the boy who didn't care whether school kept or 
not. The little log-cabin and its owner are both gone, and, like the Mound 
Builders, they have left no history behind them. 

" William Connely came to Franklin in 1804, and was among the earli- 
est settlers. In 1819 and 1820 he represented the district in the legisla- 
ture, served as a justice of the peace for many years, and was appointed 
by Gov. Curtin an associate judge. My first recollection of him dates back 
to 1824 or 1825 (I will not be positive as to the exact date), when I heard 
him preach to a little congregation at Tubbs Run Flats, about a mile above 
Tionesta, on the west side of the Allegheny river. He possessed two of the 
requisites of a public speaker — self-reliance «nd cheek. I do not use this 
last word in its offensive sense. For every preacher that I have heard de- 
iver a better Methodist sermon than he preached that day, I have heard a 
dozen that did not acquit themselves as well. He seemed to possess the 
entire confidence of his hearers, particularly the female portion of them. 
He was an admirable judge of human nature, and knew that it was good 
strategy to secure the good- will of the ladies. 

"Paul, William and Joseph Wolcott were three brothers among the earli- 
est settlers. Paul lived at the mouth of Fork run, on Tionesta creek. He 
was quite a hunter and trapper. All are now gone. Paul was a very intel- 
ligent man, and his conversational powers were excellent. In 1828 the Mays 
were building a saw-mill at Panther Rock. On my my way up Tionesta I staid 
there one night, and saw H. H. May for the first time. He looked as though 
he had performed a hard day's work. He was a tall, slim boy, and very bash- 
ful ; he sat back, like a bound boy at a husking, and had nothing to say. Pan- 
ther Rock is a large rock, about ten feet out of water, in the middle of the 
creek, and has a rafting channel on either side. Uncle Sam has a post-office 
there, and the mail arrives and departs twice a week. Panther run comes in 
on the south side of Tionesta creek, not far above the rock. It is said that 
Elijah Kingsley, son of Ebenezer Kingsley, caught a panther on that run, tied 
it and kept it for a pet for his wife and children. It was only a kitten, but it 
is natural to suppose that it would grow to be an old cat. 

" Some time previous to 1828 Col. Williamson and his brother, John L. 
Williamson, came from Mercer county to Pearson's Mills, on the Tionesta. They 
were both active and intelligent men. They cut logs, canoed on the creek. 
and ran rafts when there was enough water. I worked with them, and we 
all shantied together and slept in the same bed, made of hemlock boughs. 
Sometimes we drank tea made of the same material as our bed, and I liked 
it, probably because it was a home production. We were all single then, 
with no wives or children crying after us. There was no home sickness, for 
the woods were our home. Our nearest neighbors were at Balltown, ten miles 
away, or at Sheffield, six miles distant. Strange as it may seem, one of us 
could sleep in Jefferson county and another in Warren county, and both be in 
the same bed. The shanty was exactly on the line between the two counties. 
It was a capital place to dodge constables, if there had been any such officials 
to dodge. Each of us had his gun and ammunition, and when we ran short of 
meat the deer might expect us. We didn't have to go far in those days to 
see a deer. I remember that I counted twenty deer at a time, one day. I 
came to the head of a hollow, and got upon a high rock. In the valley below 



846 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

me I saw at first a buck and a doe. Soon I saw more, and counted twenty in 
all, some feeding and some lying down. I killed the doe and wounded the 
buck. 

"James Green was a resident of Tionesta township, and owned the farm 
at the mouth of West Hickory creek, on the Allegheny river. The farm con- 
tains some sixty or seventy acres of river flat, and was valuable property. It 
adjoins the Siggins farm, and is, perhaps, only second to it in value and im- 
portance. Green lived on that farm in 1812-14, and was one of the able- 
bodied yeomen that was called out to defend the eountry, and responded by 
marching to Erie to prevent the British from landing there and making kind- 
ling-wood of that little hamlet, as they did at Buffalo. Commodore Perry's 
victory over the British fleet slightly changed the programme. James Green, 
John Elder. William Hunter, James Dawson and many other equally good 
and true patriots, left their young families to fight their country's foes. Had 
the enemy succeeded in conquering this country in 1812, instead of the Fourth 
of July being our great national holiday, we might to-day be playing second 
fiddle to the British House of Lords; or, so far as liberty is concerned, we 
might be enjoying our share of it with poor Ireland. Then what does the 
present population not owe to those early patriots who shouldered their old flint 
locks and marched to the northern border, the post of danger? I wish that I 
could write their names in letters of gold. But to return to the history of 
James Green: He was an old man when I was a young man. He was one of 
those unfortunates that acquired an appetite for strong drink, which he could 
not resist. Yet he was the father of the late James Green, of East Hickory; 
of Thomas, Robert and Joseph Green, all good and steady men. The end of 
James Green, Sr. , was a sad one. He was found dead by the side of the road 
that leads from Tionesta to Hickory, about half a mile above the mouth of 
Tubbs run. If the end of this old man was bad. it must be acknowledged by an 
impartial community that in his life there was much that was good. 

" Ezekiel Green came to Tionesta from Allegany county. N. Y. It was said 
that he immigrated to this country with a woman whom another man had a 
mortgage on. As they are both gone we will let that story go with them. 
When I came to Tionesta. in L828, Green was living on what was called the 
Dodge place. He had an impediment in his speech, and like many other old 
settlers was fond of old Monongahela. When he found himself outside of a 
pint or so of the fluid, he never could get a word out without emphasizing it 
l>y slapping his thigh. Another of his peculiarities was that he could never 
take a drink of whisky without sneezing in the glass. The smell of the stuff 
or the taste had the same effect on him that snuff has on a snuff-taker. Green 
owned a farm just below Minister creek, that empties into the Tionesta fifteen 
miles from the mouth. About four or five years before his death he had accu- 
mulated about 1300 in paper money, which he always carried with him in an 
old wallet, stowed in his breeches pocket. That pocket was his safe, and I think 
convince you thai it was burglar-proof. One night two men broke into 
his shanty and tried to rob him. but Green made such an outcry that they left 
without the wallet, although one of the robber.-- bad hold of it and tried to 
capture it. But Ezekiel' s grip was like the grip of a vise, and the thieves 
could not get his money. They did not want it bad enough to murder him, 
and that was the only way they could have got that wallet. In his old age 
(Ween became verj miserly. He had a daughter living with him. I have 
seen her driving a yoke of oxen, hauling saw-logs. Her dies--, which had been 
a bright calico pattern, was about the color of the soil. I don't think it had 
ever been introduced to water. The e-hl may have been baptized, hut the 





> ^V^iJ'-^-^L— - 




HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 849 

dress never was. At Green's death he left what the robbers failed to get 
to his daughter, but the trustee was unfaithful and applied the money to 
his own use. The poor girl had to do the best she could without it. She 
always had to work for her living, and I think she, was about as well off 
as the man who robbed her of her patrimony. Mrs. Green died some years 
before her husband. She was a very smart woman. .She could out-talk any 
person that I ever knew. "When her tongue was fairly started it was the 
next thing to perpetual motion, for it never ran down and never wanted to be 
wound up. It stopped only when the owner fell asleep. 

"Joseph Green was in every sense of the term a self-made man. He ac- 
quired a good common education, commenced lumbering in a small way, and 
by industry and economy accumulated half a million dollars. No worthy man 
ever got into a tight place and called on Joseph Green for assistance without 
getting it. His helping hand was always ready. I will relate one instance 
that I knew: A poor darky wanted to get a cow and pay for it in work. He 
had a wife and two little children. Green bought a cow for him from me, 
paying me $25 in cash for the same. That same fall Mr. Green was lost by 
the collision of two steamboats on the Ohio river. The boat on which he was 
a passenger was on her way down and ran into a boat coming up, near Rising 
Sun, Ohio. One of the boats had a lot of refined oil in barrels on board. 
The oil caught fire, and the boat was a sheet of flame in a moment. The pas- 
sengers were either burned to death or forced to jump into the icy cold water, 
where they perished. Mr. Green's body was never found. 

"I was once hunting at the head of the Branch (Salmon creek) with two 
companions. I went east from the camp by myself, and soon got on a bear 
track. I followed till I came to the site of an improvement. It was where 
William Patterson* lived. As it was raining and I was wet, I staid there all 
night. Mr. Patterson was an old soldier of the war of 1812, and had fought 
at the battle of Baltimore. I had one of Colt's navy revolvers with me, and 
showed it to the old man. It was the first revolver he had ever seen. I ex- 
plained its working to him, and as an offset he showed me a butcher knife, 
which he said was made to drive the British out of Baltimore. He was then 
a very old man, over ninety, and age had begun to tell on him. He lived in 
that lone spot, a considerable distance from any neighbor. The o-roivnd at 
the mouth of Hazelton run on Tionesta creek is of ancient memory. Philip 
Siverly lived there fifty years ago. He was one of the family that gave the 
name to the village of Siverly, near Oil City. On the point, below Crooked 
Chute, lived John Siverly. These two brothers were among the first lumber- 
men on the Tionesta. John built the first saw-mill at Newtown mills. He sold it 
to H. Stowe & Co. , and emigrated to the West .... Hamilton Stowe came to 
Tionesta about 1844. He was the first man that got a wagon road made from 
the mouth of the creek to Newtown, twelve miles from the mouth, where he 
hud his mills. About the same year Mr. Stowe established the first school, 
and, if I am not mistaken, Miss Mary Fleming was the first teacher. I think 
she taught two terms before her health gave way, and consumption claimed 
her as its victim. Her death caused regret to all who knew her. Mr. Stowe 
was a very energetic man. He could tell to the fifteenth part of a cent what 
a job of work would cost, and if there was any money in it he generally made 
it. He was not parsimonious, but gave liberally to all who deserved assistance. 

"Robert McBride came to Tionesta in 1837 and built the Tionesta House, 
which he kept as a hotel for a number of years. He was a hunter and trapper, 

William Patterson settled in is;;t in Howe township. Tlie house of cherry timber, with a puncheon 
floor of the same wood, was his home until his death in 1879, 



850 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

and made those branches of forest industry his occupation. The history of 
those who have made large fortunes invariably tells us that they made them in 
some other way than by hunting, trapping or fishing. Mrs. McBride was a very 
industrious women, always doing something that would advance the comfort 
and welfare of the family. Some twenty years ago she was rendered entirely 
helpless by rheumatism, and it has been at least that length of time since she 
has stood on her feet .... Paid Berlin came to Kingsley township about the same 
time as Mr. Beck. They both came from Clarion county to Forest. Berlin, like 
Beck, was of German descent. He bought land on Hazelton run, about one 
mile and a half from Tionesta creek. The farm was once covered with heavy- 
pine timber, and the stumps now tell where the trees stood. Mr. Berlin died 
four years ago . . . . Chauncey Stanley was at Tionesta when I first came 
there, in 1 828. His birthplace was in one of the Eastern States. Stanley passed 
his life in single-blessedness. It was said of him that he was afraid to look a 
woman in the face. He lived in a shanty, all alone. It was the report that 
be was not only his own cook and housekeeper, but his own tailor as well. 
Certainly his garments looked as if they might have been of home pro- 
duction. When he had occasion to build himself a pair of trowsers he would 
spread the cloth upon the floor, sit down on it, and with a piece of chalk mark 
around that part of his anatomy which the projected garment was to enclose. 
There was one advantage in his system of cutting —he was always sure to have 
the pattern with him, and would never go off in a hurry and leave it lying 
around home. Does a man in that condition of life fill the position which the 
Creator intended him to fill ? Yet Stanley was a virtuous man, if he was odd, 
and he passed to the other shore with clean hands and. a pure heart. 

"George Hamblin came from Warren county. When I enumerate the 
amount of work he performed in Venango and Forest counties, I think you will 
agree with me that his name deserves a place in these sketches. Mr. Hamblin 
built the sawmill at Balltown; he built the mill for H. Stowe & Co., at New- 
town. In 1852 he built the mill for Green & Gordon on Bear creek, and 
shortly after another mill on the same stream for the Lacys. He put up a 
saw-mill and grist-mill for Hull & Lacy on Big Coon creek, at what is now 
called Nebraska. No better mechanical head than his ever adorned any man's 
shoulders. How many mills on Conewango and Brokenstraw owned his handi 
work, I cannot say. I only know what he did in Venango and Forest . . . .One 
of the earliest settlers of Forest (then Venango), George W. Dean, deserves a 
place in this record. He was a man of great industry. In opening farms and 
cutting logs he performed enough work in his day to clear a township. He 
had his share of life's disasters by having his dwelling burned with all his 
i anliU possessions. Mr. Dean died last fall, but little better off after all his 
labors." 

In 1886 the reminiscences of Abner Phelps were published. At that nine 
he was a resident of Nebraska, in this county, and on June 14, of thai yi -a: 
was eighty years of age, being born in Delaware county, N. Y., in 1808. He 
moved with his father to West Hickory (then Venango county) about the yeai 
L818. After living there a Eew years they moved to Tionesta creek, on what 
was afterward known as the Harrington place. His father, himself and 
brother camped and hunted at the mouth of what is called Phelps run, on 
the south side of Tionesta creek, a little below Balltown. The Kingsley' e 
camped about a mile below them on what is now called Kingsley run. Game 
was very plentiful in those days; trout abundant in all the streams. No 
person need want for venison or trout. The Phelpses and Kinsleys were 
real woodsmen. When they struck the trail of a bear, elk or panther, there 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 851 

was no let-up until they captured the animal. They followed a large panther, 
about the year 1822, up to the head waters of Big Coon creek, before getting 
it, a journey of two days without food of any kind. Their hunger was satis- 
fied by roasting on the end of a stick, and eating part of one of the hams of 
the panther, which to them tasted good. When a boy he was blamed for put- 
ting fire into the woods opposite Tionesta, and was prosecuted by Poland Hun- 
ter, but to compromise the matter he cleared four acres of ground for Hunter, 
on the hill side opposite the village where Tionesta now stands. He walks 
from Nebraska to Tionesta, a distance of six miles, and back in a day, and 
does it easily. He always used liquor moderately, was intoxicated but once 
in his life; says he never to his knowledge cheated, stole, meddled with other 
men's families, or belonged to a church. He married Susan Kennedy in the 
year 1831, and reared a family of eight children, five of whom are now living. 
There was no saw-mill on the creek when they moved to it. The Balltown mill 
was built by Ball, Barnes, Manross & Gilson, in the year 1823. The Bear 
Creek mill was built by Kinnear, Witherup & Co., soon after. Beautiful pine 
timber, which could have been purchased for a song, stood in abundance along 
the creek at that time. 

The German settlement of this county was begun in April, 1842, when, 
Herman Blume, of Hesse Cassel, came to Tionesta. He learned the American 
language here, and in 1848 was independent enough to take his family out. 
In 1846 he was joined by Jacob Wenk and John Shellhouse, and they, with 
Adam and Henry Zuendel and Bernard Busch, who came in 1840 to Tionesta, 
formed the pioneers of the German colony with H. Eichenburg, an immigrant 
of 1844; Nicholas Mater, Henry Glassner and George Babendorf, of 1846, 
and Deitrich Weyant, Sebastain Blume, Adam Frank and Chris Sewer. 

Joseph Allender, who came to Forest county with his parents in 1805, died 
June 25, 1878; in 1822 he joined the Methodist Church here. T. W. Allen- 
der, of West Hickory, and his brother, now of Cleveland and a soldier in 
1861-65, are the only sons known to be living. . . . Joshua Davis, born in Maine 
in 1795, served in the war of 1812, came to Tionesta shortly after the war, and 
died at Frankford, Del., in 1886 ...Mrs. Mary Hunter, who died June 5, 
1872, married Joseph Dale in 1807. He dying in 1815 or 1816, she moved 
with her father, that year, to Oldtown Flats, two miles up Tionesta creek, and 
m 1831 married David Hunter, and moved to the farm on which Hunter's 
station is ... . John A. Dale died June 25, 1877. He came to Oldtown Flats 
with his mother in February, 1816, where Henry Gates, her father, hail hith- 
erto resided. In 1825 Judge Dale taught a school in Clearfield county, and in 
1827 studied medicine under Dr. Marvin Webster, who settled at Tionesta 
soon after. In 1847 he was sheriff of Venango county, and later prothonotary. 
Subsequently he took the several parts credited to him in the political chapter. 

Mrs. Jane Eliza (Dale) Clark, who died May 14, 1877, was born in this 
county in 1821, and married Samuel Clark in 1841. She was a daughter of 
Jesse Dale .... Caroline (Dale) Hood, born in Tionesta township, in 1826, died 
in October, 1882. . . .Mrs. Agnes (Lamb) Reed, was born near Neilltown, in 
1804, and in 1826 married William Reed and settled in Highland township, 
Clarion county. . . .Amaza Purdy, a settler of 1825, died in 1883. . . . Vanleer 
Watson, born near Newtown Mills in 1822, died November 11, 1877. 

Ira Copeland, who, with his father, traveled on foot front Vermont to Penn- 
sylvania, and settled on Stewart's run in 1819, died in Venango county, August 
28, 1879. In 1832 he married Lydia Thompson (she died in March, 1888), 
by whom eleven children were born. The only neighbors in 1819 were John 
Jones, Joseph Allender, Joseph H. Dawson and Robert Green, the latter be- 
ing the only survivor in 1880. 



852 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Andrew Ditz. who died in June, 1888, came to the Fryburg neighborhood 
from Baden, Germany, in 1825. with his father and five brothers and sisters. 
His wife, to whom he was married in L840, was the daughter of Bertehner, 
another pioneer; she died in 1884.... The pioneer Allio and his wife (both 
now deceased), natives of France, located nine miles southeast of Tionesta in 
1835, and were residents there in 1870, when a note of their ages was made 
— one one hundred and six. and the other one hundred and four, years of age. 

John Cobb, born in Vermont in 1815, came to Lower Sheffield in 1841, 
moved to Ridgway in 1842, entered the lumber business there, and died in 
August, L888. He and his sons were the pioneers of modern lumbering meth- 
ods in Forest county, the location being at Lacy's mills. . . .Samuel Dempsej 
died in November, 1887. From 1835 to 1847 he worked in the furnace at 
Rockland, and afterward in the furnace on Little Hickory for William Cross. 
After taking ore from the neighboring hills for some years, he opened a farm 
in Hickory, which he occupied until his removal to Iowa in L865. He returned 
a few years before his death .... Thomas Selders, the river pilot, born in 
the French Creek settlement in 1808, moved to Tionesta in 1850, and died in 
July, 1880. 

Frederick Hyren, the prophet, said to have been an exiled Russian baron, 
resided at Tionesta for some time, preaching a new dispensation throughout 
tin- section, fasting twenty-one days in a cabin, which stood where the Haslet 
scales now are. He moved to Venango county, where he died in the county 
poorhouse Edward Lyman, who came in 1833, died in June, 1888. 

The petition of February, IS 17, for the establishment of a branch of the 
United States Bank of Pittsburgh, was signed by the Gateses, Sigginses. Daw- 
suns and Allenders, then residing within what is now Forest county. A copy of 
this petition is in possession of Mr. Dale. 

Among the pioneers of the southern townships of old Forest were the Ag- 
news, Armstrongs, Cooks, Reynoldses, John Wynkoop, James Irwin, the Coons, 
Noltons, Munus and others referred to in this work, and Ferdinand Smear- 
baugh, of 1847; John Weyant, M. Holebine, Henry Sipple, N. Mater, Jr., and 
Henry Klinestiver, the blacksmith, of 1848. In 1849 Henry Kiser arrived, 
in lsTi'J Ernest Behrns and Rudolph Kaman, Hanoverians, and Edward 
Walker, settled north of the Zuendel location, and the Kopps lived at the old 
Tubbs run settlement. In November, 1S(>8, Fred W. Blume arrived from Hesse 
Cassel. In the " fifties" Bartholomew Church was erected on the hill, but up 
to L869 the members of the Reformed Church contested its ownership with 
the Lutherans. At this time other troubles came among the two peoples — 
a spook in' ghost being said to inhabit the building. 

Daniel Harrington, referring to Herman Blume, says: "Mr. Bloom was 
one of the most courteous German gentlemen that I ever met. He owned a 
bouse and lot in the village, and worked at his trade as a tailor. The clothing 
he made for his customers was always honestly put together; the wind uever 
blew tlf buttons off that lie sewed on. I was at Franklin when he made 
application for his naturalization papers. He would sometimes take a little 
Imp bitters, <>r a substitute therefor, and get in a jolly good humor. Iremem 
ber one time he said tome, 'Mr. Harrington, oh put I do feel goot.' He 
resigned hi-- earthly commission in December, 1879, at nearly ninety years of 
age. A number of his grandsons are citizens of Dutch Hill." 

Recently a citizen of this county learning of a treasury certificate issued 
to one of his ancestors in 1793, brought the matter before the old historian 
of Forest, wlm addressed the following Letter to the department: 

l>i \u Sin: My iittcntii.ii was called by J. H. Nourse, of tin- county, to a paragraph 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 853 

in a newspaper, stating that, an uupaid warrant on the treasury has been presented to 
you, dated February 14, 1793, for $17.45, bearing 6 per cent interest, in favor of Jos. 
Nourse, and that there was something for claimants. Mr. Nourse has brought the family 
records, showing that he is a direct descendant from Rebecca Nourse or Nurse, who was 
condemned and executed as a witch at Salem, Mass.. July 19, 1690, and among her descend- 
ants are Jos. Nourse, from whom J. H. Nourse and his brother, Orsenius Nourse, are 
descended, according to family history. Will it be too much trouble to send me a copy 
of said warrant for investigation? 

Very respectfully, 

Samuel D. Irwin. 

Hunting Adventures and Casualties.* — As early as 1820 two hunters were 
encamped on the Tionesta, near the spot now occupied by Newtown Mills. The 
men had come less for the purpose of hunting than to see the country, to ex- 
amine the streams, to search for pine timber and ascertain what facilities there 
were for getting it to market. The only settler in that region then, above Old- 
town, was Kingsley. Hezekiah May live 1 at Oldtown, three miles above the 
mouth of the Tionesta. It was at or near Kingsley' s shanty where these men had 
their camp. One bright moonlight night, one of the hunters, a young man of 
twenty-three years, concluded to have a little pastime on skates, of which exer- 
cise he was very fond. A severe cold snap had made three or four inches of 
smooth, solid ice. and Smith, the young explorer in question, had not forgot- 
ten his skates among his other traps. On this bright December night he cal- 
culated to have a little sport all by himself. After a few preliminary nourishes 
in front of his camp to see that his skates were securely fastened, he started 
for a run of a few miles up the creek. In telling his own story, as I heard it 
shortly after the occurrence, he said: "I had gone perhaps two miles up the 
large stream. The night was almost as light as day and very calm. I could 
hear the echo of the ring of my steel skates on the shore as I passed swiftly 
along. Coming to the mouth of a smaller stream on my right, I concluded to 
explore it a short distance. It was very crooked. In going up it some three- 
quarters of a mile, I think, I must have traveled fully two miles. Its average 
width was about sixty feet. Both banks of the stream were heavily timbered, 
principally with hemlock, and the branches interlocked, forming a complete 
canopy over my head, making it quite dark in comparison with the broad creek 
I had just left. How long I might have enjoyed the delight of the exercise 
and the beautiful scenery of this little stream I can not tell. I was unpleas- 
antly interrupted by a strange sound which I supposed at first was the hooting 
of an owl. As I listened the conclusion came to me that the noises came from 
wolves, and boded me no good. Keeping my presence of mind, I started on 
the back track for the mouth of the creek. I had not gone far before I heard 
the howls unpleasantly near. In my race for safety I had to follow the course 
of the windings of the stream, while my pursuers traveled not more than half 
the distance that I was forced to get over. It was a race on my part for life, 
and for supper on the part of the wolves. To make a meal for a gang of those 
savage animals is not a pleasant prospect. At about forty yards from the 
mouth of the little creek they tried to head me off from the big stream. The 
bank was quite a bluff, and I could see them on shore ready to spring upon me 
as I passed. I bent my head and brought every nerve in play in the effort to 
pass this point of danger. As I passed under full headway they jumped at 
me, but miscalculating my speed they struck the ice quite a distance behind. 
I glided out on the broad Tionesta, and felt relieved, but the race was not over. 
They followed me on down the stream. I was perfectly at home on skates, but 
all my fleetness and skill were necessary to enable me to escape their fangs. 
When they came so near that I could hear their pattering on the ice I would 



854 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

wheel to the right or left and gain upon them, for they could not turn as short 
as I could, but were compelled to keep on for several rods before they could 
change their course. By this manoeuvre of frequent tacking I kept out of 
their reach until our camp was in sight. We had two dogs chained up in the 
shanty, and when they began to bark and raise an uproar the wolves turned 
back, and I was safe. How long the race lasted I do not know. It seemed an 
age. but was probably not more than an hour — perhaps not so long as that. 
Had one of my skates got loose or had I tripped on a stick, this story would 
have never been told by me.'' From Smith's description of the little stream 
and its zigzag course near its mouth, he undoubtedly went up Salmon creek. 
It empties into the Tionesta fourteen miles from its mouth and two miles 
above Newtown. 

In the wiuter of 1836-37 a woman by the name of Appleton, some fifty-rive 
years old, started from her home on what was known as the Hoffman place, 
at the foot of Oldtown bottom, one mile and a half above the mouth of the Tio- 
nesta. She wished to visit some friends in Washington township (now Clarion 
county) and by going through the woods a mile and a half she could save about 
three miles' travel. So she crossed the creek on the ice at the big eddy. There 
bad been a thaw, and the surface of the snow had frozen hard enough to bear 
her weight. She therefore left no trail by which she could be followed. In 
two weeks after her departure her husband received information that she had 
not reached her destination. Search was immediately made for the missing 
woman, but the search was in vain. At that time the woods were full of raven- 
ous wolves and other wild animals. Did they devour her, or did she perish by 
the lingering death of starvation? She perhaps crept into some hollow log or 
into some crevice in the rocks, but where or how she died remains a mystery 
to this day. The contemplation of being devoured by hungry wolves is not 
pleasant. They would not wait for their victim to lose consciousness, but would 
tear him from limb to limb. Facts are sometimes stranger than fiction, and 
this is a case in which it is not necessary to draw on the imagination to make 
the reality more horrible. None but the All seeing Eye can explain the mys 
tery of this poor woman's disappearance- a disappearance so complete that not 
a vestige of her remains or clothing has ever been found. It is said murder 

Ban uol be concealed; that it will not staj buried, but will some daj rise! n 

front lli.' perpetrator of the deed. But this was not a murder, it was one of 
those casualties for which nobody was to blame, ami in which no law of the 
land u as \ iolated. 

The second casualty was the death of Ernest Quartier. a young Frenchman 
whose home was in Philadelphia. He had been visiting friends in Youngstown, 
Ohio, and came with a party of hunters to the head waters of Salmon creek. 
On the 23d of November, USo7. he started out with the party to hunt, and 
parted company with one of them at about 2 o'clock in the afternoon. He 
had not returned to headquarters at dark, and the usual signal guns were 
Bred to guide him if he should be within hearing distance. His companions 
supposed he had gone to Mr. Blood's house, as he had been told, if he got 
lost or bewildered, to follow the creek down to Blood's. The next day he was 
still absent Search was made for him by all hands, but with no result. The 
following da_\ the whole neighborhood was aroused and turned out to find Ids 
trail. He was found, frozen stiff, about half a mile from Brockway's clearing. 
He had apparently become exhausted, sat down to rest, and fallen backward, 
never to rise again. His gun, a six shooter, was lying across his neck with 
tour loads discharged. His revolver, fully loaded, and his watch and oiupass 
were outside of his pocket, hanging by the guard. Mr. Quartier was quite 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 855 

young, not twenty years old, and unaccustomed to the woods. Knowing his 
inexperience, the usual particulars of the locality and directions had been 
criven him by his companions, better versed in wood-craft. He had been 
urged to come in early in the day, but refused to do so. There had been a 
heavy rain, followed by a hard freeze. It is supposed that he became be- 
wildered, which in any wilderness is the beginning of danger. His tracks 
showed that he had time and again in his wanderings been close to the road 
which would have lead hfrn to safety. He was supplied with matches, and 
was fully equipped. An experienced woodsman would have been able to build 
a fire and take care of himself in such a position, but poor Ernest Quartier 
lost his life through his inexperience, and his neglect to follow the advice that 
had been given him. His case was one of the saddest incidents that ever 
occurred in Forest county. For the particulars of the above history I am 
indebted to the courtesy of Hon. S. F. Rohrer and his wife. Mrs. Eohrer is a 
daughter of the late Judge Blood. 

About the year 1848 a German, named Henry Klinestiver, settled on 
Balltown road, at Klinestiver hill, where the road commences its descent to 
Ross ran. The road was made in an early day, when it was thought that the 
shortest way over a hill was over the highest pinnacle. No man or woman, a 
little short of breath, who ever traveled up and down that hill, would fail to 
remember it after the discovery was made that the distance around the base 
of a hill was no greater than that over the top. The old road was evacuated 
and a new one was made of easier grade. Klinestiver was by trade a black- 
smith. He farmed and did custom work for his neighbors when custom came. 
During the oil craze he sold his farm, and with his wife went to live with his 
son George, who had purchased a farm on Whig hill. At about this time Mrs. 
Klinestiver' s mind began to fail, and she soon became insane and unable to 
take care of herself. One morning in October, the old gentleman arose about 
4 o'clock and went to the cellar to get some potatoes for breakfast, leaving 
the old' lady in bed. When he returned to the room she was gone. Eli 
Berlin, Esq. , says that he had commenced the day before to move a building, 
and had got it into the middle of the highway, when the news came of Mrs. 
Klinestiver' s disappearance, and the call for men to form a searching party. 
As soon as he got the building clear of the road, Squire Berlin and all the neigh- 
bors round joined in the hunt for the lost woman. They searched for a week 
or more, and people came far and near to join them. It is estimated that on 
some days over five hundred persons were searching the woods for the lost 
woman. Tracks were found leading from Whig hill to the watering trough 
between the two branches of Ross run, and about a mile and a half distant 
from the house. But beyond that all trace was lost. From Whig hill to 
Bob's creek, with two exceptions, the whole way was woods — a primeval 
wilderness. The search was thorough, but all in vain. Squire Berlin rode 
on horseback down Tionesta creek to its mouth, searching every bend and deep 
hole where a body might be concealed, but no sign could be discovered. The 
fate of poor old Mrs. Klinestiver is as ranch of a mystery to-day as the Ever- 
hart murders. There are ledges of rocks, with fissures, into one of which she 
may have crept, and where her bones would remain undiscovered till the sea 
gives up its dead. 

One of the pioneers, when firing at a duck, killed young Range, who was 
standing at his door.... Two sad events occurred in the early days of the 
settlement. One was the death of a man named Shoup. Shoup and a man 
named Taylor came homeward together from Clarington, and parted company 
at the corners or cross-roads, Taylor going toward Blood's and Shoup to his 



850 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

own home. Taylor met a neighbor, and while the two stood talking they 
heard the report of a gun. Soon after Mr. Blood's family was startled by 
Taylor, a man named Parker and others, running into the house. Parker 
exclaimed, '"Oh! I have shot Shoup! Oh! dear, I have shot Shoup." "No, 
you have not,'' said Mr. Blood, '"for I saw him at the creek to-day.'' Parker 
insisted that he had shot Shoup; Mr. Blood, Mr. Hunt and all the men around 
there took lanterns — it was a dark, rainy night — and went up the road to 
investigate the matter. Shoup was found sitting against a tree, with a bullet- 
hole in his breast, and his dog lying by him. They raised him up, and he said, 
"Let me die here" Mr. Blood asked him if he blamed Parker for shooting 
him. Shoup replied. "I forgive him as I hope God will forgive me. Be 
kind to my wife and children." Mr. Blood and Mr. Hunt went back to the 
house for a mattress and stretcher, but before they returned the poor fellow 
was dead. The explanation of the affair is this: Shoup was very superstitions. 
Some months before he had declared that he heard mysterious noises, and 
persons talking at the particular spot where he was killed. As Parker came 
up the road it is supposed that Shoup heard him, and being afraid, he 
crouched down by a tree, holding the dog under his arm. It was quite dark, 
and as Parker approached the dog growled. Parker said he thought it was a 
wolf, and he fired. The bullet cut through the hair on the dog's back and 
passed into Shoup's breast. Had Shoup got behind the tree, instead of at the 
side, he would have been safe. 

About fifty years ago a stranger was drowned from a raft floating on the 
Tionesta, between Fox's mills and Balltown. A man named William Sutley was 
running the raft. The stranger was knocked overboard by being struck by an 
oar stem. The raft floated away from him, and it was impossible to save him. 
The men on the raft said that they saw him standing on his feet before they 
got out of sight. None of them knew who the man was or where he came 
from. The body was found on Dead Man's Island — which took its name from 
this occurrence. The island is situated at the mouth of Minister creek, a 
mile and a half above Balltown. I saw the grave often while passing the spot, 
when it was quite new. Elijah Kingsley found the body and buried it. Of 
course he was coroner, coroner's jury and undertaker, all combined. Yet no 
doubt the unfortunate stranger sleeps as peacefully in that lonely grave as he 
would in the most thickly populated cemetery. William Sutley, the pilot of 
the raft from which the unfortunate man was drowned, was a son of George 
Sutley, who lived on a farm on French creek, just below the mouth of Sugar 
creek. William Sutley died of consumption some thirty years ago .. . Daniel 
Burkett, an old resident of Kingsley township, was found frozen to death on 
Newtown hill, November 29, 1876, by George Hindman. 

In 1857 an accident happened near East Hickory, on the Allegheny river. 
Mr. Partridge, of Jamestown, N. Y., was running a rlatboat. loaded with fur- 
niture and fanning implements, which he sold along the river on his waj down 
stream. At the bow of the boat there was only one plank on top of the end 
gunwale, to make it convenient to step over in going on or off the boat. The 
boat was fastened by a line to a tree that leaned over the river, with her bow 
up stream. Early in the morning the tree turned out of root and fell upon 
the plank at the bow. breaking it to pieces and sinking the boat. The tree 
also crushed in the roof, right over where Mr. and Mrs. 1'artridge had been 
sleeping a few minutes before it fell. They made a narrow escape. The fur- 
niture an.] agricultural implements floated out of the sunken craft, and were 
scattered all over t lie river. Some pieces were found as far down as Pittsburgh. 
.... In 1857 or 1858, Ben Chilson perished in the woods. He was a hunter and 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 857 

bad a camp on the Beaver valley, a branch of East Hickory creek. He was re- 
turning from a hunt, on his way to his camp, when he suddenly became ill and 
unable to walk. He sat down and leaned back against a tree. There was a 
slight snow on the ground — not over three or four inches. He was evidently 
not lost, for he crawled some distance on his hands and knees toward his camp. 
He was found dead the next day. He had no doubt been attacked by heart 
disease. He was a single man. His remains were brought to Tionesta and 
buried. 

McCollum, one of the pioneers, might have been called a chronic litigant, 
for he frequently had lawsuits with his neighbors, and seldom lost a case. He 
could prove almost anything he wanted to prove. It seemed as if he had his 
witnesses hired by the month, to be always in readiness, and that his cases 
were prepared a year before they came on, so ready was he to prove every 
point necessary to his success. I once witnessed a first-class tight between 
McCollum and another man. Like many great wars, the right was about a 
woman. The battle took place at the mills belonging to Kinnear, Stoekberger 
& Noyes, on Bear creek. The two combatants were under a shed that had 
been put up to protect the millwrights from the sun while repairing the 
mills, and the weapons used were the tools lying around, which they threw 
at each other. Hammers, handsaws, adzes, planes, everything they could 
seize, were flying through the air. Each appeared to be too much afraid of 
the other to come to close quarters. At last Mose succeeded in landing a 
goodly sized stone on the other man's head, which knocked him senseless. 
Mose jumped onto his prostrate foe, but before he could strike, Mr. Noyes in- 
terfered by telling him to "never strike a man when he's down," and Mose 
desisted. While the man was lying senseless Mr. Noyes volunteered the re- 
mark that it was a pity that Mose hadn' t knocked out his brains. As soon as 
the man recovered — which was several minutes — he repeated the friendly re- 
mark of Mr. Noyes, which showed that, although motionless, he was conscious 
of what was said around him. 

In 1857 occurred what is known to old settlers as the Shreve and Hilands 
fight. John Shreve had married Mary, a daughter of James Hilands. Mr. 
Hilands was an aristocratic man, who thought that the Hilands blood was a 
little better than common, and that Mary had married beneath her station, ah 
though Shreve was a well-doing and industrious man. He (Shreve) owned the 
farm below the mouth of Tionesta, now occupied by Dithridge, and had just 
built the best dwelling house in Tionesta upon it. Shreve blamed Jacob Hilands, 
brother of Mary, for making trouble between him and his wife. One day, on 
going home, Shreve looked through the house for his wife, and could not find 
her. The child told him that she had gone down to "The Rocks." It occurred 
to Shreve that she had gone there to destroy herself. He immediately sent to 
the village for men to come over and look for her. Some four or five answered 
the call."and went down to "The Rocks." They found Mrs. Shreve sitting 
there, and prevailed on her to go home. Then Shreve shouldered his rifle, and 
went to the hotel kept by John Hilands. Jacob Hilands was expecting Shreve, 
and had armed himself with a double-barreled shot-gun, one barrel of which 
was loaded with ball, and the other with small shot. As Shreve was passing 
the door Jacob came out, Shreve jerked his gun to his face, and Hilands 
jumped behind the door. Shreve fired and missed him. Then it was Hilands" 
turn, and he emptied his barrel, loaded with shot, into Shreve' s legs. Shreve 
then jumped over the river bank, six or seven feet high, but Hilands followed 
him up and fired the rifle barrel at him. Shreve turned to face Hilands, and 
seeing him about to shoot, held his empty gun in front of him. Hilands' ball 



858 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

struck the barrel of Shreve's rifle, glanced off, and saved Shreve's life. As it 
was, however, two or three of Shreve's fingers were cut off by the ball from 
Hiland's gun. In a conversation with Shreve after the fight, he told me that 
the shot from Hiland's gun sinelled just like hot lead poured out of a ladle into 
a bullet-mold. 

One would naturally suppose that both parties would have been satisfied 
with the fight I have described, but they were not. The next encounter took 
place iu the court at Franklin. Hilands, no doubt, expected that Shreve would 
go to the penitentiary, but instead of that result, the court sentenced him to 
pay a small fine and to confinement in the county jail for six months. Hilands 
thought it would lie just as healthy for him in the West as it would be in this 
country. He went westward, and has never returned. It seems that a higher 
power than man has been working against human prosperity on the Shreve 
farm. In a hard break-up of the ice, Shreve's fine house was shoved from its 
foundation and twisted out of shape. He moved it back to its place, replastered 
it, and during the oil excitement, sold it. In the spring of 1867 it was burned 
to the ground. It was on that farm that John Range was shot; it was on that 
farm that the Shreve family was broken up; it was on that farm that the steam 
saw-mill of G. \V. Dithridge. costing 87< *.l M II I. was erected and destroyed by lire. 



In closing these reminiscences of the pioneer Harrington, his description of 
a young lady of sixty years ago is appropriate. Writing to the Vindicator a 
few years since he says: "While in Tionesta recently I called on a lady friend, 
Mrs. Helen Thomas. She is perhaps about my own age. She is one of those 
congenial ladies that never grows old. She is a daughter of the late Heze- 
kiah May, and sister of the late Huntingdon H. May. There are only two of 
the family left — Benjamin May, of Norristown, Penn.. and Mrs. Thomas, of 
Tionesta. Mrs. Thomas appears to possess an inexhaustible source of vital- 
ity time itself cannot eradicate. She was as full of fun as an eggshell was of 
meat, and in her girlhood she was an accomplished skater, not on roller skates 
but on runners, when a skating rink extended all the way from Tionesta to 
Panther Rock — sixteen miles. Well. Miss Helen May, often ran up there in 
the forenoon and back home in the afternoon. I might be accused of exaggei 
ation if I were to say that she made the trip before breakfast, in the morn- 
ing — so to keep the truth on my side I will say that it was a common practice 
to take breakfast at Tionesta and dinner at Panther Rock. This took place 
long before the present Tionesta and Panther Rock mail route was established. 
It was at a time when the skates carried — not the mail -but the female. I 
never heard that Miss Helen had any races with the wolves, but as the woods 
were at that day full of those animals. I have no doubt that she often heard 
their howls." 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 859 



CHAPTER III. 

TRANSACTIONS OF THE COMMISSIONERS. 

Survey of the Lands of the Holland Company and Some of the Pat- 
entees—Establishment of Forest County and Its Boundaries- 
Commissioners— Acts of 1851 and 1866— First Court-house— Town of 
Marienville — Petition for the Building of a New Court-house — 
Readjustment of Township Lines in 1867 — Lay'ing of the Corner-stone 
of the New Court-house, 1868. 

IN April, 1794, the lands located by the Holland Company were surveyed 
into 1,000-acre lots. Gen. Harmer, George Meade, Jonathan Mifflin, 
Pierce Butler and others were among the patentees. At this time Forest 
county formed part of Northumberland county; next was attached to the new 
county of Lycoming; later (1800) it formed a part of Venango, and in 1804, 
of Jefferson. 

The joint resolution, approved April 11, 1848, establishing Forest county, 
detached the territory, within the following described boundaries, from Jeffer- 
son county: From termination of a straight line running west on the south 
side of Elk county; thence due west to intersection of north and south line on 
west side of Jefferson county; thence along Jefferson county line to its termi- 
nation; thence east along the line of that county to the line of Elk county, and 
along the line of Elk county to the place of beginning, or Barnett, Jenks and 
Howe townships. The commissioners to locate such lines, as well as the 
county seat, were Joseph Y. James, of Warren county; W. P. Wilcox, of Elk 
county, and Hiram Payne, of McKean county, who were ordered to report to 
the commissioners of Jefferson county, to which Forest was to remain attached 
for judicial and county purposes until organized, and township elections were 
to be held without reference to county lines until that period. The act ap- 
proved April 15, 1851, placed the new county in the Eighteenth Judicial Dis- 
trict, when organized. In April, 1850, an act of the legislature tixed the 
southern boundary of Forest county at the north bank of the Clarion river, 
from a point where the east line of Clarion county crosses that river to the west 
line of Elk county. 

By an act approved April 3, 1851, an election of three commissioners, three 
auditors and one treasurer was authorized, Cyrus Blood, Edward Shippen and 
Charles J. Fox being appointed commissioners, and John D. Hunt, treasurer, 
to serve until the election of their successors. As related in other pages, the 
above named and others served the little county of '200 square miles until 1856, 
when a thorough organization was attained, the small frame, two-story build- 
ing at Marienville being the court-house. 

In 1866, and under the act of October 31, five townships were detached 
from Venango, and Jacob Zeigler (of Butler), James A. Leach (of Mercer) and 
Cornelius Fulkerson (of Venango) were named county seat commissioners. They 
placed the county seat at Tionesta. The townships of Tionesta. Kingsley, 
Green, Hickory and Harmony were added under this act, thus increasing the 
area to 445 square miles. A part, at least, of Tionesta township was in Alle- 



860 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

gheny county up to June, 1825; Hickory was established in 1848; Harmon] 
detached from it in 1852; Green was formed from parts of Tionesta and Hick- 
ory in February, L872; Barnetl was formed in January, 1854; Howe formed 
under the name Tionesta in L852, changed to Howe in 1869, and Jenks town- 
-sl-i i] > was established in January. \s'y>. In December, l s oX. John M. Lisle 
and Bennett Dobbs entered into an agreement with the commissioners to 
donate twelve lots in the town of Marienville, and expend 16,000 in erecting a 

court house fcher i. and also to donate 208 lots in Dobbs' addition. On March 

29, L859, Dobbs and Lisle made the deeds in accordance with this agreement. 
These proceedings led the way to law suits, which ended in the loss of build- 
ing and lots to the old county, as shown in the following abstract of documents 
pertaining to this time. 

The oldest record of transactions of commissioners in possession of County 
Clerk J. T. Brennan. is dated Marienville, April 11. 1859. In May of that 
year Aaron B. Root, with William Patterson and A. Dewoodey were appointed 
assessors of Tionesta township, John Conrad being then clerk. During the 
fall and winter, then passed, Bennett Dobbs urged the commissioners to con- 
tract with him for building a court house. They at first refused, but on Jan 
nary 1, L859, a petition signed by eighty citizens was presented, urging them 
to accept Dobbs' offer, which petition changed their purpose in the matter. 
The signers of this document were W. R. Coon, E. C. Mayo, William Titus, S. 
Kinkead, ('. Baker, James D. Flick, W. Bish, Sam. Johnston, J. \V. Mays, 
•I. G. Brandon, G. H. Reynolds. William Reynolds, F. O. Updike, George 
Agnew, S. II. Horton, A. Campbell, J. Richard, W. J. Mvers, M. E. Porter, 
T. E. Henry. W. A. Maker. A. Coventry, S. S. Bish. George Mays, D. L. 
Swartz, J. A. H Grant, J. Saxton, II. Wing, J. Neese, Eli Smith. R. Wal- 
lace, J. W. Hellsill, C. Martin, R. Black, Peter Nugent. J. J. Reynolds, James 
Whitelock, J Ferry, l>. Wingard, G. Little, Sam. Hutcheson, William Cook, 
H. F. S. Shotts, J*. Wagoner, J. W. Dobbs. Jonathan Hays, J. Painter. \V 
11. Brockway, Thomas O'Donnell, Steve Buffum, J. Mercelliott, J. Boyd. D. 
Altman. J. F. Black, lame- Irwin, J. M. Irwin, Levi Shauer. W. H. Lock- 
hart. J. Dodge, J. A. Steele, E. W T ing, F. Kennedy. S. Wagoner. R. W. 
Sti.ckten, John Dobson. Sam. Beer, John Beer, Abram Wiles, J. Harshman. 
Patrick O'Donnell, George Painter, J. P. Hays, T. B. Little, Eph. Lyon. A. 
Black, ('. Kulin-. Jacob Zints, E. Cook and John Fitzgerald. An opinion by 
L. D. Rogers showed Dobbs' addition to Marienville was as much a part .it 
the town as the Original plat, and that the agreement between the Bloods and 

the ( missioners of July 15, 1857, was of no binding value. Other opinions 

I'.. Unwed, and bo closePj were the commissioners pressed that the court in May, 
1860, enjoined them from observing the contract of 1858. En September, 

1860, however, an agreement was made with C. M. Robinson to complete the 
court house at .Marienville for $190. This was simply to repair the little old 
court-house. 

S F. Rohrer succeeded Conrad in 1859 as commissioners' clerk. In July. 

1861, the commissioners and associate judges met at Clarion as a board of 
relief for families of soldiers; but only three families were granted relief during 
the month. In September the rate of aid was made, being seventy live cents 
per week for wife, thirty-three cents for each child under seven years, and 
fifty cents for each child between seven and fourteen. In March. IS'U, John 
F. Gaul was appointed agent to ascertain the number of Forest county men 
in the army. In November, 1867, J. B. Mechling was appointed commis- 

clerk and counsel, and in January. 1870, M. W. Tate succeeded him. 
On the latter'- resignation being accepted in August, 1870, D. W. Clark was 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 861 

appointed and served until January 12, 1876, when J. T. Brennan, the present 
clerk of the county, was appointed. In October, 1875, the commissioners 
voted their thanks to the State Historical Society for the engraving, represent 
ing Zeisberger among the Indians of Forest county in 17157. 

The passage of the act of 1866 is largely due to the brothers Dale, who 
used every legitimate means to urge the extension of the county. The propo- 
sition to extend the boundaries westward was unfavorably received by many 
residents of the old county of Forest, and opposed by their friends in the 
legislature with such force as to defeat the bill. Friends of the measure 
placed the desperate case before the Dales, and they, proceeding to Harris- 
burg, with a well-filled pocket-book, had the bill reconsidered, when it was 
rushed through the house and senate. In February, 1867, S. D. Irwin, 
George S. Hunter, and Jacob I. Range were appointed a committee by the 
district court to readjust the township lines in accordance with this act. In 
March a bill for the repeal of the enlarging act was defeated, and the question 
of the legality of fixing Tionesta as the seat of justice was taken to the su- 
preme court, where it met the fate of the repeal bill. 

In April, 1867, the temporary county office was completed by Col. Thomas, 
and opened by Prothonotary Mercelliott April 25. This building stood on the 
east bank of the river below the bridge. The court-house contract was sold to 
Thomas F. Simmons in November, 1867, and the location graded, but the 
work of erecting this first brick building in Forest county was not begun 
until the spring of 1868, and on June 20, the Forest Press advertized the 
ceremony of placing the corner-stone as follows: 

JULY 4th, 1868. 

LAYING OF THE CORNER STONE 



NEW COURT HOUSE! 

IN TIONESTA. 

The Corner Stone of the New Court House will be laid with Masonic and 
Odd Fellows' Ceremonies. Eminent and able Speakers have been invited, 
and will be here. The citizens of the county, and elsewhere, are respectfully 
invited to attend. By order of Commissioners of Forest County. 

T. B. MAZE, 
J. F. GAUL. \ Com'rs. 
A. B. ROOT, \ 

COMMITTEE ■ 

P. D. Thomas, John A. Dale, J. B. Agnew, T. F. Simmons, Rev. E. D. 
McCreary, S. S. Hulings, J. Winans, J. A. Proper, S. H. Haslet, S. D. Irwin, 
J. R. Thomas, W. B. Harlan, J. B. Mechling, W. E. Lathy. D. Black, G. W. 
Popp, J. W. H. Reisinger, P. O. Conver, D. S. Knox, George S. Hunter. L. 
H. Davis, A. H. Steele, J. G. Dale, John Reck, William Lawrence, John 
Shriver, George Sawyer, William Hood. 



862 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 



CHAPTER IV. 

COURTS AND BAR. 

First Court Held in Forest County, 1857— Proceedings from 1857 to 18C0— 
First Court Held at Tionesta, 1867— Admissions to the Bar from 1857 
to 1889— Forest Bar Association— Important Civil and Criminal I ^ses 
—Desperadoes. 

THE first court of Forest county was held at the school-house, Marienville, 
on the third Monday in December, 1857, Judge John S. McCalmont pre- 
siding, with Cyrus Blood and Milton Courtright, associate judges. VY. P. 
Jenks, Lorenzo D. Rogers and B. F. Lucas were admitted to the bar, Thomas 
B. Mays was appointed crier, and William Walton, tipstaff. On December 21 
the rules of the Jefferson county court were adopted, and court adjourned 
until February, 1858. Tavern licenses were granted to William Shields, 
Rachel Murray and C. M. Robinson, and later to Peter G. Reed. Very few 
transactions were recorded in 1859, but in May, 1860, commissioners An- 
drew Cook, Thomas Porter and A. L. Seigworth were enjoined against execut- 
ing the contract of December 22, 185S, with B. Dobbs and J. M. Lyle for the 
erection of county buildings outside the town of Marienville. 

The first session of court held at Tionesta was opened February 25, 1867, 
by Judge -lames Campbell with W. R. Coon and John G. Brandon, associate 
judges. A number of the attorneys named in the following list were admitted 
nt this term. 

The lawyers admitted to the bar of Forest county, from December, 1857, 
to May, 1889, are named as follows: 

William P. Jenks, L. D. Rogers, B. F. Lucas, Dec, 1857; A. A. Mc 
Knight, Feb., 1858; John Conrad, May. 1858; E. A. Brooke, Sept., 1858; 
Richard Arthurs, ('. Heydrick, F. B. Guthrie, J. R. Clark, May, L859; B. J. 
Reid, Sept., 1859; W. W. Wise, Dee.. I860; W. W. Barr. Jan., 1861; C. L. 
Lamberton, Jackson Hodges, May, 1861; A. L. Gordon, James Craig, Sept., 
1861; George W. Andrews, Dec, 1861; Isaac G. Gordon, George A. Jenks. 
Amos Myers, May, 1862; William H. Fetzer, May, 1863; George W. Lathv, 
David Lansing, Sept., L863; William L. Corbett." May, 1865; J. H. Patrick. 
Dec, 1865; Charles Dinsmore, W. E. Lathy, Sept., 1866; J. R. Meehling, 
Sam. D. Irwin. C. E. Taylor, A. B. McCalmont, William McNair. W. V. 
Perrine. William G. Grange, II. C. Johns, Isaac Ash, Arch. Blskeley, 
John Dailey, E. L. Keenan, J. D. McJunkin, Feb., 1867; F. D. Kinnear. I. 
D. Hancock, A. W. Barry. Darius Titus, Sam. Plumer, J. B. McAllister, S 
B, Myers, J. W. Osborn, Hugh C. Graham, William.!. Galbraith, 11. Brown, 
May, 1867; S. C. T. Dodd, John L. McCalmont. W. W. Mason, S. P. McCal- 
mont, T. C. Spencer, Joseph Shippen, Roger Sherman, T. S Zuver, J. K. 
Hallock, J, A. Neil]. C. W. Stone, 0. O. Trantum, .lames M. Bredin, Sept . 
L867; J. G. Klliutt. .1. II Osmer, II. B. Plummer, Dec, 1867; J. S. Myers, 0. 
W. Gilfitmau. William K Dickenson, Samuel T. Neil, Mav, 1868; Miles W. 
Tate, J.W.White, Sept., L868; Nelson B. Smiley, G. B. McCalmont, J. W. Lee, 
David Barclay. May. L869; John M. Thompson, F. D. Reeves, Julius Byers 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 863 

Isaac Myer, S. N. Pettis, Laurie J. Blakeley, Sept., 1869; Henry Souther, Will- 
iam D. Brown, G. M. Osgoodby, Dec, 1869; B. S. McAllister, L. D. Wetmore. 
May, 1870; G. S. Berry, A. B. Kelly (student), July, 1870-; James Boggs, G. 
W. Allen, Daniel D. Fassett, W. P. Mercelliott, Sept., 1870; M. C. Beebe, Feb., 
1871 ; DeWitt C. McCoy. James B. Knox, May, 1871 ; George F. Chester, July. 
1871; Theo. S. Wilson, Sept., 1871; E. H. Clark. Dec. 1871; A. S. Moore, 
Manly Crosby, May, 1872; R. G. Lamberton, George F. Davenport, H. E. 
Brown, George T. Latimer (student), Dec, 1872; John P. Parks, Feb., 1873; 
H. A. Miller, Charles H. Noyes, May, 1873; A. B. Richmond, David Sterritt, 
James H. Bowman, R. Mackwood, ~Dec, 1873; C. O. Bowman, Harry White, 
L. S. Morton, May, 1874; William H. James, A. W. Covell, Sept., 1874; J. B. 
Agnew, J. A. Stranahan, E. L. Davis, Dec, 1874; Charles Corbett, Feb., 1875; 

S. P. Brigham, ; Henry McSweeny, May, 1876; S. A. Craig, Thomas A. 

Morrison, P. M. Clark (student), Dec, 1876; Samuel Grumbine, James Q. 
Sweeny (student), Sept., 1877; William A. Hindman, James A. Beaver, Feb. , 
1878; William Schnur, W. W. Wilbur, May, 1878; T. J. Van Giesen. Samuel 
Miner, Dec, 1878; D. J. Ball, Sept., 1879; S. W. Calvin, Dec, 1879; W. M. 
Lindsay, Feb., 1880; Joshua Douglass, Mark J. Heywang, May, 1880; J. D. 
James, M. A. K. Weidner, Joseph Burlington, L. R. Freeman, T. F. Ritchey, 
Sept., 1880; B. W. Lacy, Oct., 1880; F. P. Ray, May, 1881; George A. Rath- 
bun, June, 1881; John B. McKissock, May, 1882; A. S. Davenport, Sept., 1882; 
A. C. Bowers, Feb., 1883; W. G. Trunkey, H. N. Snyder, May, 1883; George 
A. Sturgeon, P. M. Clark, Sept., 1883; George W. Higgins, Dec, 1883; R. D. 
Campbell, Mav, 1884; H. W. Fisher, June, 1885; C. W. Benedict, M. C. Bene- 
dict, Sept., 1885; C. M. Shawkey, Feb., 1888; W. H. Ross, Sept., 1888; W. E. 
Rice, Dec, 1888; M. F. Elliott, George F. Roberts, F. J. Moffatt, John S. 
Ferguson, May, 1889. 

C. McKay Agnew, son of J. B. Agnew, was admitted to practice in the 
several courts of Forest county at the February term of 1890, on motion of 
S. D. Irwin, president of the board of examiners. Mr. Agnew passed a very 
creditable examination. 

In November, 1884, the Forest Bar Association was organized with S D. 
Irwin, president, and P. M. Clark, secretary. E. L. Davis, J. B. Agnew, M. 
W. Tate, T. F. Ritchey, Samuel Calvin, T. J. Van Giesen, and the officers 
named were then the resident attorneys of the county. 

Many important civil suits have been begun before the Forest county 
courts, such as the suits in re title to oil territory, and some heavy criminal 
cases tried here. Matthew Turner was murdered by William Barnhart, in 
Howe township, in September, 1871. He was tried at the December term of 
court, before Judge Wetmore, adjudged insane, and sent to the asylum, to be 
held there during his insanity, at the expense of Forest county. He enter- 
tained a hatred against red-haired men and women, and even after imprison 
ment tried to kill a red haired guard. Turner served in the Civil war, under 

another name J. A. Mexly was shot and killed by Ed. S. Walton, outside 

Reyner's store, at Marienville, February 9, 1886. He was tried for this crime 
in May of that year, and sentenced by Judge Brown to $200 fine, the costs of 
prosecution, and two years and four months' solitary confinement in the peni- 
tentiary, at labor. M. W. Tate, J. B. Agnew, Richmond and District Attorney 
Clark represented the State; E. L. Davis and Osmer defending the prisoner. 
.... Mrs. Jane Gilfinnan and Mrs. Jemima Everhart were murdered in sight 
of Lickingville, in March, 1886, but fortunately the deed was not perpetrated 
within the boundaries of this county. 

In November, 1884, the curtain dropped on the last scene of the celebrated 



864 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Ford and Lacy case. The case was completely closed, deeds delivered, papers 
exchanged by the contending parties, and the money paid. After over rive 
years of war, during which over $50,000 of the $250,000 at stake were spent 
in litigation, a treaty of peace was consummated. The case has an interesting 
history, which is dotted with many points peculiar in their nature. The case 
first came into prominence in the middle of May, 1883, when Judge Brown of 
Forest county, who had appointed S. V. Davis receiver, made an order, which 
virtually placed the management of the estate in dispute in the hands of Sam- 
uel Lewis, the receiver appointed by the Allegheny county court. On June 8, 
1 883, ■) ndge Brown reversed that order, and thus brought the two county courts 
into conflict. The fact that both receivers had full sway over the vast amount 
of property involved resulted in bringing them in contact with each other and 
complicating matters very much. 

On June 15, 1883, Samuel Lewis filed a petition asking that an attachment 
be issued against Davis for contempt. The petitioner stated that his appoint- 
ment had been sustained by the supreme court, but that by some legal pro- 
ceedinga in Forest county, Davis and several defendants had entered into a col- 
lusion to keep him from performing his duties as receiver. An answer was filed 
by the opposing counsel, but on June '22 Judge Stowe ordered the issue of an 
attachment against Davis. The question then arose whether, since Forest 
county had endorsed and complied with the Allegheny county court in appoint- 
ing Davis, the sheriff or his deputies could not have prevented him from serv- 
ing the attachment. A strategic movement was then planned. The writ was 
placed in the hands of Detectives Harrison and Snyder, who after lounging 
about Warren for a couple of weeks, seized Davis at the depot one evening. 
and rushed him off on a train. Davis' friends got a writ of habeas corpus 
from Judge Brown, and started in pursuit on a special train. The news had 
been telegraphed ahead to Kane, and when the two officers arrived there they 
were attacked by a mob, and their prisoner taken from them. A deputy from 
Forest county afterward came to Pittsburgh to arrest the officers for the at- 
tempted abduction, but only succeeded in arresting Snyder, Harrison escaping 
by jumping out of the window of the mayor's office. Snyder was soon after 
released. 

V few months before the final settlement, the parties to the suit, seeing 
that the litigation would be endless, petitioned the common pleas court of Alle- 
gheny county to issue an order allowing a settlement by amicable agreemeut. 
The order was allowed, the settlement was made, and. as stated, all was com- 
pleted. The sum paid by the Lacy party, in consideration of the deeds and 
papers involved was S75.000. 

In September. 1889, was begun the trial of Aquilla Mong and his son " Sic ' ' 
for complicity in the noted Wagner burglary, which occurred in Tionesta town 
ship about three years ago. During the fight that ensued, in which the W ag 
nerboys successfully vanquished the burglars. McClarv. one of the attacking 
parties, was killed. Thomas Haggerty and Sheldon Wilson were tried, con- 
victed and sentenced to ten years* imprisonment. These prisoners were brought 
from the western penitentiary on a writ of habeas corpus to testify against 
their confederates. The story of the participants of the inception, attempt 
and failure of this heinous felony was eagerly listened to. So gieat was the 
to see and hear, thai thecrowd pressed forward into the bar of the court. 
ling to the evidence of these convicted men. Aquilla Mong, the father. 
planned the burglary, and the son"Sic" assisted in the actual attempt. It 
was the latter that held old Mrs. Wagner with a pistol pressed against her 
head out in the yard during the fracas. The Mongs denied all complicity in 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 867 

the matter; declared they had never seen either Haggerty or Wilson in their 
lives, and set up the defense of an alibi. The jury, however, brought in a 
verdict of guilty against both defendants. The father was sentenced to eight 
years' and the son to ten years' imprisonment. 

George W. Lacy, of the lumber firm of Lacy Brothers, was shot by a boy 
named Charles W. Hewitt in October, 1889. The wound proved fatal. Hewitt 
was tried for the murder of Lacy in December, 1889, found guilty and 
sentenced by Judge Brown to a ten years' term in the penitentiary. The State 
was represented by District Attorney Clark; Agnew and Davis, of Tionesta; 
Ritchey, of Oil City; John W. Reed, of Clarion, and A. B. Richmond, of 
Meadville. Messrs. Bible and Osmer defended the prisoner. 

A gang of desperadoes came under the rule of Sheriff Sawyer recently, 
and more recently, still, escaped from that rule; but his energy caused the 
return of most of the alleged criminals to Tionesta. there to await trial. In 
Chapter II, and in other parts of this work, references are made to pioneer 
litigants, pugilists, and others who became familiar with the rules of court in 
the old counties. 



CHAPTER V. 



POLITICAL HISTORY. 

Establishment of the Little Original County of Forest— The Joint 
Resolution— Judicial and Administrative Government up to 1856— 
Birth of the Greater Forest County, 1866 — List of Representatives 
from 1800 to 1866— Officers of Venango County Prior to 1866— Elec- 
tions from 1856 to 1888— Prohibitory and Suffrage Amendments, June. 
1889— Republican Candidates Selected, July, 1889— Democratic Nom- 
inations, July, 1889— Elections in 188a. 

THE establishment of the little original county of Forest was due to the 
influence of Cyrus Blood and his son- in-law, Col. Hunt. James L. Gillis 
and other friends of the " Wild-cat District " worked earnestly for this meas- 
ure, but the prospects of a bill, asking for the establishment of 200 square 
miles of wilderness into a county, were very poor, and, for this reason, the 
friends of the measure determined to carry it by joint resolution. This plan 
carried, making it the only county, known to the writer, ever established under 
such a legislative plan. From this period to 1856, the little county was at- 
tached to Jefferson for judicial and, it may be said, for administrative pur 
poses, although commissioners, auditors and treasurer existed, as related in 
other pages. In 1856 this irregular and disagreeable method of local govern- 
ment was changed, and after a hard struggle for autonomy, the little county 
claimed a complete government. In 1866 the greater Forest county came 
into existence by the addition of the extreme eastern part of Venango. The 
representatives of this section from 1800 to 1866, and the names of those con- 
nected with it who served as officers of the old county of Venango prior to 
1866 are as follows: 

In 1800 Samuel Ewalt and Thomas Morton were representatives of this 
,lio ; n Win Xlth House of the Pennsylvania legislature; Alex. Buchanan. 



868 HISTORY OF FOKEST COUlfrY. 

in 1801; John Lytle, Jr., in 1802-04; Wilson Smith, in 1805-07; Samuel 
Dale and Bevan Parson, in 1808; Samuel Dale and James Montgomery, 
in 1809-12; Samuel Hays and Jacob Harrington, in 1813; David Dernp- 
sey and Jacob Harrington, in 1814; James Weston, Ralph Marlin and 
Jacob Harrington represented Venango, Mercer, Erie, Crawford and War- 
ren in 1815; Samuel Hays took Weston's place in 1816, and with Thomas 
Wilson and Marlin represented the district in 1817; Messrs. Harrington, 
Cochran and Hackney, in 1818; Wilson Smith took Hackney's place in 
1819, and William Connelly that of Harrington, while the last named, with 
Smith and Connelly, were the representatives in 1820; David Brown, George 
Moore and James Cochran were representatives in 1821 ; James Cochran (Venan- 
go and Crawford), in 1822; Samuel Hays, in 1823; William Foster, in 1825; 
Thomas Atkinson, in 1826; G. R. Espy, in 1827; John Galbraith (Venango 
and Warren), in 1828-31; James Thompson, in 1832-34; Hugh McClelland. 
in 1835; G. B. Espy, in 1836; James R. Snowden, in 1838 and 1841; Alex. 
Holeman, in 1840; D. B. Long, in 1842. From 1843 to 1851 Venango, Jeffer- 
son and Clarion counties formed the district, J. R. Snowden, Robert Mitchell 
and William Perry being the representatives during all that period. In 1851 
Morris Leech, J. W. Shugert and G. W. Schofield represented Venango, Mer- 
cer and Warren counties; in 1852, Joseph Y. James, J. W. Shugert and 
Lewis N. McGranahan; in 1854, L. T. Parmlee, John J. Kilgore and Robert 
M. De France; in 1855, S. P. McCalmont, Daniel Lott and Ralph Clapp. In 
1856, Samnel Kerr, Daniel Lott and S. P. McCalmont; in 1857, Messrs. Kerr, 
McCalmont and Thomas Struthers; in 1858, W. G. Rose and C. P. Ramsdell, 
for Mercer and Venango counties. In 1860, G. D. Hofius, Elisha M. Davis; 
in 1S62, M. C. Beebe and James C. Brown; in 1864, William Burgwin and 
Charles Koonce. In 1865 Venango and Warren were formed into one district. 
Among the officers of Venango county, prior to 1866, were the following, 
whose names are connected with old eastern townships: Alexander Holeman. 
associate judge in 1850, and Joshua Davis, in 1861; John A. Dale, pronthon- 
otary in 1857; Alexander Holeman, commissioner, 1825-28, Joshua Davis. 
1830, and William Siggins, 1849-51; John Haslet, treasurer, 1839-40. 

The elections of October, 1856, show 67 votes for Andrew Cook (W.), 48 for 
J. D. Flick (K. N.), and 27 for Oramil Thing (D.), candidates for commissioner; 
E. Shippen (W.), 154, H. Raught (W.), 88, and James McNeal (D.), 70 for 
auditor; Cyrus Blood (D. ), 93, and Bennett Dobbs (W.), 55 for surveyor; Peter 
G. Reed (W.), 64, and Charles J. Fox (A. M.), 87 for treasurer. 

In 1857 James McFarlane received 59 votes, and W. M. Abrams, 5 for the 
legislature; Cyrus Blood (D.), 75, Milton Gibbs (W.), 62, John Wynkoop, 55, 
Jonathan Hays (D.), 61, and Sylvester Nolton (W.), 28, candidates for office of 
associate judges; Samuel Johnston (W.), 80, and John F. Gaul (D.), 62 for 
sheriff; G. W. Rose(D.), 76, and Thomas Porter (W.), 62 for prothonotary ; 
John D. Hunt (D.), 43, Samuel Kinkead (D.), 43, James McNeal (D.), 97, and 
E. Mays (W.), 54 for commissioners; E. Shippen (W.), received 64 votes for 
district attorney; Archibald Black (D. ), received 64, and Homer Wing (W. ), 52 
for coroner; and Timothy Caldwell (D. ), 110 for auditor. 

In October, 1858, Chapin Hall (R.) received 107, and James L. Gillis (D.), 
69 votes for congress; Thomas McCullough (R.), 104, and Kennedy L. Blood 
(D.), 74 votes for State senator; M. B. McDowell 97, and John M. Fleming 
69 for representative; A. L. Siegworth (R.), 151, and Thomas Porter (R.), 88, 
defeating Kinkead (D.) and Hunt (D. ); John G. Brandon (R. ) was chosen 
treasurer; C. M. Robinson, auditor; John Gilfoil (D.), surveyor; while E. A. 
Brooke (D.), for district attorney, received 114 votes. 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 869 

The elections of 1859 show 61 votes for J. C. Wynkoop (R.). 47 for Jonathan 
Hays (R.), and 13 for Thomas Nugent, candidates fur commissioner; Aaron 
B. Root (D.), 120, Samuel Kinkead (U. ). 91, and H. Wing I K. I. 30 for auditor. 
E. A. Brooke (D. ), 90 for district attorney; John M. Fleming (D. i. 57, and 
Samuel Young IK. I. 35 for representative in assembly: and John Gilfoil (D.) 
was elected surveyor. 

In I860 Henry Souther (Republican elector) received 107 votes, and I 
D. Hamlin (Democratic el. •(■ton. 47 votes; John Patton iK.i. L25, and .lame- K 
Kerr (D.), 66, for congress; Jacob Black (R. ), 1 L0, and William Devins (D.), 
72 for representative; W. R. Coon IR. ), L02, and 0. M. Robinson ID. i. 69 for 
associate judge; Amos Hldridge (R. i, 6,.. (1. \V. Hose (D.). -.,, and .1. \V. Dobbs 
(R.), 58 for prothonotary; William Fox (R. i. 101, and James Painter (D.), 87 
forsheriff; Jonathan Hays (R.). 79, J. I). Hunt (D i, 57, and Robert M. Stewart, 
I'.i for treasurer; Thomas Porter i R. I, 1 18, and Daniel Black (D.), 61 for com- 
missioner; William Steele (R.), 92, and Everhart Mays i It. i. 78 for auditor; 
Hiram Thing (R.). SO, and Jesse Ferry iDi, 15 for coroner. 

In 1861 Samuel M. Fox (R.) received 74 votes, and C. L, Lamherton (D. I, 

29 for senator; Jacob Black (R.) r >ived 71, and William Devins (D. ), 37 

for assembly; James Campbell ilnd. ). 68, and William Stewart (R.), 37 for 
president judge; A. L. Seigworth (It.) defeated Arch. Black (D. I for the office 
of commissioner; C. M. Robinson (D. ) was chosen auditor, and M. E. Porter 
(R.), coroner. 

In 1862 (i. W. Schofield (R.) received 82, and Milton Courtright (D. ), 59 
votes for congress; Bernard J. Reid (U.), 90. and W. T. Al> nder (D.), 34 
for assembly; John G. Brandon (R.) and Cyrus M I!< binson (D.) were elected 
associate judges; James M. Rose (D.) received 68. and Sylvester Nolton (R.), 
57 votes for commissioner; Andrew Cook (R.) was chosen auditor; Samuel F. 
Rohrer (D.), surveyor; Jacob Mercilliott (R.) defeated J. D. Hunt (D.) in the 
contest for the office of treasurer; Isaac Long (D.I was elected sheriff. The 
elections of 1863 show B. J. Reid (D.) receiving 91, and \\ . T. Alexander 
(D.), 55 for assembly; E. C. Mays (R.), 83, and Peter Heasley iD. i. 57 for 
sheriff; G. W. Rose (D. ), 70, and Sam. Kinkead (D.), 67 for prothonotary; 
John F. Gaul (R.), 79, and Daniel Black (D. ), 61 for commissioners; II. W. 
Raught (R.), 85, C. J. Fox (R.). 74, and John D. Hunt ID.), 53, defeated Clyde 
R. Long (D.) and Rohrer (D.) for county auditors. 

In October, 1864, William Bigler (D.) received 53, and G. W. Schofield 
(R.), 68 votes for congress; T. J. Boyier (D.) had no opposition here for the 
assembly; John W. Miller (R.) received 63, and S. F. Rohrer (D.), 57 votes for 
treasurer; Salvius Zents (R. ) and Peter V. Mercilliott (R) were chosen com- 
missioners; R. M. Stewart (D.) and Samuel Coon (R.), auditors; and Jesse 
W. Mays (R. ) defeated William Burton (D. ) by one vote in the race for coroner. 
Three military votes were recorded for Sch'otield. Rasselas W. Brown (D. i. 
a presidential elector, received 62 votes, and John Patton (R.), 85, including 9 
army votes. 

In 1865 John Irwin (R.) received 76, andW. A. Wallace (D.), 40 votes each 
for senator;T. J. Boyier (D.), 37, and C. R. Earley iW. D. I. 100 for assembly; 
W. R. Coon (R.), 75, and Isaac Long (D.), 67 for associate judge; Noah K. 
Burton (R.) was chosen coroner; Thomas B. Mays (D.), 75, and Peter V. Mer- 
cilliott (R.), 59 for commissioner; Lester Warner (D.), 71, and James A. Scott 
(R.), 60 for auditor; Samuel F. Rohrer (D.), 77, and William Steele (R. I, 45 
for surveyor. 

The elections of 1866 show 99 votes for G. W. Schofield (R), and 77 for 
W. L. Scott (D.), candidates for congress; James M. McKay (R.), 99, and 



870 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

John D. Hunt (D.), 76 for assembly; J. B. Agnew (R. ). 91, F. McNeal (D.). 47, 
and Aaron Brockway (D.), 26 for sheriff: W. P. Mercilliott (R.), 79, G. W. 
Rose (D.), 39, and William Kelly (D.). 57 for prothonotary ; Daniel Black (D.), 
SO, Thomas Sorter (R.), 74, and Thomas Nugent (Ind. ), 21 fur treasurer; John 
F. Gaul (R.), 67, John D. Hunt (D. ), 57, and James Fainter (D.), 50 for com- 
missioner; E. Cook (R.) was elected auditor, and D. S. Eldridge (D.), 
coroner. 

A great influx of voters marks the year 1867, owing to the annexation of five 
of Venango's townships. S. S. Hulings (D.) received 379 and John A. Dale 
(R.), 224 votes for associate judge; Thomas J. McCullough (D.), 313, James 
M Walsh (R.), 2SS for assembly; W. W. Mason (D.), 319, and W. E. Lathy 
(R.), 282 for district attorney; A. B. Root (D.), 325, and James Gilfillan (D.), 
275 for commissioner; H. H. Stowe (R.), 347, and William Clyde (D.), 251 for 
auditor; J. Winans (D.), 386, and W. F. Hunter (R.), 211 for coroner; Samuel 
D. Irwin (R. ), 223, and James Painter (D.), 276 votes for survevor. 

In 1868 Rasselas W. Brown (D.) received 350 and G. W. Schofield (R.), 
334 votes for congress; W. A. Wallace (D.), 340, and Manasseh Arnold (R. ), 
340 for State senator; Thomas J. McCullough (D.), 333, and John M. Adams 
I K. i, 342 for assembly; James P. Siggins (R. ), 358, and Samuel H. Haslet (D.), 
302 for treasurer; Nelson P. Wheeler (R.), 392, and W. Y. Siggins (D.), 275 for 
commissioners; L. L. Hackett (D.), 342, and Edward Kerr (R.), 336 for auditor; 
Daniel Robb (R.), 347, and John D. Hunt (D.), 328 for surveyor. The presi- 
dential vote was Grant (R.), 355, and Seymour (D.), 294, respectively. Editor 
Conver was an ardent Democrat, and in the Grant and Seymour campaign 
made sumo rash bets, as was indicated in this notice printed in big job type in 
his first issue after the election: 



the elections 
tremendous excitement in tionrsta 

.John a. Proper to go Barfooted 

ai.i. Winter! 

And the Editor of the Tress will 
Go n Eati.ess, which makes No 
Difference, as he is used to it i 



The elections of 1869 show 376 votes for Charles R. Earley (Ind. Dem. ) 
and 277 for John G. Hall (D.), candidates for assembly; 359 for John A. 
Proper (R.), and 284 for Josiah Winans (D.), candidates for associate judge; 
353 for E. L. Davis (R.), and 296 for J. S. Hood (D.), candidates for sheriff; 
J. B. Agnew (R.), 384, and A. Allender (D.), 275 candidates for prothonotary; 
Benjamin Elliott (R. ), 317 and William Haslet (D.), 307 for commissioner; Eli 
Holeman (It. ), 333, and John Siggins (D.), 325 for auditor. 

In 1870 G. W. Schofield (R.) received 366 votes, and Selden Marvin (D.), 
276 for congress; W. E. Lathv (R.), 321, and John G. Hall (D.), 288 for assem- 
bly; A. Cook ii;.i, 361, and James H. Pennell(D.), 272 for associate judge; W. 
W, Mason (D, ). 376, and .1. 15. Mechling (R.),237 for district attorney; Jacob Mer- 
cilliott (R. ). 35 I. and J. D. Hunt (D.), 270 for commissioner; S. J. Lathv (R. ), 
395, and .1. II Painter (D.), 232 for treasurer; William Clark (R.), 360, and W. 
I?. Harlan (1>. |, 272 for auditor; Josiah Winans (R.) was elected coroner, and 
William Patterson (R.) received 356 votes, and George S. Siggins (D.), 280 
b ir jury commissioner. 

The elections of October, 1871, show 375 votes for W. P. Jenks (D. ), can- 



HISTOKY OF FOKEST COUNTY. 871 

didate for president judge, 210 for J. B. Lawson (D.), candidate for assembly; 
T. D. Collins (R.) had 277 and W. C. Neill (D.), 195 votes for commissioner; T. 
B. Cobb (R), 253, and James Flynn (D.), 219 votes for auditor. The judicial 
district embraced Forest, Jefferson and Clarion counties, and it may be said 
that Judge Jenks was elected without opposition. 

In 1S72 the presidential electors received, respectively, 360 Republican and 
155 Democratic votes; C. B. Curtis (R.), 116, and Thomas L. Kane (D.), 356 
for congress; David McClay (R. ), 423, and Robert B. Brown (D. ), 319 for sen- 
ator; H. H. May (R.), 415, and J. B. Lawson (D.), 348 for assembly; T. J. 
Van Giesen (R.), 400, and D. W. Clark (D.), 365 for sheriff; J. B. Agnew (R.), 
500, and James T. Rose (D.), 258 for prothonotary ; Fred. Glassner (R.), 425, 
and P. O. Conver (D. ), 330 for treasurer; John Thompson (R.), 435, and J. 
H. BowrnaD (D. ), 334, for commissioner; Samuel D. Irwin (R. ), 418, and John 

D. Hunt (D.), 342 for surveyor; L. Warner (R.), 389, and Jonathan Albaugh 
(D.), 351 for auditor; G. W. Andrews (R.), 420, James E. Brown (D.), 379, 
John McMurry (R.), 323, and John Gilkin (D. ), 279, delegates to constitu- 
tional convention. For constitutional amendment, 689; contra, 2. 

In 1873 F. E. Allison (R.) received 306 and Martin Williams (D.) 168 
votes for assembly; James K. Clark (R. ), 286, and S. C. Sloan (D.), 201 for 
commissioner; G. Jamieson (R.), 293, and James Gilfillan (D.), 196 for auditor; 
Samuel D. Irwin (R.), 302 for district attorney; M. Ittel, Jr. (R. ), 248, and J. 

E. Blaine (D.), 239 for coroner; William Patterson (R.), 290 and James 
Flynn (D.), 193 for jury commissioner. . . .The elections of 1874 show 357 votes 
for Joseph G. Dale (R.), and 329 for G. S. Siggins (D.), candidates for asso- 
ciate judge. Harry White (R. ) received 335 and G. A. Jenks (D.), 363 votes 
for congress; J. B. Agnew (R.), 322, Josiah W. Winans (D.), 289, D. S. 
Knox (Ind. ), 60, and Daniel Harrington (D.), 22 votes for assembly; S. J. Set- 
ley (R.), 386, and J. D. Hunt (D.), 308 for treasurer; Eli Berlin (D.), 370 and 
W. B. Heath (R.), 317 for commissioner; T. B. Cobb(R.) was elected auditor, 
being opposed by J. P. Albaugh (D. ) 

In 1875 W. P. Finley (R.) received 348 votes, and Philip D. Thomas (D.),385 
for senator; Edward Kerr (R.), 375, and William Tobey (D.). 356 for associate 
judge; D. W. Clark (D.), 373, and Thomas J. Van Giesen (R. ), 364 for pro 
thonotary; Justis Shawkey (R.), 396, and G. T. Latimer (D.), 334 for sheriff; 
John Reck(R.), 462, and Isaac Long (R.), 371, opposed Eli Berlin (D.), 354, 
elected by minority, and Gilbert Jamieson (R.), 307 for commissioners; N. 
Thompson (R.), 394, and J. R. Neill (D.), 382, defeated H. A. Zuendel (D. ), 
346, and Jacob Beck (D.), 333 in the contest for auditor's office; Homer Z. 
Towner (D.) and Lyman Cook (R. ) were chosen jury commissioners, and Tru- 
man D. Collins (R.), surveyor. The elections of 1876 show 3S5 for Sebastian 
Wimmer (D.) and 464 for William Cameron (R. ), presidential electors; G. A. 
Jenks (D.), received 393, and Harry White (R. ), 457 votes for congress; Henry 
Wetter (R.), 464, and W. L. Corbett (D.), 385 for senator; J. B. Agnew (R.), 
409,* and S. H. Haslet (D.), 413 for assembly; Samuel D. Irwin (R. ), 484 for 
district attorney, and W. C. Coburn (D.) a similar vote for coroner. P. V. 
Mercilliott was elected jury commissioner. 

In 1877 William Lawrence (R.) received 353 votes, and Sam. F. Rohrer 
(D.), 226 for county treasurer. The elections of 1878 resulted as follows: 
Harry White (R.), 317, J. M. Guffev (D. ), 262, James Mosgrove (G. B.), 290, 
for congress; John G. Hall (D.), 269, Ed. M. Grant (R.), 317, and T. W. 

*Mr. Agnew carried this election to the courts, alleging a miscount ot eighteen votes InTionesta 
township, whence it was presented to the legislature, where on recount a majority of eighteen was found 
for the petitioner, and Mr. Agnew was given a certificate of election, and took his seat 



872 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Taylor (G. B.). 278 for senator; N. P. Wheeler (R.), 301, S. H. Haslet (D.), 
283, and D. S. Knox (G. B.), 2/8 for assembly; Justis Shawkey (R.), 407, D. 
W. Clark (D.). 261, and F. E. Allison (G. B.) 198 for prothonotary ; C. A. 
Randall (R,), 330, James Swailes (D.), 298, and James Cole (G. B.), 236 for 
sheriff; Eli Berlin (D. ), 308, Isaac Long (R. ), 287, John H. White (G. B.), 
281. H. W. Ledebur (R.), 362, F. A. Magee (G. B. ), 254, and Asa Mills (D.), 
225 for commissioners; N. Thompson (R.), 325, D. F. Copeland (D.) 324 and 
Jacob Beck (G. B. ), 281, opposed by J. P. Albaugh (D.), 152, F. C. Lacy (G. 
B. ), 336, J. C. James, 273 for auditor; C. A. Church (R.), 305, Peter Youngk 
(D. ), 297, and J. H. Wentworth (G. B.), 257 for jury commissioners. There 
were 165 votes recorded for sheep law, and 452 against such law. 

In 1879 Lewis Arner (R.) received 224, William Tobey (D. ), 237, and John 
Reck (G. B. ), 299 votes for associate judge; John Hunter (R.), 208, James E. 
Blaine (D. ), 266, and J. G. Tietsworth (G. B.), 270 for coroner; J. H. Cook 
(R.), 280, D. W. Clark (D.), 172, and William Haslet (G. B.), 302 for sur- 
veyor; Samuel D. Irwin (R.), 284 for district attorney; James T. Maffitt, 370, 
Henry W. Wilson, 325, R. A. Brown, 1, and W. C. Coburn, 281, presidential 
electors in 1880. 

Daniel Harrington writing on this election, tells the following story. " Dr. 
J. E. Blaine was the Democratic candidate for coroner last fall. Democrats 
and Republicans coalesced to elect him. The Greenbackers ran J. N. Tiets- 
worth. Ed. Clapp. of President, met Blaine a short time before the election 
and said to him: 'I see you are a candidate.' 'Yes, I am,' said the Doctor. 
' You have a hard man to run against,' continued Clapp. ' Who is he? ' asked 
Blaine. ' Tietsworth,' said Clapp. ' If he beats me, I will shoot myself,' said 
Blaine. After the returns came in it was found that Teitsworth had a majority 
of seven votes. A few days afterward Mr. Clapp came up to Tionesta, and 
some one asked him what he was after. He said he had come to attend 
Blaine's funeral. But the funeral didn't take place." 

The elections of 1880 show 370 votes for Garfield (R.), 325 for Hancock (D.), 
and 281 for Weaver (G. B.), candidates for president; 417 for W. D. Brown 
(K.I. and 549 for R. Brown, fusion candidate for president judge; 391 for 
Harry White (R.), and 584 for James Mosgrove (F. ), candidates for congress; 
E. L. Davis (R.) received 356, Orion Siggins(D.), 331, and J. G. Dale (G. B.), 
287 for assembly; N. S. Foreman (R. ), 359, Moses P. Flynn (D.), 326, andO. 
W. Proper (G. B. ), 290 for treasurer; A. Purdy (R.), 325* S. F. Rohrer (D.), 
287, and Hill (G. B.), 353 for associate judge; F. F. Whittekin (R.) was 
elected surveyor, and H. Church( R. ), coroner. 

In 1881 Justus Shawkey (R. ) received 398, John A. Hart (G. B. ). 295, 
and John Peterson (D. ), 254 for prothonotary; Henry W. Ledebur (R. ), 375, 
James S. Henderson (R.), 389, G. F. Watson (D.), 239, E. Vokroth (G. B.), 
243, H. A. Zuendel (D.), 340, and F. A. Magee (G. B.), 303 for commis- 
sioners; G. W. Warden (R.), 405, James A. Scott (R.). 386, James T. Rose 
(D.), 220, Archie Black (D.), 226, R. B. Swalley (R), 330 and C. F. Fox (D.), 
324 for auditors; R. J. Hillard (R.), 376. W. Y. Siggins (D.), 235, J. J. Greene- 
wait (G. B.), 334 for jury commissioners; Capt. C. W. Clark (R.), 399, James 
G. Carson (G. B.), 354 and J. S. Hood (D. ), 191 for sheriff. 

The elections of 1882 show 366 votes for Harry White (R.), and 543 for 
John D. Patton (D.), congressional candidates. Miles W. Tate (R. ) 
received 386, and J. G. Hall (D. ). 302 for senator; E. L. Davis (R.). 350, S. 
H. Haslet (D.), 294, and W. C. Coburn (G. B.). 264 votes for assembly; T. J. 
VanGiesen (R.), 481, and T. F. Ritchey (D.), 326 for district attorney; 
H. O. Davis (R), 405, and Archie Black (D.), 296 for jury commissioner. 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 873 

In November, 1883, William Sunearbaugh (R.) received 415, Thomas P. 
Flvnn (B.), 396, and S. J. Wolcott (G. B.), 101 votes for treasurer: Henry C. 
Whittekin (R.), 433. and Cvrus F. Hunt (D. ), 343 for surveyor; J. W. Mor- 
row (R.), 393, William Hood (D.), 332. and W. C. Coburn (G. B.), 172 for 
coroner. 

In 1884 Charles A. Randall (R. ) received 705 votes. John H. Hill (D.), 
437, Thomas St. Clair (G. B), 278, and J. W. Owen (Pro.) 27 for presiden- 
tial electors; Ales. C. White (K. ). 729, Daniel Reitz (D. ), 710 for congress; 
Lewis Arner (R.), 750, and William Hood lD|. 63] for associate judge; Peter 
Berry I It. ), 767, and James B. Watson ID. ). for assembly; Curtis M. Shawkey 
(R.), 813, and John A. Hart(D.), 62s. for prothonotary; J. R, Chadwick (R.), 
714, G. W. Osgood (D.), 659, W. D. Shi. 4,1s 728 hi.), and Oliver Byerh 
(G. B.), 773 for commissioners: Q. Jamiesoti iR.i. tiiT. .lames A. Scott |R.|, 
709, George Zuendel (D.), 719, and T. W. Corah (D.), 756 for auditors; 
Henry O. Davis (R. ). 723. and D. R. Walter (D. ). 712 fur jury commissioners: 
Leonard Agnew (R. ). 730. and James G. Carson (G. B. ), 700 for sheriff. 

In 1885 John A. Proper (R.), received 420 votes, Henry Rhodes (G. B), 
111. and G. W. Rose (D.), 135 votes for associate judge, ami I'. M. Clark 
(R. ), 521 votes for district attorney. 

In 1886 James T. Maffitt (R.) received 677, and Thomas St. (lair (D.), 
532 votes for congress; H. L. Young (R.), 688, and John H. Wilson I l» i. 505 
votes for senator; C. A. Randall (R. I. 649, T. J. Bowman (D. i. 581, and D. B. 
Tobey (G. I'.. I, 106 for assembly; Solomon Fitzgerald (R.'j. SS5 and Eli Hole- 
man (Pro.), 292 for treasurer; H. O. Whittekin (R.), sir,, T. D. Collins (G. 
B.i. 176 for surveyor; J. \V. Morrow (R.), 606, James B. Siggins (D. i, 599, 
audi'. E. Allison I Pro. I. 1 29 for coroner. 

The electionsof 1887 show 810 votes for Calvin M. Arner ( R. |, and 192 for 
D. W. Clark (D. ), contestants for the office of prothonotary. G. \V. Sawyer 

(R. ) received Silt votes for sheriff, while H. H. McClelland 1 1>. I r fved 188. 

C. F. Ledebur (R.) received 6<8, J. J. Parsons (R.). 580, W. D. Shields 
i D.i. 593, Parous Copeland (1). I. 467. and James Henderson (D.), 234 votes 
for commissioners; R. Z. Gillespie (R.) received 705, E. L. Jones iR.i. 711. 
William Blum (D. ). 562, and F. C. Lacy (D.), 488 for auditors; C. H. Church 
i R. i. 672, A. L. Cooper (D. ), 465, and Joseph Grove (Pro. |, 168 for jury com- 
missioner. The presentation of the State Republican banner followed this 
election. 

The elections of 1888 show 917 votes for L. M. Truxel (R. ). Jefferson L. 
Brown (D. ), 611. Samuel W. Edgar lU. LA. 72. and Hiland R. Rodebaoh 
(Pro.). 1, presidential electors. Theodore P. Ryndeer (Fusion) received 952 
votes, James Kerr (R.), 635, and C. Miller (Pro.), 5 votes for congress; C. A. 
Randall (R.), 828 and T. J. Bowman (D. ). 768 for assembly: P. M. Clark (R.), 
771). Samuel D. Irwin, 370 for district attorney. 

In June, 1889, the Prohibitory amendment received 843 votes, and 11 I 
votes were cast against it. The suffrage amendment received 158 votes, and 
was opposed by 892. 

In July, 1S89, the Republicans selected the following named candidates: 
John H. White, of Barnett township, for associate judge; A. M. Doutt of 
Tionesta borough, for treasurer; Dr. J. W. Morrow, of Tionesta, for coroner; 
S. D. Irwin, Esq., of Tionesta, for county surveyor; W. A. Dusenburv. of 
Kingsley was selected for delegate to the Republican State convention. The 
new county committee, so far as elected, is as follows: A. J. Seigworth. presi- 
dent; Tionesta borough, J. C. Scowden: Tionesta township. Geo. Weant, 
William Mealy; Barnett, J. B. Campbell: Harmony, Daniel Cannan. W. C. 



874 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Allan, J. F. Connelly; Hickory, H. W. Ledebur; Howe, J. J. Haight, J. C. 
Welsh; Jenks, H. T. Rockwood, M. C. Carringer; Kingsley, R. Z. Gillespie, 
Otto Rudolph, Arnos Ledebur. 

The Democratic nominations were as follows: Kingsley township, G. S. 
Hindman, for associate judge; Green township, J. B. Haggerty, for treasurer; 
Tionesta borough, D. W. Clark, for county surveyor; Hickory township. 
Howard Weber, for coroner. 

The following are the members of the county committee for the year fol- 
lowing: Chairman — R. L. Haslet, Tionesta; Bamett — E. H. Stoughton, Will 
iam D. Shields; Jenks — J. B. Watson. P. C. Neely; Green — Upper, R. W. 
Guiton, Lower, Edgar Goodman; Harmony, Upper — H. C. Kemble, Lower, 
J. H. Bowman; Hickory — T. J. Bowman, Howard Weber; Howe, Lower — 

B. W. Goodwin, Upper, ; Kingsley township — John Burhen, Richard 

Flynn; Tionesta township — James Black, William Shellhouse; Tionesta bor- 
ough — J. M. Kepler. Jacob Hood. 

The elections of 1889 show 730 votes for White (R.), 456 for Hindman (D), 
and 36 for Sallada (P.), candidates for associate judge; 603 for Doutt il!.). 
and 652 for Haggerty (D.), candidates for treasurer; 662 for Proper (R.). and 
560 for Clark (D.), candidates for surveyor; 720 for Stonecipher (R.), and 516 
for Weber (D. ), candidates for coroner. The Republican candidate for State 
treasurer drew 703 votes, the Democratic candidate, 465, and the Prohibi- 
tionist, 83. 



CHAPTER VI. 

MILITARY HISTORY. 

Soldiers of the Revolution. War of 1812 and Mexican War— For] st 
County in the Civil War First Company Organized — Eighty- 
third Regiment, P. V. I.— Thirty-ninth, P. V. I. — Fortieth, P. V. 1.— One 
Mi ndred and Fiftieth, P. V. 1.— One Hundred and Third, P. V. I.— 
( »nk Hundred and Fifth, P. V. 1.— Soldiers' Graves in Forest County- 
Miscellaneous 

FOREST COUNTY can boast of having among its pioneers men who fought 
through the Revolution to establish liberty for all time in this part of the 
world. It can also boast of pioneer citizens who went forth from their cabin 
homes here to defend that new system of government when it was threatened 
by the old enenry in 1812. Many of the veterans find mention in the chapter 
devoted to pioneers, and there also two soldiers of the Mexican war are 
named. 

William Hunter, who died in January, 1879, came from Westmoreland 
county with bis father, Poland Hunter, in 1798. He was then four years old, 
and his sister (later Mrs. Dustin) was younger. They were brought hither, 
suspended in pack-saddle shape, in blankets. The father built a cabin on 
Hunter's Island that year. In 1S12 William's elder brothers started for the 
war. but the youth overtook them at Titusville. where Col. Titus made him a 
pair of moccasins to cover his bruised feet. He and David built the Hunter 
mill, the first between Franklin and Warren. In 1865 he moved to Erie county. 

Early in 1861 a military company was formally organized here. Later, 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 875 

when Lincoln called for 300,000 men, steps were taken to complete organiza- 
tion, and D. S. Knox was chosen eaptain, with George Stowe and D. W. Clark, 
lieutenants. On August 19, 1861, the company received a flag from the 
women of Tionesta, and next morning embarked on White's flatboat sixty- six 
strong. On the morning of the 21st the command was received at Irvinetown, 
and proceeded to Erie. On learning that eighty-one men were required to com- 
plete the strength, Capt. Knox returned to Tionesta, enlisted twenty-one men. 
and pushed forward to Erie, where he arrived September 5. A few days later 
twelve men of the disbanded Youngsville company joined Company G, of the 
Eighty-third, and on September 16, the command left Erie, under the title 
" Tionesta Rangers." 

EIGHTY-THIRD REGIMENT, P. V. I. 

This regiment was organized at Erie in 1861, and before the close of the 
year won an enviable fame. Subsequently at Big Bethel, siege of Yorktown, 
Hanover Court House, Gaines' Mills, Malvern Hill, Bull Run, Antietam, service 
with Meagher's famous brigade, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Manassas Gap, 
Rappahannock depot, Mine Run, Wilderness, Laurel Hill, Bethesda, Peeble's 
farm, Hatcher's Run, and at a hundred other places this command was in the 
thickest of the fight. Capt. Daniel S. Knox, enrolled at Tionesta, August 19, 

1861, was commissioned captain September 6, that year and resigned Decem- 
ber 30, 1862, when George Stowe* was commissioned captain; he served until 
killed at Laurel Hill. He entered the command August 19, and nine days 
later was commissioned first lieutenant. Moses G. Corey, promoted from first 
sergeant to second lieutenant August 30, and to first lieutenant, December 31, 

1862, took Capt. Stowe's place May 9, 1864, and served until end of term Sep- 
tember 26, 1861:. Thomas J. Van Geisen, mustered in with company, was 
wounded at Malvern Hill, was promoted from first sergeant to second lieu- 
tenant in December, 1862, and to first lieutenant May 9, 1864. He was 
wounded at Petersburg, June 20, 1864, but served until end of term. John 
Herrington,* one of the original company, promoted to second lieutenant July 
16, 1862, was killed at Bull Run. Benjamin A. Smith,* promoted second 
lieutenant in May, 1864, and commissioned captain of Company E, in the new 
organization of October 31, 1864, was killed at Hatcher's Run, February 6, 
1865. Daniel W. Clark, commissioned second lieutenant September 6, 1861, 
promoted first lieutenant and regimental quartermaster July 16, 1862, served 
until muster out in September, 1864. 

The troops discharged September 7, 1864, at expiration of term were ser- 
geants James P. Siggins, wounded at Hanover Court House; Levi Burford, 
wounded at Malvern Hill and again at Laurel Hill; John H. Van Geisen* was 
wounded at Gaines' Mills, and again at Laurel Hill, where he was taken pris- 
oner and carried to Confederate prison to die. Corporals — Sam. D. Girt, died after 
the war; Jacob D. Saeger, wounded five times at Gettysburg and three times 
at Laurel Hill; William Lawrence, at Gaines' Mills and Gettysburg, and John 
T. Watson, at the Wilderness. Private troops — William Albaugh, Lewis S. Car- 
penter, Samuel Hoyt, * James D. Kerr, Jacob B. Leadum, H. K. Lyons, E. M. 
Reynolds, W. S. Siggins, Charles C. Van Geisen, Philip Walters* and Will- 
iam Webber, escaped wounds; James A. Dustin, was wounded at the Wilderness; 
G. W. Fry, at Gettysburg; Moses B. Hunter and G. S. Mason, at Gaines' 
Mills, where he was also taken prisoner; Sam. C. Hunter and J. D. McClatehy, 
at Laurel Hill; A. J. McCalmont, at Hanover Court House and Laurel Hill; 
John Myers and J. D. Nellis, at Gettysburg; Ephraim T. Purdy and James A. 



876 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Thompson, at Fredericksburg; Joseph R. Wentworth, prisoner at Mine Run. 
died of fever in Andersonville. 

Among the troops discharged on account of wounds prior to expiration of 
service were the following named: W. W. Diamond, wounded at Malvern Hill; 
James L. Huddleson,* at Bull Run; Ben. F. Briggs, at Hanover Court House; 
John L. Crutchlow and William Lyons, at Bull Run and Malvern Hill; Thomas 
H. Crutchlow, at Fredericksburg; John C. Downing.* at Gaines' Mills; Robert 
W. Davis, at Malvern Hill; William Houge, G. W. McCalmont and Chris. 
Syndle, also at Malvern Hill. 

The troops discharged for disability prior to end of term were Hiram 
Alters, 1803; Sergt. Alex. Holeman. Hamilton Mason. 1863; W. B. Albaugh,* 
Sam Dram, 1862; H. L. Green,* 1863; Wm. Ikenburg, 1861; Adam Iken- 
burg, 1863; James M. Lombring, 1863; Chauncey McCrea, W. W. McDonald, 
1863; Robert Osgood,* 1862; James S. Reynolds, Daniel Rustler. Geo. 
Stewart, J. H. Wentworth, Nick. Weant, and Charles Sigler, 1863. and 
Josiah Stanford. 1861. 

The veterans who re-enlisted, December 26, 1863. were Sergt. Peter Grace, 
wounded and taken prisoner at Gaines' Mills, wounded at Fredericksburg, pro- 
moted second lieutenant of Company E, new organization, first lieutenant. 
December 28, 1864, made prisoner at Laurel Hill, retaken by Sheridan's cavalry 
aud promoted captain, February 17, 1865; Andrew J. Mitchell, wounded at 
North Anna; M. F. Vogus, wounded at Fredericksburg aud twice at Laurel 
Hill; Israel Gibbs, wounded and taken prisoner at Laurel Hill; John Jolly, 
wounded at Malvern Hill, Fredericksburg. Laurel Hill and Peeble's farm; 
C. Krotzer, wounded and taken prisoner at the Wilderness; W. W. Lowrie, 
killed at Laurel Hill; H. W. McCalmont, wounded at Gaines' Mills, killed at the 
Wilderness; G. D. Paddock, wounded at Laurel Hill, died in Harewood Hos- 
pital; Joseph C. Pettigrew, wounded at Peeble's farm: John S. Range.* at 
Gettysburg; Wilson F. Wentworth, wounded at Fredericksburg, killed at 
Laurel Hill, Daniel Stroup* and Ben P. Baskin. 

The record of troops transferred to Company E. new organization, were 
Jonathan Albaugh, wounded at Chancellorsville; J. H. Berlin, at Laurel Hill, 
and made prisoner; John M. Brombaugh, wounded at Laurel Hill, also Wal 
lit Dickson, Lewis Eaton, Stephen D. Hunt, Darius Kelly, Carlos Reynolds 
and Jay Smith; Joseph Dickson was wounded there aud killed at Peeble's 
farm, where John Culbertson was also killed; Geo. Barroff. John Dougherty, 
Chas. A. Hill, Henderson Rogers, Homer Towner aud William Young were 
wounded at the Wilderness; Rinaldo Eaton. wounded at Hatcher's Run; Joseph 
R. Goheen, James Hunter and Thomas J. Whitmore, at Bull Run, and Silas 
McCalmont, at Gaines' Mills. 

The transferred troops mustered out without wounds were C. H. Albaugh. 
■I. Amy, Thomas Collins, S. Chriswell. Samuel Gillespie, John Gordon, Geo. 
Huddleson, J. M. Knox, Pony Lard. J. H. Mater, D. McKay. F. Millett, G. 
McNutt, J. Nuss. Lieut. James C. Percival, James Purdy, L. H. Russ. James 
Robison, John G. Root, James Swailes, Jacob Fisher, Isaac W. Siggins, H. 
Sweet, H. C. Smith, Thomas Strong, J. Toner, and Fletcher Watson. 

The members of Company G, not enumerated above, who were killed on 
the field or died of wounds or disease are named as follows: James M. Brom- 
ley and Arch. Bromley, killed at Bull Run: Eli Berlin, killed at Gettysburg: 
Robert C. Baskin. Francis Eaton and Jacob Host, killed at Laurel Hill, and 
Otis C. Montross, died of wounds received there: James Davis and John Ross, 
killed at the Wilderness; W. S. Dawson and J. H. Kerr, died of disease at 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 877 

Hall's Hill; John M. Bromley, at Elmira, N. Y. ; Leisure A. Hooks, John F. 
Kinsler, killed at Malvern Hill; Samuel Henderson, died of wounds received 
there; Thomas R. B. Plowman, was killed by the kick of a mule; Jacob T. 
Schriver, died in 1862 of wounds received at Hanover Court House; Andrew J. 
Seager and Amos M. Whisner were killed at Gaines' Mills; Levi Turner, 
under sentence of death for desertion, died in May, 1864; Robert W. McCane, 
died at Pt. Lookout, September 20, 1862, and John N. Heath, July 29, 1862; 
G. C. Johnson died of disease July 19, 1862. The records show twelve de- 
serters from this company. 

DeWitt B. Waldo, who enlisted in Company B, also JohnL. Barnes, Nathan 
Burdick, Dan. K. Best, wounded at Fredericksburg, Gottfrey Snyder, G. P. 
Seiple and Michael Murphy, who was killed at Gettysburg, Eugene Randolph, 
of Company D, wounded at Bull Run, H. J. Green, wounded and made 
prisoner at Laurel Hill, and John Rhodes were members of this company. 

THIRTY-NINTH REGIMENT, P. V. I. 

Company E, Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Infantry (or Tenth Pennsylvania 
Reserve), was mustered into State service, May 1, 1861, and into the United 
States army, July 5, 1861, with James B. Knox, captain; to which office Val. 
Phipps was promoted August 15, 1862, succeeding Knox, J. B. Agnew be- 
ing first lieutenant. Among the non-commissioned officers and privates were 
J. J. Greenewalt, William Morgan, A. Spence and Daniel Black, who were mus- 
tered out; Joshua B. Agnew and Samuel Agnew were transferred to the One 
Hundred and Ninetieth Regiment, in May, 1S64; Matthew Black died of 
wounds received at Gaines' Mills; Sebastian Cook and James K. Clark were 
discharged on account of wounds, in 1862. There were five members of the 
Agnew family who served in Pennsylvania regiments. 

FORTIETH REGIMENT, P. V. I. 

Company K, Fortieth Pennsylvania Infantry, was mustered in June 7, 1861, 
under Capt. Brady, who was killed at South Mountain, in 1862; Lemuel D. 
Dobbs, Daniel L. Swarts, Elijah Bish and Solomon Fitzgerald served in this 
command, and also C. Galbraith. who died in Andersonville. 

ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTIETH REGIMENT, P. V. I. 

Company H, of the One Hundred and Fiftieth Regiment, was commanded 
by J. W. H. Reisinger. 

In Company I, of this command, were Francis A. Magee; John Agnew, Sr. , 
discharged on surgeon's certificate, and John F. Gaul, who became lieutenant- 
colonel of the Fourth Pennsylvania Reserves. 

ONE HUNDRED AND THIRD REGIMENT, P. V. I. 

Company A, of the One Hundred and Third P. V. I., claimed G. W. 
Paup, the date of whose discharge is unknown. Company H, Andrew J. 
Maze, who was reported to have died in Andersonville, is a resident of this 
county; W. E. Gray and L. R. Warner, who were captured at Plymouth; 
Ephraim Furree, date of discharge unknown; Hiram Irwin, made prisoner, 
discharged in 1864; Benj. Irwin, died at Beaufort, N. C. ; Hezekiah Irwin. 
who died of wounds at Fair Oaks; Perry Irwin, missing in September, 1863; 
Joseph R. Landis and John H. Maze, transferred to the Veteran Reserves. 
There were seven brothers of the Irwin family in Pennsylvania regiments. 



878 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTH REGIMENT, P. V. I. 

Company B, of the One Hundred and Fifth P. V. I. , was commanded by 
John C. Dowling, who was killed at Fair Oaks. Among the troops were Jud- 
sou J. Parsons, William Fox, Hiram Wing, C. P. King, John Love, J. 
Schreckengost and George W. Saxton. Joseph Titus died in Andersonville. 
and Joseph Williams was killed at Fair Oaks. 

soldiers' graves in forest county. 

The following is a roll of the dead soldiers buried in this county as nearly 
as can be gotten at present: 

At Tionesta — Capt. George Stowe, Company G, 83d Penn. Vols. ; James 
Thompson, Company G, 83d Penn. "Vols. ; Philip Walters, Company G, 83d 
Penn. Vols. ; Peter 0. Conver, sergeant, 4th Penn. Cav. ; D. McClintock, 74th 
N. Y. Vols.; Lieut. O. W. Stadeen, 116th N. Y. Vols.; Maj. Mulkins, 69th 
Penn. Vols. ; Jacob Zents, Company F, 163d Penn. Vols. 

In other parts of the county are James G. Huddleson, in Mount Zion Ceme- 
tery; J. S. Range, Company G, 83d, at Church Hill; Charles Zeigler, at Whig 
Hill; Robert Osgood, Company B, 82d Penn., at Whig Hill; Andrew McDonald, 
at North Pinegrove; Elliott Walker, at Neillsburg; Fred. Glassner, in Bartholo- 
mew cemetery; Peter Sipple, in Bartholomew cemetery; at Tionesta lie Lieut. 
John Range, a soldier of the Revolution, Amstetter's regiment, Washington's 
army, and other veterans of 1776-81 and 1812-15. Nicholas Thompson is 
buried at Tionesta, and Abner Kinney is also interred in this county. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

Capt. James Zohnizer, who served in Company I, Fifty-first Penn. Reg., 
from Neillsburg, died in 1889 .... Thomas Black was wounded during the 
war, and after returning was killed by the limb of a tree. He served in the 
Sixty-third Infantry. 

Thomas Porter was in Company H, Thirty-seventh P. V. I. ; three of his 
brothers — Henry, David and George also served, the latter two dying; Barney 
Martin was in Company F, Eleventh Pennsylvania Reserves; R. B. Crawford 
was in the Fourth Cavalry. 

Early in June, 1863, J. B. Agnew was on detached service, and from the 
7th to the 15th was in charge of ordnance train under special order of Gen. 
Meade. Although discharged without rank, he filled a commissioned officer's 
place for over a year, and by special orders took a leading place on detached 
service. 

There was a board of pension examiners appointed in Tionesta, Penn., on 
the 23d of August, 1889, and Dr. J. W. Morrow, of Tionesta. Penn., is a 
member of that board. The board is organized as follows: President, Dr. 
S. S. Towler, of Marienville, Penn.; secretary, Dr. J. W. Morrow; treasurer, 
Dr. J. B. Siggins, of Tionesta, Penn. 



HISTORY Or FOREST COUNTY. 879 



CHAPTER VII. 

JOURNALISM— PHYSICIANS. 

Journalism The Forest Press— The Forest County Bee— The Forest 

Republican— The Fagundas City Press— The Commonwealth— The 
Democratic Vindicator— The National Democrat. 

Physicians -Pioneer Doctors— List of Physicians Who Have Regis- 
tered Under the Act of 1881. 

journalism. 

THE first and only paper printed in Forest county, and about the only one 
of the kind published anywhere, was issued by P. O. Conver, at Tionesta, 
from his office in the E. L. Davis building, February 5, 1867, its name being 
The Forest Press. In the second issue the publisher pays a tribute to E. L. 
Davis, who became personally responsible for the subscriptions of the people of 
Tionesta, together with giving advertising worth to the office $250, and the use 
of an office worth $150. Mr. Conver came here with $1. 50, and died eleven years 
later worth over $10,000. Peter O. Conver, born in Montgomery county, 
Penn., February 2, 1833, died March 19, 1878. In 1839 his father, George 
Conver, moved to Venango county, and there, in the office of the Advocate, 
young Conver learned the printer's trade. In 1861 he enlisted in the Fourth 
Pennsylvania Cavalry, and after returning took a position in Young's news- 
paper office at Clarion. On December 25, 1866, he came to Tionesta, and 
within a week he had a Ramage press and an odd lot of type in a room donated 
by E. L. Davis. March 11, 1871, he married Amelia W. Stewart, who wa6 
born near Conneaut Lake, Penn., May 17, 1836. He lived at Tionesta very 
happily until his death. 

On March 23, 1878, Mrs. Conver' s name appears as editress, and also a notice 
referring to her husband's illness. Dr. Blaine contributed news items. On 
October 5, 1878, she wrote her valedictory, stating that Dr. W. C. Coburn 
would be the paper's future editor under the name of the Forest National, and 
would give it a Greenback coloring. She died May 14, 1883. From the his- 
torical collections of J. B. Muse the following notes on the character of Con- 
ver are taken: Mr. Samuel D. Irwin, a leading attorney of Tionesta, was an 
intimate friend of Conver, and always a great admirer of his genius. When 
on his deathbed he sent for Mr. Irwin to make his will. " The document was 
very short," said Mr. Irwin. "Conver could say more in a few words than 
any man I ever knew. He told me briefly what he wanted, and I drew up 
the document at his bedside. He left all his property to his wife, except a 
few trifling bequests to one or two of his relatives. I asked him if he wanted 
to leave something more to his relatives. He said he did not; that they had 
not done anything for him, and he would not now intrude on them on this sol- 
emn occasion. He kept up his drollery almost to the moment of his death. 
After I had the will to suit him he said: ' I was afraid you wouldn't get here 
in time to perform this little service, and so I sent a boy over to the train to 
sort of hurry you along.' He rested awhile, and turning his head on the pil- 
low (he had one hand under his head) he said: ' Call in the old gal.' I opened 



880 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

the door into the adjoining room, and Mrs. Conver stepped tenderly to his bed- 
side. ' Amelia,' he said 'I'm going to turn my toes to the daisies. The doc- 
tors say it's all up with Pete, and I guess they know their business this time. 
You've helped me make and save what plunder I've got, and I've left it all to 
you. You' 11 find there' s enough to keep the pot boiling, and rig you up in a 
new gown to catch another husband — and heaven bless you, sweetheart. ' I 
turned away and left them, and Pete's soul soon took its flight. 'And there 
cracked a noble heart.' Some time after his death, besides the $6,000 or $8,1 H II ' 
in sight, Mrs. Conver found among his effects a couple of $1,000 county bonds, 
of which he had never told her. ' ' 

Probably a stranger admixture of incongruities never lived. His newspa- 
pers, wherever he printed them, were always a reflex of his queer individual- 
ity. At times they would make their appearance set up in large job type — but 
his readers soon came to understand the reason of this. Until the later days of 
his career Pete did his own type-setting. It was not an uncommon occurrence 
for him to take a jug of whisky, go off somewhere by himself and have what 
he would call ' ' a high old lonesome. ' ' While he was communing thus with the 
gods he would make no attempt to issue his newspaper. On his return to 
business, either from a shaky condition of the nerves or some other cause, he 
would not be in "ship shape," as he expressed it, and consequently he would 
throw his paper together with big type. After a particularly long struggle 
with a stone jug, he issued his paper with an entire side filled with an egg- 
shaped cut, plain black, which he had sawed out of a board and placed in the 
form to "fill up." Underneath was the inscription: 



I II [S I- I III. SIZE OF THE HAIl.sn iNES 
WHICH STRUCK OUR OFFICE LAST 
WEEK AND PREVENTED OS FROll 
GETTING OUT OUR TAPER. 



He was an artist in the business of collecting and getting money for the 
gay and festive puff. He was miserly, a queer characteristic in a man of his 
peculiar bent of mind, and never made a bad bargain or squandered his money 
even when he was drinking — and he had an economical system of drinking. 
He would never hang around a bar-room and blow in his money treating a 
gang of loafers or buying his whisk)' by the drink. He would buy it by the 
jugful and go off somewhere, and go about the business of getting drunk in a 
rational and sytematic manner. 

In December, 1874, the old Ramage press, on which Conver printed his 
paper, got out of order. He was his own pressman as well as his own compos- 
itor, doing all his own work, with the help of a devil. He had tinkered away 
at the running gear of his press, but it defied his efforts. He thus apostro- 
phized it in his issue of December 5, 1874: 

Blast that old press, it is not properly reconstructed yet. The miserable print of the 
last issue made our heart ache, as it doubtless did the eyes of our readers. Maybe its 
days of usefulness are over, as all of ours, reader and printer, must be, sooner or later. 
But we don't tike to give it up yet, and shall try to doctor it through a little longer. We 
have a peculiar affection for that old printing press. Both old pioneers, we came to Forest 
county together. Faithfully has it stood by us since, except a few spells of conti 
like the present, which we always overlook when they are over. It has been our constant 
companion for nearly eight years. Together we have labored day and night, pulling out 
our daily bread and a few etceteras, through summer suns and winter storms. N.> we 
will not part with you, old friend, even if compelled to buy a new one. You shall have 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 881 

an honored corner, still, where to rest your weary joints in old age, for your life has been 
a toilsome and a chequered one. We respect you for the good you have done in the 
world. True enough, you may have pressed out many a whopping lie in your time, and 
doubtless have for all we know, for you were an old concern when we first fell in with 
you. But we have cussed you enough to make up for all your lying, and are willing to 
call it quits, if you will only press out clear print a little longer, till money gets plentier, 
when we promise you a rest that shall know no waking. Walt, pass around the saucer, 
and then take some more color. 

The Forest County Bee was founded March 4, 1868, by J. W. H. Reisinger, 
with office in Knox's building. This was a Republican journal. The review 
of the Bee by Conver was modest enough for such an odd genius. He called 
it "a wasp or yellow jacket, and no bee at all, at all." 

Forest Republican is successor of the Bee, the change of name dating to 
March, 1869, when a stock company purchased the office and appointed E. W. 
Smiley, editor. He was succeeded by R. J. McQuillan, who published the pa- 
per until November 1, 1870, when W. R. Dunn was. to use his own words, 
" glad to be among the grand old hills of Forest once more, and come to stay." 
On February 19, 1879, Jacob E. Wenk, the present editor, took charge. 
This journal and its predecessor, The Bee, have been the only Republican 
papers ever issued in the county. This office resembles somewhat that of the 
Reporter at Port Allegany. The files are all bound and kept with care, 
while type, presses, stock and even the make-up of the Republican show jour 
nalistic taste. 

The Fagundas City Press was established in October, 1870. 

In April, 1872, Prof. A. C. Porter purchased an office, and on June 1, issued 
the Independent Democrat. 

The Commonwealth was issued August 20, 1880, by J. D. James, with the 
object of overturning those political heresies advocated by the leaders and 
papers of the Democratic and Republican parties. The names of Gen. James 
B. Weaver and Gen. Benj. J. Chambers were presented for President and Vice- 
President; James Mosgrove, for congress; Joseph G. Dale, for representative; 
Chas. A. Hill, for associate judge, and Oliver W. Proper, for county treasurer. 

In September, 1880, the paper became the property of the Forest Publish- 
ing Company, of which James Swailes was president; J. H. Dingman, secreta- 
ry; G. W. Bovard, treasurer; S. Mervin, N. G. Cole, R. Brumbaugh, H. A. 
Adams, John Reck, and G. W. Delbridge, directors. On November 3, 1880, 
the motto, "Truth crushed to earth shall rise again," was adopted. On Au- 
gust 1, 1885, the office became their property. Mr. Dingman managed the 
paper until August 1, 1885, when J. B. Muse and W. L. Klinestiver purchased 
the office, and, changing the name to The Democratic Vindicator, have carried 
it on successfully since. 

The Democratic Vindicator was issued under its new name August 6, 1885. 
by James B. Muse and W. L. Klinestiver. This journal is thoroughly Demo- 
cratic. Its advent was hailed by one contemporary thus: "Its first 'cry' has 
the proper ring, and that it may grow in influence asit grows in age is our wish." 
As the Press recorded the valuable contributions of Samuel D. Irwin to local 
history in 1868-69 and 1876, so this journal printed the recollections of the 
pioneer, Daniel Harrington, after the first series were published in the Specta- 
tor. Mr. Muse has happily kept intact the greater number of such valuable 
reminiscences, and to him, in particular, the writer of this history is indebted 
for much material. To Daniel Harrington must be credited the complete char- 
acter of the chapter on the pioneers, for had he not written his personal recol- 
lections at the beginning of this decade, age and its infirmities would have 
hidden them away forever. 



882 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

The National Democrat was issued April 16, 1880, with J. M. Kepler, ed- 
itor and proprietor, but in May of that year Albert Hayden became part owner, 
and remained until June, 1885. In December M. L. Chadman became asso- 
ciate editor, and held that position until April 15, 1887, when J. W. Kepler 
succeeded him. Frank E. Bible, who came to Forest in July, 1889, takes an 
active interest in this. The circulation is about 1,700. Samuel Silman has 
been in the office over one year, while Harry C. Clarkson has served here about 
two years. 

PHYSICIANS. 

About the year 1824 Dr. Vara who practiced along the river, committed 
suicide at the head of the third island below Tionesta. S. H. Haslet, the 
owner of the island, discovered a grave there, in 1885, and pushing the en- 
quiry, learned the above facts. Other physicians, such as Dr. Webster, came 
hither over the trails of pioneers and old settlers. Dr. Blaine was here prior 
to 1870. The physicians of Forest county, who registered under the act of 
1881, are named as follows, and the date of diploma or practice given: 

Registered in 1881: John W. Morrow, Jefferson College. 1873: Samuel B. 
Hartman, Jefferson College, 1853-57; W. C. Coburn, Philadelphia, 1865; 
Charles J. Harris, practice, 1865; J. M. Burkett, practice, 1863; Edwin W. 
Smith, practice, 1866; Nancy L. Henderson, practice, 1870; Samuel S. Towler, 
practice, 1868. 

Registered in 1882: John \V. Palmer, Cleveland, 1872; Milton Miles, 
practice, 1868. 

Registered in 1883: Miles B. Cook, Hudson University, 1877; James B. 
Siggins, Michigan, 1883. 

Registered in 1885: Charles C. Smith, practice, 1870 (registered in 1884); 
Curtis A. Thrush, Pennsylvania Medical College, 1885; Walter B. Hottel, 
Western Reserve College, 1876; Harry Navigo, practice, 1863; Francis H. 
Sinning, Cincinnati Eclectic College, 1881-85. 

Registered in 1886-88: H. P. Holt, Baltimore College of Surgery, 1886; 
Jeremiah J. Brewer, West Pennsylvania College, 188 / ; C. C. Rumberger, 
Pennsylvania University, 1872; Alva E. Stonecipher, graduate, 1888. 

Registered in 1889: John A. Ritchev, Jefferson Medical College, 1871; 
Howard Weber, L. I. College, 1887. 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

RAILROADS. 

Meeting in 1867— Lamentation Railroad— Pennsylvania Petroleum Rail- 
road Company' — Foxburg & .St. Petersburg Railroad Company' — 
Foxburg, Kane & Bradford Railroad Company'— Tionesta Valley' 
Railroad Company— Pittsburgh, Bradford & Buffalo Narrow Gauge 
—Miscellaneous. 

THE railroad meeting of April 9, 1867, was presided over by Col. John F. 
Gaul, with P. O. Conver, secretary; H. H. May, John A. Dale and 
Erastus Barnes vice-presidents. Resolutions favoring the Tionesta Valley 
Railroad were adopted. In May, Doane & Wilson surveyed the proposed 
route. The old Pittsburgh, Titusville & Buffalo Railroad of 1881, the Buffalo 
New York & Philadelphia Railroad of 1884, and Western New York & Penn- 
sylvania Railroad of 1889 are synonymous terms for the river valley road. 

The Lamentation Railroad was completed in May, 1868, at a cost of 
$10,000. 

The Pennsylvania Petroleum Railroad Company took steps to build their 
railroad in January, 1872. A. H. Steele was president, and J. G. Dale a 
director. In March Mr. Steele moved to Titusville, and in 1S89 he was still 
hammering away at the project, but the road has not yet been built. In 
February, 1879, the Foxburg & St. Petersburg Railroad Company purchased 
the Emlenton, Shippensville and Clarion roads. At this time $50,000 of the 
$100,000 required, were subscribed by Mrs. Mary Fox, for extending the road 
through Forest and McKean counties. 

The Foxburg, Kane & Bradford Railroad Company was chartered in March, 
1879, with A. W. Smiley, F. H. Ball, James Blakeslee, E. M. Grant, J. V. 
Ritts and H. M. McCray, directors. 

The Tionesta Valley Railroad Company was organized in 1880, to build a 
road down the creek, fifteen miles from Sheffield. T. P. Camp was engineer 
in charge until April, 1882, when F. F. Whittekin was appointed. In the 
summer of 1881 the road was located in Foxburg, but owing to the extension 
of the Philadelphia & Erie down the creek, the original line was abandoned 
and construction commenced toward Brookston on the South Fork. In 
February, 1882, the " Wild Pigeon " locomotive made its first trip to Donald- 
sons. On September 19, 1882, the road was opened to the junction of the 
Pittsburgh, Bradford & Buffalo Railroad, now the Pittsburgh & Western. In 
1884 the Tionesta Valley Company obtained control of the Garfield & Cherry 
Grove Railroad, and the same year built six miles of road down Spring creek 
from Sheffield junction, and by May 6. 1885, operated thirty-seven miles. In 
the fall the extension of the road to a point near Kane was completed. This 
was known as the James City Branch. 

The Pittsburgh, Bradford & Buffalo Narrow Gauge, running through Jenks 
and Howe townships, converted the wilderness of 1879-80 into a manufactur- 
ing center by the close of 1882, when it may be said to be open to Beechwood 
junction of the Tionesta Valley Narrow Gauge. This last named road is due 

48A 



88b HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

to the enterprise of Horton, Crary & Co., of Sheffield, who built over thirteen 
miles, through the wilderness, forming the link in the short line with the 
Bradford Air line, building in 1882-83 to a point near Kinzua village. 

The Collins & Kreitler Railroad, running from their Nebraska mills five 
miles into the forest, recorded its first accident in July, 1888, when \Y. I. 
Hunter was killed. 

The Warren & Farnsworth Valley Railroad was extended from Garfield to 
East Hickory in 1883-84, T. J. Bowman being the leader in the enterprise. 

John Polen's logging road at East Hickory was supplied with a locomotive 
in September, 1885. 

In May, 1883, the Ridgway & Oil City Railroad Company was chartered 
to build a road sixty miles long, between the towns named, running through 
Forest county. In the summer of that year the B. & O. R. R. Co. proposed 
to build their Lake Branch or Erie Southern, from Erie county to Somerset 
county, via Forest county. 



CHAPTER IX. 



TIONESTA TOWNSHIP— BOROUGH OF TIONESTA. 

Ticinknta Township General Topography— An Unfathomable Pit— Pop- 
ulation— The Township's Historic Beginnings— Officers Elected in 
1889. 

Borough of Tionesta General Description— Ice Floods, etc.— Deed to 

Sholass Range— First Settlers— Business, etc.— Improvements— Munic- 
ipal Matters— Banks— Natural Gas— Hotels— Manufacturers— Post- 
masters— Educational — Churches— Societies— Miscellaneous. 

TIONESTA TOWNSHIP occupies the southwest comer of the county. 
The Allegheny river enters it below the mouth of Sibbald run, flows 
southwest to the mouth of Little Tionesta creek, whence it flows west into 
Venango county. Hunter's run and three unnamed creeks flow into it from 
the north. Above the county seat it receives Tubbs run from the northwest: 
at the county seat, the waters of Tionesta creek enter it, and at the bend, comes 
in the Little Tionesta, while Hemlock creek drains the southern sections. 
Several islands lend a peculiar charm to the great river in its course through 
this county, while the bold plateaus and mountain peaks add to this charm a 
grand pictttresqueness. Of the high summits in the southern part, few iis.> 
1,600 above tide level. They are capped with conglomerate, and within them 
may be found large beds of the Upper Marshburg coal series, as opened on the 
Heath lands long ago. In the vicinity of Tionesta borough the conglom and 
sandstone measure 200 feet in depth; while below the river bed, ninety-five feet 
of these rocks are found. West of the river the summit is 1,595 feet above tide. 
The hill in rear of Hunter's mill is 540 feet higher than the railroad track: 
the spring, on Dutch Hill road, 315 feet; summit of hill on Proper farm, 560 
feet; at Riser's, 595; at W. B. Heaths. 680, and Tubbs Run hill, on the Cropp 
road, 610 feet above the railroad level at Tionesta, which is 1,058 feet above 
tide level. An unfathomable pit, three and one-half miles from the borough, 
on the Tylersburg road, was noticed by the Press in December, 1867. Warm 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 887 

air issued from this pit, so as to keep the ground warm and green throughout 
the winter. Dr. Whitley, a resident physician, undertook to clear the mouth 
of this opening; but the clay sides closed in. Near the town is a spring, the 
water of which has a local fame. In years long ago a swamp stretched toward 
the river from the present central hotel. The village spring was in rear of 
where this building stands to-day. 

Hunter's island is one of the largest, if not the largest, in the upper waters 
of the Allegheny, that is to say from Warren to Franklin. It was appropriated 
by Poland Hunter early in the present century as an island, and from him de- 
scended by inheritance to his heirs. In those early days before the river rose 
so high as it does now, this island was inhabited and cultivated, the rich allu- 
viated land producing abundant crops. Poland Hunter appropriated this one 
upon improvement and settlement, obtaining from the State a patent therefor. 
He resided on the same up to a short time before his death in 1839, and was 
buried on the side hill opposite the island over which he had exercised a care- 
ful supervision so many years. Of late years the upper end has moved away 
rapidly, leaving the drive pipe of an oil well drilled in 1863-64, protruding 
out of the gravel, the soil being washed away; also leaving bare some of the 
foundation stones of Poland Hunter's cabin, and part of the wall, of what was 
once a well, exposed. At one time John Range, who owned the land where 
Tionesta now stands, had a suit with Hunter concerning the island, claiming 
it was no island at all. To establish his side of the case, Hunter procured as a 
witness, the celebrated chief, Cornplanter, who testified that he had passed 
through the back channel with a canoe. This decided the case in favor of 
Hunter. It was the first land case ever tried in Venango county, between set- 
tlors, it is said. One of the chainmen who helped to survey the shore tract for 
Range, then made an affidavit that it was at the time of the first survey a part 
of the main land, just a little ditch being cut through, that he could jump at 
almost any place. So both accounts make the back channel very narrow then. 
It is now owned by an oil company who purchased it in 1862 or 1863, but 
used and occupied by George S. Hunter, a descendant of the original owner^ 

The population of the township in 1880 was 522, and of the borough. 469, 
or a total of 991. In November, 1888, there were 104 Republican, fifty-five 
Democratic and two Prohibitionist votes cast in the township, while ninety-six 
Republican, forty-five Democratic and ten Prohibitionist votes were recorded in 
the borough, a total of 312, representing 1,560 inhabitants. 

The township dates its historic beginnings back to 1795-96, when the fron- 
tiers men of Westmoreland county pursued a large band of warriors to a spot 
above the county seat, and there killed all save one. In the historical sketch 
prepared by Samuel D. Irwin for the Centennial Fourth, many of the pioneers 
of this section find mention, while in the reminiscences of Daniel Harrington, 
their lives and characters are word-painted in the quaint phraseology of that 
pioneer. 

The officers of the township, elected in 1890, are as* follows: Judge of 
elections, J. W. Tyrrel; inspectors of elections, Frank Monday, James Car- 
son; justices of the peace, J. C. Hooveler, J. W. Tyrrel; township treasurer, 
Wm. Lawrence; constable, Daniel Black; collector of taxes, W. H. Wolf; 
school directors, B. F. Feitt, Frank Monday; township clerk, Q. Jamieson; 
road commissioner, Wm. Hepler; township auditor, P. C. Blocher; overseer 
of the poor, Henry Rhodes. 

BOROUGH OF TIONESTA. 

This borough, in latitude 41° 29' north, and longitude 3° west of Wash- 






888 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

ington, may be called the ancient saqualinget or place of council. The creek 
from which it is named has been called Squirrel creek and Wolf creek at various 
times, while the steep hill at the mouth of Tubba run was named Mount 
Ararat by the old surveyors. The elevation of the main street is placed at 
1,073 feet, and of School street at 1,120 feet above tide level, so that the town 
above the flats is secure from high waters in the Allegheny or Tionesta creek. 
The ice-flow and flood of February 12, 1867, created much damage here, car- 
rying away the trestle-work on the Franklin & Warren Railroad, and flooding 
several houses in the lower town. 

G. S. Hunter's ferry at Tionesta became a celebrated institution in 1867- 
68, when, notwithstanding the ice-flow, regular trips were made. 

The iron bridge completed in December, L872, for Hunter, was carried 
away by ice and water January 17. 1N73. The affair resulted in suits being 
entered by Bell & Breckenridge, the contractors, against Hunter, and by him 
against them. The matter was compromised by S. D. Irwin and Col. L. D. 
Rogers, representing Hunter, and the contractors' lawyers in such a way that 
the rebuilding of the bridge was soon commenced, each party paying one-half 
the costs of rebuilding. In 1886 high water also damaged property, but on 
May 31 and June 1, 1889, when a large section of the State Buffered heavily 
from floods, Tionesta escaped with comparatively small loss. 

The township and borough take their name from the Tionesta or Wolf creek, 
and the place was known as Goshgoskunk in 1761, and as Saqualinget in 1 71)7. 
Tionesta creek was made a public highway in 1825, and the act of June 15, 
1847, relating to streams in Warren county, was extended to the Tionesta and 
tributaries in March, 1849. 

In the Republican of November 13, 1889, appears a copy of the deed to 
Sholass Range, who subsequently deeded the land to St. John Range.of Revo- 
lutionary fame, whose remains now rest in the upper cemetery of this place. 
It conveys the land on which Tionesta now stands, and is likewise quite a 
curiosity. We give below the contents of the patent which describes the land. 
"Mount Ararat . " is the high hill at the mouth of Tubbs run, and "Squirrel 
Creek" is Tionesta creek. "Saqualinget" was then the name of Tionesta, 
and means "place of council," hence the name of Council run. which courses 
through the borough: 

Tht Supreme Executivt Council of the Commonwealth of Pen 
Pr< si nts shall eomt , Greeting: 

KNOW YK that in consideration of t In- monies paid by Sholass Range into the 
Receiver General's Office of this Commonwealth al the granting of the warrant herein- 
after mentioned, there is granted by the said < ommonwealth unto the said Sholass Range 
a certain tract of land called " Saqualinget," situate on the east side of Allegheny River, 
including the mouth of Squirell Creek, in the late purchase, Northumberland County. 
Beginning at a sugar tree standing on the bank of the abovesaid river; thence by vacant 
land south twenty-nine degrees east foi < \ seven perches to a white oak; thence by Mount 
A , :u m t south for i seven degrees, west one hundred and twenty five perches to a white 
nth two degrees east two hundred and fifty-nine perches to a white oak, and south 
one hundred and thirty nine perches and six tenths to a white oak; thence by vacant land 

ii\ six perches and three-tenths to a white oak, and north sixty-eight d 
W esi sixty perches to a white walnut tree at the mouth of Squirell Creek; thence up the 
Allegheny River by the several courses thereof five hundred and eighty perches to the 
place of beginning. Containing two hundred and fifty-eiirht acres and allowance of six 
percent, for roads, &c, with I he appurtenances. (Which iaid tract was surveyed in pur- 
a Lotter) Warrant No. 611, granted to the said [Sholass Range, dated the 17th 
May, 1785) To have and to bold the said tract or parcel of land with the appurtenances, 
unto the said Sholass Range and his heirs to the use of aim the said Sholass Range his 
heirs and a°signs forever, free and clear of all restrictions and reservations as to mines, 
royalries, quit rents or otherwise, excepting and reserving only the fifth part of all sold 
and silver ore for the use of this Commonwealth, to be delivered at the pit's mouth clear 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 889 

of all charges. In witness whereof the Honorable Charles Biddle, Esquire, Vice President 
of the supreme executive council, hath hereto set his hand and caused the State seal to be 
hereunto affixed in council the twenty-first day of February, in the year of our Lord one 
thousand seven hundred and eighty-six, and of the Commonwealth the tenth. 

Chas. Biddle, Vice Pres't. 
Attest— John Armstrong, Sec'y. 

The original documents in possession of Benjamin May, of Norristown, 
Penn., were loaned to Mr. Wenk for the purpose of publication. 

When Squire Fleming came to Tionesta in 1820, he found three families 
here: The Ranges on the town site; Poland Hunter, where George Hunter re- 
sided ih 1874, and Noble, who lived over the creek on the William Hood lands 
of 1874. The Squire and J. G. Dale built the house where J. Grove then 
resided. The Hilands family settled at the mouth of the Tionesta in 1838 on 
lands now owned by William Lawrence, but they subsequently erected a saw- 
mill at Braceville. Within a decade the settlement grew into a village. 

In 1844 a carpenter named McKinley arrived, and was soon engaged by resi- 
dents to build new homes for them. Among the buildings erected within the suc- 
ceeding decade were Stowe's dwelling, 1844, now occupied by Dr. Siggins; 
Presbyterian Church, 1858; Benj. Mays' house, burned before the war, built 
about 1848; a new house owned by John A. Proper occupied the site; Hun- 
tington Mays' house, also built about 1848, has been remodeled and is occu- 
pied by his widow; Robert McBride's old Tionesta House, built in 1850, was 
burned about eight years ago. (This stood at the mouth of Tionesta creek). 
Selden Mays' house, at the north end of Main street, is occupied by E. L. 
Davis; The Holmes House was built in 1846 for Maj. Hillings (in 1872 it 
was destroyed by tire; it stood on the east bank of the river, near the bridge); 
J. G. Dale's house, on Council run, was built in 1S44-45, and still forms part 
of the present dwelling. 

During the twenty years succeeding 1852, comparatively few buildings 
were erected here. Even the fact of the county seat being established at Tio- 
nesta failed to exert a beneficial influence on prospective house-builders. 
Pending the erection of a court-house, a building for the use of the county 
offices was completed in April, 18(37, by Col. Thomas, and, when the present 
court-house was finished two years later, the old building was rented by Hale- 
broner & Einstine for mercantile purposes. R. C. Stephenson, S. H. Haslet. 
L. Davis, J. B. Mechling, Sheriff Dale and others, entered on the work of 
building dwellings in 1867; Proper's addition to the Tionesta House was 
erected, and Taylor's brick yard established shortly after. George Hunter's 
store, on Water street, and J. W. Bowman's store, near the depot, were the 
trading points, and Shriver, Sawyer & Co. had converted an old building into 
a planing-mill. In 1867-68 D. S. Knox's general store and insurance and 
real estate office were in operation: Chapman's photograph gallery was 
opened over the post-office; Mrs. Mary Orr opened millinery rooms in the 
court house: M. Rathbun offered lots for -sale near Haslet's coiners; J. Y. 
Saul's harness shop, William Killmer's shoe shop, R. C. Stephenson's black- 
smith shop, and Prof. Saul's barber shop, all gave evidence of progress, 
while Conver's Press, "the only paper of its kind published anywhere," held 
up the little village as a place worthy of admiration. In October, 1867, the 
Tionesta Savings Bank was opened; W. W. Mason, S. D. Irwin, J. B. Mech- 
ling and W. E. Lathy had established their law offices here, and Dr. W. F. 
Hunter his physician's office. 

There were also dogs here. Away back in August, 186S, when Col. Reis- 
inger published The Bee, out of which grew the Forest Republican, he hit 
upon the novel idea of publishiug a list of owners of dogs, together with the 



890 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

names of the canines at the time resident in the borough, which we here re- 
produce. It will be observed that a number of the then owners have lost none 
of their attachment for "man's unselfish friend," for they still keep dogs: S. 
S. Hidings, — Dan, Drive, Major Snow, Sailor and Fannie; S. H. Haslet, 3 — 
Waltz, Jowler and Jack; William Hood, 3— Curley, Watch and Bob; J. X. 
Tietsworth, 3— Penny, Fido and Trim; Z. T. Shriver, 2— Fred and Spot; E. 
H. Savage, 2- — Gip and Leaf; Geo. S. Hunter, 1 — Coaley; \Y. W. Mason, 1 — 
Dick; J. D. Hidings. 1 — Snip; D. Andrews, 1 — Snow; P. D. Thomas, 1 — 
Watch; D. Black. 1 — Cuff; E. C. Stephenson. 1 — Unknown; L. H. Davis; 
1— Trip; Dr. Hunter. 1— Gip; J. B. Agnew. 1— Cony; Samuel Riddle. 1 
Muff; J. J. Fisher. 1— Prince; J. Philley, 1— Sport; 'Mrs. Noble, 1— Watch 
J. Wenk. I — Kover; H. Bloom, 1 — Schnitz; J. W r . H. Reisinger, 1 — Dido 

D. S. Knox, 1 — You Know; J. T. Dimock, 1 — Coalev; J. Alsbach. 1 — Lady 
\V. P. Mercilliott, 1— Bet; John A. Dale, 1— Frank; J. G. Dale. 1— Watch 

E. L. Davis, 1 — General; John Stroup, 1 — Coaley; W. Roberts, 1 — You 
Know; J. A. Proper, 1 — Dick; A. Nellis. 1 — Bounce; T. F. Simmons, 1 — 
Gip; Win. Strong, 1 — Fan; James R. Orr, 1 — Prince. 

On July 4th of that year the corner-stone of the court-house was placed 
with great ceremony, S. D. Irwin reading the memento. On the same day, 
and in connection with the dual celebration, a festival for the benefit of the 
proposed Catholic Church building was given, the committee in charge being 
as follows: 

North Pine Grove — A. McDonald, John Dotson, A. Bowstaff, Peter Heffran. 

Clarington — J. J. Reynolds. Wm. Shields, Thos. Porter. 

Cooksburg — F. A. McGee, Andrew Cook. 

Jenks Township — Jas. Painter, Esq., Col. Gaul, I. T. Rose. 

Snydersburg — Samuel Walley, Joseph Fogleboher, Joseph Snyder. 

Clarion- S. S. Jones, J. T. Hindman, J. Patrick, G. W. Lathv, W. L. 
Corbett, B. J. Reid. 

IrvinetoD — Mr. Christy, P. Masterson. 

Shaniburg M. Furay. 

Lickingville— C. Musselman, John G. Seigworth. 

Tionesta — Geo. S. Hunter. Capt. Knox. Col. Thomas, Dr. Hunter, ('apt. 
Thomas, lion. S. S. Hulings, Col. Reisinger, P. O. Conver, Daniel Black, 
Join, A. Dale, W E. Lathy, J. B. Mechling, Samuel D. Irwin. W. W. Mason, 
S. H. Haslet. Dr. Winans, D. Pearson, Thomas F. Simmons. J. G. Dale, John 

A. Proper. W. .J. Taylor, James Albangh, Wm. Lawrence, Alex. Holeman, T. 

B. Maze. .1. j;. A.gnew, A. H. Steel.. 
Stewart's Run — Patrick Donahan. 

Fryburg — Patrick Graham, Ferdnand Deets, Geo. F. Copp. 

Pithole City — John Dailey. 

President -Michael Henry. C. D. Mabie. 

Henry's Bend — James Henrihan. 

Tidioute Thomas Hunt. 

Oil City A. J. Christy. J. B. McAllister, Esq. 

Tylersburg — Charles Leper. C. B. Webber, Wm. Wilkerson. 

St. Mary's— Hon. E. C. Schultz, Dr. Blakely 

Franklin- Gen. A. B. McCalmont, Jeremiah Clancey, John Daley, 

Kingsley— L. L. Hackett. Sebastian Hall, A. B. Root, Jas. Flynu. W. 
oby, 

Hickory Abraham Bean. H. H. Stowe, J. Siggins. T. D. Collins. John 
Woodford. 

W .'-t Hickory and Harmony — Levi Haima. Win. T. Xeill. Jos. McCa-lin. 
John Carney. 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 891 

Newtown Mills — Jos. Stewart, Rudolph Rudolph. 

Among the advertisements in the Press at this time was one of W. H. But- 
ler, which was headed, Blind Horses made to See. This reads as follows: 
"Persons having blind horses will find it to their advantage to call on me, for 
I have restored the sight, and can do it again. Persons living at a distance 
can obtain the ingredients with full directions for 15, by calling on or address- 
ing W. H. Butler, Tionesta, Pa." 

There were, snakes in those days. Conver. in his inimitable style, printed 

the following locals in June, 1868: "Constable Philley killed a rattlesnake 

a day or two ago that had so many rattles on he couldn't get them all off. Mr. 

' Stroup killed a black snaik on Tubbs run last Sunday. It measured five feet 

six inches in length." 

The improvements of 1872-73 included Hinton's cottage (the first building 
near Shriver's trout pond), Mrs. Robb's dwelling, P. D. Thomas' brick factory, 
J. S. Hood's dwelling (on Elm street), S. D. Irwin's. J.W. Stroup' s building 
(then the property of Sheriff Van Geisen) and J. Woodington's cottage. The old 
Brown House (where the first courts of Forest county were held), on Elm and 
Helen streets, was remodeled for T. B. Cobb, and Jacob M. Kepler's building, 
opposite, was erected; also the dwellings of William Hepler, Bill Harlan, Mrs. 
C. D. Mai lie, William Smearbaugh's tenement, the bank building (brick), Bon- 
ner & Agnew's frame block, opposite, G. W. Robinson's house, the Lawrence 
House, Dr. Blaine's residence (opposite the Lawrence House), William Law- 
ence's block, the Swaggart meat market, John Reek's dwelling (opposite the 
brick church), Dan. Walter's dwelling (on the site of Judge Dale's former 
home), additions to the homes of Charles Randall and William Roberts, Capt. 
Knox's steam-mill, the Dithridge mill (beyond Tionesta creek), the iron bridge 
over that creek, with the Tietsworth dwelling to the left, Samuel Haslet's 
dwelling on the hill, Partridge's addition to his home, Eli Holeman's cottage 
and the new Hunter bridge over the Allegheny river. 

In 1872 the old wigwam which stood in front of what is H. Foreman's 
dwelling, was torn down by Col. Thomas. In 1860-61 it was Watkins Brothers' 
grocery store. This was built by William Harlan for political purposes, was 
octagonal in shape, and used by minstrel and other troops. 

Municipal Matters. — The first election for Tionesta borough was held Feb- 
ruary 8, 1867. John A. Dale received 20 and S. S. Hulings 13 votes for bur- 
gess; S. H. Haslet 34, P. D. Thomas 33, Sol. Ziuts 18, Jack Shriver 27. L. H. 
Davis 18, D. S. Knox 16 and T. W. Pearson 16 for councilmen; Geo. J. Fil- 
ley 34 and W. J. Roberts 8 for assessor, and the same vote for constable; D. 
S. Knox was elected high constable. S. D. Irwin and L. H. Davis, auditors; 
John A. Dale and P. D. Thomas, overseers of poor; J. G. Dale and S. S. 
Hulings, assistant assessors, and E. L. Davis, justice of the peace. The school 
directors elected were W. F. Hunter, Solomon Zents, J. G. Dale and J. Win- 
ans. L. H. Davis and T. W. Pearson were also candidates. In 1868 J. 
Winans was chosen burgess; in 1869, D. S. Knox, who was re-elected in 1870; 
H. H. May, in 1871, when D. S. Knox was elected justice; J. Winans. 1872; 
J. G. Dale, 1873-74; John Reck, 1875, when C. A. Randall was elected justice 
of the peace. The borough officers at the beginning of Centennial year were, 
burgess, John Reck; councilmen, G. W. Robinson, S. A. Varner. A. B. Kelly. 
S. H. Haslet, A. H. Partridge, H. O. Davis; justices of the peace, D. S. Knox, 
C. A. Randall; constable, H. Swaggart; school directors, D. S. Knox, H. O. 
Davis, S. J. Wolcott, S. H. Haslet, A. B. Kelly, D. Clark. 

John A. Dale was elected burgess in 1876, when D. S. Knox was elected 
justice; G. W. Robinson, 1S77; W. R. Dunn, 1878, and J. N. Tietsworth, 



892 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

justice: Y S. Foreman, 1879-80, with D. S. Knox, justice: S. J. Wolcott. 
1881; Geo. Morgan, L882; S. D. Irwin. 1883; R. B. Crawford, 1884, with D. 

S. Knox, justice; Eli Holenian, 1885; John Reck, 1886; H. O. Davis, 1887: 
D. S. Knox. 1888-89, and S. J. Setley elected justice in 1889. The officers 
for l ss 9 were: Burgess, D. S. Knox; councilmen (North ward), R. M. 
Herman. H. M. Foreman, S. D. Irwin, (South ward) J. C. Scowden, G. W. 
Robinson, J. F. Proper; justices of the peace, D. S. Knox, T. B. Cobb; con- 
stable and collector, S. S. Canfield; school directors. G. W. Robinson, A. B. 
Kelly, E. L. Davis, D. S. Knox, D. W. Clark. J. T. Brennan. The officers 
elected in February, lS'.'O, are as follows: Burgess, J. B. Siggins; council, 
Patrick Joyce (three years). R. M. Herman (two years), S. H. Haslet (three* 
years), Eli Holeman (two years); high constable, fi. H. Shoemaker; justices 
of tlie peace. S. J. Setley, J. F. Proper; constable, S. S. Canfield; collector. 
S. S. Canfield; overseer of the poor, J. T. Carson; school directors, G. W. 
Robinson. A. B. Kelly; auditor, Charles Davis; judge of elections, R. B. Craw- 
ford; inspector of elections, J. R. Chadwick, J. J. Landers. 

Banks. — The Tionesta Savings Bank was opened October 15, 1867. with 
John A. Dale, president; John A. Proper, vice-president, and A. H. Steele, 
cashier. This money institution ceased to exist, mainly owing to purchase 
of unproductive lands and the issue of certificates. 

May, Park & Co. 's Bank was established in June, 1873, with H. H. May, 
president, and A. B. Kelly, cashier. The former died in 1882, and his inter- 
ests are in the hands of his heirs, while the latter is still cashier, with James 
Kelly, acting cashier. This banking house is firmly fixed in the estimation of 
the people of Forest county, and is not unknown to the larger concerns in 
New York. Chicago and Philadelphia. 

A local board of the National Saving and Loan Association of Rochester, 
N. Y., was organized in August. L889, with the following named officers: Presi- . 
dent, J. W. Morrow: vice-president. Edward J. Fitzpatrick; secretary. C. M 
Arner: treasurer, Solomon Fitzgerald; attorney. S. D. Irwin. 

Natural Gas. — In 1SS6 natural gas was introduced in Tionesta by a com- 
pany over which D. W. Clark presided, with E. L. Davis, secretary, and H. 
W. Tew. treasurer. In December there were three wells in operation on the 
1 . '_'< N i acre tract, six and one-half miles from the borough. Look back ye citizens 
to the dim fish-oil burner, the modest tallow candle, and the primitive pine-log. 
What changes has this Pennsylvania oil field wrought! Look back only a few 
years to the age of the coal and wood stoves. It now pains like a tooth- 
ache to even think of them. Gas, as natural as the oil, now takes their 
places, and there is no hauling of the dusky diamonds or of the barbarous ash 
and cinder. The house-keeper to-day is rendered by this significant change 
as capable of being superbly grand in the midst of her noble duty as the child 
of wealthy indolence who waits in idleness to receive her flatterers, while the 
husband, good man, dreaming of hideous old days of the coal scuttle and the 
wood pile, seems happy for evermore. 

Hotels. — The town is well supplied with hotels. In the pages devoted to 

pioi r history, many references are made to the old-time taverns where Mose 

McCallum and his kind got drinks at wholesale prices. The Holmes House. 
built, by McKinley for Major Hulings about L846, was burned in 1S72. The 
Tionesta House dales back over thirty years. Mary J. (Thompson) McBride. 
who died in 1888. came to Tionesta in 1S39. where her husband. Robert, built 
and opened the Tionesta House in IM'.i-.jO. and conducted it until L859. In 
L876 Andrew Weller was proprietor, but on May 9, 1879, when fire wiped out 
the hole], '['. ( .'. Jackson was lessee and Judge Proper owner of the building. 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 893 

The Lawrence Hoase, of which William Lawrence is owner may also be enu- 
merated with the old first-class hotels, and the Forest House, opposite the 
county buildings, has a good reputation. In Centennial year S. A. Varner 
was proprietor, and in 1S84 T. C. Jackson. 

The Central Hotel was established in the Bonner & Agnew Building in Feb- 
ruary. 1S74, by W. A. Hilands. Leonard Agnew was proprietor in 1876. 
James McKay erected the greater part of this large house, and here kept the 
post-office, but owing to the location being just one fourth mile from the depot, 
he moved it to the south end so as to be over the constitutional quarter mile. 
In September, 1884, O.C. Brownell, of Sheffield, purchased the Central house, 
and I. C. Jackson, the old proprietor, became host at the Forest House. 

Manufactures. — The old saw-mills of this vicinity are all noticed in the 
chapter devoted to pioneers and old settlers. The large mills near the Tio- 
nesta bridge form to-day one of the leading manufacturing industries .... Over 
twenty years ago Shriver & Sawyer's planing-mill was an industry here, and 
in the fall of 1874 a barrel factory was established; subsequently the buildings 
became the property of A. B. Kelly and now form a portion of G. W. Robin- 
son's saw and planing-mill ... .In 1875 the Dithridge mill was burned, a casu- 
alty common to the tract whereon it stood .... In 1884 the Cobb Stave mills 
were built opposite Tionesta, near the depot. . . . A carriage and wagon factory 
is carried on here, which gives employment to a small number of the best 
mechanics. 

Postmasters. — In 1853 S. H. Haslet was commissioned postmaster, and 
held the office until July, 1861, when Joseph G. Dale succeeded him. Thomas 
Pearson came after Dale, then David Hays, William Neill, J. M. McKay, who 
served three full terms, C. M. Abner, commissioned in 1883. In October, 
1886, Mr. Haslet was reappointed, and held the office until July, 1889, when 
D. S. Knox was commissioned. 

Educational. — The first school-house was erected in 1837 or 1839, and 
opened by Moss Fleming. In June. 18S4, the contract for building the present 
brick school-house was awarded to May & Osborne, of Franklin, for $7,800. In 
January, 1885, their work was completed and received by the directors. This 
building stands on the plateau above the town, a most beautiful location. . . . 
The first teachers' institute of Forest county was held December 24, 1867, 
under call of S. F. Rohrer, superintendent. The teachers present at the in- 
stitute in December, 1868, were Messrs. J. T. Porter, D. Hays and J. Sallade, 
Misses Lizzie Callahan, Clara and Winnie Hunter, Mary Harrington, Eva 
White, Lizzie M. Kerr, E. J. Eakin, M. Pownell, Alice Weed, Clara Nickum, 
C. F. Wandell, Mary E. Mays, J. E. Copeland, Stella Sutton, Rosie Rapp, F. 
Copeland, Alice Dimond, Flora Philley and Mesdames A. DeWoody and Law. 

Churches. — The Methodist Church is contemporary with the Middleton set- 
tlement, although this pioneer did not call his neighbors to worship for some 
years after, when meetings were held in the old Red House on Jamison Flats. 
In 1827 steps were taken to build a union house at Tionesta. On October 13, 
1S29, John and Anne Range deeded to George Siggins, Jesse Dale, James Wol- 
laston, Asa C. Brown, John Middleton, James Dustin, David Hunter, George 
Gates and James Dawson, trustees of the Methodist society, one acre near Dr. 
Marvin Webster's grounds, being part of the Saqualinget tract patented to 
Sholass Range February 2, 1786, and conveyed to John Range in 1806. This 
deed was acknowledged September 2, 1830. before Alexander Holeman, a justice 
of the peace of Venango county, and recorded May 11, 1843. The work of 
building the old frame house, which stood in the old burial ground, was at 
once commenced, but not until 1835 was it completed. It was continued in 



894 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

use until February 19, 1ST 1. when the present brick church-house was dedi- 
cated by Rev. S. S. Burton, the pastor; O. L. Mead, presiding elder, and other 
preachers. The house stands on the old Methodist lot. Its total cost was 
|3,000, of which $700 were due at this date, and of this balance, $568.25, were 
subscribed that day. There are 150 members enrolled, and 17<> baptisms have 
been recorded since 1881. 

The records of the Methodist Episcopal Church date back only to Novem- 
ber 8, 1880, although the class organization dates to 1829. The pastor iu 1880 
was Rev. J. B. Hill, who attended at Nebraska, Whig Hill, Beaver Valley, 
Hill's school-house and Red Brush. At this time the Hill school-house class 
was set off in charge of Mr. Hicks. In January, 1881, Rev. J. F. Hill ten- 
dered his first quarterly report. J. Peate was presiding elder, and T. B. Cobb, 
secretary. In 1882 Rev. J. P. Hicks was pastor, and Miles W. Tate, clerk. 
The parsonage was built in 1883. In December of that year J. M. Bray was 
presiding elder, and in the fall of 1884 Rev. F. M. Small took the place of Mr. 
Hicks as pastor, who was succeeded in 1SS7 by Rev. C. C. Raruberger. In 
February, 1888, Rev. Milton Smith presided over Conference as elder, and. in 
July, P. M. Clark was elected recording steward. During this year the appoint- 
ments of Whig Hill and Balltown were transferred to the Fagundus circuit. 
Daniel Harrington, in his reminiscences, reports the troubles of 1844 as 
follows: 

In 1H41 there occurred a little unpleasantness in the Methodist Church at Ti ssta, 

out of which grew a lawsuit, which was tried at Franklin under the administration of 
Judge Gaylord Church. A preacher named Luce, with two assistants, was holding a 
protracted meeting. It was very cold weather, the suow deep, and the sleighing good. 
The bouse was. filled every night. Some young men went there to Bee and to be seen, and, 
of course, took their girls with them. Mr. Luce was a man not calculated to make friends 
by his speaking. At the opening of his discourse, and before In- announced his text, he 
would tell the audience what he would do to any who should behave improperly. The 
young men seemed to take these remarks a- a sort <>f direct invitatiou to misbehave. 
Luce was a man of large proportions, and very arbitrary. On the trial it was shown thai 
every time there had been a disturbance in his meeting Luce was the aggressor. At the 
wind up of the services on this particular occasion somebody put some drug on the hot 
stovi Some thought it was assafcetida, while others thought it was brimstone. The 
crowd in the house immediately began to hunt for fresh air The escaping capacit} oi 
tlic door not being sufficient, many went out by the windows, [t was roll out, tumble 
out. any way to get out. The wicked said that the deacon of the church put the brim 
stone on tin- stove in order to give the people a foretaste of what they might expect m tin' 
future. I never heard how many converts were made at thai meeting. Three or four 
young men were indicted for the disturbance, and gave hail lor their appearance at 
court. The ablest attorneys in the county were employed on both sides, tine of the 
young men indie ic.l, named Tisdale, lived in the city of New York, and was visiting son* 
friends at Tionesta at the time of the occurrence, He came all the way from Nevi Fork 

to stand his trial. The case occupied the time of the court, three days. Tin- verdict of 
the JUFJ R as. not guilty, and that the prosecutor. Rev. Luc.-, anil his assistant should pay 

the costs Whether the costs were ever paid or not I don't know. Preachers, 
oral rule, are not flush of money. Perhaps the congregation contributed to settle the bill. 
1 fell sorry for Luce's assistant' He got into trouble like Poor Tray, by being found in 
bad i ompany. There is a right way and a wrong way to do everything. Mr, I w 
the wrong way to convert the pi ople to his doctrine. 

The Methodist Episcopal Conference appointed the following preachers: 
W. H. Farout, Marienville; C. C. Rumberger, Tionesta; C. R. Thompson, 
East Hickory. 

The Presbyterian Church*" was organized December 10, l s o:-!. the day 
after the present building was dedicated. In July, L852, James Hilands 
surveyed a lot 50x100 feet, originally owned In (i. (t. sickles, and donated bj 
Margaret, Benjamin and S. T. May that year. In the list of contributors to 

•A costume concert w, i] and ic. 1S69, uiuler the management of Mrs. De Woody, 

i .resilient "f the sanu'cri .iin.i. f.n n the Presbyterian Church. 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 895 

the building fund, H. Stowe & Co. are credited with $700, B. H. and S. T. 
May $175 each, C. W. Holmes, $100, Adaline and Charlotte Holmes, $80 each. 
The meeting to organize was presided over by Rev. Mr. Hampson, with William 
Bailey, secretary, and the name adopted was the New School or Constitutional 
Presbyterian Church. Hamilton Stowe and James Hilands were chosen elders, 
and they, with Herman Bloom, Benj. May, William McKinley, S. T. May and 
M. K. Riddle formed the male section of membership, while Margaret May, 
Helen S. May, Elizabeth May, Francis A. May, Mary A Lamb, Mary McKinley, 
Lucy Selden, Mary Riddle and Ann S. May were the female members. The 
pastors, who have preached here since the church was organized, are named as 
follows: Rev. Berrege, November, 1854; Elliott preached four times prior to 
April, 1855; G. W. Hammer, November, 1855, to March, 1858; R. C. Allison, 
February, 1861 to 1863; Andrew Virtue, 1869 to 1872; William Elliott, January, 
1875, to January, 1880; James Hickling, May, 1880, to May, 1888; J. V. 
McAninch, June 1, 1889. In 1857 the Misses Holmes presented a communion 
service; G. G. Butterfield, the present clerk, has tilled that position since 1879, 
and is now engaged in editing the old record book of this church. There have 
been 123 members enrolled since December 10, 1853, of whom thirty-eight 
remain on the roll. Mrs. Francis A. May and Helen S. (May) Thomas remain 
of the first members. The roll of Sunday-school pupils contains about ninety 
names. Mr. A. B. Kelly has served as superintendent since 1878. 

The Free Methodist Church, established in this county some years ago, is 
still in active existence. The pastors of the Free Methodist Church, appointed 
in September, 1889, are S. Sager, with William Richards, supply, Hickory, and 
A. D. Gaines, Tionesta and Newmanville. The church house at Tionesta was 
built in 1880, and opened for worship that year. 

The Universalist Church was organized February 1, I860, Rev. O. B. 
Clark being the first regular pastor, and Andrew Fleming, clerk. The Univer- 
salists of Tionesta, however, built a house of worship in 1858-59. Rev. Mr. 
Stacy, of Warren county, preached here at intervals prior to the latter date, 
and when the society was organized here it was attached to the Stacy associ- 
ation. The members were Jacob and Margaret Shriver, John A. and Elizabeth 
Dale, Andrew Fleming. J. G. Dale, James H. and Ella Dale. A. Pollock, Anna 
Shriver, Mary Hiner, R. E. Ashley, Eleanor Hunter, Thara and Mary Savage, 
Moses Pierson, Matthew and Rhoda Elder, Ruth Fleming, William Pierson, 
Laura Walters, Mary M.Walters, James Hidings, John Noble, Lafayette Patton, 
Nancy H, Ellen A. and H. W. Towner, Jacob Shriver. Jr., Sarah and W. A. 
Ryner, Daniel Stroup, Anna D. and Lucy Purdy, Harriet Shriver, Moses Walters, 
James Solley, Robert Hiner, Amaza Purdy, R. P. Rinet and A. J. Ryner; of 
the above named, twenty-three are deceased. In 1875 J. T. Dale was elected 
clerk, and the record closeg with a notice of adjournment to the first Monday in 
January, 1876. In 1868 the Universalists rented their building to the Catholic 
congregation, who refitted it and worshiped there for two years, when the 
Free Methodists rented it. Next it was occupied as a district school-house. 
This building is about to be conveyed to the State Universalist Association by 
J. G. Dale, D. W. Clark and John T. Dale, who have been trustees since 1876. 
Judge Galbraith is credited with being one of the first workers here, and Maj. 
James Hidings was also connected with this church. 

Services of the Catholic Church were held at William Taylor's house, 
January 25, 1868, and later in the Universalist Church, which the congre- 
gation painted and refitted for services, Father Dunn being the missionary 
priest. The subscription toward the church building, reported in May. 1868, 
show Daniel Black subscribing $150, Patrick Cline and Patrick Russell $50 



896 HISTORY OF FOKEST COUNTY. 

each. John Carney. James Albaugh, William Taylor, D. S. Knox. S. S. Hulings 
and T. F. Simmons $25 each. S. H. Haslet. T. Dimmock, J. B. Agnew and 
David Kelly, $10 each, M. Ryan, C. Myers, J. A. Dale, J. A. Proper, J. G. 
Philley, Mrs. .Mary Nellie, ('apt. J. B. Mechling, J. G. Dale, A. H. Steele. \Y. 
W. Mason and James Carroll. $•"> each, Mrs. Julia Flinn. Pierce McAvoy, Con. 
Luhen, Patrick G. Leason and Allan Taylor, smaller sums, the total being 
1503, On July 4, a great festival yielded more money for this purpose; but 
the building project was postponed, and not until July 20, 1886, was a building 
for Catholic worship dedicated. Bishop Mullen, with Fathers Lavery. Dunn 
and De La Roque, performed the ceremony. This house was first erected at 
Pithole, where it was used until that town collapsed, when it was taken down 
with care and rebuilt here. 

The Lutheran Mount Zion Congregation have their church on German Hill. 
Rev. R. J. Graetz presiding. 

Societies. — Tionesta Lodge, No. 369, I. O. O. F., was instituted June 21. 
1850, with James Solley, N. G. ; W. W. Hulings, V. G. ; Alex. Hiland-. S .; 
H. H. May. A. S. ; and \V. W. May. T. After installation James Gordon, 
D. P. Baiiey, W. Whitley, W. McKinley and T. O. Morgan were admitted by 
card from Venango Lodge, No. 255; J. M. Hilands, Charles Holeman, A. B. 
Root, Joseph G. Dale and R. Gilmore were nominated for membership. On 
June 22, T. O. Morgan was appointed secretary. In December, W. \V. Hul- 
ings was chosen N. G. and Joseph G. Dale secretary with A. Purdy, J. Gor- 
don and J. N. Hilands, trustees. The deaths of W. G. Connelly and 
\\ \Y. May were reported. In June, 1851, T. O. Morgan was elected N. G., 
and J. A. Bowman, secretary, and in December James Gordon and James 
Solley were elected to fill the respective offices. In June, L852, J. A. Bowman 
was chosen N. G., and M. K. Riddle, secretary, but in October the last named 
was succeeded by William M. Richardson. In February. 1853, R. McBride. 
S. T. May and M. K. Riddle were appointed a building committee to act in 
connection with the committee of school district, and in March Joseph G. Dale 
was electedN. G., and M. K. Riddle, secretary. In May they were re-elected; 
but S. H. Haslet was acting secretary for a time until J. A. Bowman was ap- 
pointed in August. In October M. K. Riddle was elected N. G. ; in Decem- 
ber #James Solly was chosen secretary, and in April, ls.">4, was N. G. witli 
Joseph G. Dale, secretary. In Septembers. H. Haslet succeeded Dale. A. 
B. Root was elected X. G. in April. 1S55. with M. Milford secretary, but. the 
latter failing to serve, S. H. Haslet filled the office until T. O Morgan quali- 
lied in August. 1855. In September, 1855, S. H. Haslet was chosen N. G.. 
and Joseph G. Dale, secretary, and they were re-elected in March. 1856; but in 
June, following, M. K. Riddle took the former's place. In July a number of 
members were suspended, and adjournments, owing to non attendance of offi- 
cers, were common. In September another batch was suspended: J. G. Dale 
wa9 elected N. G. in October, with S. H. Haslet, secretary, and in December 
the question of selling the hall and discontinuing work was presented. In 
January, L857, a vote in favor of continuance was recorded; but the lodge hall 
was ordered to be sold for $125. In March another lot of members was sus- 
pended, and on April 25 the committee on sale of hall reported their dealings 
with the school-board, showing the bid of $300, payable in annual installments 
of $75 with interest. Rules for refunding to members proceeds of sale were 
adopted, and on May L6, IS57, the lodge closed unceremoniously, and. later. 
surrendered the charter and records. 

Tionesta Lodge. No. 369, I. O. O. F. was instituted under restored char- 
ter and records September 20, L872, with seventeen members. J. G. Dale 



HISTOBY OF FOREST COUNTY. 897 

was appointed P. G., M. Ittel elected N. G., James AYoodington, V. G. ; W. 
R. Dunn, secretary; S. H. Haslet assistant secretary; John A. Proper, treas- 
urer; Daniel Harrington, warden; Samuel D. Irwin, Con.; G. K. M. Craw- 
ford, S. S.. and William Hood, G. Admissions were very numerous during 
the year, among which was G. W. Sawyer, who holds the old records. In 
March, 1873, S. H. Haslet was elected N. G., and J. T. Dale, secretary. 
The chair of N. G. has been filled since that time as follows: James Wooding- 
ton, 1874; W. R. Dunn, 1874; J. T. Dale, 1875; A. B.Kelly, 1875; G. W. 
Sawyer, 1876; C. A. Randall, 1876; T. J. Van Geisen. 1877; S. J. Setley, 
1877; W. Y. Siggins, 1878; J. E. Blaine, 1878; S. D. Irwin, 1879; J. T. 
Brennan, 1879; E. E. McCray, 1880; D. W. Clark, 1880; J. H. Fones, 1881; 
P. M. Clark, 1881; J. H. Dingman, 1882; J. D. Dawson, 1882; Q. Jamieson, 
1883; Eli Holeman, 1883; R. Z. Gillespie, 1884; S. C. Johnson, 1884; J. P. 
Hiding, 1885; R. L. Haslet, 1885; G. W. Kerr, 1886; CM. Shawkey, 1886; 
H. C. Whittekin, 1887; G. B. Armstrong, 1887; E. S. Hoyt, 1888; F. R. 
Lanson, 18S9; G. W. Kemble, 1889; C. F. Thompson, 1890. The position 
of secretary has been held by the following named members since 1874: A. B. 
Kelly, G. W. Sawyer, 1874; G. T. Latimer, C. A. Randall, 1875; S. H. Has- 
lot, "1^76; D. W. Clark, 1877; and G. W. Sawyer, since 1S78. J. H. Fones 
is now secretary. The property of the lodge is valued at about $7,000, and 
the membership is placed at eighty. 

Leonora Lodge, No. 198, Daughters of Rebekah was chartered February 
25, 1889, with S. H. Haslet, N. G. ; Mrs. T. F. Ritchey, V. G. ; G. W. Saw- 
yer, Sec. ; Mrs. S. D. Irwin, Asst. Sec. , and Mrs. S. H. Haslet, Treas. On 
Mrs. Ritchey' s removal to Oil City, Mrs. J. G. Dale was appointed to fill her 
position in the lodge. Among the female members at date of charter were the 
ladies named above, with Mesdames F. R. Lanson, G. F. Watson, I. W. Tomes, 
L. Agnew, C. A. Randall and G. W. Sawyer. The male members were H. C. 
Whittekin, I. W. Jones, Q. Jamieson, G. W. Kimball, F. R. Lanson, I. D. 
Swales, S. W. Haslet, R. L. Haslet, William Wood, John W. Wood, Charles F. 
Thompson, G. W. Sawyer, I. G. Dale, Eli Holeman, G. B. Armstrong, I. D. 
Dawson, F. F. Ritchey, S. D. Irwin, L. Agnew, Charles Winter, E. S. Hoyt, 
R. Z. Gillespie, A. M. Doutt, Solomon Fitzgerald, A. J. Gilfillan, E. L. De 
Woody, J. W. Dingman, G. W. Caw, C. A. Randall and J. P. Willing. 

Olive Lodge, No. 557, F. &. A. M. was constituted September 15. 1881, 
with the following members: Thomas F. Ritchey, W. M. ; Daniel W.Clark, S. 

W. ; John T. Dale, ; Archie B. Kelly, Sec. ; Ephraim L. Davis, J. W., and 

Thomas J. Payne. In December, 1881, D. W. Clark was elected W. M. ; E. 
L. Davis, S. W. ; A. B. Kelly, J. W., and Benjamin W. May, Sec. The re- 
spective offices were filled in 1883 by the following named members: E. L. 
Davis, A. B. Kelly, C. A. Randall and Thomas F. Ritchey; in 1884 by 
T. F. Ritchey, A. B. Kelly, C. A. Randall and E. L. Davis; in 1885 bv C. A. 
Randall, H. C. Whittekin, J. T. Dale and T. F. Ritchey; H. C. Whittekin, 
W. A. Grove, T. J. Payne and C. A. Randall; in 1887 by W. A. Grove, T. J. 
Payne, T. W. Corah, and H. C. Whittekin, and in 1888 by W. A. Grove, C. A. 
Randall, C. F. Griffin, H. C. Whittekin. The officers elected in December, 
1888, to serve during 1889 were Thomas J. Payne, W. M. ; Charles F. Griffin, 
S. W. ; Frank S. Hunter, J. W. ; T. B. Cobb, Sec, and W. A. Grove, Treas. 
Thete are thirty-four members now on the roll. 

Post No. 147, G. A. R., was formally organized in August, 1868, with Col. 
J. W. H. Reisinger, commander, J. B. Agnew, S. V. C, Capt. D. S. Knox, 
adjutant, and about thirty members. On January 17, 1869, J. B. Agnew was 
elected commander; Sylvester Setley, adjutant; W. R. Dunn, S. V. C. ; J. P. 



V.IS HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Siggins, J. V. C. ; W. Clark, chaplain; D. W. Clark, quartermaster; A. Mo- 
Cray, surgeon; C. McCray, sergeant major, and J. W. H. Reisinger, quarter- 
master-sergeant. This old post claimed about sixty members, when the charter 
was surrendered. 

Capt. George Stowe Post, No. 274. G. A. E., was mustered in August 9, 
1882, with the following named charter members: *J. C. Pettigrew, * James 
Swales, T. J. Van Geisen, * Jonathan Albaugh, S. C. Johnson, John Matha, 
*Chris. Zuendel, William Albaugh, Capt. D. S. Knox, *C. A. Hill, J. G. 
Root, J. H. Wentworth, G. S. Hindman, Nicholas Weyant, James Hunter. 
James Johnson and W. P. Siggins of the Eighty-third Regiment; A. H. 
Southworth, of the Eighty-fifth; J. J. Greenewalt and Dan. Black, Tenth 
Reserve Corps; *S. N. Flowers, A. H. Downing and *R. B. Crawford, 
Fourth Cavalry; D. F. Sutton. Seventh New Jersey: *fN. Thompson, One 
Hundred and Twenty-first Pennsylvania; Samuel D. Irwin, Twelfth Kansas 
Infantry; *fAb. Kenney, and *S. J. Setley, Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania; J. W. 
Morrow, Fifth Pennsylvania Artillery; C. \V. Clark, Forty-eighth Pennsyl- 
vania; *W. R. Small, One Hundred and Third Pennsylvania; G. W. Bovard. 
One Hundred and Thirty-seventh Pennsylvania; *George Carr. One Hundred 
and Thirteenth; Henry Rhodes, One Hundred and Fifth; J. C. Heviler, One 
Hundred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania; S. S. Canfield, One Hundredth 
New York Infantry; *J. N. Tyrrell, One Hundred and Twenty-first Pennsyl- 
vania; Jonas Shunk. Seventy sixth Pennsylvania, and H. W. Ledebur, Ninth 
Pennsylvania Cavalry. In September of this year there were enrolled, *J. J. 
Parsons, One Hundred and Fifth; John H. White, One Hundred and Third; 
John Anderson and *fJ. S. Range, Eighty-third Pennsylvania; Oliver Bierley, 
Seventy-fourth New York Infantry, and Robert Slagle. First Nebraska Cav- 
alry. In February, 1883, and subsequently, the names enrolled are John Blans- 
sen. One Hundred and Fifth; Henry Foy and D. Saltzqua, One Hundred and 
Sixty ninth; Leonard Agnew, One Hundred and Thirty-fifth Pennsylvania; 
Peter C. Blocher, One Hundred and Second New York; Henry Brace, One 
Hundred and Eleventh Pennsylvania; David E. Erfley, One Hundred and 
Sixty-eighth; Ira Burns, Eighty-third; Josiah Morehead, Sixty-second; George 
Keefer and David Stakeley, One Hundred and Fifty-fifth; S. C. Whitman, 
Eighty-fourth Pennsylvania; H. H. Hanna, Seventy-fourth New York Infan- 
try; J. B. Eden, Ninth Pennsylvania; I. N. Shinip. Twenty-first; Samuel 
Agnew and J. B. Agnew, Thirty-ninth; John S. Wilsou, One Hundred 
and Twenty-first; Jacob Lackey, One Hundred and Third; R. W. Stockliu* 
in Sheridan's charge. Fourth Cavalry; D. B. Emmiuger, Thirty-ninth Infan- 
try; John A. Hart, Fifth Cavalry; John H. Berlin,* Eighty-third Infantry; 
Alex. Mealy, One Hundred and Fifty-fifth; A. Wisner, Fourth Cavalry; 
Thomas Cooper, Two Hundred and Eleventh Infantry; D. Rustler, Eighty- 
third; W. A. Burns,* Eighty- seventh; J. E. Staighton,* Fourteenth Cavalry; 
O. C. Brownell, Ninth New York Infantry ; B. F. Feitt, Seventy-sixth Penn- 
sylvania; F. J. Kiser, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth; G. W. Huddleson, 
Eighty-third; Solomon Fitzgerald, Eleventh Pennsylvania Reserve Corps; J. 
R. Landis, One Hundred aud Third; C. S. Smith.* Sixty Becond; Daniel W. 
Clark. Eighty-third; A. H. Weingard, Eighty-second; George \V. Robinson, 
One Hundred aud Thirty-ninth; Moses Mealy, Eighty-second; William E. 
Witherill. One Hundred and Fifty fourth New York Infantry: R. Balle, One 

Hundred and Fourth Pennsylvania; John Rhodes. ; P. Copeland, ; 

George Albaugh, Nineteenth United States Infantry; Daniel Walters, Andrew 
McCray. W. Briggs. 1> S Knox was elected first commander, and he appointed 

• Wounded in battle. tDled since 1882. 



HISTOBY OF FOREST COUNTY. 899 

T. J. Van Geisen, adjutant. The latter was succeeded by Samuel D. Irvine in 
1883, and the former by G.W. Bovard in January, 1884. A year later J. B. Agnew 
succeeded Bovard as commander. J. VV. Morrow was elected in December, 
1885, and D. S. Knox, in December, 1886, who appointed J. W. Morrow, 
adjutant vice Irwin. Samuel D. Irwin was elected commander in December, 

1887, and D. W. Clark was appointed adjutant, who served until August, 

1888, when B. Balle was appointed. Leonard Agnew, commander in 1889, 
appointed S. J. Setley, adjutant. 

Camp 28, Sons of Veterans, was orgauized in January, 1888, with C. M. 
Agnew, captain; John T. Carson, lieutenant; John D. Swailes, second-lieuten- 
ant; James Clark, Andrew Carr and F. W. Law, council; John N. Heath, 
chaplain; L. J. Hopkins, sergeant; S. Q. Clark, quartermaster; C. E. Mor- 
gan, S. of G. ; B. Fitzgerald, C. of G. ; Boy Brownell, C. G. ; O. B. Bascom, 
C. S., andC. Bovard, P. G. 

Forest Lodge, No. 184, A. O. U. W., was organized in 1881, but not until 
1884 was the record of elections published. The lodge was then presided over 
by Dr. W. C. Coburn, with J. E. Wenk, secretary; S. S. Canfield, foreman; 
G. C. Brown, O. ; J. R. Clark, receiver; G. W. Sawyer, F.; J. B. Eden, 
G. ; W. Smearbaugh, I. W. ; A. Carr, O. W. ; M. B. Cook and W. C. Coburn, 
physicians, and G. W. Bovard, representative. S. S. Canfield presided in 
1885; H. C. Whittekin in 1886; L. Fulton and L. Agnew, 1887; L. Fulton, 
1888; C. M. Arner, 1889, when J. R. Clark succeeded J. E. Wenk as re- 
corder. C. M. Arner was elected P. M. W. ; J. E. Wenk, M. W. ; and J. K. 
Clark, recorder, in December, 1889. 

The W. C. T. U. is a powerful organization in this county. The County 
"Union is presided over by Mrs. Derickson, with Mrs. W. J. Roberts, secretary. 
At the convention held at Marienville in August, 1888, the societies at Tionesta, 
Gilfoyle, Greenwood, Hickory and Marienville were represented. Mrs. T. S. 
Boberts, born in Chautauqua county, N. Y., in 1825, died October 28, 1889. 
She was a leading worker in the W. C. T. U. 

The lodge of I. O. G. T. was organized at Tionesta in November, 1S67, 
with W. E. Lathy, Clara Nickham, Mrs. C. B. Tavlor, Nellie May, Capt. K. 
Brett, Lou E. Winans, E. T. Simmons, Rev. E. T* McCreary, W. E. Clark, 
W. J. Roberts, Lizzie Heath, Mrs. C. M. Heath, Ettie Winans and C. S. Mil- 
ler, officials in order of rank. The I. O. G. T. hall was dedicated December 
30, 1868, for Lodge No. 477. This was in the old G. W. Bovard building, 
over his present store, where the I. O. O. F. hall was also. 

The Tionesta Cemetery Association was organized July 11, 1868. H. H. 
May was president; Joseph G. Dale, P. D. Thomas and Jacob Wenk. trustee-.: 
Samuel D. Irwin, secretary, and D. S. Knox, treasurer. Rev. H. May estab 
lished this cemetery in 1843, where he was buried July 5, that year, on the 
acre which he donated. 

Tionesta Temple of Honor was organized March 9, 1871, with W. R. 
Dunn, M. W. Tate, J. T. Dale, S. J. Wolcott, J. Grove, W. Reck, W. Stroup, 
P. M. Clark and Alex. Henage holding the offices in order of rank. 

The White Pines, the first regularly organized base-ball club of Tionesta, 
was formed in April, 1872, with J. T. Dale, president; E. M. Sutton, secre- 
tary; Jacob E. Wenk, treasurer, and H. W. Roberts, captain of first nine. 

The Tionesta "Union Sunday-school was organized in April, 1874, with M. 
W. Tate and W. R. Dunn, superintendents; P. M. Clark,' secretary; G. W. 
Robinson, treasurer; S. D. Irwin and Samuel Riddle, librarians. 

Tionesta Council, No. 342, O. U. A. M. , was organized with eighteen 
members in July, 1874. Dr. J. E. Blaine was counselor, James Fones and H. 



900 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Swaggart, recorders; G. W. Sawyer, F. S. ; T. J. Van Geisen, T. ; J. T. Dale, 
V. C. ; while S. Campbell. R. B. Crawford, L. J. Johnson and A. Cooper 
filled the minor offices. 

Tionesta Grange was organized May 5. 1874. with J. M. Kepler, M. : P. 

D. Thomas, O. ; S. D. -Irwin. L. ; P. C\ Conver. S. ; J. A. Proper, T. ; S. H. 
Haslet, steward; Dr. J. E. Blaine, A. S. ; Jacob Hood, G. K. ; M. yV. Tate, 
Chap. ; Mrs. J. E. Blaine, Ceres: Mrs. Conver, Pomona, Mrs. S. D. Irwin, 
Flora, and Mrs. S. H. Haslet, stewardess. J. D. Agnew, a charter member, 
aided in completing the constitution. 

Svlvan Council of the Mutual Protection Association was organized at Tio- 
nesta in September, 1879, with Dr. J. E. Blaine, A. B. Kelly. Mrs. A. E. 
Fones, Mrs. C. M. Heath, G. W. Dithridge, G. W. Bovard and wife, Mrs. 

E. J. Paup and C. A. Randall, officers in order of rank. 

The Equitable Aid Union was organized in December, 1883, with fifty -four 
members, of whom the following named were elected officers: Chancellor, W. 
C. Coburn; advocate, S. C. Johnson; president, T. F. Ritchey; vice-president. 
Mrs. T. F. Ritchey; auxiliary, Mrs. W. C. Coburn; secretary, J. P. Hiding; 
treasurer, Eli Holeman; accountant, J. H. Dingman; chaplain. Jennie Par- 
tridge; warden, W. A. Eagles; sentinel, Miss Alice Holeman; watchman, J. 
H. Dewees; conductor, Mrs. J. H. Dewees; assistant conductor. Mrs. Sallie 
Jackson; trustee, Eli Holeman; examining physician, W. C. Coburn, M. D. 

The P. O. S. of A., Camp Washington. No. 420. was organized March 28. 
1889, with J. R. Chadwick, P. P. ; E. L. Davis, P. ; J. C. Scowden, V. P. ; 
H. H. Shoemaker. M. F. and C. : S. S. Canfield, conductor: A. M. Doutt, F. 
S.; T. B. Cobb, R. S. : A. H. Dale. A. R. S. ; J. F. Proper, T. : J. J. Lan- 
ders, O. G. ; Pritner Agnew, I. G. ; John Hunter, R. L., and Frank Thom- 
son. L. L. 

Miscellaneous. — In 1S65 the first destructive fire visited the village, and 
on December 10, 1872, the second fire occurred, sweeping away the old Holmes 
House; in 1875 Dithridge's mill was burned; in 1877 his house near the mouth 
of the Tionesta was destroyed by fire; on May '.•. 1879, the Tionesta House 
went up in smoke; Jacob Kepler's first residence, opposite the court-house, 
was burned in October, 1878; in January, 187'.'. Di'iickson's saw-mill was 
reduced to ash<^; in November, 1SS4, the building owned by G. S. Hun- 
ter, just north of the depot was burned; Judge Proper's building on Main 
street was burned February 3. L888, and the dwellings of Daniel Walters and 
Judge Reck damaged. 

1 1 W. Agnew was killed in April, 18S8, in the Blue Narrows, opposite Will- 
iam Walter's house, where his team carried him over the steep embankment. 
He was born in Jefferson county, Penn., March 2. 1850. He was one of a 
family of twelve children, eight of whom — seven brothers and one sister — sur- 
vive him. He came to Tionesta about eighteen years before, where, in 1878, 
In' married Sallie Craig. 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 901 



CHAPTER X. 

BARNETT AND GREEN TOWNSHIPS. 

Baunett Township General Description— Population— Officers Elect- 
ed in February, 1890— Owners of Personal Property in 1852, and Value 
of Unseated Lands— The Pioneers— Villages. 

Green Township Topography— Coal Beds— Population— Elections in 

February, 1890— Villages. 

BARNETT TOWNSHIP juts out to the border of Jefferson county between 
Elk and Clarion. Millstone creek flows through the northwest corner, and, 
apart from this, the eastern half of the township boasts of only a few rivulets. 
The western half is a region of small rivers. Maple creek heads up south of 
Marienville, but assumes some pretensions in the northwest corner of this town- 
ship, whence it flows south to Clarington, where it enters the Clarion river, receiv- 
ing Huling' s run and a few rivulets in its course. Paralleling it on the west are 
Coleman and Troutman runs, each the drainer of beautiful valleys. At Redclyffe 
the elevation is 1,615 feet — high enough to warrant the existence of coal ; but up 
to 1881 little or nothing was done toward developing its deposits. Sandstone 
is found here, as in other sections. In 1 889 the oil fever reached this township, 
when experienced oil men were sincere in their opinions that petroleum existed 
in commercial quantities. 

The population in 1880, including 88 inhabitants in Cooksburg, was 615. In 
1888 there were 105 Republicans, 79 Democrats, and 1 Prohibitionist recorded 
as voting, or a total of 185, representing a population of 925. 

The township officers chosen for 1890, are as follows: Constable and col- 
lector, J. B. Campbell; treasurer, Jacob Mays; clerk, J. E. Cosgrove; road 
commissioner, E. A. Kuhn; judge of election, Wm. Crossman; overseer of the 
poor; A. Cook; auditor, James Gray; school directors, Clarence Pratt and R. 
W. Brenneman. 

The owners of personal property in Barnett township, in 1852, were John 
Agnew, J. M. Adams, William and W. A. Arthurs, Alphonzo Vaubiot, W. 
Armstrong, W. Andrews, Isaac Attlebarge; T. Anderson (carpenter), Anderson 
(mason), George Agnew, Thady Armstrong, William Allen, Jacob Braden, 
Arch. Black, Orau Butterfield, D. Burk, James Brandon, John Brandon, Jesse 
Burchfield, Horace Byham, Robert Black, James Black, John Blacklock, 
Daniel Black, Daniel Berlin, Daniel, John, Jr., William, Andrew, Jeremiah, 
George, David and John Cook, Simon and William Chapman, W. R. and James 
Coon, Samuel Consanus, Adam Cupler, A. Coventry, E. Cline, C. Smith, Pat- 
rick Kearney, Wm. and Ed. Collins, Alex. Craig, R. Custard, James U. , Jep- 
tha, Henry and W. R. Daniels, Elijah Davis, W. M. Davis, John Dodge, J. 
Donaldson, Joseph Dunlap, Hiram Drake, John C. Davis, R. H. and William 
Downey, Y. Eshelman, John Fitzgerald. E. Forsyth, Je9se Ferry, Sam Ful- 
ton, James Forest, John Grant, Milton Gibbs, John Gordon, W. L. Gould, 
John Houston, W. P. Hutcheson, Nelson Haight. Robert Huling, William 
Haydea, Lewis Herring and son, Joseph Herring, John Hasley, Peter Hasley, 
Sol. Hallman, Peter Hicks, William Hottell, Squire Horton, Stephen Hill, A. 



902 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Jeffries, Jarnes Irwin, John Irwin, Chas. C. and Henry Johnson, Christian 
Kuntz, John and Peter Knight, Phil. Keller (blacksmith), Thomas Kerr, Wil 
liam Kerr, John Kellogue, F. Kennedy, Sam. Long, James Law, A. Lucas. 
Noble Lucas, D. Motherell, Dave Munu, John Andrew, William and Thomas 
B. Maze, Henry Moody, Jr., John Moore, John McNaughton, Tom McKay 
(tailor), Sam. Mitchell, Moses McCallum, Alex. Murray, David Munn, Jr., Jo- 
seph Martin, John McNeil, R. Moodie, Pascal Moodie, John McMichael (mill- 
wright), W. P. Miller, John McKenney, H. Mimm, William Martin, A. Mc 
Cutcheon, Sylvester Nolton, John Nolton, George Nealy, J. C. Nolton, Asa 
Nichols, James Phipps, George Painter, G. W. Pratt, Sedate Porter, A. T. 
Piatt, Dare Powell, Dan. Poff, J. K. Reynolds, James Rogers, Joseph and 
William Reynolds, Grove Reed, Rets & Co., Rust & Co., Amos Richards, the 
Ralstons (3), Ellis Russell, William Roberts, Eli and AmosSmith (carpenters), 
Shippen, Morrison & Co., John Snyder, W. J. Spence, D. Stowe & Co.. John 
Spafford, Jonah Slocum, R. Smith, George Swarm, W. Stewart. William 
Shields, A. Strominger, James Truby, William Titus, Dan. Titus. David K. 
Torney (one watch), Oramill Thing, W. H. Thompson. Elihu Wing. Homer 
Wing, Charles Wing, Joseph Wallace, Dan. Wolford, Robert Wallace, Dan. 
Whitman, Jo. Wagoner, James Wallace, Lenni Weaver (cabinet maker), Sain. 
N. Warren. James Wing, Benj. Wing, Palmer Worden, John Wright and 
Charles Yeomans. In March, 1852, William Titus was appointed collector. 
The value of unseated lands was $72,516, and of seated lands, $40,304. 

The pioneers, many of whom are named above, came into this wilderness to 
hew out homes for their families, and win from the forest that independence 
which an older civilization denied. Many of them succeeded in this peculiarly 
American design, and around Cooksburg and Clarington names connected closely 
with the first development of this section are found to day. 

Clarington, twelve miles from the railroad at Brookville, is the market town 
of Barnett township. J. B. Pearsall & Co. and the Shields brothers were gen- 
eral merchants in 1884, and Peter Heasley was grocer. . . . William Armstrong 
settled at this place in 1828, and established his mills here. 

Daniel Harrington, in his reminiscences, published in 1879, says: " He was 
one of the earliest settlers on the Clarion, and the oldest lumberman on that 
stream. Thirty-five or forty years ago almost every man you would meet 
hunting for work was inquiring the road or distance to Armstrong's mills. He 
w as I lie true founder "f the little hamlet of Clarington, then constituting a part 
of Jefferson (now Forest) county, and containing, perhaps, 200 inhabitants. 
There is a very substantial bridge over the river, built at the expense of the 
tax payers of Jefferson and Forest counties. Clarington contains two hotels — 
we used to call them taverns — and one store of general merchandise. The 
hills of the old logging ground have been burned over, and are thickly covered 
with briers, full of blackberries at the proper season. Mr. Armstrong in his 
lumbering operations gave employment to a large number of men, and gen- 
erally had the good-will of all. He had his ups and downs, like all lumbermen. 
He met with heavy losses by high water. Not only was his lumber carried 

away, but his mill was wrecked by a tl 1. He was a man, however, whom no 

misfortunes could discourage. He possessed a persevering disposition, that never 
thought of failure. He was quite small in stature, with eyes as Mack as coal, 
and as sharp as the eyes of an eagle. I met him once in Cincinnati, and rode 
in the stage with him from Kittanning to Clarion. His countenance was one 
Dever to be forgotten. I remember one circumstance that illustrates the man. 
At the time he came up in the stage with me he had found a man in Cincin- 
nati whose fare he was paying, and whom he had brought along with him to 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 903 

work at his mills. He bad discovered the poor fellow drunk, destitute, almost 
naked, and he thought that, if he could get him home with him, away from 
whisky and the evil influences of the city, he would make a new creature of 
him. The man had been a sailor, and was easily led into bad habits. How 
Mr. Armstrong succeeded in his efforts to reform him I never heard, but I have 
no doubt of his ultimate success. When the man was in the wilderness, where 
he could not get strong drink, reformation would be a necessity and a natural 
consequence. This was only one of Mr. Armstrong's good deeds. He had 
all the inconveniences of a new country to contend with. He was in the woods, 
far from civilization, and surrounded by the denizens of the forest. His whole 
dependence was lumber, and that, in his time, sold at very low prices, from the 
fact that the market was almost always over- stocked. Every tributary of the Al- 
legheny river turned out its quota of the general supply, and if the product was 
sold at all it had to be sold at a low figure. I have more than once run boards 
to Cincinnati and sold them at $4 a thousand feet, less than the cost of manu- 
facture; but the boards were there, and I had to do something with them. Mr. 
Armstrong was, at least, sixty miles from any point of supplies. Brookville, 
perhaps, or Kittanning, was the nearest place where he could obtain provis- 
ions. When we take into consideration the cost and labor of transporting 
supplies for perhaps twenty-five people over new roads, in a rough country, it 
was no ordinary undertaking. Was it any wonder that at last he succumbed 
to the inevitable? Such trials would have broken down a cast-iron man, pos- 
sessing nerves of steel. Mrs. Armstrong, now an old and feeble woman, is 
still living with some of her children in Jefferson county." 

Camp No. 504, P. O. S. of A., at Clarington, was instituted in February, 
1890, by J. R. Chadwick, D. P., and W. R. Adams, assistant. There were 
thirty-five charter members. 

Cooksburg is another old settlement often mentioned in the pioneer 
chapter. In the "thirties" it became a household word among the pioneers 
of Central Forest, who generally halted there before proceeding farther into 
the deep, pine woods to locate their homes, and subsequently visited the little 
village for trading purposes. 

One of the saddest events connected with the township was the burning of 
John Black's house, July 12, 1868, when his daughter, aged six years, was 
offered up to the fire-god. 

Early in 1885, Werk, Putney & Marshall purchased 2,300 acres near Red- 
clyffe, from W. H. Boles, for $35,000, and soon after erected their mills. 

GKEEN TOWNSHIP. 

Green township is particularly noted for its geometrical lines. How any 
set of men conceived such boundaries, or surveyors cut such lines, is almost 
as mysterious as the time in which the topographical lines of this section were 
platted by nature. Tionesta creek cuts across the northwest angle, and near 
the grand bend receives Coon and little Coon creeks, both native streams. Bear 
creek and Nebraska creek flow from the southwest into the main river, and 
Butler creek from the northwest. A few smaller streams also head here. 

In the fall of 1877 Heath opened a coal bed, twenty feet below his house, 
at an elevation of 1,720 feet. Seven years prior to this Guiton opened an 
18-inch vein at Oak Woods summit, on the lumber company's upper tract; 
while beyond this, on the Bond lot, another bed was worked. 

The population in 1880 was 543. In November, 1S88, there were 84 
Republican, 81 Democratic and 17 Prohibitionist votes recorded, or a total of 182, 
representing 910 inhabitants. The officers chosen in February, 1890, are: 



904 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Judge, J. McCullough; inspectors, C. F. Klinestiver. Irvin Allison; treasurer, 
Peter Youngk; road commissioner, A. B. Walters; constable and collector, H. 
Winegard; auditor, Lyman Cook; overseer of poor. E. E. Vockroth; clerk, F. 
E. Allison; school directors, George Blurock. Henry Siverling. 

Dutch hill is the ridge or divide between the waters of Tionesta creek and 
the Allegheny river, about eight miles in length and three in width, extending 
from Tionesta township through Green into Kingsley township. It is settled 
exclusively by Germans. It was a dry, barren ridge, and at an early day it 
was burned over every spring. The original timber was all destroyed by fires; 
the soil was very thin, and much of it very stony. There are some very good 
farms on the ridge there. They have quarried out the stones, and laid them 
up in fences. There are places where there has been work enough done on 
one field to clear up a large farm in any other locality. There are about 
forty resident families, and forty well -cultivated farms. Three blacksmith 
shops represent the manufacturing industries, two little church buildings the 
religious and two school buildings the educational interests. 

Nebraska village is another old settlement in this township .... In 1868 
George B. Walters refitted the old Nebraska flouring mill .... In June, 1886, 
McCain, Darrach and Dickey purchased a three-fourths interest in the T. D. 
Collins lands at Nebraska, where 50,000,000 feet of pine and other timber were 
reported standing. 

The saw-mills of Dingman & Dale were moved from Clarion county to 
Nebraska in July, 1889, where the firm own 350 acres of white oak. Near Oil 
City they have two mills and two 500-acre tracts, thus giving employment to 

from sixty to seventy men John Reck, born in Ohio in 1816, settled on 

the Tionesta in 1848, and built a mill on Little Coon creek. He died in 1887 
....T. J. Payne's saw-mill, on a branch of Coon creek, two miles above 
Cobb's mill, was burned in August, 1871, together with 1,200,000 feet of 
lumber .... The new Methodist Episcopal Church-house, at this point, was 
erected in 1890 by Contractor J. G. Carson. 

Bowmanville was established in the summer of 18S9, two miles south of 
Vowinckel depot, on Coon creek. The large lumbering interests of \Y. \\ 
and ■!. C. Bowman suggested a town at this point, as well as the productive 
farms around it ... . The Free Methodist Church of Newmansville was dedicated 
September 29, 1883. The house cost $676. and the lot was donated by O. 
W. Proper. 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 905 



CHAPTER XL 

HARMONY AND HICKORY TOWNSHIPS. 

Harmony Township Topography— Minerals— Oil Wells— Elections in 

February, 1890— Population— Villages. 

Hickory Township Streams— Elevations— Population— Elections in 

February, 1890— Industries, etc.— Fire— United States Sale of Land- 
Miscellaneous. 

HARMONY TOWNSHIP is a trans- Allegheny region of plateau and valley. 
From this western plateau numerous streams run southeast into the Al- 
legheny, of which the principal is West Hickory creek, flowing almost south. 
The other streams are short runs, flowing from depressions in the western 
table land. Pithole creek rises in the extreme northwest corner above Neills 
burg, and Hickory rises in the north center above Hickory centre. The summits 
are not so high as those on the east side, the highest point being the hill south- 
west of Copeland's farm, 1,680 feet, but like the east side, conglomerate and 
sandstone rock abound, both rocks, between Neillsburg and Fagundus being 
cemented pebbles of various forms. In the first chapter the history of oil 
wells in this township is given. Fagundus City became a very prominent busi- 
ness center, and continued so until destroyed by the fire of May, 1874. Forty- 
five business houses were devoured in two hours, the loss being estimated at 
from $60,000 to $90,000. 

The population of this township in 1880 was 3-14. In 1888 there were 96 
Republican, 66 Democratic and 5 Prohibitionist votes recorded, showing a pop- 
ulation of 835. 

The officers elected in February, 1890, are named as follows: School direct- 
or, James Mooney; road commissioner, John A. Dawson; clerk, F. E. Met- 
calf; treasurer, R. O. Carson; auditor, George L. King; overseer of poor, 
James Mclntyre; constable and collector, E. B. Head; judge, John Thom- 
son; inspectors, James Elliott, C. E. Landers. 

Neillsburg is one of the very old settlements of this county. A Presby- 
terian society was organized here so early as 1855, by Capt. W. T. Neill and 
others, and here, twenty-three years later, the Grange movement was formed. . . . 
Harmony Grange, No. 527. was organized January 19, I 878, with R. B. Wood- 
cock and wife, Sye Neill, J. P. Kelly, M Woodcock, Mrs. S. S. Pratt. S. S. 
Pratt, Mrs. Mary and Miss Kate Woodcock, Miss Lou Neill, Mrs. W. Y. Sig- 
gins, Mrs. Joseph McCaslin and Spear Kelly, officials. 

William McCaslin, a life-long resident of Neillsburg, died at his home in 
that village on Friday, February 7, 1890, aged fifty-eight years. He was the 
son of James McCaslin, and was born near the spot where he passed from earth. 
Joseph Grove, born in Union county, Penn., in 1815, died at West Hickory, 
in January, 1890. 

West Hickory with its standard and narrow gauge railroads, big bridge, 
large tannery and heavy lumber shipments, is a modern village, although a 
post-office existed there almost thirty years ago. One family at least of all 
the pioneers — the Siggins family and others — named in the pioneer chapter set- 



906 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

tied in the vicinity early in this century .... The postmasters who administered 
the old office, as nearly in order as the memory of W. P. Siggins can place 
them, were Isaac Siggins; Hanna, who filled the office during the war, and W. 
P. Siggins, who resigned in favor of J. A. Turner. In 1889 W. C. Allan suc- 
ceeded Mr. Turner, who is now tilling that position. The fire of February 2, 
1870, destroyed the 'railroad depot at this place. 

In 1880 Mason Thatcher opened a store here; about the days of the Civil 
war J. D. Glenn had a gunsmith's shop here, and in 1867 carried a large 
stock of guns and revolvers. During this year also the oil fever struck the 
place, as shown in the history of the Forest oil held, but the stampede was 
short-lived .... The West Hickory Farm Oil Company fell into disfavor in 1867, 
by their rough usage of house builders on lands purchased from them. One 
man was prosecuted for taking windows from a house which he erected there. 

In May, 1886, Orion Siggins donated five acres of land for the proposed 
tannery, and in May of that year the work of building was progressing. The 
same year Hardenburg & Allen's large mercantile house was erected, and 
steps taken to build a Methodist church and parsonage, Mr. Siggins encour- 
aging the enterprise. The Evangelical Church building was dedicated April 
17. 1887, M. V. Devaux the pastor. 

The enterprise of Wheeler & Dusenbury contributes all to the life of this 
village. Heavy freight trains on the main Line always leave this point with 
leather or lumber for the markets of the world, while the narrow-gauge loco- 
motive comes across the great wooden bridge, bringing a wealth of new lumber 
from the firm's mills, or bark from their thousands of forest acres. 

Trunkeyville became prominent in October, 1870, when Yandergrift & 
Foreman's 15,000-barrel tank was erected, and the Nestle & Peterson store 
building and the Venture Hotel were opened. About ten years ago the post office 
was established here, with Mr. Peterson master. He was succeeded over two 
years ago by Mr. Bloomfield. There is no business house here now. 

Hickory Centre is near the head of West Hickory creek, in a most pro- 
ductive valley. Like Neillsburg it is an old settlement. 

The post offices in Harmony township arc at present as follows; Perry, 
Stewart's Kun. Trunkeyville and West Hickory. 

HICKORY TOWNSHIP. 

Hickory township is bounded west by the Allegheny river. Its northern 
sections .-ire drained by Hickory creek, with its north and south forks — Otter 
and Beaver creeks and feeder, Prather run. Centre and Sibbald creeks drain 
its southern valleys, leaving a fiat plateau in the center. The elevation of 
ridge north of N. P. Wheeler's dwelling was found to be 1,645 feet. It is 
arched with blocks of conglom from forty to fifty feet square, and twenty five 
to thirty feet in height. On the weather surface of those huge stone monu- 
ments the iron impregnated lines resist atmospheric extremes. Along the 
river, near Hickory depot, iron-stained shale is exposed for a depth of twenty- 
rive feet. 

The population in 1880 was 831. In 1888 there were 106 Republican, 
73 Democratic and 17 Prohibitionisi votes cast, or a total of 196, representing 
a population of 980. 

The officers of the township, elected in February, 1890, are as follows: 
Judge, W. L. Anderson; inspectors. M. W. Gorman. Jonathan Albaugh; 
treasurer, T. J. Bowman: constable and collector. W. A. Connelly; auditor. 
Samuel Mervin; clerk, M. E. Abbott; school directors. Wilbur Decker, Joseph 
Pettigrew. 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 907 

The oil excitement may be said to date back to 1864; but lumbering has 
been carried on here since the days of the pioneers. The Wheeler & Dusen- 
bury band mills, built by J. W. Poland and operated by him, and, southward, 
their gang mills, operated by F. Witherall, are very prominent industries. 
Near the county line are the mills of Root & Watson. Their lath mill is also 
at this point. The Strite saw-mill and small concerns are also in this vicinity. 

East Hickory, immortalized in Daniel Harrington's prose, is an old and 
pretty river village .... P. D. Thomas, who died February 7, 1878, came to 
Forest county in 1863, and in 1864 was manager of the Mercantile Oil Com- 
pany's business at East Hickory. He also drilled wells there for the National 
Oil Company. . . The work of building the Methodist Church at East Hickory 
was begun in December, 1868. This building was repaired in 1889, and 
was re-opened the first Sunday in September, that year, Rev. C. R. Thompson 
officiating. 

East Hickory post-office was presided over in 1884 by T. J. Bowman, who 
was also general merchant; N. G. Ball carried on the grist mill; A. Davidson, 
H. Brace, S. W. Brace, Swalley & Powers, J. W. Polen and Wheeler & Dusen- 
bury operated the saw-mills; Perry Hill had the blacksmith shop; George 
Siggins, the carpenter shop, and John Nuss, the shoe shop .... The Clark House 
at East Hickory was destroyed in April, 1888. 

In June, 1888, a tract of 437 acres on ''Hickory-town Flats" was sold by 
order of the United States solicitor of the treasury, C. S. Gary. This land was 
required by the United States in payment of bank debt by deed from Sheriff 
Gray, of Venango county, in February, 1867. 

Joseph Fleming was killed by his colt three miles northeast of East Hick- 
ory in December, 1867 ... .In December, 1875, the body of the hunter, George 
Albaugh, was found on Queen creek. A part of the face and one shoulder 
were eaten by some animal, which the finders concluded must have been a 
panther. . . .Austin F. Ball, who was murdered at Louisville, Ky., in a "raft 
shanty," on the night of June 5, 1884, was born at East Hickory, Forest Co., 
Penn., May 29, 1858. He experienced religion here about 1875, and was in 
full membership in the Free Methodist Church until May, 18S3, when it was 
alleged that a charge was to be made against him for working on the Sabbath, 
"cooking for ungodly men, " while on a raft along the Ohio river. Thinking the 
offense so trivial, and that it pointed toward persecution, he quietly withdrew 
his name from the church record . . . .During the flood of February, 1886, the 
Buffalo, New York & Philadelphia Railroad trestle at Hickory was washed 
away, and-the track covered for a considerable distance with ice and driftwood. 
Transportation was made in wagons for a time; but a large force of men got 
the road in order so that trains were run as usual within thirty hours. On the 
west side the water backed up and flooded the flats, causing many to leave 
their homes in a rather precipitate manner. 



'•»(K ' HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XII. 

HOWE TOWNSHIP. 

streams— minerals— population— officers elected in february, 1890— 
Assessments— Lumber Manufacture in 1867— Villages— Post-offices- 
Fires, Etc. 

THE Tionesta creek enters Howe township north of Foxburg, flows through 
the village and takes a general westerly course, entering Kingsley township 
southwest of Balltown. Blue Jay creek, flowing from the southwest, enters 
the river at Foxburg; several feeders of Salmon creek rise in the southwest 
quarter, and the creek itself heads in the south center. Bogus run unites 
with other streams near Brookston, and the heads of Spring creek rise in the 
ridge, separating the southeast quarter from the older settlements of the 
township. Seventy feet below the outcrop of coal at Fox"s hunting shanty 
there is a sharp change in the slope of the hill, which was taken to mark the 
lowest stratum of the Olean conglomerate. Along the hill slope at this point 
were found huge blocks of sandstone and conglomerate, from the Olean con- 
glomerate, measuring about twenty feet high and twenty feet on the Bide. 
The pebbles in the conglomerate were of irregular shape, and in many cases 
had flat surfaces and were slightly angular. 

Near the head of the Branch, on the Funk Lands, Howe opened a coal 
bed in 1865, whence coal was shipped to Balltown. Under a ten-inch bed of 
black slate a three-foot vein of coal and slate was found resting on fire-clay. 
In 1870 the mine was worked by John Miller, of Balltown. About 8,000 feet 
northwest of Foxburg on warrant 2991. at an elevation of 1,750 feet, coal 
was also mined, while C. J. Fox opened a third mine southeast of that village, 
and also one on the brook near the old hunting shanty. The Little mine was 
opened in 1858 to a twenty-inch bed of superior coal. This was located on 
warrant 510:3, at an elevation of 1,760 feet. . . .Frog Kock is in the middle of 
Tionesta creek, one mile above Panther Rock. Nature seems to have formed 
it to represent an enormous frog. In low water it stands about four feet 
above the surface. 

The population of the township in 1880 was 382, including 276 in Brooks 
ton village. In 1888 there were 106 Republican and 64 Democratic votes 
cast, showing 850 inhabitants. 

The officers of this township elected in February, 1890, are as follows: 
Road commissioner, E. L. Leech; clerk. J. W. Black; assessors, E. Beaver, 
J. H. McBride: collector. A. P. Anderson; treasurer, J. M. Black; school 
directors, C. F. Fox, F. Fickinson. A. M. Soule, M. B. Smith; auditors, J. 
J. Haight. G. W. Noblit, C. F. Griffin; overseer of poor, D. P. Miller; con- 
stable, Dan Gibson; judges (west). W. Briggs, (east) D. P. Miller, (middle) 
E. B. Beaver; inspectors (west), I. B. Murphy, George McBride, (middle) C. 
W. Atkins, A. M. Soule, (east) E. P. Anderson, James Cochran. 

The assessor's returns of Howe township (Tionesta), in 1S52, made by 
William Patterson, show the following names of resident tax-payers. John 
Anderson, John Addison, O. Bennett, Jacob Bottum, C. Blanchard, *Dan Ben- 

Single man. 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 909 

nett, *George Brakey, Abram Cooper, W. and A. Carrius, John Cherry, 
William Deer, John Drum, S. Flint, Charles J. Fox (1,250 acres, four horses, 
three yoke of oxen, one cow, one gold watch, one double saw- mill of which 
Albert Fox was millwright), J. W. Groves, W. Griffith, Nathan Hathway, 
Reuben Hubberd, *A. Jarvis, John Kelly, *J. Stewart, W. Stillson, *N. Mc- 
Millen, James McLaughlin. A. and D. Mason, *G. Medberry, Sam Nor- 
cross, William Porter, William Patterson (one ox and one cow), Thomas Pat 
terson (one ox), *Shannon Riddle, *P. L. Rafferty, Rogers & Co. (double saw- 
mill), *C. L. Shipman, T. and W. Smith, Isaac Watson, F. West, A. Weid. 
The valuation of seated lands and personal property was placed at $7,850, 
and of unseated lands at 820,620. 

The assessment of Howe township, made by Thomas Porter in the fall of 
1867, contains a memorandum of the lumber manufactured in that year. At 
Howeville (or Balltown) were 60, 000 feet of square timber, 500,000 of pine and 
100,000 lath, together with 400,000 feet rafted, 200.000 feet ready for rafting 
and 400,000 feet of hemlock. At Fox's mill 200,000 feet of pine were sawn. 
The tax- payers were C. J. Fox (saw-mill owner), C. F. Fox, James Leech 
(president of the Pittsburgh & Forest Lumber Company, whose mill stood on 
Warrant 4S23), John F. Mercilliott (farmer), S. H. Norcross, Thomas Nugent, 
T. S. Patterson, Thomas Porter, William Patterson, John S. Rappee, Isaac 
Watson, James Woodruff, James T. Wisner and Harrison Wisner (each owner 
of a gold watch), R. S. Wisner, F. Huper, Toby Rinaldo. H. W. Sawls, Shel- 
ton Oil & Manufacturing Company, then represented by A. H. Barnes, John 
Miller and A. Pearson. The Marcy Oil Company requested that their 1,976 
acres on Salmon creek should be placed on the seated list. 

The Brookston Tannery, erected in Howe township in 1871 by Brooks & 
Co., employed sixty men, and in March, 1872, the village comprised this large 
tannery, a saw-mill and thirteen houses. In August, under the management 
of G. \V. Brennan, 160 men were employed, and there were twenty-six dwell- 
ing houses. J. H. Berry was then superintendent of the tannery .... In 
February, 1877, Edward D. Stone, the illicit distiller of Brookston, was ar- 
rested .... In 1880 the population of Brookston village was 276. In 1888 there 
were 59 Republican and 40 Democratic votes cast here. 

Horton, Crary & Co., the great Sheffield, Warren county, tanners, buy 
hides in Texas and as far away as South America, manufacture them into 
leather and market large quantities of their product in England and other 
parts of Europe. They have five tanneries —one in Forest county, one in Elk 
county and three at Sheffield. They have been in business nineteen years. In 
this time they have stripped thousands of acres of hemlock bark in their im- 
mediate vicinity, and now have a railroad running thirty-seven miles, which 
terminates now at Duhring, Forest county, with various branches already 
built and more contemplated in Elk, McKean and Forest counties to bring 
them the needful supply of bark. 

Brookston E. A. U., No. 501, was oi-ganized in November, 1884, with fifty- 
six charter members, including the following named officers: Chancellor, 
Samuel D. Brecht; advocate, Mrs. F. W. Brooks; president, F. W. Brooks; 
vice-president, Charles R. McClune; auxiliary, Mrs. Lucy Tousley; secretary, 
James I. Cochran; treasurer, C. C. Smith; accountant, A. P. Anderson; chap- 
lain, G. B. M. Borge; warden, John Ryan; sentinel, Mrs. C. C. Smith; 
watchman. Gust Miller; conductor, Hiram Tousley; assistant conductor. Mrs. 
C. R. McClune; trustee, A. P. Anderson; examining physician, Dr. G. F. Mc- 
Nutt; representative to Grand Union, F. W. Brooks. 



910 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Frost's Station, on the Pittsburgh & Western Railroad, was established in 
1881, when Frost purchased 200 acres there and built his large saw-mill. 

Walter Byrom, of Byromtown, died in September, 1886. When the 
place was established, the name was given in his honor. Here, in June. l 1 ^ t. 
the Equitable Aid Union was organized with forty-two members, the officers 
being, chancellor, N. C. Wiltsie; advocate. W. H. Frost; president, Walter 
Byrom; vice-president, Mrs Belle Drury; auxiliary, Mrs. A. C. Wiltsie; sec- 
retary. Miss Nina Slade; treasurer, D. S. Drury: accountant, John Hafele; 
chaplain, Rev. J. W. Sloan; warden. Mrs. Chapman; sentinel, Mrs. W. L. 
Loomis; watchman, A. S. Brecht; conductor. Mrs. W. Chapingham; assistanl 
conductor, L. H. Nichols: trustee, L. H. Nichols; representative to Grand 
Union, Ed Klabbats: examining physician. Dr. S. S. Towler. 

Forest City was platted late in 1882, by Frank Whittekin and Floyd Proper. 
surveyors, for G. W. Agnew, agent of the proprietors. In January, 1883, a 
population of 100, twelve dwellings, Tim. Mahony's hotel and Tom. Willough- 
by's restaurant were the evidences of its sudden growth. 

Mount Agnew post-office was established at Forest City in 18S3, whence it 
was moved to Gusher City under the name of Cooper Tract post-office, of which 
Capt. Haight is now master. Gusher City was the name given to one of the 
oil towns of 1883, and in January. 188."). it was falling into decay. The St. 
Petersburg House was destroyed by an explosion of gas on August, 1887, and 
with it the town hall, A. L. Anderson's, J. J. Haight' s and the post office build- 
ings being also burned. In 18S8 this place gave 19 Republican and 12 Demo- 
cratic votes. 

The fire at Duhring, of July 14, 1^ S T. resulted in the destruction of 
Browne & Co. 's stable, and the burning of eight horses, one mule and a yoke 
of oxen. 

Eureka City was established in l s ^l 84. It is located on the banks of the 
winding Tionesta, where it widens out into a placid little lake or mill pond, and 
where the road from Sheffield to Foxburg crosses the creek. Precipitous hills 
shield from the bleak winds of winter, and give the citizens advantages un- 
equaled in the world for sliding down hill. There is one street, and room for 
several others. C. D. Holtsworth put up the first building, and shortly after 
from fifteen to twenty others were completed, while several were in course of 
erection. There were seven or eight boarding-houses, several hotels, a bakery, 
grocery and other buildings necessary to the body as well as to the mind; among 
the latter are classed certain rooms in which it is supposed secret lodges meet; 
for such phrases as " I stand,' - " flush. - ' " ante up, you sucker," and kindred 
exclamations are occasionally heard from them. The town is quiet and orderly, 
and presents a lively appearance. C. D. Holtsworth provided the mental pab 
ulum for the community, besides running the penny post. All the mail and 
newspapers were "toted" over the hill from Hoover's, on the narrow-gauge 
road, a distance of two miles and a half. Tony Willoughby and Andy White 
were running the Petrolia House here. A telephone office and a very muddy 
road connect the town with the outside world. 

James Nesmith, one of the pioneers of Howe township, was crushed to death 
by a falling tree near the Cooper tract in December. 1S89. 

Elulalia post office at Sheffield Junction was established in 18^7 with John 
Hernon in charge. 

Balltown is contemporary with the first oil excitement, but not until 1S82-83 
did the settlement assume village shape. In 1884 C. W. Hawks was ap- 
pointed postmaster, followed in 1S87 by T. W. Corah, who was succeeded in 
August, 1889, by C. F. Griffin. The history of the town is so connected with 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. .911 

the Forest county oil field, described in the first chapter, that little remains to 
be written here. A Methodist Church building and a few religious organiza- 
tions show that Providence is not forgotten away up the Tionesta. In March, 
1885, the Equitable Aid Union was organized here with forty-four members, 
among whom were the following named officers: Chancellor, H. B. White; 
advocate, W. J. Pringle; president, J. W. Solley; vice-president, Mrs. C. B. 
Neely; auxiliary, J. S. Saxton; secretary, C. F. Griffin; treasurer, Mrs. William 
Hawks; accountant, C. A. Hawks; chaplain, M. W. Vincent; warden, Dr. W. 
B. Hottel; sentinel, Mrs. M. W. Vincent; watchman, N. N. Darling; conductor, 
J. R. Anderson; assistant conductor, Mrs. J. R. Andrews; trustee, C. A. 
Hawks; examining physician, Dr. W. B. Hottel; representative to Grand 
Lodge, Dr. Hottel. 

The fire of August 25-26, 1887, destroyed C. W. Hawks' gQneral store. 
The tire, it is said, originated in escaping gas catching fire. Balltown, in 18S8, 
recorded 28 Republican and 12 Democratic votes. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

JENKS TOWNSHIP. 

Streams— Minerals— Population— Officers Elected in February, 1890 — 
First Assessment Roll— The Township in 1882— Daniel Harrington's 

Description — Miscellaneous. Marienyille First Settlement — 

Additions and Improvements— The Village in 1884-85-86 — Sci ls, 

Churches. Societies, etc. 

JENKS TOWNSHIP occupies a central position in the eastern half of the 
county. The west branch of Spring creek, rising in Howe township, flows 
through the extreme eastern warrants; Millstone creek rises on the ridge north- 
east of Marienville, and drains the central warrants, while Salmon creek and 
its feeders are found in the northwest quarter. 

At a point 8,000 feet east of Marienville the old Pine Ridge coal mine was 
opened at an elevation of 1,742 feet. At Marienville summit a three-foot bed 
of U. A. coal was found under 65 feet of sandstone, and M. U. coal at 170 
feet, resting on conglomerate. At Walton's, between the Eldrklge and Hunt 
farms, the Upper Alton coal was struck at fourteen feet, and also on the 
Beaver Dam tract, three and one-quarter miles east by north of Marienville, at 
an elevation of 1,745 feet. From 1869 to 1872 coal was taken out here for 
blacksmithing purposes. Prior to 1883, when Col. Hunt's new house was built, 
coal mines were opened near his old home at an elevation of 1,680 feet. On 
the Parker farm, near the old school building, 1,690 feet above tide, is the 
bog-iron-ore tract; near the Salmon creek bridge, in the vicinity of Hunt's old 
saw-mill coal also exists at an altitude of 1,492 feet, while near by, at an 
elevation of 1,617 feet, coal outcrops. Near Marienville, at 1,610 feet, coal 
was mined in 1873 by Dr. Towler. In the dry hollow, below the village, bog 
iron-ore is found. On warrant 3173 coal was mined some years ago. In 1858 
Col. Hunt's mines in the bed of Millstone creek were opened; near Kinnear's 
hunting shanty coal was mined in the "seventies." In 1863 Kinnear opened 
a coal bed on Gilfoyle run at an elevation of 1,780 feet, while near Byrom 



912 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

station David S. Eldridge opened mines in 1859; near Nugent's summit an 
outcrop was worked in 1875, and near Kose's summit, above the marl swamp, 
another outcrop was worked that year. The township is full of line building 
stone, but there is no record of limestone being found. 

In 1880 the population of the whole township was 219. In 1888 there 
were 137 Republican, 93 Democratic and 15 Prohibitionist votes recorded, or a 
total of 245, showing the population to be about 1,225. 

The officers elected for 1890 are as follows: Justice of the peace, E. ^'hit- 
ling; constable and collector, A. H. Smith; treasurer. C. S. Leech; auditor, A. 
B. Watson; clerk, J. A. Scott; road commissioner, A. K. Shipe; school directors, 
L. Burkhart, A. B. Niller; judge, W. Seigworth; inspectors, J. S. "Williams, 
J. E. McClellan. The first assessment roll of Jeoks township in possession 
of Clerk Brennan is that of 1852, by Cyrus Blood, assessor. Among the names 
of residents given thereon are James Anderson, an alien, and his son, the former 
owning 544 acres, and the latter a yoke of oxen; Thomas Anderson, Isaac Al- 
len and William Armstrong, lot owners in Marienville; Cyrus Blood, owning 
1,973 acres, 1 cow, 2 horses and a gold watch; K. L. Blood, 300 acres; Aaron 
Brockway, 160 acres, 1 yoke of oxen and 5 cows; U. H. Brockway, 2 cows and 
137 acres; Russell Buffum, 210 acres, 2 horses and 4 cows; Ben Buff um, 1 cow; 
Stephen Buffum. 100 acres, oxen and cow; D. H. Burton, 50 acres; Oran Ben- 
nett, oxen and 80 acres; D. Buchanan, 150 acres; D. W. Burke, 100 acres 
and lot in Marienville; A. D. Beck, a lot in Marienville; also Peter Clover, 
W. W. Corbet, William Coon, Rufus Dodge, Bennett Dobbs, Dr. J. Dowling 
and Sam. C. Espy, lot owners in Marienville; James Eldridge, 869 acre-. 2 
horses, oxen and 3 cows; David Eldridge, 100 acres; Dan. Earl, 1 horse; John 
Gilfoyle, 100 acres; John D. Hunt. 874 acres, 3 yoke of oxen and 3 cows; C. 
D. Hart, 1S6 acres, oxen and cow; J. H. Hershman and Ralph Hill, single men; 
Isaac Heath, 60 acres; Michael Imhoos, a cow; N. H Jones, 220 acres and 2 
horses; John P. Jones, 480 acres, oxen, horse, cow and silver watch; G. Mc- 
Laughlin and J. S. McPherson, lots in Marienville; John Nees (or Nuss), yoke 
of oxen; Thomas Porter, oxen and cow; Benj. Sweet, tutor, 100 acres: Dan. 
Stowe, Abram Winsor and John Wynkoop, lots in Marien; William Walton, 
James Pickman and Thomas Nugent. Urial H. Brockway was appointed col- 
lector. The assessed value of seated lands was §9,531, and of unseated lands. 
$30,128. 

In June, 1882, the township counted 50 votes and 200 inhabitants; in 
June, 1883, there were 130 voters recorded and 600 inhabitants. Then it had 
no store, later it had four; then it had three schools, later it had five; then it 
had three school- houses, later it had four and one building; then it had one 
train per day, while in June, 1SS3, it had four trains each way. making con- 
nections with the Philadelphia & Erie at Sheffield, Allegheny Valley Railroad 
at Foxburg. and other great trunk lines running east, in June, 1882, it 
had only one little hamlet, Marienville; in June, 1S83, it had three respectable 
villages — Marienville, Byrom's and Curll. Campbell & Co.'s Mills. Marien- 
ville increased from no stores or hotel, to two stores, one hotel and a restau- 
rant, and from six dwellings to thirty. Byrom's had grow u from nothing to 
a well regulated village of twenty dwellings. Curll, Campbell & Co.'s Mills, from 
a forest to a village of fifteen families, and a school pupilage of twenty-three. 

Daniel Harrington, speaking of Marienville and the country south of it as 
it appeared in 1882, says: "The country between Marien and Clarington, a 
distance of twelve miles, is * Forest." sure enough, and always will be. It is 
scarcely susceptible of cultivation, except small spots, here and there. It is 
the country fur tanneries, for the timber is mostly hemlock, with a sprinkling 



HISTORY OF FOKEST COUNTY. 913 

of ash and cherry. I saw one cherry tree three feet in diameter at the butt, 
and at least sixty feet without a limb. I don't believe a whip-poor-will or a 
blue-jay ever passed over this twelve-mile stretch of woods, between Marien 
and the Clarion river, without carrying a knapsack of provisions. But Marien 
is improving. She now has a pipe line and a line of telegraph." 

To Mr. Harrington, also, the writer is indebted for the following sketch of 
the pioneer of Jenks township: ''Cyrus Blood, the founder of Forest county, 
was born at New Lebanon, N. H., March 3, 1795. In his seventeenth year he 
went to Boston, Mass., where he remained until he finished his school educa- 
tion. When twenty-two years old he made a visit to his brother, then princi- 
pal of an academy at Chambersburg, Penn. Soon after that date Cyrus was ap- 
pointed principal of an academy at Hagerstown, Md. He remained in charge 
of that institution for several years. His scholastic acquirements were such 
as to attract attention, and in time he was offered a professorship in Dickinson 
college, at Carlisle, Penn., and accepted the position. His health, however, 
was failing, and by the advice of his physician he resigned his professorship, 
and took a trip through the Middle and Southern States. In his journeying he 
came to Jefferson county, Penn. Finding that the northern portion of that 
county was an almost unbroken wilderness, he conceived the idea of estab- 
lishing a settlement in those wilds, and ultimately forming a new county. For 
several years he made annual visits to that section, and finally succeeded in 
purchasing a large tract of land from one of the land companies. It was un- 
derstood at the time of making the purchase that the company was to open a 
road to the projected settlement, but in 1833, when Mr. Blood arrived at what 
is now Corsica, Jefferson county, he found, to his surprise and annoyance, 
that no road had been made. Leaving his family behind him, he hired men 
and teams, and, starting from Armstrong's mills, on the Clarion river, he and 
his men cut their way, step by step, twelve miles, to his wilderness purchase. 
At night the little party camped out the best they could, and in the morning 
again pressed onward. On their arrival at the new possessions, a small clear- 
ing was made, a house erected, and in October, 1833, the family, consisting of 
Mr. Blood, his wife and five children, settled down in their new forest home. 
It is almost impossible to trace, step by step, the trials and difficulties of the 
new settlers. They had been accustomed to all the comforts of town life. 
But energy and enterprise were characteristics of our pioneer, and he and his 
family struggled bravely to overcome present obstacles, in hope of success. In 
the same year Mr. Blood was joined in his undertaking by Col. John D. Hunt. 
From that time to the present the history of old Forest, as well as the successes 
and failures of our pioneer are cotemporaneous with the history, successes 
and failures of Col. Hunt. The joys and the sorrows, the hard trials and re- 
verses of Cyrus Blood, were the joys and sorrows, the trials and reverses of 
John D. Hunt. The histories of the two men are the same and inseparable. 

" The new settlement was known far and near as Blood's Settlement. For 
many years Mr. Blood was the only mail carrier. With every pocket loaded 
with letters and papers he would start from Brookville for home through the 
dark woods. Wolves, bears and panthers were plentiful in those days, and 
often was he followed on his solitary way by those wild denizens of the forest. 
On one occasion, in the night, he poked with his cane what he supposed was 
a cow lying in his path, but which proved to be a big bear. Mr. Blood took 
one side of the path, and the bear the other. Much to the gratification of the 
former, the bear was not traveling in his direction. At another time some of 
the children ran into the house, saying that some dogs were playing in the 
garden. Mr. Blood quickly took his gun down from the hooks, and went out 



91-4 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

just in time to see several panthers jumping over the fence. With all his narrow 
escapes and surprises he never shot a wild beast. His thoughts and aims led 
him away from any approach to a hunter's life. The new settlement struggled 
on, year after year. Going to mill in those days was a trip to the lower part 
of Clarion county, and sometimes to Kittanning. In due time the new county 
scheme was perfected, and the seat of justice fixed at Blood's Settlement, there- 
after to be known as Marien, in honor of Mr. Blood's eldest daughter, now 
Mrs. John D. Hunt. A frame court-house, of rather large dimensions, wa-. 
erected. Hon. John S. McCalmont, of Venango county, held the first court. 
with Mr. Blood as one of the associate judges. Judge Blood died before 
his term of office expired, on January 12, 1860, in the sixty-fourth year of 
his age." 

Shortly after the beginnings of Blood' s Settlement were made, the pioneers, 
named in the pioneer chapter, flocked in, but with all their efforts the whole 
township had but 219 inhabitants in 1880. 

In November, 1889, Messrs. Galbraith, Mason and Hooton, Upited States 
revenue officials, visited Jenks township on a hunting expedition. On the head- 
waters of Bear creek they discovered a moonshine distillery, which they con- 
fiscated, and having made oae or two arrests, returned home. 

Dr. S. S. Towler drilled a well on the Hunt farm in 1881 to a depth of 
about 2,000 feet. At a depth of 900 feet a gas vein was struck, and since 
that time Marienville has had a full supply of gas. . . .The Kahle Bros.' well 
was drilled in 1887 to a depth of about 850 feet. . . .The rate to consumers is 
$2 in winter and $1 in summer per store per month, and 15 cents for lights. 

Oak City, on the road from the mouth of Bear creek to Marienville, came 
into existence after the discovery of oil. In January, 1883, the village had its 
water- works and gas system. This gas was obtained from Cornwall's well of 
I he year before. .. .Shoup's mill, on the head of Salmon creek, was built in 
November, 1879. .. .The Phillis & Neill saw-mills, below Gilfoyle were built 
in 1888. The capacity is about 15,000 feet per day, giving employment to 
ten men. The firm own 300 acres of hemlock around the mills, on which 
there are ten or twelve men employed generally. 

MARIENVILLE. 

Marienville (or Marionville, according to the postal guide) dates back to 
October, 1833, when Cyrus Blood and family made their settlement there. 
Determined efforts were made to build up the place, but these failing the 
owner and residents resolved to establish a new county with this place as the 
county seat. To this end Mr. Blood interested James L. Gillis and others, 
and as stated in the chapter devoted to the transactions of the county commis- 
sioners, Forest county was established by a joint resolution of the house and 
senate. The business appears to have been done in a peculiar way, for in the 
printed records of the assembly of 1848-49 and 1850 there is no mention made 
of the resolution, nor does there appear to be much done toward organization 
until 1851, when supplementary acts were passed countenancing this strange 
resolution, and in 1850 the new county was thoroughly detached from Jefferson. 

The addition to the town of Marienville by Bennett and Nancy Dobbs was 
made in February, 1857. This comprised L60 acres on the southeast corner 
of tract 3169, warranted to Herman Lerov and Jan Liuklain, later the prop- 
erty of G. \V. Lathy. The lots were 55x105 feet, and the streets sixty feet 
wide. 

Prom this period until 1866 the village showed some signs of life, bat the 
addition of live townships made that year brought forth a new peril for the 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 915 

little county seat, and ultimately robbed it of the county offices. From this 
period up to the fall of 1882 there was little here. The oil excitement of that 
year, and the energy of the people tended to improve the place, and by June, 
1883, the hamlet had grown into a thriving village. 

In 1884 A. J. Sigworth was postmaster, and Kahle & Sigworth, general 
merchants. Henry, Bayard & Co., Williams & Mahoney, Shipe, Mensch & 
Co., F. M. Rech & Co. and Rider & Co. were operating saw-mills; Whitney 
Brothers carried on the Hub Factory; J. B. Watson & Son, the hotel; John D. 
Hunt, now C. F. Hunt, was merchant; T. J. Reiner was grocer; S. S. Towler 
was physician; M. C. Caringer kept the restaurant; Hines & Son carried on the 
meat market. In October, 1885, J. B. Watson was appointed postmaster. 

The editor of the Brock way ville Record visited the town in February, 1886. 
and thus describes it: "This town was formerly the county seat of Forest 
county, but the seat has been removed to Tionesta. The ground on which this 
town was built was laud first bought and improved by Cyrus Blood, more than 
fifty years ago. The Pittsburgh & Western Railroad runs through the town, 
and has been the means of building it up considerably in the last two or three 
years. The town is rather pleasantly situated. The main business here ap- 
pears to be the shipping of lumber of various kinds. There are several men 
here form Buffalo whose business alone is to measure and sort hardwood. 
There appears to be a large supply of a superior quality. When I came here I 
didn't expect to see any person I knew. I was very agreeably disappointed; 
Hon. J. B. Watson, the proprietor of the Watson House, is a man I have 
known for a number of years. He is an ex-prothonotary of Clarion county. He 
keeps a good house; is a friend of temperance and everything good. James 
Morrison, an old neighbor, has a contract of sawing 'and delivering a lot of 
lumber to the railroad ; Henry Bullers and wife are keeping a millinery store and 
hotel; Mr. Flick, formerly of Brockway ville, started a barber shop here a few 
days ago. A great many of the residents here are burning natural gas from a 
well near the town, and yet gas is not always to be depended upon. Yesterday 
about noon as we were sitting around the stoves, and cooks were in the mid- 
dle of dinner cooking, suddenly the fires ceased to burn, and dinner was delayed 
about one hour. Certainly it was not pleasant with the mercury below zero. 
While I was sitting, looking out of the window, a poor man was dragging out 
one of his horses, frozen stiff enough, apparently, to send to Europe as a re- 
frigerator. Truly it is a county of forest. From Clarington to this point is 
almost a dense forest. A great deal of the pine timber was cut off along 
the road years ago. S. S. Towler, formerly of Reynoldsville, is physician, 
and Rev. J. Weldon, of Troy, is the minister of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. There are two church buildings in the town — a small Methodist 
Episcopal Church building and the Presbyterians have a right nice little church 
building nearly completed. Rev. J. Hickling is the only Presbyterian minis- 
ter in the county. He lives in Tionesta, and preaches there, at Tylersburg and 
at Scotch Hill." 

The first death in the settlement was that of an old German lady in 1843 
or 1844, followed by that of Josiah Leary. The former was buried just east 
of the Blood homestead, and the latter in the same field. 

The first school was held in Mr. Blood's house, Miss Marien Blood being 
teacher. The next school was at Kiefer's, near the head of the springs, Col. 
Hunt being among the first teachers. 

Mr. McMichael was the first Presbyterian preacher here, but prior to this 
a physician and preacher, Dr. Otis Smith, of the United Brethren Society, 
preached in Mr. Blood's house in 1843. He is said to be the hero of eleven 



916 HISTORY OF FOEEST COUNTY. 

marriages. He gave out the first hymn sung in the old county: " Go preach 
my gospel, said the Lord." 

The Lutheran society was formed at Marienville, in 1850, by Mr. Fair. It 
continued in existence until after the war. . . .Methodism was introduced by 
Mr. Hull shorty after that of Presbyterianisru. 

Saumel Barr, the old stage driver, who died about four years ago at Brook- 
ville, was the first Baptist preacher, some time in the " fifties." The Methodist 
Episcopal circuit of Marienville, was detached from Clarington in 1888, and 
Rev. J. M. Edwards was appointed pastor. Among the old members are Jacob 
Mercilliott and wife, John Dodge and wife, and N. K. Burton and wife. In 
the winter of 1883-84 a great revival meeting won many converts, and the 
modern church entered upon an era of progress. In 1884 the present church 
was erected at a cost of about $900. Mr. Hames was class-leader from 1883 
to 1888, when Peter English was chosen. There are about fifty members, many 
of whom were received by Mr. Farout, the present pastor .... The old Lutheran 
society of Marienville disbanded years ago. 

The first Presbyterian Church of Marienville was organized on May 
29, 1883, composed of the following persons: S. S. Towler, M. D., Mrs. 
M. C. Watson, Miss H. K. Watson, Mrs. C. L. Rohrer, Hon. John D. 
Hunt. Mrs. M. F. Hunt, Mrs. B. L. Hunt, Miss E. L. Rose, Mrs. Margaret 
Walton and Mrs. Clara B. Towler. Soon after a number more were added, and 
J. H. Mensch, Esq. , and Dr. Towler were elected elders. On May 1 7, 18S6, 
the church was incorporated, the following persons qualifving as trustees: 
Charles S. Leech, C. W. Amsler, S. F. Rohrer. John D. Hunt, H. H. Me 
Clellan and Dr. S. S. Towler. In June, 1886, the church building was com- 
pleted at a cost of $2,050, and opened for public service on July 4, 1886, 
ami dedicated July 17, 1886, Rev. B. F. Williams officiating. The building is 
a very neat frame 35x55 feet, with annex 8x20, and vestibule 10x10. It is 
finished largely in natural wood, with arched ceiling. The house is heated by 
natural gas. In January, 1888, the pulpit was filled by supplies, but since 
that time Rev. H. F. Easseman has been pastor. The present membership is 
forty three, including elders, J. H. Mensch and S. S. Towler. The trustees are 
S. S. Towler, president; Charles S. Leech, secretary; C. W. Amsler, treasurer; 
H. H. McClellan, C. F. Hunt and John H. Mensch. The only changes in the 
corporate body are C. F. Hunt vice John H. Hunt, deceased, and John 
H. Mensch vice S. F. Rohrer, deceased. 

Jenks Lodge, No. 250,1. O. O. F., Marienville, was instituted under charter 
May 13, 1885, with the following named members: J. F. Gaul, P. G. ; H. H. Mc- 
Clellan, P. G. ; A. K. Shipe, P. G. ; J. W. Cole, W. H. Sigworth, T. J. Reyner. E. 
A Yetter, C.W. Amsler, H. Bullers, F. P. Walker, F. M. Rech and C. S. Leech. 
H. H. McClellan was the first noble grand of the lodge, followed by W. H. 
Sigworth, J. W. Cole, T. J. Reyner, E. A. Yetter, O. C. Christy, H H. Mc- 
Clellan, O. C. Christy and P. H. Dean, who is the present presiding officer. 
John F. Gaul was first secretary, followed by T. J. Reyner in 1888. In 1889 
K. A. Yetter, the present secretary, was elected. There are now (March. 
1890) forty two members. The hall was destroyed by fire January 1. 1890. 
Quarters were found in the new Leech building. A second building was 
erected by Mr. Leech to be used by all the lodges. 

Equitable Aid Union, No. 411. was organized in June, 1884. by (!. W 
Brown and J. B. Watson, with forty-eight charter members, including the 
following named officers : Chancellor, .1. B. Watson; advocate, A. J. McCray; 
president. Dr. S. S. Towler; vice-president, Miss Lizzie Watson: auxiliary, 
Mrs. A. H. Palmer: secretary. Miss Q. M. McClellan: treasurer. D. E. White; 



HISTORY OF FOKEST COUNTY. 917 

accountant, T. J. Reyner; chaplain, A. K. Sipe; warden, Henry Kinie; sentinel, 
Mrs. D. E. White; watchman, A. Wisner; conductor, O. C. Christy; assistant 
commander, Katie Harner: examining physician, Dr. S. S. Towler; trustee, 
M. Mandeville; representative to Grand Union, Dr. S. S. Towler. 

The W. C. T. U., of Marienville, was organized May 10, 1886, with the 
following named members: Malvina Lowman, Kittie Leech, Edith Gaul, 
Emeline Salida, Marien Hunt, Clarine F. Rohrer, Margaret Watson, Bella L. 
Hunt, Eliza Mercilliott, Louisa Dodge, Ella Leech, Mary Rohrer, May Bullers, 
Rose Scott, Kittie Watson, Margaret Walton, Jennie Yetter, Nina Salida, Mrs. 
Edwards and Clara B. Towler. The presidents, Mrs. E. Gaul and Kizzie 
Watson, on whose death in May, 1889, Miss Nina Salida was elected. 

Marienville Council, No. 14, O. U. A. M., was instituted under charter, 
May 14, 1889. The applicants for the charter are the following named mem- 
bers: J. A. Frampton, J. R. Barr, S. M. Neely, S. P. Leech, J. Mercilliot, P. 
C. Neely, W. F. Adams, G. W. Smith, M. Lubold, E. E. Carbaugh, J. B. 
Story, Isaac Watterson, H. A. Pierce, H. K. Shipe, A. J. Kunselman, H. A. 
Shipe, C. M. Jones, S. C. Rankin, E. M. Clarke, W. H. Eisenhuth, Clinn. 
McConn. W. C. Brown, D. L. Frampton, T. W. English, A. G. Leech, H. 
Stakley, S. M. Henry, John McAfee and E. E. Burton. J. R. Barr was first 
councillor; and T. W. English, secretary. There are forty-seven members. 

Washington Camp, No. 140, P. O. S. of A., was organized by W. F. Adams, 
P. P., June 24, 1887, with twenty- six members, among whom were: W. Fran- 
cis Adams, Jacob Mercilliott, Jr., J. R. Flick, J. B. Flick, J. E. McClellan, 
J. A. Frampton, A. C. Frampton, Peter M. Walton, John T. Watson, Frank 
L. Yetter, T. J. Reyner, P. H. Dean, George G. Cressy, R. S. Y. Cressy, 
S. M. Neely, Carl. Bullers, W. J. Austin, Frank Dodge, J. M. Dodge and 
W. H. Taylor. J. A. Frampton, J. E. McClellan, W. H. Taylor, H. A. Shipe 
served as presidents; J. E. Leech is now president and J. E. McClellan is 
secretary. 

Marienville cornet band was organized in May, 1889, with W. F. Adams, 
president; A. C. Frampton, secretary; T. R. Reyner, treasurer; W. P. Smul- 
len, leader; with Messrs. Nevison, J. A. Frampton, J. Mercilliott, J. T. Wat- 
son, D. L. Frampton, T. D. Mohney, Roland Rech, J. E. McClellan, L. 
Bevier and David Greybill. 

In January, 1889, Rev. Mr. Elder's mother was burned during the de- 
struction of his house at Marienville. This was the first serious natural gas 
fire in this county. 

The fire of January 1, 1890, originated in Harp's barber shop, and before 
the general alarm could be sounded the building was almost entirely enveloped 
in flames, spreading rapidly until the shoe-shop of Justice E. Whitling, 
and the drug store of Dr. Stonecipher, adjoining, were past saving. The next 
building to catch fire was the fine large hotel of J. B. Watson, which was totally 
destroyed. Next came the large new mercantile building of T. J. Reyner, 
full of goods; also a large warehouse belonging to him, which were both con- 
sumed. The fire stopped here, having no more fuel to feed upon, but the 
destruction and loss was surely great enough for one town like Marienville. 
The Josses, as nearly as could be ascertained, are as follows: T. J. Reyner, 
loss on buildings and goods, $5,000; insured for $2,700. J. B. Watson, loss 
of hotel and furniture, $3,000; no insurance. Dr. Stonecipher saved most 
of his goods; loss not estimated. E. Whitling's loss was total; not estimated. 
H. H Harp's loss was also total. The Odd Fellows had their lodge room over 
Reyner' 8 store, and lost most of their furniture, etc., amounting to about $400; 
covered by insurance. Four other secret orders occupied the same room, 

SOA 



918 • HISTORY OF FOREST COUNT'S. 

and lost all they had. They were the Equitable Aid Union, Patriotic Order 
Sons of America, American Mechanics, and the Sons of Temperance. 

The hub factory, part of which was destroyed by fire some years ago, 
gave employment to fourteen men in 1883, and produced 4,000 hubs per week. 
Tin- drying-houses still stand near the depot .... The C. S. Leech mill was 
erected in 1887. The capacity of the saw-mill is about 14,000 feet per day, 
and of the planing-mill about the same. The industry gives employment to 
eight men .... Within a radius of five miles of Marienville are the saw-mills of 
J. H. Morrison; Baker, Hammond & Co. ; Hammond & Messenger; S. L. 
Clough & Co. ; Buckeye Lumber Companv; Curll, Campbell & Co.; N. Guil- 
ford, Curll & Campbell, Phillis & Neill, W. H. Frost; J. M. Edwards. Ma 
pie Creek Lumber Company, and C. S. Leech. The shingle-mills are owned 
by David Drury, Blanchard & Rogers, M. E. Graybill and F. L. White. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

KINGSLEY TOWNSHIP. 



Streams— Population— Officers Elected in February, 1890— The Histori 
of Tin: Township— Lumber Companies and Mills— Villages, Post-office, 
Incidents, etc. 

KINGSLEY TOWNSHIP may be credited as the birthplace of the classic 
Tionesta. This river enters the township at the northeast corner, and flows 
southwest in a tortuous channel to the line of Green township, where it runs 
south to Nebraska village. Within this township it receives eleven creeks 
flowing south from the Allegheny divide, and three from the Big Level, in- 
cluding Salmon creek. Each of the fourteen creeks has several feeders, bo 
that with the exception of the southeast plateau, Kingsley is well carved up 
into hill and valley. 

The population of the township in 1880 was 460. In 1888 there were 83 
Republican, 56 Democratic and 5 Prohibitionist votes recorded, total 144, indi 
eating about 720 inhabitants. 

The officers for 1890 are as follows: Judge, J. E. Berlin; inspectors, John 
Weller, John Berlin; treasurer, Eli Berlin; clerk, W. F. Jones; school 
directors; John Osgood, H. A. Zuendel; overseer of poor, Conrad Burheu; 
auditor, Levi Pierson; constable and collector, W. A. Kribbs; justice of peace, 
William Richards. 

This township is named in honor of one of its pioneers, of whom everj 
thing is written in the general chapter. In fact the history of this township 
, t.> the general history, owing to the character of the pioneers and 
early industries, which were as well known at the mouth of the Tionesta as 
among the pine forests up that creek. 

Hall and May and the Wheelers were the leading lumbermen in Tionesta 
county in 1867. There were mills at Buck Mills. Newtown, Balltown and 
other unnamed spots in the valley. In 1^70 71 Cobb's mills, four miles above 
Lacy town, and his mill on Tom's run gave employment to sixty-eight teams 
and 120 men .... In March, L867, the Pittsburgh & Forest Lumber Companv 
bought the timber lauds of F. A Howe A- Co., on Tionesta creek. Edward 



HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 919 

Dithridge was president of this company, T. A. Wright, secretary; L. L. 
Hackett, superintendent at Tionesta, and Edward Davison, at Pittsburgh. This 
steam saw-mill was erected on Lamentation creek. . . .The Crawford saw-mill, 
erected in 1884, on the Tionesta, near Henry's mills, was destroyed in March, 
1887. 

In 1858, when Percival & Leavens entered business at Newtown, for 
Stowe & Co., they found the old mill changed into a gang-mill; DeWoody was 
putting in logs at the old school-house, and a few one-horse train cars were 
running. 

The Salmon creek mill was erected in 1879-80; a road up the Branch 
opened, and a dam constructed across Salmon creek. At the time of build- 
ing it was the intention of the owners to manufacture spade, shovel, broom 
and fork handles here. A blacksmith shop, a large boarding house and seven 
dwellings were erected at this time, thus creating a little village in the wilder- 
ness, four miles up Salmon creek from its confluence with the Tionesta. 

A sad accident occurred at Newtown in 1879. A little boy only sixteen 
months old, son of Mr. Rodolph, strayed from his mother's sight while she 
was attending her household duties. The mother missed her child in a very 
few minutes, and went in search of it. It is supposed that the little fellow 
toddled to the creek, only some thirty feet from the house, fell in and was 
swept away by the current. Mrs. Rodolph ran down the creek and up again, 
looking for her lost one with all a mother's anguish, but too late. 

The post office at the mouth of Ross run was established in 1887, and 
named Setley, with Daniel Harrington, postmaster. 

Kellettville is the name given to the tanning extract village of W. W. 
Kellett & Co., three miles southwest of Panther Rock. In November, 1884, 
the works were destroyed by fire. They had been shut down the morning of 
the fire, and Supt. Andrews was absent looking after repairs on machinery. 
The fire is supposed to have caught from the arch, and did not confine itself 
to the building proper, but licked up the out-buildings, including a large stock 
of bark. The total loss was §30,000, of which insurance for §15,000 was 
carried. Without delay temporary buildings were erected, and within a short 
time this industry was revived. 

Whig Hill is the name given to an old settlement on the route from Tio- 
nesta to Beaver valley, in Kingsley township. George Beck, one of the pioneers 
of the district, settled there about thirty-seven years ago, and in the neighbor- 
hood Eli Berlin and other early settlers located. The place has not been 
neglected by the pen of Daniel Harrington, for in 1880 he incorporated in his 
reminiscences the following story: "About one mile north of Whig Hill 
school-house, on the cross roads leading from Tionesta to Beaver valley, lives 
George Beck, a prosperous farmer. Mr. Beck is of German origin, and is 
about sixty-five years old. Some time ago he had an attack of palsy, but has 
recovered the use of his limbs. Mr. Beck tells an astonishing snake story. 
He says he was out in the woods several years ago, when he came on an enor- 
mous rattlesnake den, and commenced killing. He thinks he slaughtered about 
600. He could not count them, but that was his estimate of the number 
slain. Some of the snakes were as large in diameter as Mr. Beck's leg, above 
the knee, and as he is a large man, his legs are not of pipe-stem dimensions. 
He also says, the snakes were about as plentiful when he got tired killing as 
they were when he began. He thinks that snake den included about twenty- 
five acres of ground. Mr. Beck has lived on the farm he now owns about 
twenty-eight years. The old log-house and log-barn have given place to large 
and substantial frame buildings, and everything around them shows industry 
and thrift." 



920 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

The Methodist building at Whig Hill was dedicated February 19, L880 

la December, 1882, the Free Methodist Church building was finished. . . .Eli 
Berlin was appointed postmaster at Whig Hill in October, 1 SSTi. 

The Evangelical Church at Town Line was dedicated November 13. 18S7. 
This is one mile from Whig Hill, on a two-acre lot donated by Jacob Beck, 
and near the old acre donation of 1854. 

Braceville is a village eight miles east of East Hickory. In 1882-83 it 
began to share in the general revival of trade, and in January, 1 8S4, the Century 
Equitable Aid Union was organized here with thirty-two members, the follow- 
ing named being the first officers: Chancellor, Henry Brace; advocate, Sidney 
Smith; president, Frank Helm, Jr.; vice president. S. S. Waley; auxiliary. 
Mrs. S. S. Waley; secretary, Frank Hunter; treasurer. L. G. Rounds; account- 
ant, Amry Davis; chaplain. James Smith; warden, W. F. McHean; sentinel. 
G. W. Albaugh; watchman, W. E. Wetherell; conductor, Ira Barnes: assist 
ant conductor, Mrs. W. C. McHean; examining physician. W. C. Coburn. 



CHAPTER XV. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES— TIONESTA TOWNSHIP AND BOROUGH 
OF TIONESTA— HICKORY AND HARMONY TOWNSHIPS. 

TIONESTA TOWNSHIP AND BOROUGH OF TIONESTA. 

JOSHUA B. AGNEW was born in Clarion county. Penn., May 24. 1840. 
His father. John Agnew, came of that sturdy Scotch-Irish family of Agnews. 
well known in this State, and was born in Centre (now Blair) county. Penn., in 
the year 1800. His mother was born in Lancaster county, this State, and 
was a descendant of the early settlers of that section of the State, who came 
from Holland. The father of the subject of this sketch was well known to the 
early settlers of Northwestern Pennsylvania. When a young man he came to 
Clarion county, and engaged in various business enterprises of that day: was 
married in Clarion county, but nearly sixty years ago settled in Barnett town 
ship. Jefferson county, near the Clarion river, and with John Cook. William 
Armstrong, John Wynkoop, David Reynolds, Judge Barnett, Oran Butterfield, 
James Irwin, Sylvester Nolton, Judge Blood. W. R. Coon and others, was one 
of the early pioneers in the first sett lenient and development of that part of 
Forest county, which was then almost an unbroken wilderness. His family 
consisted of nine sons and three daughters, seven sons and one daughter of 
whom survive him. J. B. Agnew being the fourth son, and no doubt inher- 
iting the enterprising spirit of his father, al the earl] age of fourteen years 
commenced to make his own way in the world, and to provide for himself and 
render such assistance to his parents as he could. He had commenced to lay 
the foundation of Ids education at the old Agnew school-house, erected through 

il ITorts if his father about one mile from his home. There he improved 

such opportunities as he had up to the time of leaving home at the age of 
fourteen year-, which, with several months of schooling afterward provided 
for by himself at public school, and his own perseverance and efforts of -elf. 
education, fitted him to commence the study of law in after years. 

Lfter tit-si leaving home as a boy, he for a few months worked in a saw mill. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 921 

after which, with a friend, he took contracts for taking out square timber, his 
first contracts being on the waters of Spring creek, Forest county, four miles 
from any habitation, where he spent his first winter, leaving home in a lumber 
camp with the men under his employ. After completing his first contract he 
went to school for a few months; then to work again at various jobs in the 
lumber business, running on the river, being a pilot on the Clarion when a 
boy, and following this life, in which he was always successful, until about the 
year 1858. He then purchased a team and wagon, and for some time was 
engaged in freighting and delivering goods that were then shipped by water 
to Waterson's ferry, the mouth of Redbank, Kittanning, and other points along 
the Allegheny, and from there wagoned to Clarington, Shippen's Mills, Cole- 
man Mills, Cooksburg, and to various towns and lumbering establishments 
along the Clarion. He continued in this business up to the fall of 1860, when 
he commenced to read law, studying, however, only in the evenings, and at 
such times as he could spare from his work. In the fall of 1861 he was en- 
gaged in putting in timber rafts, staves, etc., for the Pittsburgh market, 
expecting with a small profit on the amount that he marketed in the spring of 
1861, and with the frugal savings of other labor, to be able after his return 
from marketing to complete his education and law studies, and enter upon 
the practice of law. But in April, 1861, while at Liverpool, on the Ohio, Fort 
Sumter was tired on, and the war broke out. On hearing this news, he came 
up to Pittsburgh, arranged with his brother-in-law, J. R. Cook, to take charge 
and dispose of a small lot of staves, etc. , that he still had there, and returned 
to his home, where, with Capt. V. Phipps, Philip Cook and others, he joined 
in the recruiting and organization of a company from Forest and Clarion 
counties, choosing Scotch Hill, Clarion county, as a place of drill and rendez- 
vous. The company was soon organized and ready with about eighty mem 
bers. but before its organization was complete the first call of the president 
for 75,000 troops was filled. About that time the Pennsylvania Reserve Corps 
was organized, when, by arrangement with Capt. Knox (late Colonel and Judge 
Knox), at Clarion, Penn., the company was mustered into the service as Com- 
pany E, of the Tenth Regiment, Pennsylvania Reserve Corps, with said J. B. 
Knox as its captain. In this company he served as a private for the first three 
years in the army, then, having re- enlisted, be was transferred to Company I, 
of the One Hundred and Ninety-first Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers, and in 
June, 1864, was, by special order of Gen. George G. Meade, detailed and 
placed in charge of the ordnance train of the Third Division of the Fifth Army 
Corps, in which capacity he acted as captain and a staff officer until the sur- 
render of Lee at Appomattox, and the close of the war. He declined a commission 
as captain for the reason that it would necessitate the resignation of a wounded 
captain, who was a friend of his, to make the vacancy for him (not wanting 
his friend to be deprived of his captain's pay while he was disabled), and 
was mustered out as a private. His record as a soldier is an exceptionally 
brilliant one, and, as the record shows, he participated in some twenty-seven 
battles and engagements, and has received special mention in general orders 
for bravery in action. He was mustered out of the service in July, 1865, ami 
after his return home, at the first Republican convention thereafter in Forest 
county, in the spring of 1866, was nominated for sheriff of said county, and 
almost unanimously elected in the following fall. Before his time as sheriff 
expired lie was elected prothonotary, register, recorder and clerk of the several 
courts of Forest county, and before his first term as such had expired was re- 
elected. Before his second term as such had expired he was elected a member of 
the legislature from Forest county, being the first member of the legislature 



922 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

from the county under the constitution of 1873. He served in the legis- 
lature of the State in the sessions of 1875 and 1876. was re-elected and served 
in the sessions of 1877 and 1878, winning a high reputation for probity and 
ability. During the time that he was occupying the positions of sheriff, pro- 
thonotary. etc., of said county, he, under the direction of Hon. George A. 
Jenks and W. E. Lathy, Esq., had completed his law studies, and immediately 
upon resigning the office of prothonotary, etc., in December. 1S74. was admit- 
ted to the practice of law. After the expiration of his last term in the leg- 
islature, in 1879, he accepted a position tendered him by his friend, Hon. A. 
K. Dunkle (then secretary of internal affairs), in the office of the secretary of 
internal affairs of Pennsylvania, which position he tilled for the term of four 
year--. 

Having commenced the practice of law in 1874, he continued in the prac- 
tice as much as his official duties would permit, and was also engaged in vari- 
ous enterprises, having large interests in lands and oil rights that, about the 
time that his term in the office of the secretary of internal affairs expired, be 
came valuable, and he returned to his home, and from that time to the present 
has given his entire attention to his law practice and oil business. Mr. Agnew 
is a | >t ' .minent oil producer, having had himself at one time a production of almost 
a thousand barrels of oil per day. As a lawyer he has been successful, and 
enjoys the confidence and respect of all who know him in that connection, hav- 
ing, aside from being admitted to the county courts, been for the last twelve 
years practicing before the supreme court of Pennsylvania, and the United 
States district courts. Much of the development of the resources of Forest 
county in a business way. and especially as to its development for oil. is due 
t" Mr. Agnew, who is a leading politician, a popular official and a reliable 
business man, held in high esteem by his friends, generous to a fault, and an 
uncompromising Republican, who never conceals his political likes and dislikes, 
lint is a faithful personal friend, one who never permits politics or difference 
of opinion to interfere with his friendships: and paramount among his vir 
tiles it may be said that he is an honest man. 

His father and three brothers. John. Samuel and Leonard— five of the 
family in all — were soldiers during the Civil war. The four brothers, all still 
living, are members of the G. A. 1!.. ami are ardent Republicans. All ren- 
dered honorable service to their country, and adhere to the principles for which 
they fought, J. B. Agnew resides in Tionesta, where he has lived for the 
last twenty two years in one of the finest and pleasantest homes in the county 
seat. In June, L866, he married Miss Jennie E. McKay, then of Clarington, 
Fores! Co., Perm., a daughter of the late James and Christine (Nolton) McKay, 
of Tionesta. Mrs. Agnew's father is of the McKay family of Waterford, Erie 
Co.. l'enn . and she is a granddaughter of Col. James McKay, an officer in 
the War of 1812. Her mother was the daughter of Sylvester Nolton, before 
mentioned as one of the early pioneers of Forest county, and who is promi 
nently connected with its early history, having also been a soldier in the War 
of 1812 Mr. and Mrs. Agnew have thr shildren — one son and two daugh- 
ters. Their s.>n. Clarence McKay, now twentj two years of age, was educated 
at Allegheny College, is now an attorney at law in his father's office, and is a 
promising and popular young man. The daughters, Misses Christine and 
Edna, are aged respectively six and three years. 

I. \OXEVV. proprietor of the Ludlow House, Warren, l'enn.. was born in 
Paint township, Clarion Co., Penn., June 12, 1843, and is a son of Join; and 
Ellen (Bailey) A.guew. He was reared in Jefferson county, l'enn.. and re- 
ceived a common-school education, in early life as-istiug his father in farming 



BIOGKAPHICAL SKETCHES. 923 

and lumbering. He participated in the Civil war, enlisting from Barnett town- 
ship, Jefferson Co., Penn., and was assigned to Company B, One Hundred and 
Thirty fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers; was in the battle of Chancellorsville, and 
was honorably discharged after nine months' service. After his return home, 
in 1863, he engaged in business as a lumberman and contractor in Barnett 
township, Jefferson Co., Penn., until 1867. He then moved to Tionesta, Forest 
county, where he followed the business of a contractor until 1873, when he em- 
barked in the hotel business, in which he was engaged until 1884, in which 
year he was elected sheriff of Forest county for a term of three years. On 
the expiration of his term, he again engaged in tbe hotel business in Tionesta 
until April 1, 1889, and April 10, following, became proprietor of the Ludlow 
House, at Warren, where he is now located. Mr. Agnew has been twice mar- 
ried, his first wife being Sarah M. , daughter of Oran Butterrield, of Barnett 
township, Jefferson Co., Penn., and by her he had three children: Jeanette, 
Mary L. and Oran C. (all deceased). Mr. Agnew's present wife, nee Sarah J., 
daughter of William Carson, of Indiana, Penn., has borne him four children: 
John L. (deceased), Willie O, Gertrude and Alice. Mr. Agnew is a member 
of the I. O. O. F., A. O. U. W., and G. A. R. ; in politics he is a Republican. 

CALVIN M. ARNER, prothonotary, register and recorder, Tionesta, was 
born in Armstrong county, Penn., October 3, 1847, and is a son of Lewis and 
Elizabeth (Wolf) Arner, who settled in Tionesta in 1856, where the father en- 
gaged in lumbering, and, with the exception of nine years, has always resided. 
In 1884, he (the father) was elected associate judge of Forest county, for a 
term of five years. He has seven children living: Hattie (Mrs. Lyman Cook), 
Emma E. (Mrs. Charles Whiteman), Mary (Mrs. Edward Chase), Sadie (Mrs. 
James Haggerty), Susanna C. (Mrs. Gilbert D. Ackerly), Calvin M. and Ida 
(Mrs. Andrew Small). Calvin M. Arner was reared in Pennsylvania, and edu- 
cated in the common schools and at Kingsville Academy, Kingsville, Ohio. 
Mr. Arner has been a permanent resident of Tionesta since 1869, and was en- 
gaged in lumbering until 1883, when he was appointed postmaster by Presi- 
dent Arthur, serving three years. He was elected to his present office in the 
fall of 1887, for a term of three years. In 1877 he married Mary, daughter 
of Henry and Katherine Eichenburg. of Tionesta, and they have five children: 
Lewis, Blanche, Alice, Kate and Emma. 

J. WESLEY BALL, merchant, Tionesta, was born in Hickory township. 
Forest Co., Penn., July 20, 1852, and is a son of Nelson G. and Martha 
(Hunter) Ball. His paternal grandparents were Isaac and Sally (Munross) 
Ball, pioneers of what is now Harmony township, this county, and later of 
Balltown and East Hickory. His maternal grandparents were William and 
Sally (Range) Hunter, and his maternal great-grandfather, Poland Hunter, 
was a pioneer of Tionesta. J. Wesley Ball was reared and educated in his 
native township. He conducted a hotel in East Hickory for five years, also 
operating for a time his father's grist-mill at that place. He located in Tio- 
nesta in 1887, where he has since carried on a grocery business, and has a 
fine and growing trade. August 2, 1875, he married Rachel, daughter of C. 
C. Brenneman, of Clarion county, Penn., and they have three children: 
George, Elsie and Orchie. Mr. Ball is a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church and of the P. O. S. of A. ; in politics he is a Republican. 

PETER C. BLOCHER, farmer and oil producer, Tionesta, was born in 
Clarence, Erie Co., N. Y., February 1, 1834, a son of Christian and 
Catherine (Behm) Blocher. His paternal grandfather was John Blocher, 
whose parents came from Switzerland, and were pioneers of Lancaster 
county, Penn. Peter C. Blocher was reared in his native county, and educated 



924 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

in the common schools. He began life as a farmer, which occupation he fol- 
lowed in Erie county, N. Y. , until 1858. He then spent a year in Ohio, 
returning to New York State in 1859. In October, 1861, he enlisted in Com- 
pany E, Seventy-eighth New York Volunteer Infantry, and participated in the 
bat lies of South Mountain. Autietam, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Resaca 
(Ga. ), Kenesaw Mountain, Peach Tree Creek, and in the siege of Atlanta (Ga. ). 
being honorably discharged at the last named place after three years' service. 
In 1865 he located at Oil Creek, Venango county, and in 1866 at "West Hickory 
and Dennis run, where he engaged in the oil business as a producer, and fol- 
lowed the oil fields until 1870. From 1870 to 1S85 he resided at Fagundus, 
then settled on the farm he now occupies in Tionesta township, where he has 
since resided. Mr. Blocher married, in 1869, Mary, daughter of Jacob and 
Elizabeth (Fair) Helm, of Washington township, Armstrong Co., Penn., and they 
have seven children: William E., Ella B. , Howard O., Bertha O. , Ralph A.. 
Jesse A. and Phebe E. Mr. Blocher is a member of the Lutheran Church 
and of the G. A. R. ; in politics he is a Republican. 

GEORGE W. BOVARD, merchant, Tionesta, was born in Butler county, 
Penn., May L2, 1841, a son of Johnson and Lydia (Adams) Bovard, also natives 
of Butler county. The father was a farmer by occupation, a prominent Dem- 
ocrat, holding the office of justice of the peace for sixteen year-, and an elder 
in the United Presbyterian Church; he died in 1874; his widow is still living, 
residing on the homestead. They reared six children: John A., Jane (Mrs. 
Andrew Drennan), George W., James O, William H. and E. D. George W. 
Bovard was reared and educated in Butler county. In 1862 he enlisted in Com- 
pany F, One Hundred and Thirty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served 
nine months, when he was honorably discharged. After that he engaged in 
mercantile business at Sherman Well, Venango county, where he remained in 
business eight years, and was postmaster five years. In 1S71 he came to Tio 
nesta, and established his present business, being also a member of the firm of 
E. Berlin & Co., dealers in general merchandise at Whig Hill, this county. In 
1869 he married Miss Sarah, daughter of Charles Stewart, of Butler county, 
and they have three children: Charles S., Forest J. and Roy. Mr. Bovard was 
formerly identified with the Democratic party, but of late years has been inde 
pendent. He is a member of Capt. George Stowe Post, G. A. R., No. '_!71. 
Tionesta, also of the I. O. O. F. and the A. 0. U. W. 

JAMES T. BRENNAN, dealer in real estate, Tionesta, was born in 
County Clare. Ireland. October 11. 1844, and is a son of Joseph and Kate 
(Hanley) Brennan. He was reared in his native country, where he received a 
common-school education, and came to America in 1863, locating in Forest 
county, Penn., in L865, where he engaged in lumbering until 1S76, as a work- 
man and jobber. In the latter year he was appointed commissioners' clerk, 
which position he has acceptably tilled for fifteen successive years. In 1876 
lie was appointed to fill an unexpired term as justice of the peace for Tionesta, 
and in 1S77 was twice elected to this office, which he held until April 1. 1888, 
when he resigned; he also served as school director for five years; he was ap- 
pointed a notary public, an office which he still holds. For the past eight years 
he has been engaged in the real estate business. On December 25, 1871, he 
married Mary K., daughter of William and Jennie A. (Mason) Tobey, of For- 
est county, formerly of Frewsburg. Chautauqua Co., X. Y.. and to them were 
born two children: Darius W. I deceased) and Alice M. Mr. Brennan is B 
prominent citizen of Tionesta. is a member of the Wesleyan Methodist Church, 
and in politics is a Republican. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 925 

O. C. BROWNELL, proprietor of the Central House, Tionesta, was born 
in Carroll, Chautauqua Co., N. Y., March 23, 1836, and is a son of Rich- 
mond and Lucy (Covill) Brownell, natives of Rhode Island and Connecticut, 
respectively, and who were married in Chautauqua county, N. Y. The father, 
who was a farmer and lumberman by occupation, and one of the pioneers 
of Chautauqua county, in later life removed to Warren county, Penn. , where 
he died. O. C. Brownell was reared in his native county, also in Warren 
county, and followed the occupation of millwright for nearly thirty years; 
was also a contractor for the erection of buildings and oil rigs in the Warren, 
Forest and Butler county oil fields for several years. In September, 1884, 
he located in Tionesta, and took charge of the Central House, which he has 
since successfully conducted. He was in the Civil war, enlisting in Septem- 
ber, 1864, and was assigned to Company C, Ninth New York Cavalry, receiv- 
ing an honorable discharge at the close of the struggle. He married, De- 
cember 9, 1860, Rebecca, daughter of Enoch Gilrnan, of Warren county, 
Penn., and they have six children: Clara B. (Mrs. George Marsh), Eva (Mrs. 
George Smith), Nellie (Mrs. John Colgrove), Roy G., Inez and Ella. In poli- 
tics Mr. Brownell is a Republican, and he is a member of the G. A. R. 

CAPTAIN C. W. CLARK, farmer, P. O. Tionesta, was born in County 
Tyrone, Ireland, February 2, 1827, and is a son of James and Mary (Canan) 
Clark. He was reared in his native country, where he received a limited edu- 
cation, and came to America in 1852, locating in Schuylkill county, Penn. , 
where he followed the occupation of a coal miner, until the breaking out of 
the war. He then joined the service as second sergeant of Company B, Sixth 
Pennsylvania Volunteers, for the three months' service, and was discharged at 
the expiration of his term. He then re-enlisted as a private in Company C, 
Forty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers; was wounded at the battles of South 
Mountain, Antietam, and the Wilderness in 1864, and at Poplar Grove 
Church. He was promoted to second sergeant, then to orderly sergeant, sec- 
ond lieutenant and first lieutenant, and was mustered out as captain of his 
company after serving four years and four months. During the war he knocked 
in the heads of 325 kegs of powder at Petersburg, Va. , for the purpose of fill- 
ing magazines in the mine to blow up the rebel fort at that place. In 1865 Capt. 
Clark located in Oil City, Penn., and in 1866 settled in Tionesta township, on 
the farm he now occupies, most of which he cleared and improved, and where 
he has since resided. He married, in 1849, Margaret, daughter of William 
and Mary (Neely) Livingston, of the County Tyrone, Ireland, and they have 
seven children living: Mary (Mrs. William Thomson), William, James, Mar- 
garet (Mrs. James Elliott), Charles, Joseph and Mable. Capt. Clark has 
seventeen grandchildren living. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, 
of the I. O. O. F. and the G. A. R. Politically he is a Republican, and has 
held the offices of auditor and sheriff of Forest county. 

DANIEL W. CLARK, oil producer, Tionesta, was born in West Mendon, 
Monroe Co., N. Y., May 9, 1841, and is a son of Rev. O. B. and Diadema 
(Webster) Clark. His father, who was a Universalist preacher, came to 
Tionesta in 1859, where he remained until 1862, when he joined the army as 
chaplain of the Eighty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers, serving in that capacity 
three years; after the war he located in Gainesville, N. Y., and died at James- 
town, N. Y. , in June, 1885, at the age of seventy-five years. Our subject re- 
ceived a common-school education, and at the age of thirteen years entered a 
general store as clerk, in Busti, N. Y. , serving in that capacity five years. In 
1860 he located in Tionesta, and embarked in the oil business, at which he has 
been engaged more or less ever since. August 19, 1861, he was enrolled as second 



926 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

lieutenant of Company G, Eighty- third Pennsylvania Volunteers. July 15, 
1S62, he was promoted to first lieutenant and regimental quartermaster, serving 
three years, the last one and one-half years on detached duty as acting quarter- 
master First Division, Fifth Corps, under Gen. Charles Griffin. He partici- 
pated in the siege of Yorktown, Hanover Court House, the seven days' fight in 
front of Richmond, and the battle of Gettysburg. After his discharge from 
the service he located in Oil City, re-embarked in the oil business, and resided 
there up to 1867, when he moved to Tionesta. where he has since resided. Mr. 
Clark married, January 17, 1863, Belle, daughter of John and Julia (Hulings) 
Hilands. of Tionesta, and thev have nine children: Samuel Q., Eftie H. , John 
O., Bruce, Ruth D., May S., Paul H, Evaline E. and Colyn. Mr. Clark- 
served as commissioners' clerk of Forest county six years, and at the same 
time was deputy sheriff under Sheriff E. L. Davis, three years. He was 
elected prothonotary, register and recorder of Forest county, in 1N7(>, for a 
term of three years, and has held nearlv all the principal offices of the borough 
of Tionesta; he is a member of the F. & A. M., I. O. O. F. and G. A. R,. 
and in politics is a stanch Democrat. 

P. M. CLARK, district attorney. Tionesta, was born near Curwensville, 
Clearfield Co., Penn., September '!'■'. L851, and was the adopted son of Samuel 
H. and Jane E. Clark. He removed with his parents to Forest county in June, 
1870, and has since resided here. Entering the office of Hon. J. B. Agnew. 
then prothonotary of Forest county, he remained there until March, 1ST'-!. 
when he attended Allegheny College. Meadville, Penn.. until December. l^TM, 
and, re-entering Mr. Agnew' s office, was chosen to succeed him on his election 
to the legislature in 1 S74. After the expiration of his official term, he studied 
law with Miles YV. Tate, Esq., and was admitted to the liar in 1SS3. at the 
September term, forming a legal partnership with Hon. J. B. Agnew under 
the firm name of Agnew & Clark. Mr. Clark was elected district attorney of 
Forest county in the fall of 1885, and was re-elected in 1SS8. April 26, 1888, he 
was united in marriage with Miss Mary Emma Baker, daughter of Daniel Baker, 
of West Freedom, Clarion Co., Penn.. a lady of the highest Christian charac- 
ter, who died June 22, 18S9, leaving to mourn her death a sorrowing husband 
and a wide circle of relatives and friends. 

JOHN A. DALE (deceased) was born iu Centre county. Penn.. Xovember 
14. 1808. The death, in 1815, of his father. Rev. Joseph Dale (who was a 
Methodist minister), made it necessary for the widowed mother to journey 
with her little ones to the then wilds of Western Pennsylvania, whither her 
own immediate family had preceded her. It was a long and perilous journey 
by wagons, ami the humble log-cabin, hastily erected on the bank of Tio- 
nesta creek, about three miles above its outlet, promised little of home com 
fc.it to the widow and her little ones; but she was a devout Christian woman. 
imbued with the implicit confidence of the God of the widow and the father- 
less, and bravely took up her work. One son was --(ion laid to rest, but her 
remaining three children, John A.. Joseph G. and Susan (now Mrs. Me- 
Clatchey), were spared her. She lived to see her family honored members of 
society, and in her old age was tenderly cared for by them. Opportunities 
for mental improvement were few iu the undeveloped and sparsely settled 
country, but, overcoming every obstacle, the subject of this commemorative 
record obtained a liberal education, and for a number of years taught school 
in the winter months, engaging in other pursuits in the summer. This early 
self-tuition gave him a lawyer's skill in drafting documents; ami Cor many 
years deeds, leases and all legal instruments Eor the people of this section 
were written by him. with no other reward than the good-will of those whom 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 927 

he served. He studied medicine in the office of Dr. Marvin Webster, but 
never practiced. In 1835 he embarked in mercantile business at Tionesta 
(then a mere hamlet), in which he was successfully engaged for many years, 
making, by his honorable, straightforward course, many friends. As an 
instance of his personal popularity, he was, in 1847, nominated by the Whig 
party, and elected by a large majority, sheriff of Venango county, although 
the county was at that time largely Democratic; he afterward held the office 
of prothonotary of the same county, by appointment, on the death of William 
Elliott. During the Civil war he was active in raising troops for the suppres- 
sion of the Rebellion, sparing neither time, labor nor expense in sustaining the 
government, and he was proffered by President Lincoln an appointment as 
paymaster in the army, with rank of major, but failing health obliged him to 
decline the honor. The present boundaries of Forest, with Tionesta as the 
county seat, are largely due to his influence and energetic action, and 
although conscious that he was making personal enemies, he still worked for 
" the greatest good to the greatest number." 

In 1867 Mr. Dale was appointed associate judge upon the death of the 
incumbent. He tilled many other positions of public trust, ever conscientious 
in the discharge of duty, the public schools being the particular object of his 
solicitude. The life of Judge Dale was a busy one. He was engaged at dif- 
ferent times in the manufacture of lumber, and in the development and sale of 
oil lands. Early in 1870 he became connected with the interests of the Atlantic 
& Great Western Railroad, and labored zealously for the interests of the com- 
pany, holding various positions in the same. It was while returning from an 
official visit to James McHenry (then in New York) that he met with the terri- 
ble accident at Renovo, Penn.. on the Philadelphia & Erie Railroad, which 
was doubtless the cause of his death. Thus from his early manhood until his 
death, which occurred June 25. 1877, Tionesta was his home, and the best 
interests and prosperity of its people his care, until he left the stamp of his 
individuality throughout its entire limit; indeed, a history of Forest county 
would be very incomplete without prominent mention of his name. Many 
men, now in middle life, and dwelling in different parts of the country, 
remember gratefully his helpful counsel, and say that life has been better and 
brighter for what he did for them. He was a great lover of nature, and made 
a special study, in the later years of his life, of horticulture and arbor culture, 
which be understood fully, as demonstrated by garden and arbor surrounding 
his beautiful home on the banks of the Allegheny river. Pure and upright 
in his daily walk and conversation, honest and earnest in all things, he was 
respected by all, and has left his family the best of all heritages — that of a 
good name. He was a Freemason of high order for many years, having great 
affection for the fraternity, and he was buried with Masonic honors. 

Judge John A. Dale was twice married; in early life to Miss Jane E. Rich- 
ardson, of Kittanning, Penn., and in 1852, in New York City, to Miss Eliza- 
beth C. Watson, who still survives him. There are four of his daughters 
living: Mrs. E. L. Davis, Mrs. David Hays, Mrs. L. R. Freeman and Mrs. W. 
A. Greaves. 

JOSEPH G. DA.LE, lumber dealer, Tionesta, was born in Centre county, 
Penn., May 15, 1815, and is a son of Joseph and Mary (Gates) Dale. His 
paternal grandfather, William Dale, was a Quaker of influence and prominence. 
On his mother's side, his grandfather, Henry Gates, formerly of Centre county, 
Penn., settled in Tionesta township in 1814, cleared and improved a farm 
upon which he died. In 18 16 our subject was brought by his mother to Tio- 
nesta, where he was reared and received a good common-school education. At 



928 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

the age of fifteen years he left home to work at lumbering and rafting on the 
rivers, at 'which he continued for eight years. In 1836 he was appointed a 
lieutenant in the State militia, commanded by Gov. Ritner. Two years later 
he embarked in the mercantile business, in which he secured a remunerative 
patronage during the succeeding seven years, when he sold out that he might 
again return to lumbering, at which he has spent the greater number of years 
of his business career. While engaged in merchandising Mr. Dale married, 
December 24, 1 MO, Nancy, daughter of Alexander and Clarissa (Sexton) 
Holeman, of Tionesta township, to which union live children were born: Belle 
M. I Mrs. Jacob Dewees), Jennie (.'. (Mrs. A. H. Partridge), John T., Ada V. 
and Alexander H. But one death has occurred in the family, that of Ada V. , 
in I860. Mr. Dale has accepted many public positions, all of which have 
been tilled with integrity and satisfaction. For a number of years he held tin' 
office of postmaster under Abraham Lincoln, resigning in 1867. About this 
time In' was largely engaged in producing oil, at first on the Blood farm on 
oil creek; later he became the owner by purchase of the Ball farm, near Pit- 
hole, at the nominal price of $105J 100. During Andrew Johnson's term he held 
the position of department internal revenue collector. From 1865 to 1S73 he 
was the principal owner of a savings bank conducted in his native village. 
In securing the removal of the county seat from Marienville to Tionesta he 
was largely instrumental. For three years he was proprietor of and faithfully 
conducted the Forest Republican, then, as now, the only Republican news- 
paper in the county. In thepalnxj days of Pithole, he was a director of the 
Pithole Valley Railroad Company, the only railroad that ever entered that 
bubble city. For five years he held the office of associate judge of Forest 
with dignity and credit to himself and the commendation of its citizens. 
In politics he was formerly a Whig, but since the Republican organization 
he has made that party his home, although for a few years he identified him- 
self »ith Greenbackism until the old parties purged themselves of some of the 
greater wrongs and inequalities of which it complained. He has been a mem- 
ber of the I. O. O. F. sinoe 1853. and of the Masonic fraternity since 1858. 
Probably no name is more widely or favorably known than his in Forest 
and the adjoining counties, particularly by those in need of financial assist 
ance, which his large heart would not refuse, though frequently resulting in 
pecuniary loss to him. Truly Mr. Dale has proved himself a friend to those 
in need. He is a man of broad views, clear judgment and quick insight. 
Among men he is social, and at home a true husband and father. 

EPHRAIM L. DAVIS. Tionesta, was born in Conewango township, War- 
ren Co.. Penn.. November 18, 1836, and is the youngest of the twelve children of 
Greeley ami Lucy (Dow) Davis. His mother was of English extraction, being 
the daughter of Hon. John Dow, of Reading Centre. Steuben Co. (now 
Schuyler), X. Y. John Dow was the second settler at Wat kin-, the now fa- 
mous Watkins Glen, at the head of the beautiful Seneca Lake. He was a 
man of commanding appearance and great natural ability, and was soon recog- 
nized as a leader. Among the many public offices he held in his adopted 
county was member of the assembly, four terms, sitting with the then young 
Martin Van Buren who afterward became president of the United states; he 
«as also judge of the county court eighteen year-, and held man) other local 
positions of trust and responsibility. He was a near relative of Lorenzo Dow, 

ce famous pioneer preacher. He died in L847, at the advanced 
eighty two year-, being then the oldest Freemason iii the State of New York. 

l.ue\ (Dow) Davis was born in Watkins. N. V.. October lit. 171(2, and 
died in the borough of Tionesta, Forest Co. , Penn. , in 1868. She was a woman 



BIOGKArHICAL SKETCHES. 929 

of limited education, but had a strong taste for reading and study (which 
she imbibed from her father), and was possessed of a wonderful memory and 
penetration. She soon became known in the community in which she lived as 
a person of extensive knowledge in history, literature and the politics of the 
day. It is said that she had read every President's message and State paper 
from George Washington down to the time of her death. She was the mother 
of twelve children, all of whom lived to become men and women and married. 

Greeley Davis was of 'Welsh extraction, born August 4, 1787, in Sara- 
toga county, N. Y. , and died at Pleasant ville, Venango Co., Penn., June 15, 
1863. He was married to Lucy Dow, at Reading, N.Y. , in 1811. During the 
war of 1812 he enlisted in the American army, and for meritorious services 
received a land warrant. Some years after his marriage he removed from the 
State of New York to the wilds of Warren county. Penn. , where L. H. Davis and 
Ephraim L. Davis (the subject proper of this sketch) were born. Selling out 
his home there, he removed to Pleasantville, where he lived on a farm until his 
death, which took place when he was in his seventy-sixth year. 

The boyhood and early youth of E. L. Davis were passed upon a farm with 
his father and mother, the lad doing cheerfully the work incident to that call- 
ing, with the additional labor of sawing in a mill owned by his father. Located 
upon the farm, his educational advantages were poor, schools being few and 
far between. At an early age. however, he developed a great taste for read- 
ing, and had many times read the books in his own home, as well as those 
found in the libraries of the neighbors. He ever received encouragement from 
his thoughtful mother, who was reminded of a better time coming, that " all 
things come to those who wait," and that education and culture can not be kept 
from those who earnestly desire them. So, when the announced opening of a 
select school at Pleasantville, Penn., only two miles from his own home, took 
place, young Davis, then at the age of eighteen years, felt that the opportunity 
so long looked for was at hand, and, in company with his intimate friend and 
neighbor, Thomas A. Morrison (now president judge of McKean and Potter 
counties), early enrolled himself as a pupil of Hon. M. C. Beebe. What Dr. 
Arnold was to the boys at Rugby Mr. Beebe was to the youth of Pleasantville 
and vicinity — not only an apt instructor, but also truest of friends and wisest of 
counselors. For the next rive years the young student spent several months 
of each year in attendance at the academy, working on the farm and teaching 
during the balance of the time, to earn the means to pay for clothes, books, 
tuition, etc. During all this time he was an active politician, taking great 
interest in the Democratic party. In 1861, for his active work and ability 
shown, he was nominated in the county convention of Venango county, for 
assembly, for the district of Venango and Mercer counties. Afterward his 
nomination was ratified by the Democratic convention of Mercer. His oppo- 
nent was his old preceptor, M. C. Beebe, of Pleasantville, Penn., but the tidal 
wave of Republicanism, caused by the fall of Fort Sumter, having swept over 
Pennsylvania, among others, his opponent was elected. In 1864 Mr. Davis 
moved to the borough of Tionesta (then in Venango county, now in Forest), 
and became engaged in the mercantile and real estate businesses with Hon. John 
A. Dale, continuing in the same until he was elected sheriff of Forest county, 
in 1869, in which capacity he served three years. During the year 1868 oi 
1870 he entered his name as a student at law, and has been in the active 
practice of that profession since 1874. In 1879 he was nominated by his party 
(Republican) for the legislature, and after an exciting canvas (the county being 
close) was elected. He was given the compliment of an unanimous nomination 
for a second term in 1882, and was elected by increased majority. He was 



930 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

also a member of the famous extra session of the legislature, in the summer 
and fall of 1883, called by Gov. Pattison, the Democratic governor, for the 
purpose of reapportioning the State into congressional districts. While a 
member of the legislature he served on many important committees, among 
them being those on judiciary general congressional apportionment, banks, town 
ships, etc. He held the position on the congressional apportionment during the 
three sessions, and was an active and influential member, being chosen by the 
Republican caucus during the extra session as chairman of an important political 
committee to look after the political legislation during the session of the house, 
which he did to his credit and the satisfaction of his compeers. In 1886 he or- 
ganized the Tionesta (las Company, and is secretary and manager of the same. 
He held the office of justice of the peace for Tionesta borough for four years, was 
appointed United States inspector, in 1862, for the counties of Venango. Craw 
ford and Warren, holding the position until the office was abolished. He 
has held the various positions of borough councilman, school director (nine 
years), and is now president of the school board. Mr. Davis married, De- 
cember 2, 1S60, Mary Elizabeth, eldest daughter of Hon. John A. Dale, and 
has now living six children: Maud Anna. James Dale, Charles Herbert, Ben- 
jamin Freeman and Gilbert G. and Donald C. (twins). Mr. Davis is a man ear- 
nest in his convictions, just in his dealings, conscientious in his discharge of 
public and private duties, pronounced in his adherence to the principles of his 
political party. He is a courteous gentlemen, a true friend, a safe counselor. 
and an honorable man. 

JASPER H. DINGMAN, lumber dealer, Tionesta, was born in Prince 
Edward county, Province of Ontario, Canada. April 17, 1842, is a son of 
Jasper and Hannah (Smith) Dingman, and is of German and English di 
He was reared in his native county, and educated in the public and grammar 
schools. In 1865 he located in Titusville, Perm., and entered a wholesale and 
retail grocery as a clerk; was promoted to book keeper and cashier, and in 
1869 became a partner, the business being conducted later under the name of 
Clark & Dingman until 1873. In 1874 Mr. Dingman located in Kingsley 
township, this county, and embarked in the manufacture of staves along with 
J. H. Derickson. In 1875 they removed the business to Tionesta, which they 
carried on until 1880, having in connection therewith a mill at Tylersburg, 
Chi rion county, and a mercantile business at Tionesta. They then embarked 
in lumbering, which they continued until July. 1S8S, when a dissolution of 
partnership followed. In October, 1888, Mr. Alex. H. Dale became connected 
in business with Mr. Dingman, under the firm name of Dingman & Dale, and 
they are doing a healthy, substantial business. Mr. Dingman married, in Jan- 
uary. 186'J, Addie, daughter of A. H. and Nancy (Miller) Dafoe, of Titusville, 
Penn., and they have two children: Russell G. and Arthur R. For five 
years, from 1880 to L885, Mr. Dingman conducted a Greenback paper in 
Tionesta, called The Commonwealth. He is an active member of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church, and superintendent of the Sabbath school; is also a 
member of the I. O. O. V. and Royal Templars. Politically he is independent. 

SOLOMON FITZGERALD, lumberman and ex-county treasurer, Tionesta, 
was born in Farmington township. Clarion Co.. Penn., March 22. 1835, and is 
of John and Susan (Duukle) Fitzgerald, both natives of Pennsylvania, 
of Scotch Irish descent, and early settlers of Clarion county. Solomon was 
reared and educated in his native county, and in 1858 be located in what is 
now Bametl township, this county. He was in the Civil war, enlisting in 
April. 1861, anil was assigned to Company K. Eleventh Regiment, Pennsy] 
vania Reserve Corps; was wounded at Charles City Cross Roads in the seven 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 931 

days' fight before Richmond; was taken prisoner, and spent forty days in Libby 
and Belle Isle prisons, when he was exchanged and then rejoined his regi- 
ment at Alexandria, Va. He was afterward twice wounded at the battle of 
Fredericksburg, being shot through the leg and right wrist, and was honor- 
ably discharged on account of wounds, in September, 1863. After his return 
home he engaged in lumbering in Forest county until 1886, when he was 
elected treasurer of the county for a term of three years. He married, in 
1865, Rebecca, daughter of William and Maria (Keister) Henry, of Farming- 
ton, Penn., and they have three children living: Albert W., Mary and Samuel. 
Mr. Fitzgerald is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church; I. O. O. F., 
K. of P. and P. O. S. of A. Politically he is a Republican. 

N. S. FOREMAN, lumberman, Tionesta, was born in the western part of 
Armstrong county, Penn., November 17, 1841, and is a son of James and A. 
M. (Carner) Foreman. He was reared in his native county, and received a 
common -school education. In 1865 he moved to Hickory township, Forest 
county, where he remained five years, then came to Tionesta, where he worked 
at the carpenter's trade; for the past twenty years he has been engaged in 
lumbering, and is at preseut associated in business with J. H. Derickson. Po- 
litically Mr. Foreman is a Republican, and served one term of three years as 
treasurer of Forest county. 

JOSEPH GROVE (deceased) was born in Lewisburg, Union Co., Penn., 
September 22, 1815, a son of Samuel and Mary (Glass) Grove, and was reared 
in Lycoming county from ten years of age. In 1841 he located in Venango 
county, where he followed his trade of mason and stone-cutter, and dealt con- 
siderably in coal, for eight years. In 1849 he came to what is now Hickory 
township, Forest county, where he carried on mercantile business for about 
four years. He then engaged in lumbering near Tidioute, Warren county. 
and also kept store six years, after which he moved into Tidioute, and carried 
on hotel and mercantile businesses at that place two years. In 1864 he located 
in Franklin, Penn., and engaged in the real estate and oil businesses there; 
later he followed farming in Lycoming county, same State, and also in Mich- 
igan. In 1870 he settled in Tionesta, where he was engaged in the oil busi- 
ness. Mr. Grove was married four times. His first wife was Catherine Gibb, 
of Lancaster county, and his second wife was Mary A. , daughter of George 
Cummings, of Venango county, and by her he had one son, William A., who 
grew to maturity; his third wife was Belinda W., daughter of William Wol- 
cott, of Forest county, and by her he had six children, of whom four are liv- 
ing: Annie (Mrs. John A. Hart), Wilbur W., Joseph P. and Belinda E. (Mrs. 
A. Doutt); his last wife was Mrs. Jane B. Ague, widow of Dr. Ague. Mr. 
Grove died January 15, 1890, aged seventy-four years. He was a member of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church for thirty-five years; in politics, an advocate 
of prohibition. 

SAMUEL H. HASLET, merchant and undertaker, Tionesta, was born in 
what is now Oakland township, Venango Co., Penn., March 14, 1826, and is 
a son of James and Susana (Grove) Haslet, who settled in Venango county, 
Penn., in 1823. His paternal grandfather, John Haslet, was a pioneer of Cen 
tre county, Penn., and his parents and part of the family were killed by the 
Indians in this State. His maternal grandfather was Peter Grove, the famous 
Indian fighter with Samuel Brady, and was one of the pioneers of Centre 
county. James Haslet, father of Samuel H. Haslet, and who was a farmer In- 
occupation, cleared and improved a large farm in Venango county, in which 
county he died. He was twice married (his second wife being Jane Hurd), and 
was the father of twenty-one children, nineteen of whom still survive, their 



932 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

aggregate ages being (March 4, 1890) 1,202 years. Samuel H. Haslet was 
reared on the homestead in Venango county, and in 1848 went to Steuben 
county, N. Y., where, during the winter of 1848 19, he taught school. In the 
spring of 1849 he moved to Jefferson Furnace, Beaver township, Clarion Co., 
Penn , and acted in the capacity of clerk in the Furnace store two and one- 
half years. In L851 he located in Tiouesta, where he embarked in the grocery 
business on a small scale, and by careful management has accumulated a com- 
petency, now carrying a large stock of general merchandise, including furni- 
ture and agricultural implements. His two sons, Robert L. and James, are 
associated with him in-business. On August 26, 1S.J6, he married Margaret, 
daughter of Robert and Mary J. (Thompson) MeBride, of Tionesta, whose 
parents settled here in 1838 or 1839. This lady died March S, L890. Mr. 
Haslet is a representative citizen of Tionesta; politically he is a Democrat, 
was postmaster of Tionesta under the administrations of Pierce, Buchanan 
and ■ Cleveland, and was also a member of the legislature in 1876. Mr. 
Haslet has tilled many municipal offices in the borough. He was a prom- 
inent instructor in the unwritten work on Odd Fellowship. As a sportsman 
he is an expert with the rifle, having killed more than one hundred deer in 
Forest county. 

ROBERT M. HERMAN, of Herman & Siggius. druggists and grocers, 
Tionesta, was born in Centre county, Penn. , November 10, 1853, and is a son 
of John and Nancy (Shirk) Herman, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German 
descent. The subject of our sketch, who was reared and educated in his 
native county, at the age of eleven years started in life for himself as a farm 
hand, and after a varied career he came in 1874 to Forest county. Penn.. 
locating in Tionesta, where he was employed in the freight depot of the railroad 
there, three years. While engaged there he learned telegraphy, and was 
appointed agent and operator at Hickory station, a position he tilled accept- 
ably for four years. He then embarked in the manufacture of lumber on 
West Hickory creek, which he followed for two years, at which time he 
returned to Tionesta, and carried on the general merchandise business two 
years. In November, 1886, he became associated with Dr. James B. Siggins, 
in his present business, in which he has since continued. In 1878 Mr. 
Herman married Alferetta Paup, of Tionesta, and they have two children: 
Earold and June. In politics Mr. Herman is a Democrat. 

ELI HOLEMAN, farmer, Tionesta, was born in Tionesta township, Forest 
Co., Penn., .July 9, L830, and is a son of Alexander and Clarissa (Sexton) 
Holeman. His paternal grandfather was Eli Holeman, of English parentage, 
who settled in Tionesta township in 1800, clearing and improving a farm three 
miles below the borough of that name, and on which he ended his days. He 
had four children: Charles, Kate (Mrs. Jerry Dunn), Alexander and Jane (Mrs. 
Moses Pierson). Alexander Holeman, father of Eli Holeman, a farmer by 
"ecupation. died February '-!•>. 1ST I. aged eighty three years, two months ami 
nine days. He was a prominent citizen in his day: held the office of associate 

judge of Venango county; was a member of the assembly one term; was countj 
commissioner, and also filled other minor offices. He reared a family of nine 
children: Charles, Elizabeth (Mrs. Dr. W. F. Hunter), Nancj (Mrs. Joseph <■• 
Dale), Ashbel, Jane (Mrs. Hugh Morrison), Eli, John. Mary (Mrs. Jacob 
Mage) and Richard. Eli Holeman was reared and educated in Tionesta 
township. He has followed farming the most of his life, hut Eor several years 

the mercantile business in the town of Tionesta, which place has b i 

his residence since 1880. He 1 1 ; i - been married twice, his tirst wife being 
Lydia (daughter of Henry ('. and Rebecca (Prather) McCalmont, of President, 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 933 

Venango Co., Penn., by whom he has two children living: George, and Alice 
(Mrs. M. L. Vought). Mr. Holeman's second marriage was with Julia L.. 
daughter of Albert and Harriet Blaisdell, of Vineland, N. J., by whom he has 
one son, Lester. Mr. Holeman is a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. He has served one term as county auditor. Politically he is an 
advocate of Prohibition. 

WILLIAM HOOD, farmer, P. O. Tionesta, was born in Canal township, 
Venango Co., Penn., January 10, 1828, and is a son of David and Elizabeth 
(Hasson) Hood. He was reared in his native county, receiving a limited edu- 
cation in the common schools, and in 1848 came to what is now Forest county, 
where he worked at various occupations until 1852, then settled in Tionesta, 
and he carried on a blacksmith shop three years, when he sold out his business, 
and worked for the party he sold to until 1861. He then engaged in lumber- 
ing, which he followed until 1877, and since that time he has been engaged in 
farming. Mr. Hood married, August 28, 1855, Martha, daughter of Anthony 
Walter, of Clarion county, Penn., and by her has had seven children: Carrie 
(Mrs. James G. Carson), Anna (Mrs. James H. Fones), John, Charles, Kate, 
William and Tilden. Mr. Hood is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church 
and of the I. O. O. F. In politics he is a Democrat. 

H. J. HOPKINS & CO., general merchants, Tionesta. Among the leading 
business houses of Western Pennsylvania, none is more deserving of men- 
tion than the above-named firm. The present partnership) consists of H. 
J. Hopkins, L. J. Hopkins, and F. R. Lanson, who succeeded to the business 
of Holeman & Hopkins in 1883. Each member of this firm assumes certain 
responsibilities, as follows: H. J. Hopkins looks after the financial interests of 
the business; L. J. Hopkins has charge of the dry goods, clothing and boot and 
shoe departments, while F. R. Lanson keeps the books, and assumes charge of 
the grocery and hardware business. Bj careful management they have built 
up a large and extensive trade, merited only by strict attention to and study 
of the wants of the people and by honorable dealing. 

H. J. Hopkins, the senior member of the firm, was born in October, 1848, 
a son of R. J. and Margaret Hopkins, former of whom is deceased, latter being 
at present time a resident of Pleasantville, Venango Co., Penn. He started out 
early in life, working on the farm in summer, and in the lumber woods in win- 
ter. When but little over fifteen years of age he enlisted in the Civil war, af- 
ter his return from which he engaged in various kinds of employment, as well 
as helping on the farm. In 1868 he left the farm for the oil country, locating 
in Pleasantville, where he entered the grocery store of D. W. Henderson, as 
clerk, in which capacity he served for three years; then, after taking a course of 
instruction in Duff's Commercial College, he went on the road as traveling sales- 
man for a Pittsburgh house, continuing in the same two years. Returning to 
Pleasantville in 1873, he married Annie Holeman, daughter of A. Holeman. 
Esq. . of that place, and the same year embarked in the clothing business with 
Mr. Holeman, under the firm name of Holeman & Hopkins. By adding dif- 
ferent departments to their business from time to time, and by exercising judi- 
cious management, they soon built up a large and successful trade, and in 
1881 they erected the iron structure now occupied by H. J. Hopkins & Co., in 
Tionesta, which they conducted as a branch store until 1883, when the firm 
dissolved, Mr. Holeman retiring from business, H. J. Hopkins buying Mr. 
Holeman's interest in the building at Tionesta, and finally succeeding the firm 
of Holeman & Hopkins at Pleasantville, where he is still carrying on the busi- 
ness. He is also largely interested in the oil-producing industry in Venango, 

51 A 



934 HISTOHY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Warren and McKean counties, as well as in the manufacturing of lumber, being 
president of the Colwell Creek Lumber Company. 

L. J. Hopkins, brother of H. J. Hopkins, was born in 1855. Moving to 
Kansas City. Mo., in 1878. he tilled the position of salesman in a wholesale 
grocery house until 1880, when he returned to Pennsylvania, in order to enter 
the employ of Holeman & Hopkins, with whom he remained until the firm 
dissolved in 1883, he and Mr. Lanson then securing Mr. Holeman's interest in 
the business of Holeman & Hopkins, in Tionesta. L. J. Hopkins was mar- 
ried in September, 1885, to Miss Marie Jackson, of Tionesta. daughter of T. 
C. Jackson (deceased). In addition to his mercantile business, Mr. Hopkins 
is interested in the oil-producing industry in Venango county. 

F. R. Lanson was born April 14, J 855. in Busti, Chautauqua Co.. X. ¥., 
and is a son of John and Anna Lanson, natives of Sweden, who came to this 
country in 1847. He began life as a clerk in the general store of C. T. Bord- 
well, of Bear Lake, Penn., and in 1878 entered the employ of Holeman & Hop 
kins, Pleasantville, in the same capacity, remaining with them until L883, when 
they dissolved partnership, and the present firm was organized at Tionesta. Mr. 
Lanson was married April 12, L883, to Miss Alice, daughter of Hon. J. A. 
Proper, of Tionesta. In addition to his mercantile business Mr. Lanson is 
interested in the oil-producing industry in Venango countv. 

CHARLES HUNTER, toll-keeper, Tionesta Bridge Company, Tionesta. 
was born in Tionesta, Forest Co., Penn., June 16, 1859, and is a son oi 
George S. and Adaline (Scott) Hunter. His paternal grandparents were Will- 
iam "and Sarah (Range) Hunter, former of whom was a son of Poland Hunter, 
a native of Ireland, who was among the first settlers of what is now 
Tionesta, and erected the first grist mill in the limits of what is now Forest 
county, on the site of the present one erected by his son, William Hunter. 
His children were David, Andrew, John, William and Margaret (Mrs. Anna- 
nias Dustiu). William Hunter followed the occupation of miller until his 
death; he was the father of sixteen children, of whom twelve grew to maturity: 
Jane (Mrs. William Siggins), John, Ann (Mrs. Jacob Range), William. 
Margaret (Mrs. Marvin Abbott). Sarah (Mrs. C. H. Church), George S., Mar 
ilia i Mrs. Nelson G, Ball), James, Hannah (Mrs. Andrew McCray), Ellen 
(Mrs. .John Alstand) and Moses. Of these George S. Hunter was reared in 
Tionesta, where he resided until his death, and was extensively engaged in 
lumbering, milling and general merchandise business. He developed consider- 
able oil territory in Forest county, and for many years was the owner of the 
ferry between Tionesta and the depot, and was the projector and builder of the 
present substantial bridge across the Allegheny river at that point. By his 
wife, who was a daughter of John and Evaline (Brookmyer) Scott, of Frank 
lin, Penn., he had six children: Edgar, Charles. Carrie (Mrs. Edward Sanner). 
William, John and Nellie. He died on April 8, l s ^5. at the age of sixty year-. 
His second son, Charles, the subject of this sketch, was reared in Tionesta, 
and has held his present position live years. He married, June 29, l vs i, 
Emma, daughter of George VV. and Nellie (Robinson) .Sawyer, of Tionesta. 
Mr. Hunter is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and of the I. O. 
O. F. In politics ho is a Democrat. 

SAMUEL D. IRWIN, attorney, Tionesta. was born in Franklin, Penn., 
March 12, L835, where his father, Richard Irwin, was a celebrated surveyor. 
His paternal grandfather, Samuel Irwin, was one of the pioneers of Venango 
county, and his maternal grandfather, Rev. Bezekiah May. one of the pio- 
neers of Tionesta. Samuel D. Irwin had opportunities for obtaining such an 
education as the schools and academy of Franklin afforded, which were* then 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 935 

looked upon as great educational concerns. Again he studied surveying under 
his father, and at the age of eighteen years was a practical surveyor. From 
1855 to 1857 he attended Jefferson College, Cannonshurg, Penn. In 1858 he 
moved to Iowa, and was appointed principal of the high school at Farming- 
ton, but in the fall of that year moved to Paola, Kas. , and secured the con- 
tract for the survey of lands belonging to the Peorias, Weas, Miamis and 
Piankeshaws, as well as the lands of the settlers in Miami county. During 
this period he studied law under William R. Wagstaff, and was admitted to 
the bar in March, 1862. In 1860 new troubles fell upon the border counties, 
and Miami county became the center of commotion. Capt. Snyder, Charles 
Shofield and others resided at Osawatomie, while Jamieson, Montgomery and 
Lane were often there with their jayhawkers to protect the settlers. Mr. 
Irwin then belonged to the home guards, organized for the purpose of defend- 
ing the place against Quantrill and others, but they sometimes entered Mis- 
souri. Mr. Irwin was under Gen. J. H. Lane, in his pursuit of Quantrill, in 
August, 1863, and subsequently served with the militia until the close of 
August, when he joined Company I, of the Twelfth Kansas Infantry, and 
proceeded with that command to Fort Smith, Ark., where he was assigned a 
place at the headquarters of the Frontier Division of the Seventh Army Corps. 
He participated in the Red River Expedition, in 1864-65, principally with the 
engineers and scouts, and was honorably discharged at Little Rock, Ark., July 
15, 1865. Returning to Pennsylvania he was admitted to the Pennsylvania bar 
in February, 1867; then went into the oil business at Pit Hole City, but success 
did not crown this venture, and in 1868 he settled at Tionesta. That year he 
made the first map of Forest county, which was adopted as the official map, 
revised editions being issued in 1881 and 1883. His law business now had 
from him some attention, and after having rilled the office of county suryeyor, 
he next became district attorney. Notwithstanding the duties which these 
positions involved, he found time for literary work, and in 1868 gave to the 
press his first chapters of the pioneer history of Forest county. In 1S76 he 
completed these most valuable contributions to local history; but, even before 
complete, the sketches won attention, for, on August 18, 1873, he was honored 
with a membership in the State Historical Society. His marriage with Miss 
Mary Thomas, daughter of the State senator, Col. P. D. Thomas, took place 
March 13, 1871. Mr. Irwin's knowledge of Forest county lands and roads is 
most complete, and with this comes the kindred knowledge of mineralogy and 
geology, studies to which he has devoted some time and practical thought. A 
reference to the general history of the county and of the borough will point 
out very fully the important parts played by this modern settler of Tionesta. 
A. B. KELLY, banker, Tionesta, was born in Pittsburgh, Penn. , in January, 
1 837, and is a son of James D. and Sarah (Bennett) Kelly, natives of the North 
of Ireland, and of Scotch-Irish parentage. They were quite early settlers of 
Pittsburgh, where they lived and died. The father carried on business as a 
lumberman, and was also proprietor of a planing-mill in Pittsburgh. A. B. 
Kelly was reared in his native city, and educated in the public schools and 
Washington and Jefferson College. He began his business career as a driller 
in the Venango oil field, which occupation he followed during the year 1860, 
and in 1861 he embarked in the manufacture of tight oil barrels by machinery, 
in Tionesta, in which he was engaged until the fall of 1866. He then went 
into the oil business as a producer, and also engaged in lumbering. He is now 
a member of the firm of May, Park & Co. , bankers, of Tionesta, which firm 
was organized in 1872, and has been cashier of the* bank since its organization. 
April 28, 1863, Mr. Kelly married Frances Augusta, a daughter of Hezekiah 



'.. g HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

and Frances A. (Thatcher) May. of Tionesta, and they have seven children: 
May Stanley (Mrs. Charles Bonner), Arthur Wellington, James Huntington, 
Benjamin May, H. Edward, Elsie and Archibald Howard. Mr. and Mrs. 
Kelly are members of the Presbyterian Church. He is a member of the F. & 
A. M. and I. O. O. F. ; politically he is a Republican, and was a delegate t<> 
the Republican National Convention held at Chicago in 1888. 

DANIEL STOWE KNOX, postmaster, Tionesta, was born in Windsor, 
Broome Co., N. Y., November 8, 1831, and is a son of William and Almira 
(Stowe) Knox; he was reared in his native town until fifteen years of age, 
when he moved to what is now Kingsley township. Forest Co.. Penn., where 
he attended school for a year. He then engaged in lumbering, in Clarion and 
Forest counties, Penn., until the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, and 
in September, 1861, went to the front as captain of Company G. Eighty-third 
Pennsylvania Volunteers. He served two years, during which time he was in 
nine battles, viz.: Big Bethel. West Point. Ybrktown, Hanover C. H., Gaines' 
Mills, Malvern Hill, second battle of Bull Run, Antietam and Fredericksburg. 
ami then resigned on account of disability, having been injured at the battle of 
Bull Run. am I received an honorable discharge. He then located in Oil City. 
Penn., where he embarked in the oil and lumber businesses, remaining there 
two and one-half years, when he again located in Kingsley township, this 
county, remaining until 1868. Then removing to Tionesta, he embarked in 
general merchandise business, at which he continued six years, and since 1874, 
lumbering has been his principal business in Tionesta Mr. Knox married. 
June 1 I. 1^"> :> >, Elizabeth, daughter of Oliver and Mary O. Spence, of Claring- 
ton, Penn., and to them were born nine children: Florence (Mrs. Jacob E. 
Wenk). Evaline(Mrs. William Smearbaugh). Jessie (Mrs. George Klump), Sallie 
(deceased), Cora (deceased wife of Jacob Siggins), Edie (Mrs. F. F. Shoup), 
May, Kate Jane and John (latter deceased). Mr. Knox is a member of the 
(i. A. R. ami P. O. S. of A. He has served as justice of the peace at Tionesta 
twenty years, and burgess several terms; was appointed postmaster of Tionesta 
in May, 1889. Politically he is a Republican. 

WILLIAM LAWRENCE, lumberman and proprietor of the Lawrence 
House, Tionesta. was born in He-sen Cassel, Germany. June 6, 1840, and is 
the son of Hartman and Dorothy (Matho) Lawrence, former of whom died 
when our subject was six months old; the widowed mother afterward married 
Jacob Wenk, ami in 1847 they immigrated to America, locating in Tionesta, 
where the] ucvi reside. William Lawrence had one sister, Dorcas, dei 
wii'eof George Klinestiver. Mr. Lawrence was reared in Tionesta from 
years of age, receiving a common-school education. He was in the Civil war, 
having enlisted August 19, 1861, in Company G. Eighty-third Pennsylvania 
Regiment, and was in the battles of Gaines' Mills (where he was wounded, 
being confined to hospital four months), Fredericksburg, Chancellors ville 
and Gettysburg (where he was again wounded), as well as other engagements, 
and received an honorable discharge at Harrisburg, Penn., in September, 1864. 
After the war he embarked in the grocery business at Tionesta. at which he 
was encraced three years; then entered the Lumber business, which lias since 
is principal occupation. In February, 1868, he married Hannah S., 
daughterof Robert and .Mary J. (Thompson) McBride, of Tionesta, and they 
have six children living: Hartman, I, aura. Emma, Albert J. , John W. and Anna 
B. Mr. Lawrence is a member of the German Reformed Church, of the F. & A. 
\l and G. A. R. Politically he is a Republican, and has served one term as 
treasurer of Foresl count \ 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 937 

JOHN W. MORROW, physician and dentist, Tionesta, who was born in 
Armstrong county, Penn., June 2, 1837, is a son of William and Martha 
(Hutchinson) Morrow, and is of Scotch-Irish descent. He was reared in his 
native county, and educated at McElroy's school, Rural Village, and in Day- 
ton Union Academy. In 1S70 he began the study of medicine with Dr. J. 
M. Pettigrew, of Rural Village, and in the fall of 1871 entered Jefferson 
Medical College, Philadelphia, being graduated March 13, 1873. Prior to 
his study of medicine he taught school thirteen years. In the Civil war he 
served one year in Company M, Fifth Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, and was 
honorably discharged at the close of the struggle. In 1869 he took charge of 
the United Presbyterian Freedman's Mission School, at Vicksburg. Miss. In 
1872 he began the practice of his profession in Atwood, Armstrong Co.. Penn., 
and here he remained until 1S81, and was postmaster eight years. He then 
removed to Tionesta, where he has since resided, having built up a large and 
lucrative practice. The Doctor has been twice wedded: February 3. L863, he 
married Rebecca M. . daughter of John and Nancy (Harrison) McFarland. of 
Armstrong county, and by her had ten children, of whom six survive: Martha 
H. , Nancy O, William Gr., Matilda O, James D. and Sarah M. On Septem- 
ber 8, 1887, Dr. Morrow married his present wife, nee Martha J. Uncapher, of 
Indiana county, Penn. He is a member of the United Presbyterian Church, 
the Venango County Medical Society, and of the G. A. R. Politically he is a 
Republican, and is now serving his second term as coroner of Forest county. 
The Doctor is secretary of the board of pension examiners, which was ap- 
pointed in Tionesta August 23, 1889. 

JAMES B. MUSE, son of John S. and Sarah (Walters) Muse, was born 
at Franklin, Venango Co., Penn., May 4, 1860. His father, a native of Mercer 
county, still resides at Franklin, and his mother, a native of Newrnansville, Clarion 
county, died about 1861. James B. Muse received his education in the schools of 
Franklin, and at the age of eighteen years, along with James B. Borland of The 
Err i, lug News, of Franklin, established that paper, February 18, 1878. For three 
years he was connected with the News, and in November, 1882, came to Tionesta, 
taking a position on the Commonwealth. On August 1, 1885, as related in 
the press chapter, he became part owner of the old Commonwealth office, and 
established the Democratic Vindicator. The Muse family are pioneers of Mt-r- 
cer county, and John S. Muse, of Venango, emigrating from Delaware to Penn- 
sylvania about the period of the Revolution. 

JOHN A PROPER, farmer and oil producer, Tionesta, a native of Plum 
township, Venango Co., Peun., born September 12, 1S15, is a son of Daniel 
and Margaret (Archer) Proper, and is of Holland-Dutch and Highland-Scotch 
descent. His paternal grandfather, Samuel Proper, and maternal grandfather, 
John Archer, were pioneers of Plum and Cherry Tree townships, respectively, 
in Venango county. Daniel Proper was a farmer by occupation, and cleared 
and improved a farm in Plum township, on which he lived and died. Our sub- 
ject was reared in his native town, and received a limited education in the com- 
mon schools. Like many other pioneers' sons, he experienced various hard- 
ships, and at the age of twenty-one years left home and began life in Randolph, 
N. Y., as a laborer at $10 per month. He later engaged as a jobber of 
lumber, in Warren and Venango counties, and what is now Forest county, up 
to 1847. In that year he purchased 1,300 acres of timber land in what is now 
Forest county, erected two mills and manufactured about 15,000,000 feet of 
lumber. In 1855 he purchased two farms in Clarion county, where he resided 
until 1867, carrying on a lumber business at the same time. He then sold out 
and moved to Tionesta, where he has since been enojacred in various branches of 



938 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

business, including that of hotel proprietor in the borough, four years, lum- 
bering up to 187.3. and since 1S81 he has been a producer of oil at Ball town, 
carrying on farming also, near Tionesta. He owns two farms of 500 and 100 
acres, respectively, 200 acres of the former of which he had cleared himself. 
Mr. Proper was among the best pilots on the Allegheny and Ohio rivers for a 
period of thirty years, and underwent many hardships during that time. In 
the fall of 1N47 he married Sarah, daughter of Jacob and Mary Grove, of Plum 
township, Venango Co., Penn., and they have seven children: Eozilla (Mrs. 
Daniel Walters), Jennetta (Mrs. Samuel Varner), Oliver W., Alice (Mrs. F. R. 
Lanson), J. Floyd, Eu Retta and Forest C. Mr. Proper is a prominent and rep 
resentative citizen of Tionesta; has held many of its local offices, and is now 
serving his second term as associate judge of Forest county. Politically he is 
a Republican. Judge Proper has been one of the most rugged and enterpris- 
ing pioneers of that section of country, of remarkable strength, courage and 
p iwers of endurance; a natural woodsman and noted hunter, having, in recent 
years, when nearly seventy years of age. hunted and killed as many as four 
deer in one day. His pleasant home is on the banks of the Allegheny river in 
Tionesta, where he is now living in his old age. hale and hearty, known and 
respected by his numerous friends as an honest man of undoubted integrity 
and worth. 

CHARLES A. RANDALL, proprietor of the Rural House, Tionesta, was 
born near Toronto, Canada, December 27, 1846, and is a son of Edward B. 
and Mary A. (King) Randall, whose parents were natives of Pennsylvania and 
of Quaker parentage. Charles A. Randall, when quite young, removed to Iowa 
with his parents. He was educated in the common schools of that State, and 
attended the Iowa State University, two terms. In 1865 he came to the oil 
regions of Pennsylvania, and in 1867 to Tionesta, where he now resides, and 
for a while worked at the carpenter's trade. He was elected justice of the 
pi ice ii 1ST."., served four years, hut resigned, having been elected sheriff of 
Forest county in 1879. He was a member of the Electoral College from the 
Twenty fifth Congressional District in 1884; was elected to the assembly in 1886, 
and re-elected in 1888. He has conducted the Rural House in Tionesta since 
1ST I. and is an accommodating and popular landlord. Mr. Randall married, 
in February, 1871, Mary A., daughter of Charles Wansor, of Mercer county, 
Penn., and has three children: Lizzie. Yiunie and Adelva. Mr. Randall is a 
member of the F. t v A. M. and I. O. O. F. Politically he has always been a 
Republican, and during the war of the Rebellion \\;is employed in the post 
quartermaster's department at Nashville. Tenn. 

JACOB I. RANGE, farmer. P. O. Tionesta, was born in Gettysburg, 
Penn., September I s . 1822, and is a son of .lame- and Mary (Shetrine) Range, 
who settled in what is now the borough of Tionesta, in L826, owning all tin- 
land comprising the north half of the presenl borough, and cleared and made 
all the improvements in land between the Universalis! Church on Elm street 
and Tubbs run. They l> ith died in Forest county. John Range, paternal 

grandfather of Jacob i., was originally IV Adams county. Penn., and with 

the brother of Ex-President Buchanan, a surveyor, in an early day surveyed 
through what i- now Forest county and its vicinity. He had two sons, John 
and James. He iinally settled in what is now Tionesta. prior to 1820, ami 
cleared that portion of the present borough, lying south of the bridge. He 
made his home with his son John, in the borough, and died there. James 
Range, father of the subject of this sketch, reared a fnmih of -i\ children: 
Susan (Mrs. James BrinkerhotVi. Marx iMr- Isaac Lotti. Magdalena ( Mrs 
William Siggins), Emeline (Mrs. Nathaniel Siggins), Peter and Jacob 1. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 939 

The subject of this sketch was reared in Tionesta township until thirteen 
years of age, then removed to Scrubgrass, Venango Co., Penn., where he 
resided five years. He spent a good share of his life in farming, and cleared 
and improved a farm in Harmony township, on which he resided from 1848 
to 1864, when he sold out and bought the Dawson farm on Stewart's run, 
removing in 1889 to Tionesta township. During the oil excitement at Pit Hole 
City he kept a grocery store at Stewart's run four years. In 1813 he mar- 
ried Ann, daughter of William and Sarah (Range) Hunter, of Tionesta, and 
they had live children who grew to maturity: Beile (Mrs. John Parker), Jane 
(Mrs. Thomas Allender), Leonard, Martha A. (deceased) and Louie (Mrs. S. N. 
Norris). Mrs. Range died October 13, 1887. Mr. Range is a prominent farmer 
and citizen, and in politics is a Republican. 

GEORGE W. ROBINSON, merchant, Tionesta, was born in Manor town- 
ship, Armstrong Co., Penn., July 24, 1839, and is the son of John and Han- 
nah (Williams) Robinson. His paternal grandfather was Samuel Robinson, a 
native of Ireland, whose parents were among the pioneers of Armstrong 
county, Penn., and his maternal grandfather was George Williams, of Welsh 
parentage, also an early settler of Armstrong county. The father of our sub- 
ject, a farmer by occupation, cleared and improved a farm in Valley township, 
Armstrong county, and in later life removed to Reynoldsville, Jefferson 
county, same State, where he died. The old homestead in Armstrong county 
is now owned by our subject, who was reared in his native county. He was in 
the Civil war, enlisting in July, 1862, in Company B, One Hundred and 
Thirty- ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers. He participated in all the battles of 
the army of the Potomac, from Antietam to Appomattox; became first ser- 
geant of his company, and was honorably discharged from the service in June, 
1865. In March, 1866, he entered a general store in Armstrong county as a 
clerk, serving in that capacity two years, when he became a partner in the 
business, continuing until 1872. He then removed to Tionesta, and embarked 
in general mercantile business with Jeremiah Bonner, which partnership ex- 
isted until 1878, when his partner transferred his interest in the business to 
his son, Charles Bonner, who remained in the firm until the spring of 1886, 
when our subject bought his interest, and has since conducted the business 
alone. Mr. Robinson married, in October, 1867, Martha, daughter of Jere- 
miah and Martha (McCollum) Bonner, of Armstrong county, Penn., and they 
have three children: Margaret. Arietta and George. In 1883, in company with 
Charles Bonner, Mr. Robinson purchased a lumber-mill- on Tionesta creek, 
which they operated in partnership up to 1886, and Mr. Robinson has since 
conducted the. business alone. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church 
and of the G. A. R. Politically he is a Republican. 

GEORGE W. SAWYER, carpenter and joiner, and sheriff of Forest 
county, Tionesta, who was born in Charlestown, Mass., January 24, 1838, is a 
son of Seth and Susan (Frost) Sawyer, and is of Puritan stock. He was 
reared and educated in his native city, and at the age of seventeen years located 
in Piqua, Ohio, where he served an apprenticeship of two years at the carpen- 
ter's trade; then removed to Illinois where he served other two years. He 
then returned to Massachusetts, working at his trade as a journeyman until 
the breaking out of the Civil war, when, in April, 1861, he enlisted in Com- 
pany G. First Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. In the spring of 1865 he 
located in Tidioute, Penn., and in the fall of same year settled in Tionesta, 
where he has since resided, and where he has done extensive business as a car- 
penter and builder, having erected nearly all of the principal residences and 
public buildings of Tionesta. His wife was Nellie E., daughter of Henry and 



940 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Myra (Haynes) Robinson, of Concord, Mass., and by her he has two children 
living: Anna F. (Mrs. John T. Carson) and Emma J. (Mrs. Charles Hunter.) 
Mr. Sawyer is a prominent member of the I. O. O. F. and A. O. U. W. He has 
held many of the local offices of Tionesta; is chief of the lire department; was 
elected sheriff of Forest county in the fall of 1887; is a Republican in politics, 
and was chairman of the Republican county committee, 1888. 

ZACH T. SHKIYER. driller. Tionesta, was burn in Tionesta. April 18, 
1850, and is a son of Jacob and Margaret (Range) Shriver. His father, who 
was a native of Gettysburg, Penn., and a cabinet maker by trade, also follow 
ing carpenter work for some time, was among the early settlers of Tionesta, 
where he resided until his death, his last business being the operating of a 
planing-mill, which he carried on for several years. He had ten children who 
grew to maturity: John, James, Jacob (killed in the war), Zaeh T. . Susan 
(Mrs. Robert Christy i. Mary I Mrs. James Woodington). Margaret (Mrs. Albert 
Pollock), Jennie, Annie, Hattie (Mrs. W. G. Ladds). Zach T. Shriver was 
reared and educated in Tionesta, where he learned the carpenter's trade, and 
since the beginning of the oil excitement has followed the occupation of a 
driller. He married, November 10, 1S74, Alice J., daughter of Silas J. and 
Martha (lech Wolcott, of Tionesta, and they have four children: Arthur 
Civile. Linns T. , Silas J. and James R. Mr. Shriver is a member of the P. 
(). S. of A., and in polities is a Republican. 

WILLIAM SMEARBAUGH, lumberman and merchant, Tionesta. was 
born in Tionesta township, Forest Co., Penn., October 7, 1854, and is a son 
of Ferdinand and Dorcas (Mathie) Smearbaugh, natives of Germany, who 
came to America in 1848, and settled in what is now Tionesta, engaging in 
farming. The father was a carpenter, which trade he followed to some ex- 
tent, and as an agriculturist he cleared the farm now owned by Charles Leeper. 
He died in 1858, leaving two sons: Jacob and William. His widow afterward 
married Nicholas Weant, and by him she had one son, George Weant. The 
paternal grandfather of the subject of these lines was Christopher Smear- 
baugh, a cooper by trade, who settled in Tionesta in 1848, and died at the 
age of eighty-live years. Nicholas and Anna M. (Byers) Mathie. the mater 
nal grandparents of William Smearbaugh, came from Hesse-Cassel. Germany, 
to Tionesta in L848, and died there, aged eighty-five and eighty-four years, 
respectively. William Smearbaugh was reared in Tionesta, and received a 
limited education in the common schools. In 1881 he embarked in the hotel 
business at Tionesta. and conducted the Lawrence House two years. In 1883 
he was elected treasurer of Forest county, serving one term of three years. 
In 1880 he engaged in mercantile business in Tionesta, with G. G. Bulterfield, 
under the firm name of William Smearbaugh & Co.. which they ha\. 
carried on; he has also been in the lumber business since l^ s| > along with 
William Lawrence, under the linn name of Lawrence & Smearbaugh. Mr. 
Smearbaugh married, March '-!_. ISM. Eva A., daughter of Daniel S. and 
Elizabeth (Spence) Knox, of Tionesta, and they have three daughters: Flor 
ence Marie, Helen and Josephine. Oar subject is a member of the German 
Reformed Church, and of the V. 0. C. W. Politically he is a Republican. 

GEORGE F. WATSON, lumberman, Tionesta, was born in what is now 
Kingsley township, Forest. Co., Penn., October 20, L848, and is a son of Francis 
and Cordelia (Johnson) Watson. His paternal grandfather, Robert Watson, 
was a native of Ireland, and a pioneer of Titusville, Penn., where he lived and 
died, and his maternal grandfather, John Johnson, was a native of Vermont, 
and a pioneer of Venango county. Francis Watson was born in Titusville, 
PeUD., in INK), and in early manhood located in Tionesta. where he followed 



BIOGBAPHICAL SKETCHES. '-'il 

the rivers as a pilot for some years; then engaged in lumbering for twenty 
years. Since 1869 he has resided inKingsley township, Forest county, with his 
son, John G. His children were five in number: George F., William H. , John 
G. , Harvey B. and Rebecca (Mrs. Humphrey Downing). George F. Watson 
was reared in Kingsley township, receiving his education in the common schools, 
and at Neillstown Academy. He began life as a lumberman with his father- 
in-law. A. B. Root, and later was associated with his brother-in-law, Aaron 
Root, and since 1887 has been associated in business with T. B. Collins, 
under the firm name of Collins & Watson, now operating a mill at Pine 
Hollow, and turning out from three to four million feet of lumber per an- 
num. Mr. Watson married, in September, 1868, Anna, daughter of Aaron 
B. and Elizabeth (Zuendel) Root, early settlers of Green township, and by her 
has five children: Harry B., Minnie, Vernie, Cora and Gaorgianna. Mr. 
Watson is a member of the I. O. O. F. Politically he is a D^moarat, and an 
advocate of prohibition. 

GEORGE WEANT, farmer and lumberman, Tionesta, was born in Kings- 
ley township, Forest Co., Penn., March 20, 1861, and is a son of Nicholas and 
Dorcas (Mathie) W'eant, natives of Germany and pioneers of what is now 
Tionesta township, this county, where they still reside. George Weant was 
reared and educated in Tionesta township, began life as a farmer, and now 
owns and conducts two farms in that township; he has been engaged in lum- 
bering since 1886. Mi - . Weant is a popular and representative citizen. Po- 
litically he is a Republican, and is serving his second term as township auditor. 

JACOB E. WENK, publisher of the Forest Republican, Tionesta, was 
born in Tionesta December 13, 1853. and is a son of Jacob and Dorothea E. 
(Mathe) Wenk. His father was a native of Hesse-Cassel, Germany, a shoe- 
maker by occupation, and came to Tionesta in 1847, where he worked at his 
trade until his retirement from business, in 188-1. His children are Lizzie 
(Mrs. G. G. Butterfield), Ferdinand and Jacob E. The subject of this sketch 
was reared in Tionesta, and learned the printer's trade in the office of the For- 
est County Bee (now Forest Republican). He worked at the case as a journey- 
man, ten years, and in January, 1879, purchased the Forest Republican, which 
he has since successfully conducted as editor and proprietor. On April 20, 
1882, he married L. Florence, daughter of Daniel S. and Elizabeth (Spence) 
Knox, of Tionesta, and they have two children living: Carl E. and a son born 
January 6, 1890 (not yet named). Mr. Wenk is a member of the German 
Reformed Church and of the A. O. U. W. In politics he is a Republican. 

SILAS J. WOLCOTT, oil operator. Tionesta, was born in what is now 
Hickory township, Forest Co., Penn., November 8, 1833, and is a son of Will 
iam and Nancy (Gates) Wolcott. His father, who was a native of New England, 
and a farmer by occupation, was a pioneer of what is now Forest county, and 
cleared and improved a farm in Hickory township, where he died in 1861. 
Both he and his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Their 
children were seven in number, viz. : Catherine G. (Mrs. Daniel Noble), Eliza- 
beth (Mrs. Luther Bennett), Sarah A. (Mrs. Philo Barnes), Mary J. (Mrs. 
Charles Hill), Belinda (Mrs. Joseph Grove), William L. and Silas J. The 
subject of this sketch was reared in his native township, and received a com- 
mon-school education. He has been successively a farmer, lumberman, real 
estate dealer, and has been in his present business since 1879, residing most of 
his life within the limits of what is now Forest county. He married, in 1855, 
Martha J., daughter of Joseph and Mary (Richardson) Teed, of Crawford 
county, Penn., and they have three children: William M., Alice J. (Mrs. Z. 
T. Shriver) and Nannie B. (Mrs. Harrison Weston). Mr. Wolcott is a mem- 



942 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church and of the P. O. S. of A. Politically 
he is a Republican. 

HICKORY TOWNSHIP. 

CHARLES ALBAUGH, farmer, P. O. East Hickory, was born in Alle- 
gany county, N. Y. , October 15, 1830, and is a son of John P. and Margaret 
S. (Schenck) Albaugh, who in 1853 settled in Hickory township, where they 
lived and died. Charles Albaugh cleared and improved the farm he now 
occupies, on which he has built over 250 rods of stone fence. He was in the 
war of the Rebellion, enlisting October 14. 1861, in Company H, Fourth 
Pennsylvania Cavalry; was wounded at White Oak Swamps, Va. . and after 
three years and eight months' service was honorably discharged. He married, 
December 1, 1853. Sarah, daughter of Joseph and Martha (Deiuars) Hender- 
son, of Venango county, Penn., and they have six children living: John W.. 
Joseph H, Edward, Alfred, Curtis and Nancy J. Mr. and Mrs. Albaugh are 
members of the Evangelical Church. Politically he is a Republican. 

WILLIAM ALBAUGH, farmer, P. O. East Hickory, was born in Jackson 
township, Venango Co., Penn., January 13, 1837, and is a son of John P. 
and Margaret S. (Schenck) Albaugh, who settled in Hickory township in L853. 
William was reared in his native township until he was sixteen years of age, 
and was engaged in various occupations until 187U, when he settled on the 
farm he now occupies, which he cleared and improved. He was in the Civil 
war, enlisting in August. L861, in Company G, Eighty-third Pennsylvania 
Volunteers. He participated in all the engagements of the regiment, except 
Fredericksburg, and was honorably discharged after three years' service. Mr. 
Albaugh married Catherine Rhodes. He is a member of the G. A. R., and in 
politics is a Republican. 

JONATHAN ALBAUGH, farmer. P. O. West Hickory, was born in Jackson 
township, Venango Co., Penn., April 22, 1844, and is a son of John P. and 
Margaret S. (Schenck) Albaugh, who settled in Hickory township in L853 on 
the farm now occupied by their son Jonathan, a part of which they cleared, 
and where they lived until their death. Their children were Elias. Charles, 
Jonathan. .lames. William and Mary. Jonathan Albaugh was reared in Jack- 
son township, and was nine years of age when he removed with his parents to 
Hickory township. He has always followed farming, and occupies the old 
homestead of seventy acres, a good share of which he cleared and improved 
He was in the Civil war, enlisting August 11. 1862, in Company G. Eighty- 
third Pennsylvania Volunteers; was wounded at the battle of Chaneellorsville. 
and was honorably discharged from the service July 12, 1865. He was twice 
married, his first wife being Elizabeth, daughter of Conrad Remsneider. of 
Lickingville. Clarion Co., Penn.. and by her had three children: Susan 

Id ased). Flora A., and Martha E. (deceased). His second wife was Sarah. 

daughter of John and Lorinda (Green) Rhodes, of Foresi county, by whom 
he has I wo children : Nellie M. and Lydia J. Mr. Albaugh is a member of 
the Evangelical Church, and of the G. A. R. ; in politics be is a Republican. 

NELSON G. BALL, farmer, P. O. Pit Hole City, Venango Co., Penn., 
was born in what is now Hickory township, Forest Co., Penn., April 28, L832, 
and is a son of [saac and Sally (Manross) Ball, natives of Vermont, and among 
the pioneers of what is now' Forest county, locating firsi in what is now Har- 
mony township. Here the father conducted a saw mill for a time, which was 
erected by George Siggins, bui afterward came to Hickory township, and here 
engaged in lumbering. In 1S32 he located in Balltown, built a saw-mill and 
commenced lumbering. Here he resided ten j ear-, and then returned to Hick- 



BIOGKAPHICAL SKETCHES. 



943 



ory township, where he erected a saw- and grist-mill, which he conducted until 
his death. He had ten children: Fidelia (Mrs. John Gilson), Harriet (Mrs. 
Robert Hiner). Clinton, Isaac, Sally (Mrs. James Y. Siggins), Lavina (Mrs. 
Clark Bean), David, Nelson Gr., Julia (Mrs. William Richardson) and William. 
Nelson G. Ball was reared in Forest county, and conducted a gristmill at 
East Hickory for twenty-three years; he then engaged in farming, and resided 
in Hickory township until 1885, when he removed to Columbus township, War- 
ren county, and there remained until the spring of 1886, when he removed to 
Allegheny township, Venango Co., Penn., where he now resides. His wife, 
nee Martha Hunter, daughter of William and Sally (Range) Hunter, is a 
granddaughter of Poland Hunter, a pioneer of Forest county. Mr. and Mrs. 
Ball have had seven children: J. Wesley, Homer, Austin (deceased), Sally (Mrs. 
J. Gorman), Jennie (Mrs. Jacob Zahniser), William and Rilla. Mr. Ball is a 
member of the Free Methodist Church. Politically he is an advocate of 
prohibition. , 

T. J. BOWMAN, merchant and lumberman, East Hickory, was born at 
Beaver Furnace, Clarion Co., Penn., March 27, 1840, and is a son of David 
and Ellen (Robertson) Bowman, natives of Scotland. His father in early life 
followed agricultural pursuits, and cleared a farm near Tylersburg, Penn., in 
which town he was for twenty years engaged in the lumber and mercantile 
businesses. He died there, in 1888, in his seventy-third year; his widow is 
still living, enjoying good health. Their children were Thomas J.. John (who 
died of wounds received at Fair Oaks in the Civil war), Martin (who died of 
.disease contracted in the army, and never returned home), Adam (deceased), 
Robert (deceased), Margaret Jane (deceased), James 6., William, Edward, 
Charles, Frank and Jane (Mrs. Ault, residing at Leeper, Penn.). T. J. Bow- 
man was reared in Farmington, Clarion county, and located in East Hickory 
in 1862, where he engaged in boat building and lumbering, continuing in the 
latter business to the present time. He embarked in mercantile business in 
1872, and for eighteen years was postmaster at East Hickory. In 1887, in 
company with H. W. Ledebur, he built a large grist-mill at East Hickory (a 
much-needed institution at that place), having a capacity for grinding twenty 
tons of feed and two tons of flour per day. Mr. Bowman was married, in De- 
cember, 1868, to Nancy, daughter of James and Molly (Brown) Green, of East 
Hickory, and they have four children: Lester D., Leona, Glenni F. and Ellen. 
Mr. Bowman is a representative citizen and business man. In politics he is a 
Democrat. 

IRA CHURCH, farmer, P. O. East Hickory, was born in Genesee county, 
N. Y., March 31 1818, and is a son of John and Laura (Corss) Church, who 
settled in what is now Harmony township, this county, in 1820. The father 
was a farmer, and for a time operated a still-house; later he removed to New 
York State, where he died in 1835. Ira Church was reared in what is now 
Forest county, and in 1842 settled at Church Hill. Hickory township, where 
he cleared and improved the farm now owned by the Little Hickory Oil Com- 
pany. With the exception of a three years' residence in Iowa, he has lived in 
Hickory township ever since, and has occupied his present farm since 1870. 
He married twice, his first wife being Philema, daughter of Luther and Polly 
(Copeland) Barnes, of Harmony township, by whom he has eight children liv- 
ing: Charlotte (Mrs. John H. Wentworth), Mary (Mrs. Jacob Shaffer). Laura 
(Mrs. John Range), Sarah (Mrs. William Foreman), Lucetta (Mrs. Joshua 
Hall), Luther H, James L. and John C. His second wife was Matilda, daugh- 
ter of Samuel Dempsey, of Hickory township, and by her he has one son, 



944 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Samuel. Mr. Church is a prominent farmer, a member of the Methodist Epia 
copal Church, and in politics is an independent Republican. 

LUTHER H. CHURCH, farmer. P. O. East Hickory, was born in Hick- 
ory township. Forest Co.. Penn.. April 13, 1S50, and is a son of Ira and Phi- 
lema I Barnes) Church. He was reared in Hickory township, received a com- 
mon-school education, and after attaining his majority worked in the Venango 
oil region for twelve years. Returning to Hickory township in 1888, he en- 
gaged in farming, and since October. 1889, he has again been working in the 
Venango county oil regions. In November, INTO, he married Sarah M.. 
daughter of Perkins and Sarah (Burguin) Lovell, of Venango county. Mr. 
Church is a popular citizen and an enterprising farmer. He is a member of 
the I. O. O. F.. and in politics is a Republican. He and his wife attend the 
services of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

JAMES M. CHURCH, farmer. P. O. East Hickory, was burn in Hickory 
township. Forest Co., Penn.. December i. L855, and is a son of Ira and Phi- 
lema (Barnes) Church, who settled in Hickory township in 1842. He was 
reared and educated in his native township, where, with the exception of three 
years lie lived in Iowa, he has always resided. In 1880 he married Priscilla. 
daughter of George W. and Elizabeth Bell, of Armstrong county, Penn. Mrs. 
Church is a member of the Free Methodist Church. Mr. Church is a popular 
young farmer, and has lived on the farm he now occupies since 18S1. In pol- 
itics he is a Republican, and has held the office of collector and assessor of his 
t own ship two vears. 

JOHN C. CHURCH, farmer, P. O. East Hickory, was born in Hickory 
township, Forest Co., Penn., November 28, 1861, and is a son of Ira and Phil 
ena (Barnes) Church, who settled in Hickory township in 1842. John C. 
Church was reared in his native township, and received a common-school edu- 
cation, In 1884 he located on the farm he how occupies, a part of which he 
cleared, making all the improvements in buildings, etc. He married, Decem- 
ber 25, 1883, Lizzie, a daughter of Joseph and Christenia (Knicely) Brewster, 
of Farmington, Clarion Co., Penn., ami has one daughter, Sylvia P. Mr. 
Church is an enterprising farmer and citizen, and in politics is independent. 

JUDSON CLARK, farmer, P. O. East Hickory, was born in Steuben 
comity, \. V.. August 5, 1S37. and is a son of Daniel and Lydia (W'ellman) 
Clark, natives of Vermont, and pioneers of Steuben county, X. Y. Judson 
Clark was reared in his native county, and. after attaining his majority, worked 
in the lumber woods on Sinnemahoning creek, now in Cameron county, for 
four years. In the fall of ISlto he came to Hickory township, and followed 
teaming four years. In 1869 he engaged in farming and has occupied his 
present farm since 1880. He married, in 1S72. Fayette, daughter of Abram 
Bean, of Hickory township, and they have three children: Nellie. Florence 
and Orion. Mr. Clark is a representative and enterprising farmer. Politically 
he is a Democrat. 

PAROUS COPELAND, farmer. P. O. East Hickory, was born in what is 
now Harmony township, Forest Co.. Penn.. April 10. 1S.J7. and is a s,,n of Ira 
and Lydia (Thompson) Copeland, natives of Vermont and New York, respecl 
ively. The paternal grandparents of Parous Copeland were anion-- the 
pioneers of Harmony township, and Ira Copeland cleared and improved the 
farm taken up by his father, and lived and died there. He reared a family of 
ten children, named as follows: Mandana I Mrs. Alden Handy I. Sarah A. 
(Mrs. Azro Copeland), Ora (Mrs. Peter Herring), Rhoda (Mrs. Philip Stit/i, 
Clarissa (Mrs. David Metcalfl. Eliza, Julia (Mrs. Wis. Hayes), Parens. David 
and Rufus. Parens Copeland was reared in Harmony township, aud in 1855 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 945 

settled in Hickory township, where he cleared and improved the farm he now 
occupies, and has since resided. He was in the Civil war, enlisting November 
IS, 1861, in Company H, Fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry; was wounded at 
Travillion Station, taken prisoner at Ashby Gap, and spent one month in 
Libby prison, when he was paroled; six months later he was exchanged, and 
joined his regiment at City Point, Va., and was honorably discharged after 
three years' service. In 1855 he married Lncinda, daughter of Moses and 
Laura (Barnes) Walters, of Hickory township, and to them have been born 
eight children, of whom six are living: Lydia M. (Mrs. P. C. Hill), Milda 
(Mrs. Joseph Schwab), George S. , Delia, Lizzie and Moses. Mr. Copeland is 
a member of the G. A. R. , and in politics is a Democrat. 

JAMES HENDERSON, merchant, farmer and lumberman, East Hickory, 
was born in Venango county, Penn., in April, 1835, and is a son of Joseph 
and Martha (Dumas) Henderson, natives of Pennsylvania, and pioneers of 
Venango county. James Henderson was reared in his native county, where he 
received a limited common-school education, and in 1852 located in East 
Hickory, where he worked in a furnace for a time. At the beginning of the 
oil excitement he went to Oil City and boated oil down Oil creek until 1865, 
when he returned to Hickory, and settled on the farm where he now resides, 
and has since been engaged in farming and lumbering; he also embarked in 
the mercantile business, at East Hickory, in 1888. In 1866 Mr. Henderson 
married Nancy L. , daughter of Hicks and Susan (Myers) Prather, of Hickory, 
who were among the pioneers of the township, and cleared and improved the 
farm now occupied by Mr. Henderson. To Mr. and Mrs. Henderson have been 
born six children: Almira (Mrs. George Meager), Louisa (Mrs. W alter P. 
Crouch), Frank, Nellie, John and James. Mr. Henderson is a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church; has served one term as commissioner of Forest 
county, and in politics is an advocate of prohibition. 

CHARLES A. HILL, farmer, P. O. Tionesta, was born in Chenango 
county, N. Y., August 27, 1831, and is a son of Frederick and Eliza (Shaw) 
Hill, who settled in Warren county, Penn., in 1848. Mr. Hill was reared and 
educated in his native State, and located in Hickory township, this count)', in 
1849, where he worked in the woods for two years. In 1851 he embarked in 
the lumber business, and also engaged in farming; with the exception of seven 
years he lived in Wisconsin, he has made his home in Hickory township since 
1849. He was in the Civil war, enlisting August 11, 1862, in Company G, 
Eighty-third Pennsylvania Regiment, and participated in the battles of 
Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville and the Wilderness (being wounded in the 
latter engagement), and was honorably discharged on account of wounds, after 
two and one-half years' service. He married, in 1848, Mary, J., daughter of 
William and Nancy (Gates) Wolcott, of Hickory township. Forest Co., Penn., 
and they have seven children: Nancy J. (Mrs. Peter Lindal), Ida (Mrs. James 
Butler), Perry C, Truman L., Arnold W., Nettie M. and Minnie J. Mr. Hill 
is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Tionesta, the A. O. U. W., 
P. O. S. of A. and G. A. R. He has held several of the local offices in Hickory 
township, and has served one term as associate judge of Forest county. Polit- 
ically he is a Republican, and a strong advocate of temperance. 

H. W. LEDEBUR, miller, East Hickory, was born in Hanover, Germany, 
September 1, 1838, and is a son of Conrad and Mary (Hawkes) Ledebur, former 
of whom came to America in 1841, and located in Pittsburgh, Penn. , removing his 
family there in 1844. There the subject of these lines was reared from six 
years of age, and was educated in the public schools and Duff's Commercial 
College. He first came to Forest county in 1859, and located in Green town- 



946 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

ship, where his father and several others had purchased 1,000 acres of land on 
'German hill, which they divided up into L00-acre tracts, on which they placed 
settlers from Pittsburgh of German birth. Mr. Ledebur remained here two 
years, and on the breaking out of the Civil war, enlisted, in April, 1861, in 
Company G, Ninth Pennsylvania Reserves. He served three years and two 
months, when he was honorably discharged, after participating in the battles of 
the Potomac and Shenandoah Valley, including two battles of Fredericksburg, 
Bull Run, Antietam, Chancellorsville. Gettysburg and the Wilderness. In 
1864 he returned to Forest county, and engaged in jobbing and cutting lum- 
ber in Kingsley township for seven years; then located in Nebraska, Green 
township, where he conducted a grist-mill for thirteen years; then removed to 
his farm in Green township, where he remained two years, coming to East Hick 
ory in 1886. In 1887, in company with T. J. Bowman, he built the large 
grist-mil] at East Hickory, which he has since conducted. Mr. Ledebur mar 
ried, Februarj 9, L866, Sophia, daughter of William Thase, of Green township, 
by whom he had eight children: Amos F. , Emma, Mary, Richard, Bennie 
(deceased), Ida, Arthur and Wilbur. .Mr. Ledebur is a member of the Evan- 
gelical Lutheran Church, of the I. O. O. F., A. O. U. W. and G. A. R. He 
served as justice of the peace of Green township two terms, and county com- 
missioner also two terms. In politics he is a Republican. 

CALEB R. MIDDLETON, farmer, P. O. East Hickory, was born in Lime- 
stone, Warren Co., Penn.. March 18, 1S30, and is a son of James and Susan 
nah I Richardson) Middleton. His father was a native of Westmoreland coun- 
ty, Penn., and a son of William Middleton. a pioneer of what is now Tionesta, 
county, locating on what is now known as the Jamison farm, where 
he resided until his death; he had three children: John. James and Mary (Mrs. 
Thomas Arters). The maternal grandfather of the subject of this sketch was 
Caleb Richardson, a native of Maine, a pioneer of Harmony township, this 
county, and later of Hickory, locating on the farm now occupied 1>\ Mr. Mid 
diet, ,n, a part of which he cleared and improved, and where he died. James 
Middleton was reared in what is now F< irest county, and in early manhood he 
located in Limestone, Warren Co., Penn., where he cleared and improved a 
farm, lumbered to some extent, and in later life removed to Deerfield. where 
he died. He had seven children: William A.. Caleb It., Mary Jane. Cyrus J.. 
John M., Mehitable E. and Hannah C. (Mrs. Oscar J. Williams). Caleb R, 
Middleton was reared in Limestone township, Warren Co., Penn., and after 
the close of the war of the Rebellion he located in Tidioute in mercantile busi 
ness till 1867, when he came to Hickory township, and settled on the old 
homestead of his maternal grandfather, where he has since resided. He has 
rilled several of the local offices in the township, is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, and in politics he has been a Republican since the organi- 
zation i if the part} . 

HOWARD WEBER, physician and surgeon. East Hickory, was born in 
Venango county. Penn., October 28, L862. He is a son of George K. and 
Elizabeth Weber, both of German descent, who, about the year 1850, moved 
from Cent],' county, Penn., to Dempseytown, same State, where they reared a 
family of ten children — nine sons and one daughter — and by perseverance and 
economy accumulated a snug little fortune. They are still living in comfort at 
Dempseytown. Dr. Weber's brothers, yet living, are as follows: dames Buchanan 
and Charles Henry, in Greeley, Colo.; Edgar H.. in the State of Washington; 
Judson M. and Norton, m Dempseytown, Penn. The deceased brothers are 
Newton. Emerson and Duff; the sister. Pira Welter, is aNo deceased. Howard 
Weber, the subject of these lines, was educated at Allegheny College, Mead 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 947 

ville, Penn., and in 1884 began the study of medicine with Dr. Samuel 
Sherwell, of Brooklyn, N. Y. He entered Long Island Hospital College. 
Brooklyn, N. Y., in the fall of 1885, and was graduated in March, 1887. In 
June of the same year he located at East Hickory, this county, where he has 
built up a wide and steadily growing practice. Dr. Weber was married 
September 24, 1881, to Etta J., daughter of Robert Montgomery and Eliza- 
beth Ann Carter, of Dempseytown, Penn., and of Irish descent, and three 
children have been born to this marriage, their names being as follows: Henry 
Clarence (born February 15, 1883), Mark Urban (born March 8, 1885) and Savilla 
Hazel (born November 18, 1888). 

HARMONY TOWNSHIP. 

J. H. BOWMAN, farmer, P. O. Perry, was born near Franklin. Penn., 
September 30, 1838, and is a son of James and Nancy (Wilson) Bowman, both 
natives of Venango county, Penn. He was reared on a farm, has been a 
farmer most of his life, and since 1866, with the exception of live years, has 
resided on the farm he now occupies. He was in the Civil war, enlisting 
September 10, 1862, in Company H, Fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and served 
until July 12, 1865, when he was honorably discharged at Lynchburg, Va. , 
and mustered out of the service at Pittsburgh, Penn. On December 8, 1868, 
he married Laura, daughter of Capt. J. H. and Sarah (Miller) Pennell, of 
Pleasantville, Venango Co., Penn., and they have four children: Claude, Willie, 
Belle and Myra. Mr. Bowman is an enterprising citizen; a member of the 
Presbyterian Church, I. O. O. F. and G. A. R. In politics he is a Democrat. 

J. A. DAWSON, farmer, P. O. Tionesta, was born in Allegheny township, 
Venango Co. (now Harmony, Forest county), Penn., July 13, 1835, and is a 
son of James and Elizabeth (Allender) Dawson. His father and paternal 
grandfather were natives of Ireland, and the latter a pioneer of Pit Hole, 
Venango Co., Penn. His maternal grandfather was of English descent, and ;i 
pioneer of what is now Harmony township. James Dawson settled as early 
as 1812 on the farm now occupied by his son J. A., cleared and improved it, 
and died there; he was a soldier of the war of 1812. He reared a family of 
seven children: Jane, Mrs. James Ronald; John A.; Phoebe, Mrs. John 
Sutherland; Fletcher; Nancy, Mrs. J. Tyler Watts; Isabel, Mrs. John Beatty; 
and George. J. A. Dawson was reared on the old homestead where, with 
the exception of four years of his life, he has always resided. He married, in 
186S, Susie O, daughter of John W. and Parmelia (Fuller) Smith, of Craw- 
ford county, Penn., and they have two sons: George and Ralph. Mr. Dawson 
is a prominent farmer and leading citizen; politically he is a Republican. Two 
brothers, George and Fletcher, were in the Union army during the war of 
the Rebellion. 

E. L. JONES, farmer, P. O. Trunkey ville, was born in what is now Harmony 
township, Forest Co., Penn., April 22, 1825, a son of Isaac and Sarah (Hun 
ter) Jones, and is of Welsh and Irish descent. The parents were among the 
first settlers of Harmony township, and cleared and improved a farm on which 
they lived and died. The father was married twice, and by his first wife he 
had ten children — four sons and six daughters — as follows: Mehitable (Mrs. 
James Alcorn), Elizabeth (Mrs. Rev. S. Smith), Daniel, Eliza (died at the age 
of ten years), Elijah L. and Elisha (twins), Robert, Margaret (Mrs. M. T. 
Babbitt), Sarah (Mrs. William Duffield) and Dorcas (Mrs. William Chambers). 
By his second wife, Rebecca, Isaac Jones had four children: Isaac, Joshua, 
Rebecca (Mrs. Jackson Goodwin) and William. E. L. Jones was reared in 
his native town, and from 1852 to 1871 was in the lumber business at Pitts 



'.MS HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

burgh; then for a time he resided in Randolph, X. Y.. returning to Harmony 
township in 1876, where he now resides. He married, in 1856, Emma, daugh- 
ter of Ira and Miranda (Sprague) Sibley, of Pittsburgh, Penn. , and they have 
four children living: Ella (Mrs. Charles M. Dow), Ida E. (Mrs. Frank Young). 
Anna (Mrs. Charles Raisig) and Charles S. Mr. Jones is a member of the 
Universalist Church, and of the I. O. O. F. Politically he is a Republican, 
and is one of the present auditors of Forest county. His paternal grandfather, 
Daniel Jones, a native of Juniata county, Penn., was a writer in his day of 
both poetry and prose, and was also very well read in law — one of the first in 
the county at that time. The wife of Daniel Jones, and grandmother of our 
subject, was Mehitable Arters. The maternal grandfather of E. L. Jones was 
Rob it Hunter, a citizen of Limestone township, Warren Co., Penn. 

CHARLES E. LAXDERS, farmer, P. O. Perry, was born on the farm 
where he now resides, in Harmony township, Forest Co., Penn., August 4. ]si\K 
and is a son of Peter and Caroline (Fisher) Landers, the former a native of 
Eastern Xew York, and the latter the first white child born in Cassadaga, 
Chautauqua Co., X. Y. They settled in what is now Harmony township. For- 
est Co., Penn., in 1839, and cleared and improved the farm now occupied by 
Charles E., where the father died in INTO. They had ten children, of whom 
seven grew to maturity: Adoniram J., Byron, Orrin F.. Charles E., Emnia J. 
(Mrs. Andrew Carson), David and Lucy (Mrs. C. O. Xyburg). Charles E. 
Landers was reared on the old homstead, where he has always resided. He 
was married, May 11. 1880, to Miss Emma L.. daughter of D. H. and Anna 
(Castle) Demun, of Xeilltown, this county, and she dying, March 1. 1881, lie 
married, January 4, 1887, Birdie V., daughter of William and Hannah (Over 
moyer) Bromley, of Stewart's Run, this county, and they have two children: 
Goldie B. and Charles Errol. Mr. Lauders is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church and of the Equitable Aid Union; has served as constable, collector and 
assessor of Harmony township, four years; is a Democrat in politics, and an 
advocate of prohibition. 

J. B. MACHESXEY, merchant and postmaster. Perry, was born in Frank 
lin. Penn., September 'J. 1853, ami is a son of Samuel and Hannah W. (Sim 
geri i Machesney, natives of Centre county. Penn. The father, who was a civil 
engineer by profession, located, about 1855, in Harmony township, where hi' 
followed his profession until the breaking out of the Civil war. when he enlisted 
in Company F. Twelfth Pennsylvania Cavalry. He was promoted from time 
to time until he reached the first lieutenancy of his company, ami in L864 died 
of disease contracted while in the service. He had four children who grew to 
maturity: Anna E. (Mrs. J. 0. Ross). Fred 0., Joseph B. and Thomas B. 
J. B. Machesney was reared in Harmony township, and educated in the com 
moii schools. He began life as clerk in a general store where he remained 
more or less for several years, and May 1. 1ST 1 .', he embarked in general mer- 
chandise business, at Neillsburg, in which he has since been successfully 
engaged. He married, in 1880, Kate K.. daughter of John and Anna (Byrd) 

W >odi k, Of Harmony township, and they have two children: Clyde J. anil 

Ralph. Mr. Maehesnej in politics is a Republican, and has been postmastei 
of Perry since 1 879 

■IOS1AI1 N1.1I.Ij. farmer. I'. (). Perry, was born in what is now Han 
bownship, Forest! Co., Penn., March 6, 1842, and is a son of Isaac and Mary 
(McCaslin) Neill. II:- paternal grandfather was William Neill, and his mater 
nal grandfather was James McCaslin. both pioneers of what is now Harmony 
township, Fores! county, and Allegheny township." Venango county, and both 
veterans of the war of 1812. William Neill, who was a farmer, cleared a 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 949 

large tract of land, kept a hotel, and was a prominent and representative cit- 
izen of bis day. His children were John, Isaac, Robert, Thomas, William. 
James, Jane (Mrs. James Neill), Ann (Mrs. William Patterson) and Hannah 
(Mrs. James McGaslin). Isaac Neill was a farmer, and cleared the farm occu- 
pied by the subject of this sketch, where he died. His children were Jane 
(Mrs. Jesse Bnrchfield), James, William H. , Anna (Mrs. Robert Cochran), 
John, Josiah and Lou. Josiah Neill was reared in his native township, and 
at his father's death succeeded to the homestead, where he now resides. He 
married. December 23, 1886, Letha B., daughter of B. C. Scott, of Harmony 
township, aud they have one son, Roy. Politically Mr. Neill is a Democrat. 
ORION SIGGINS, dealer in real estate and lumber, West Hickory, was 
born in what is now Harmony township, Forest Co., Perm., June 3, 1848, and 
is a son of George S. and Rachel (Dawson) Siggins. His paternal grand- 
father was George Siggins, whose wife was Jane Young, a descendant of the 
great British Admiral Hood. George Siggins, last mentioned, was a son of 
John and Sarah Siggins, natives of the County Sligo, Ireland, and was born 
in the parish of Drumcliff, in that county, in 1778. The family emigrated to 
America in 1793, and settled in Centre county, Penn. . where John Siggins 
died in 1801; his wife, Sarah, died in Youngsville. Warren Co., Penn., in 
ls:T>, at the age of eighty live years. George Siggins. from information de- 
rived from his only surviving son, James Y. Siggins, of Pleasantville, Penn., 
came from Centre county to Stewart's Run, near where John A. Dawson now 
resides, in Harmony township, Forest county, about 1801 or 1802, and cleared 
quite a tract of laud. Some years later, on account of a heavy frost, which 
ruined his crops, he removed to what is now Harmony township, below Fagun- 
dus, built a saw-mill aud manufactured and shipped lumber down the Alle- 
gheny river to Pittsburgh. The war of 1812 breaking out soon after his mill 
began running, he was drafted, and stationed at Erie, being there at the time 
of Perry's victory. After the war he sold his mill to Isaac Ball, and settled 
below Tidioute, soon after migrating to Hickory Town (now West Hickory), a 
once famous Indian reservation, where he purchased of a squatter, by the 
name of John Thompson, 1,0)0 acres, on which the family descendants now 
reside. He was a life-long member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and 
died January 17, 1805, aged eighty-seven years. His children were John, 
William, Mary, Nathaniel H., George S., Isaac O, James Y. , Jane (Mrs. 
Cyrus Richardson) and Rebecca. The maternal grandparents of Orion Sig- 
gins were Thomas and Hannah (Connelly) Dawson, pioneers of Stewart's Run, 
Venango Co., Penn. George Simpson Siggins, father of the subject of this 
sketch, always followed farming as an occupation, and cleared and improved 
the homestead farm where Orion now resides, and where he died August *_'( •, 
1875, aged sixty-sis years. His children were Harriet E. (Mrs. Wesley C. 
Howe), Hannah (Mrs. James Giltillan), Rachel R. (Mrs. John Gilfillan), 
Orion, Elizabeth (Mrs. Clinton Smith), Francis B., Jane I., Julia E. (Mrs. 
Frank Wheeler) and Justina. Orion Siggins was reared on the old homestead, 
where he has always resided, following fanning up to 1877, since which time 
he has been in the real estate business, also lumbering quite extensively. He 
married, November 20, 1884, Miss Alice M., daughter of Joseph and Rachel 
(McGrew) Hall, of Steubenville, Ohio, and to this union was born, October 17, 
1889, one child, a daughter. Mr. Siggins is one of the prominent and lead- 
ing citizens of Forest county, full of vim aud enterprise, and always ready and 
willing to give liberally of his means for the welfare of the community in 
which he lives. He doaated the grounds for the fine tannery and far numer- 
ous other purposes at West Hickory; gave large possessions to the Western 

52A 



950 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

New York & Pennsylvania Railroad; also assisted in the construction of other 
public benefits, and by this liberal policy founded a now flourishing town. 

WILLIAM P. SIGGINS, merchant, West Hickory, was born in what is now 
Harmony township, Forest Co., Penu., May 15, 1840, and is a son of William 
and Jane (Hunter) Siggins, his paternal grandparents being George and Jane 
(Young) Siggins, natives of Ireland. George Siggins emigrated from Ireland 
with his parents in 17113, and they settled in Centre county, Penn. About 
1801 02 he settled at Stewart's Pun, Venango county, and later in what is 
now West Hickory, Harmony township. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, 
and died in West Hickory January 17, 1805, aged eighty seven years. The 
maternal grandfather of the subject of this sketch was William Hunter, son of 
Poland Hunter, a native of Ireland, and who was among the first settlers of 
Tionesta. William Siggins was a farmer by occupation, and cleared and im- 
proved the farm now owned by his son, Andrew J,, where he died. He had 
eight sons and three daughters: John, William P., George W. , Jane (Mrs. 
W. C. Barnes), James B., Lewis C Alex. H., Florence M., Sarah M., Andrew 
J. and Isaac P. William P. Siggins was reared in Harmony township, where 
he has always resided. He was in the Civil war, enlisting August 6, 1801, in 
Company G, Eighty third Pennsylvania Volunteers; was wounded in the breast 
at Fredericksburg, and honorably discharged after three years' service. He 
married, November 9, 1804, Elizabeth A., daughter of Moses and Laura 
(Barnes) Walters, of Hickory township, this county, and they have nine chil- 
dren: Lettie (Mrs Frank F. Bicker), William, Isaac, Forest, Bertha, Truman, 
Emma, Purl and Earl (twins). Mr. Siggins succeeded to the old original Sig- 
gins homestead in 1883. on the death of his uncle, Isaac Siggins, Esq. Po- 
litically he is a Democrat, and has served as constable and collector of Har- 
mony township seven vears. 

JOHN THOMSON, farmer, P. O. Stewart's Run, was born in Ayrshire, 
Scotland, April 29, 1827, and is a son of William and Elizabeth (Morton) 
Thomson. He was reared and educated in his native town, and served a five- 
years apprenticeship at the carpenter's trade in the town of Ayr, on the coast 
of Scotland. He came to America in L849, and settled in what is now Har- 
mony township, Forest Co., Penn., cleared and improved the farm he now 
occupies, and at the same time worked twenty years at his trade. He married. 
October 12, 1849, Jeanette, daughter of William and Mary (Stuart) McCulloeh. 
of Ayrshire, Scotland, and they had twelve children: William, Hugh M., 
Mary S. (Mrs. Quinton Jamison), John A.. Elizabeth I.Mrs. James R. Clark), 
James D., Charles F.. Robert F., Gilbert M.. Ronald S., Albert L. and Nettie 
G. Mr. Thomson is one of the prominent farmers and citizens of Harmony 
township. He lias served one term as commissioner of Forest county : is a 
member of the I. O. O. F. . Tionesta Lodge. No. 369, and is a Republican. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 951 



CHAPTER XVI. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES— JENKS, BARNETT, HOWE, 
KINGSLEY AND GREEN TOWNSHIPS. 

JENKS TOWNSHIP. 

C. W. AMSLEK, merchant, Marienville, was born in Washington town- 
ship, Clarion Co., Penn. , July 8, 1849, a son of Henry K. and Magdaline 
(Kapp) Arusler, natives of Lancaster county, Penn., former of whom, who was 
one of the pioneers of Clarion county, taking up government laud, was an old- 
time Whig, and is now a Republican, taking an active part in local politics. 
The family of our subject's mother were also among the pioneers of Clarion 
county, and the first to settle in Washington township. Mr. and Mrs. Henry K. 
Amsler are devout members of the Lutheran Church, in which he has been a 
deacon for many years. They reared nine children, seven of whom are living: 
Caroline M. (wife of S. D. Rickembrade, in Clarion county), Clara A. (wife of 
Peter Green, also in Clarion county), C. W., Louisa (wife of Ellis Detrick, in 
Venango county), William H. (on the homestead farm of his grandfather), 
Elmer E. and Ida (at home). C. \V. Amsler was reared and educated in 
Clarion county, and at the age of twenty-one years engaged as a laborer in the 
Warren county oil fields. He soon became an operator for himself, and has 
been through the excitement in the whole field, retiring at Garfield, Penn., in 
1884, but finally coming to Marienville, when he embarked in mercantile busi- 
ness with Mr. Sigworth under the firm name of Sigworth & Amsler. Mr. 
Sigworth retired in 1885, and the present firm of Amsley Bros. & Co. was 
organized. They are also engaged in the manufacture of lumber and shingles, 
having mills in Jenks township. Mr. Amsler married, in 1871, Miss Laura 
A., daughter of John H. and Fannie Sigworth, of Clarion county. He is a 
member of the A. O. U. W. of Shippensville, and politically is a Republican. 
He was appointed postmaster at Marienville, July 1, 1889. Mr. anil Mrs. 
Amsler are members of the Presbyterian Church. 

CYRUS BLOOD (deceased) was bora in New Ipswich. N. H, in 1795, of 
English and Irish parentage, and received his education at Boston, Mass. His 
bri ither. Samuel Bl jod, graduated from Harvard College, and began the study of 
law; his health failing him, he went to Chambersburg, Franklin county, where he 
taught school many years, and was principal of the Chambersburg Academy, 
his brother,Cyrus, assisting him, uutil about the time of his marriage, or shortly 
bef ire. when he took charge as principal of the Hagerstown Academy; but 
the confinement of the school-room not agreeing with his health, he traveled 
for t-ome years. Cyrus Blood married, in 1820, Miss Jane McAnulty of 
Chambersburg, and in 1833 they came to Jefferson county (which had formerly 
been Indiana county, the north part being afterward set apart for Forest 
county) and purchased immense tracts of land. Mr. Blood was one of the 
founders of Forest county, gave it the name ami located the county seat at 
Marienville, upon what was his farm at that time. He was a prominent 
Democrat, and became the first associate judge of the county; also served as 
county superintendent, county commissioner, etc. He employed a number of 



952 HISTORY OF FOBEST COUNT V. 

men in clearing his lands, and did much toward the growth and prosperity of 
the county. Mr. and Mrs. Blood were prominent members of the Presbyterian 
Church. He died in I860; his widow in L868. Fivechildren were born to their 
union named as follows: Marien F. (now Mrs. J. D. Hunt, of Marienville), 
Kennedy L. (of Brookville, Penn.), Louisa M. (deceased wife of Dr. B. S. 
Hunt, of Brookville), (.Marine L. (now Mrs. S. F. Rohrer, of Marienville), and 
Parker P. (of Brookville) 

.1. 1). Hunt (deceased) was born in West Hartford, Vt. , July 3, 1M1. He 
received a common school education, and in L833 came to Marienville. engaging 

as a laborer with Cyrus Blood. In 1843 he married tl Idesl daughterof Mr. 

Blood, Miss Marien F., by whom he had two children: Clara B. (wife of Dr. 
S. S. Towler, of .Marienville) and Cyrus F. (also of Marienville. Mr Hunt 
erected and op< rated a saw- and grist-mill in connection with his farm. He 
was a member of the Democratic party, and served the county in the legislature 
in I^I'm. He also tilled the office of county treasurer, and various other impor- 
tant offices. He was an elder in the Presbyterian Church, and helped to build 
the church at Marienville. He died in September, L887. His widow still 
resides on the homestead in Marienville. which town was named in honor of 
her by her father. 

.1. \\ . COLE, farmer, P. O. Marionville, was born in Kingslej township, 
Forest Co.. Penn., May 6, 1846, a --on of Daniel and Lucinda (Green) Cole, 
natives of Venango county, Penn.. and the former a farmer and lumber dealer 
by occupation. They were prominent members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. The mother died in 1867, and the lather in lN^-H. They reared six 
children, live of whom are living: J. \\ . : Nelson, in Nebraska, Fores) Co.. 
Penn.; Clinton, in Indiana: Elizabeth, wife of Isaac Lennox, in MeKean 
county. Penn.. and Sarah, "wife of William Whitney, in Erie county. Penn. 
.1. \\ '. Cole received an ordinary education, and has been principally en- 
gaged in lumbering in Kingsley, Tionesta and Jenks townships, Fores! county. 
In L873 he married Miss Ruth A., daughter of Noah K. Burton, of Jenks 
township, and they have four children: Florence A., William X.. Maud E. 
and Jessie May. Mr. Cole is a member of the Democratic party; has served 
five years as justice of the peace, and twelve years as school director; has also 
been supervisor, trustee and commissioner. He is a member of Jenks Lodge, 
Xo. 250, I. O. O. F. 

JOHN DODGE, farmer, P. O. Marionville, son of Tyler and Esther 
(Graves) Dodge, was born in Canada in 1823, and soon after moved with his 
parents to Ohio, where he was reared and received a common school education. 
He becau life as a laborer on the Erie canal, where he worked for three years, 
and then carried on farming in Erie county, Penn., for two years. In 1845 he 
came to Forest county, where he worked for Col. Cyrus Blood for some years; 
then engaged in boat building a) Clarington, and finally, in 1869, settled on his 
present farm in Jenks township. He married, in 1856, Miss Louisa, daughter 
of Jacob Mercelliott, of Jenks township, and they have two children: Warren, 
in Williamsport, Penn., and Emma, at home. Mr. Dodge participated in the 
Civil war, enlisting in 1864 in the Forty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and 
served until (lie close of the struggle. He is a Democrat in politics, and a 
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

Kl ITS DODGE, farmer, 1'. 0., Marionville, was born in Ohio, November 
29, 1825, a sod of Tyler and Esther (Graves) Dodge, farmers h\ occupation, 
who settled in Ohio d on Canada. Mr. Dodge, at an early age. was bound out 
to a farmer in Crawford county, Penn., where he was reared, and obtained 
but a limite 1 education. After his release, he engaged in lumbering, at Clar- 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHED. 053 

ington and Tionesta, working as a day laborer, for a number of years. He 
married, in 1856, Miss Mary J. Mercelliott, daughter of Jacob Merc.elliott. of 
-Jenks township, and settled on his present farm, which he has cleared and im- 
proved. For twenty-two years he carried the mails from Marienville to Shef- 
field and BrookvilTe. Mr. and Mrs. Dodge are the parents of sis children: 
John M. , Annie (widow of Albert Healy), Warren M., Francis, Edgar F. and 
Florence May. Mr. Dodge is a member of the Democratic party, and has rilled 
various township offices. 

REV. J. M. EDWARDS, pastor of the Marienville Methodist Episcopal 
Church, was born in Butler county, Penn., June 30, 1844, and is a son of James 
and Elizabeth (Milliken) Edwards, natives of England and Ireland, respect- 
ively. The father came to America about 1820, and superintended the build- 
ing of iron rolling mills for the governors of Virginia and Maryland, and he 
continued to work at that business for about twenty years. He was educated 
for the Episcopal ministry, but was never ordained, and finally united with the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. After marriage, he settled in Butler county, 
Penn., where he carried on farming until his death, which occurred April '-18. 
1888; his widow now resides with the subject of this sketch. Their faun I \ 
cousisted of three children: Richard and Simon, residing in Butler county. 
Penn., and J. M. The subject of this writing attended the township schools 
and Clarion Seminary, finishing his education in private schools. After this 
he acted as principal of Carrier Seminary, at Clarion, for five years, and was 
ordained in 1876. He has held charges in Mercer, Clarion and Forest counties, 
having located at Marienville in 1886. Mr. Edwards is also engaged in manu- 
facturing lumber, having two mills in Jenks township. He was united in mar- 
riage, in 1870, with Miss Margaret, daughter of William Martin, of Clarion 
county, Penn., and they have eight children: Mary, Sadie, John M., Martin, 
Vincent, Ethel, Grace and Robert. Mr. Edwards was formerly a Democrat, 
but of late years has been an active member of the Prohibition party. 

CHARLES D. ELDRIDGE, farmer, P. O. Marionville, son of 'David S. 
and Emeline (Donehower) Eldridge, was born in Philadelphia, Penn., April 
30. 1844, and came to Forest county with his parents, in 1849, locating on his 
present farm in Jenks township. James Eldridge, the grandfather of Charles 
D. , also settled on this farm at the same time. Four children were born to 
David S. and Emeline Eldridge: Charles D. and George D. (in Jenks town- 
ship). Marien (wife of Judson Parsons, in Jenks township), and Zebiah L. 
(wife of William Cunningham, in Howe township). The father died in 1886, 
and the mother in 1857. Charles D. Eldridge has lived on his present farm 
since five years of age, and has done much toward clearing and improving the 
same. He is identified with the Democrat party, and has filled the office of 
township auditor. 

JOHN F. GAUL, farmer, P. O. Marionville, was born in Philadelphia. 
Penn., March 12. 1820, and is a son of John F. and Catherine M. (Mayhew) 
Gaul. His paternal grandfather, also named John F. Gaul, was born in German v. 
July 4, 1760, and came to America with his parents in 1768. He was a 
soldier in the Revolutionary war. His maternal grandfather, Samuel May- 
hew, was born in New Jersey. July 4. 17(30, and also participated in the same 
war. His father was in the war of 1812, serving as a private in Capt Hoff- 
man's company, Pennsylvania Rifle Rangers, and his uncle. Christian Gaul, 
was third lieutenant in the same company and in the same war. John F. 
Gaul (our -ubject) was reared in Philadelphia, and after completing his educa- 
tion, served an apprenticeship as a brass founder, afterward engaging in that 
business in Philadelphia, which he conducted for seven years. June 20. 1855, 



954 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

ho came to Forest county and purchased his present farm, in Jenks township, 
which was then a virgin forest. He was united in marriage, in I s in, with 
Miss Harriet, daughter of Daniel Dixon, of New Jersey. She died in 1852, 
leaving two children: Catherine E. (widow of J. Douglas Lawrence, of Phila 
delphia) and John F. (in Mexico). .Mr. Gaul was aft srward married, in 1857, 
to Miss Deborah, daughter of .lame-- Eldridge. and by her had two children. 
one deceased, and James E.. living on the home farm, married to Edith. 
daughter of James A. Scott, of Jenks township, and has one child, -lames 
Clinton. John F. Gaul is a member of the Dem icratic party, with prohibition 
proclivities. He raised a company in Philadelphia, and joined the Fourth 
Pennsylvania Reserves, serving as lieutenant-colonel, under (S >v. Curtin, and 
resigned in L862. He was commissioner of Forest county from 1863 to 1870; 
justice of the peace five years, and school director twelve years. He is a mem- 
ber of Jenks Lodge, No. 250, I. < >. O. I'., and of the Lutheran Church. 

CECIL GROSS, dealer in cherry lumber and logs, also hemlock timber and 
bark. Marienville. was born in Chautauqua county. X. V.. February 7. 1852, and 
is a son of G. W. and Rebecca M. I Hurlburt ) Gross, of Chautauqua and Onondaga 
counties. X. Y.. respectively. Cecil Gross received the advantage of an ordi 
nary education, and for a number of year-, engaged io butchering in Erie and 
Venango counties. Penn. In L884 he locate I on the Watson farm in Forest 
county, and thence moved to Marienville, where he carries on his present busi- 
ness. October L2, ISTo. he was united in marriage with Miss Linnie E., 
daughter of Joseph Hall, of Crawford county. Penn. She died in 1882 
ing two children: St. Elmo and Ivan; ami Mr. Gross afterward married, in 
1887, Miss Liua E., daughter of Robert Morrison. Mrs. Gross is a member 
of the United Presbyterian Church of Jefferson county. Mr. Gross, in politics, 
casts his suffrage with the Republican party. 

H. H. HENSIL, manufacturer of lumber, lath and shingles. Marienville, 
was born in Wheeling, W. Va.. October 19, 1855. His father. Henry Hensil, 
a shoemaker by trade, and who was a native of Germany, moved t > Alleghen] 
City, Penn. , where H. H. Hensil was educated in the public schools. Oar sub 
ject learned the sawyer's trade, and in I s * > moved to Jefferson county, engag 
ing in the manufacture of lumber, and in 1 S M came to Jenks town-hip. Foresl 
county, where he now manufactures 1.6,000 feel daily. In 1882 he married 
Miss Nancy J. Stine, daughter of Mrs. Sarah A. Stine, of Jefferson county, 
ami she died March 6, 1888, aged twenty -seven years, ten months and seven- 
teen days, leaving four children: Edward Miles. Annie Bell, Ella Max and 
Lulu Josephine, Mr. Hensil in politics is a Democrat, ami is now serving sis 
Commissioner of Jenks township. He is a member of the Patriotic Order Sons 
of America. 

/.. s. HIMES, butcher, Marienville. was born in Clarion county, Penn., 
I 20, 1839, a son of Joseph and Abigail Ann (Space) Hi mes, natives of 
that county. They were farmers by occupation, and still reside on the home- 
stead. They are prominent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Z. 

S. Hines was educated in the town-hip scl 1-, aid engaged in farming until 

1ST7. when he moved to Shippensville, Clarion Co., Penn., where he kept a 
hotel for two years. He was elected justice of the peace, which office he held 
four years. In 1882 he came to Marienville and established his present bus! 
ne--. also erecting, in September, 1888, the Foresl House, of which he has 

since been proprietor. December 8, L869, he married Miss Xanc\ J. Itcimer. 
of Clarion county, and they have three children \ E (in partnership with 
his father), Abigail (wife of Harvey Stanley, in Tylersburg, Penn.) and May 
iat home). Politically Mr. Himes is a Republican; has tilled the office of 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 955 

township commissioner, and is now school director. He is a member of the P. 
O. S. of A., and has been identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church for 
thirty six years, twenty-two of which he was class leader. 

C. F. HUNT, merchant, Marienville, a son of John D. and Marien F. 
(Blood) Hunt, was born in Jenks township, Forest Co., Penn., September 22, 
1852. He received his education in the township schools, and was graduated 
from Duff's Commercial College, at Pittsburgh. Learning telegraphy. Mr. 
Hunt worked for the United Pipe Line Company as operator for eight years, 
and in December, INST, he established his present general store at Marienville. 
August 1, 1880, he married Miss Belle L. , daughter of Samuel H. Collom, of 
Philadelphia, Penn., and they have two children: Leigh F. and Earle B. Mr. 
Hunt is identified with the Democratic party; is a member of the Patriotic 
Order Sons of America, the Sons of Temperance and the Equitable Aid Union. 
Mr. and Mrs. Hunt are members of the Presbyterian Church, of which he is 
a trustee. 

J. W. KAHLE. Jr., of the firm of Kahle Bros. & Co., Marienville, was 
born in Clarion county, Penn., March 31, 1858, a son of J. W. and Ann 
(Cheers) Kahle. His father, who was a prominent man in Huntingdon county, 
Penn., finally settled in Clarion county, where he took an active part in 
Democratic politics, representing the county in the legislature in 1878 and 
L879. J. W. Kahle, Jr., is the sixth in a family of eight living children, and 
received a good education, finishing in Allegheny College. Meadville, Penn., 
after which he engaged in oil producing in Venango and Warren counties, in 
company with his brothers, D. P. and J. C. The firm began operations in 
Marienville in January, 1888, and were successful in finding a good gas well. 
They immediately organized a plant, and have since supplied the town with 
gas. Mr. Kahle married in 1885, Miss Sadie Henry, of Clarion county, and 
they have two children: Wayne and Caribel. Mr. Kahle is a member of the 
Sons of Temperance, and of the Evangelical Church; he is a Democrat in 
politics. 

CHARLES S. LEECH, lumber manufacturer and merchant, Marienville. 
was born in Clarion county, Penn., March 20, 1857, a son of John and Susan 
M. (Everhart) Leech, who moved from Centre county to Clarion, in L844. 
Charles was educated at Carrier Seminary, and learned the printer's trade, 
which he followed four years. He carried on mercantile business at Licking 
ville. for two years, and was one year at Tylersburg. He then engaged in 
drilling oil wells through the entire oil held, from 1880 until 1885. when he 
came to Marienville, where he erected his present planingmill, and has since 
added a saw- mill, with a daily capacity of 14,000 feet. He established his 
present store, in 1888. He married in 1877, Miss Kittie B., daughter of 
Absalom Smullin, of Armstrong county, Penn., and they have three children: 
J. C, Edna and Frank. Mr. Leech is a Republican. He is a member of 
Jenks Lodge, No. '250, I. O. O. F., and of the A. O. U. W. 

JOHN H. MENSCH, fanner. P. O. Marionville. was born in Northumber- 
land county, Penn., Jauuary 29, 1828, a son of Christian and Sarah (Hursh) 
Meusch, natives of that county, and who moved to Union county in 1839. His 
father was bom in 1801, and died in 1887; his mother died in 1878. They 
reared eight children: Stephen lin Union county, Penn.), Lewis (in Centre 
county, Penn.) Elizabeth (Mrs. Silas Roadarmel, in Union county, Penn.). 
Druzilla (Mrs. Daniel Harter, in Wayne county, Ohio), Mary Ann (in Union 
county. Penn.), Hannah (Mrs. Henry Strickler, also in Union county. Penn.). 
Henrietta (Mrs. John Klingmau, in Northumberland county), and John H. 
The subject of these lines carried on farming in Northumberland countv. He 



956 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

was married, in I860, fco Miss Susanna C. Keller, daughter of Henry Keller, of 
Columbia county, Penn., and settled on his present farm in Jenks township, 
Forest county, in 1874. Mr. and Mrs. Mensch are the parents of two chil 

dren: Florence (Mrs. John Paul) and Lewis (at home). Mr. Mensch is iden 
tilied with the Democratic party, and has tilled various township offices. He 
was Connelly a member of the Lutheran Church, but is now an elder in the 
Presbj teriah Church. 

.J. H. MORRISON, lumber manufacturer, Marienville, was born in Jeffer 
son county, Penn., August '■'. L851, a son of Robert and Martha (Brown) Mor 
rison, the latter of whom, a native of Ireland, came to America when six years 
of age with her parents, who settled in Clarion county, Penn. The father of 
our subject was a lumberman by occupation. On August '1~. 1861, he enlisted 
in Company H. One Hundred and Fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was 
killed at the battle of the \\ ilderness in 1 S *U. His widow afterward married 
1'attersou Leech, and they now reside in Jefferson count}. There were six 
children in the family: J. H.. W. A. (in Jefferson county), 11. M. tin Marien- 
ville), S. S. (1. (in Montana), J. A. (in Iowa) and Lina F. I Mrs. Cecil Gross, 
in Marienville). J. H. Morrison learned the carpenter's trade, which 1c fol 

lowed for some years. In 1884 he came to Marienville, and has since 1 □ 

engaged in manufacturing lumber, having mills in Jenks township with a 
capacity of 14,000 feet daily. He married, in 1 ^ 7 ' > . Miss Elizabeth, daughter 
of James R. Thompson, of Jefferson county, and they have six children: Mar- 
garet Elnora. Martha Elsie, Robert Irwin. James Blaine. George Loraine and 
an infant. In politics Mr. Morrison is a Republican, and is a member of the 
school board. 

JAMES J. PARSONS, farmer, P. (). Marionville. was born in Clarion 
county, Penn., February 17. 1844, and is a son of David and Maria I \\ ilkej I 
Parsons, who cleared a large farm in Clarion county, and afterward moved to 
Ohio, settling in Mahoning county. He affiliated with the Democratic party, 
and was with the one hundred day men, commonly called the "Squirrel Hun 
ters." in the Morgan raid. He died in Ohio in 1868, a member of the 
Presbyterian Church; his widow now resides in Brookville, Penn. They 
reared four children: Catherine (wife of Munson Cotton, in Re] 
ville, Penn. i, Elizabeth (wife of Harvey Craig, in Bethlehem, Penn.), John 
(went west when about twenty years of age, and while there raised a com- 
pany and entiled the service of his country as a captain, rising to the rank 
of colonel: he was killed at Atlanta. Oa. ) and James J., who remained on 
the homestead until 1851, when he came to Marienville. and lived with Col. 
John I >. Hunt until he attained his majority. In April. 1861, he enlisted in 
Company K, Eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers (three months' troops), and 
served the term of his enlistment : then re enlisted in Companj B, One Hundred 
and Fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers. In 1863 he re-enlisted as a veteran in the 
same company; and served as lieutenant of same until the close of the war. 
He wa> wounded at the battle of Ian- Oaks and at Gettysburg, also at Deep 
Bottom, Va., and was struck in the right breast with a grape shot, al Chan 
rille, also struck on the buckle of hi- belt and knocked off of the works at 
Ivania. He never left his command except on account of wounds rec< ivi <l 
at Fail I Gettysburg, tic ugh thej wen' all severe. A.fter the close 

of the war he returned to Foresl county, and ha- ingand 

farming. He married, May 4. 1868, Mis9 Marien F.,daughtei ol I 1 id S. and 
Emeline Eldridge, of Jenks township, and they have seven children: Reid, 
Bertha, William. Ella, Mable, David and Nellie. Mr. Parsons is an active 
member of the Republican party, and has served as count} commissioner since 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 957 

1887. He was postmaster at Marienville four years, and has tilled various 
township offices. He is member of Capt. George Stowe Post, No. 224, G. A. R. 

T. J. REYNER, merchant, Marienville, was born in Clarion county, Penn., 
November 22, 1853, a son of William and Sarah (Henry) Reyner, also natives 
of Clarion county. The father, who was a carpenter by trade, a Republican 
in politics, and a member of the Universalist Church, died in 1872; the mother 
is still living. They reared six children, as follows: C. B. , S. H. , D. E., W. 
C. (all of Tylersburg, Penn.), T. J. and Ada (living with T. J.) Mr. Reyner 
was educated at the public schools of Clarion county, and learned the trade of 
a carpenter, which he followed for three years. In 1879 he engaged in mercan- 
tile business, in Jefferson county, Penn. and continued there for three years. 
In June, 1882, he came to Marienville, and established his present business, 
erecting the first stone building in the town. He married, in 1877, Miss Jen 
nie, daughter of Conrad Darner, of Clarion county, Penn., and they have three 
children: Sarah, John B. and Ida. Mr. Reyner is a member of the Repub- 
lican party, and for several years was auditor of Jenks township. He is a 
member of Jenks Lodge, No 250. 1. O. O. F., and of the P. O. S. of A, No. 140. 

SAMUEL F. ROHRER (deceased) was born in Lancaster county, Penn. . 
October 15, 1817, a son of John and Magilalena (Herr) Rohrer, also natives of 
Lancaster county, and of German descent. The subject of this commemora- 
tive record attended the academy at Strasburg, in his native county, and fitted 
himself for college, but was prevented from entering the latter by his father's 
failure in business. It being Mr. Rohrer's earnest desire to become a physi 
cian, he pursued the study of medicine for some nine months, but being unable 
to carry out his plans, and being in a great measure influenced by his parents, 
he relinquished his studies in that direction, and turned his attention to civil 
engineering. In this connection he assisted in the surveying of the Cumberland 
Valley Railroad and other lines, but at length turned his attention to teaching, 
the schools in Berks, Venango and Clarion counties, Penn., first coming under 
his able tuition. Between the years 1855 and 1859 Mr. Rohrer moved to For- 
est county, where he taught school for over twenty-five years. He served as 
commissioners' clerk for several years, county surveyor, township treasurer. 
etc., and was county superintendent of Forest county three consecutive terms. 
He was very active in all educational enterprises, and took great interest in the 
system of public instruction. He died in Marienville, Penn., January 19, 

1888. Mr. Rohrer was an honorable, upright man, and had the unqualified 
good-will of the community in which he lived. He was married October I 2, 
1870, to Miss C. L. Blood, daughter of Cyrus Blood, of Marienville, and one 
child was born to this union, Miss Mary Rohrer, who resides in Marienville 
with her mother. 

GEORGE W. ROSE, farmer and justice of the peace, P. O. Marionville, 
was born at Silver Lake, Susquehanna Co., Penn., October 25, 1813, a son of 
James and Isabella (Hall) Rose, natives of Philadelphia, Penn. His father 
was a lawyer by profession, and practiced in Philadelphia, afterward at the bar 
of Susquehanna county, where he moved to act as agent for the Bingham 
lands. He was a prominent member of the Whig party, and served as treas- 
urer of the county for one term. The mother of George W. died in 1816. and 
the father married, for his second wife, Clarissa Griswold, of Vermont, who is 
also deceased. The father died in 1840. His family consisted of nine chil- 
dren, all by the first wife, two of whom are living: Mary B. (wife of Fred- 
erick Leonard, in Bradford county, Penn.). and George W., who was reared 
in Susquehanna county. Penn., and received his education at the high schools 
of Tioga county, N. Y. At the age of fourteen years he went to Potter 



958 HISTUKV OF FOKEST COUNTY. 

county, Penn., and when he was eighteen moved to Clarion county, where he 
was niic of the pioneer school teachers. In 1854 lie came to Forest county, 
and located on lii-s present farm, in Jenks township, which was then a wilder- 
ness, Be has cleared 150 : - and made all the improvements with the help 

of In- family. He married. July 16, IMF Miss Lodema, daughter of Joseph 
Gates, of Albany, N. Y. She died in 1852, leaving four children, three of 
whom are living: James (on the homestead), Maiw Isabella (widow of Warren 
P. Mercelliott, and living with her father), and Annie (wife of JohnDe Hoover. 
of Brookville, Penn.); Elizabeth is deceased. Mr. Rose was again married, on 
thi.s occasion, in 1852, to .Miss Harriet Barnes, of Warren county, Penn.. 
by whom two children were born: Timothy (residing in Michigan), and Walter 
(deceased). Mr. Rose has always been an active member of the Democratic 
party, and held the office of justice of the peace since twenty four year- of 
age, except from 1857 to 1863, when he served as prothonotary of Forest 
county. He has also been superintendent of schools for many years. 

JOHN P. SHIPE. farmer. P. O. Marionville, was horn in Northumber- 
land county, Penn., September 15, 1840, a son of Abraham and Sarah Ann 
(Culp) Shipe, natives of Northumberland county, and farmers by occupation, 
former of whom died in L866, and latter December 27, L865. Thej were 
prominent members of the German Reformed Church. They reared nine chil- 
dren, four of whom are living: Jonas, in Kansas: Sarah, wife of Eli Persing, 
in Northumberland county; Abraham K., in Jenks town-hip. this county, and 
loin P. The subject of this sketch was reared in his native county, and in 
L865 married Miss Lucinda Elizabeth, daughter of Henry Keller, of Columbia 
county, Penn. In 187-4 they moved to Forest county, where he has since 
been engaged in farming and lumbering in Jenks town-hip. Mr. and Mrs. 
Slope have four children: Henry A.. Daniel H, Annie Ester and James Al 
bert. Mr. Shipe affiliates with the Democratic party, and has tilled various 
township offices. The family are members of the German Reformed Church. 
He is a member of the I. (.). <). F. of Northumberland county, Penn. 

A. D. STTJLL, merchant. Marienville, was born in Fayette county. Penn., 
April 14. L839, and is a son of David and Sarah (Davis I Stull. of Cambria and 
Fayette counties. Penn.. respectively. A. D. Stull moved in 1S42. with his 
parents, to Clarion county, where they engaged in farming near Edenburg. 
His father was a Democrat, and served as justice of the peace for five years. 
Mr. Stull remained on the hone stead until lie was seventeen years 
receiving a common-school education. In 1855 he engaged as clerk in the 
mercantile business, and in a few years became a member of the firm, which 
partnership existed eight years. He then engaged in business al Parker's 
Landing, Penn.. for two wars, was four years in Pittsburgh, Penn.. after 
which he established his present prosperous business at Marienville. in Feb- 
ruary, 1889. He married, in 1861, Miss Mary P., daughter of Daniel B. 
and Annie Cnrll, of Clarion county, Penn. , and she died in l s 7'_'. leaving three 
children: William Reynolds, in Clarion; Josephine Plummer, wife of Barl 
Sheridan, in Pittsburgh, Penn.. and ('lata Van Lier, living at home. Mr. 
Stull was again married, on this occasion June 20, 1889, to Miss Lnnie V 
Rankin, of Clarion county. Mr. Stull sent a substitute to the war of the 
Rebellion. He is a member of Clarion Lodge, No. 277, F. & A. M.. and of 
". Presbyterian Church. 

DR. S. S. TOWLER, Marienville, was born in Manchester, England, June 
6, 18-43, a son of Rev. William and Mary (Phillips) Towler, who came to Lmer 
ica in 1845 ami located in New York City, wle-re the lather hail charge of 
a Methodist Church Rev. William Towler was one of the noted ministers of 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 959 

his country, and was sent to New York by special request to take charge of 
American missious. He died in that city, November 4, 1846. The mother 
and family soon after removed to Toronto, Canada, and while on a visit to her 
brother in England, in 1870, she died. Four of their children are living: 
Mary, wife of John Flesher. in Manitoba: John P., in Chicago; Dr. S. S.. and 
Charles, a commercial traveler, in Collingwood, Canada. Dr. S. S. Towler 
was reared in Canada until seventeen years of age, and was educated in To- 
ronto Model School. In 1860 he located at Cleveland. Ohio, and remained 
there until 1803 when he went into the quartermaster s department at Nash- 
ville Tenn. , and was honorably discharged in 1865. He read medicine with Drs. 
Mahaffey and Hickman, of Cleveland, and graduated from the University of 
Michigan in 1873. He first began practice at Reynoldsville, then moved fco 
Millerstown, Butler Co., Penn., and in 1878 came to Marienville, where be has 
since practiced his profession. He also operates in oil and hardwood timber. 
He married, in 1874, Miss Clara B., daughter of the late Col. John D. Hunt, of 
Marienville, and they have two children: Maude and Harold. The Doctor is a 
member of the Butler County Medical Society; has acted as surgeon for the 
Pittsburgh & Western Railroad for many years, and is a member of the Na- 
tional Association of Railroad Surgeons. He is a member of Jenks Lodge, No. 
250, I. O. O. F. ; of the E. A. XI., No. 351, and is deputy grand worthv pa 
triarch of the Sons of Temperance. He is a Republican in politics, and has 
filled the office of justice of the peace for ten years. He is an elder in the Pres- 
byterian Church. Dr. Towler is medical examiner for the Equitable Life 
Insurance Company, of New York; the Penn Mutual, of Philadelphia; the 
Metropolitan; the Mutual Benefit, of New York; the New Englaud Mutual: 
the People's Mutual, of Pittsburgh; the A. O. U. W. , and the E. A. U. 

J. B. WATSON, proprietor of the Watson House. Marienville, was born in 
Perry township, Armstrong Co., Perm., December 9, 1827, a son of Abraham 
and Rachel Watson, former of whom was born at Spencer creek. Centre Co.. 
Penn., latter born in Venango county, same State. In 1804 Abraham Watson, 
moved with his father, Thomas Watson, to that part of Armstrong county 
which is now Clarion county. They settled near the Poke Furnace, engaging 
in farming and lumbering, and were among the first and prominent families of 
the county. Thomas Watson was a colonel in the war of 1812. He drilled 
the first salt well in Clarion county, at the mouth of Deer creek on the Clarion 
river. Abraham Watson was Democratic in politics, voting twice for Gen. 
Jackson, and was a prominent member of the Presbyterian Church. He died 
in January, 1876; his wife died in 1866. Their children were as follows: 
Clemens, in Whiteside county. 111. ; J. B. ; Jane, Mrs. Harrison Elliott, in 
Cleveland, Ohio; Hannah, Mrs. J. R. Wick, in Rimersburg, Clarion Co., 
Perm.; Sarah, Mrs. Samuel Rupert, living on the homestead; Thomas, who 
was a member of Company A, One Hundred and Third Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers, and died near Newport News, Va. ; Annie, wife of John C. Richart, of 
Perry township, Clarion Co., Penn.; Margaret H, who died at the age of 
twenty-one years. J. B. Watson was reared on the homestead farm, obtaining 
his education mostly by studying at home. He was possessed of a tine voice, 
and for a number of years was engaged in teaching vocal music. His principal 
occupation was lumbering up to 1860, at which time he began operating in oil 
at Titusville. In 1869 he was elected prothonotary of Clarion county, serving 
six years in that capacity, after which he again resumed the oil business at 
Ebensburgh, continuing in same until 1881. Coming to Forest county Decern 
ber L2, 1882, Mr. Watson built his present hotel at Marienville. He married, 
in L859, Miss Margaret Caroline, daughter of John and Hannah Murray, of 



960 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

Clarion county, and by this anion they reared three children: Hannah K.. who 
died May 18, 1888; Edwin Alexander, land agent at Springfield, Kas., and 
John Thomas, living at home. Mr. Watson is a stanch Democrat, and takes 
an active part in county politics. In 1S78 he established the Jackson inn. of 
Clarion county, which paper he edited for some years. Daring the warof the 
Rehellii in be received a captain's commission, but owing to an attack of bilious 
fever was unable to serve. He was appointed postmaster. at Marienville, in 
November, 1885, and served until July 1, 188D. He was a member of Clarion 
Lodge, No. 252, I. O. O. F., and passed all the chairs: is also a member of 
Clarion Lodge, F. & A. M. Mr. and Mrs. Watson were members of the Pres- 
byterian Church, but lately Mr. Watson declined to act as a ruling elder for 
good and valid reasons, and gave his name as a member to unite with the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church. His hotel was burned with half its contents. Janu- 
ary 1. 1890, at. about one o'clock a. m.. with a loss of $3,500, and ao insurance. 
The cause of the fire was the melting of a stove in a barber shop, through over 
pressure of gas. With characteristic energy aud vim, in two days after the 
fire, Mr. Watson began to arrange for another and larger house. 

D. E. WHITE, machinist, Marienville, was born in Erie county, N. Y., in 
1853, and is a son of .lames H. and Jane (Joslin) White, natives of Erie 
county, and farmers by occupation. 1). Iv White received an ordinary educa- 
tion, after which he learned the machinist's trade, at which he lias since 
worked. In 1882 he came to Marienville in connection with the hub factory. 
and since the burning of the same has been engaged in business for himself, 
operating a machine shop. In 1ST"' he married Miss Maria Bevier, of Erie 
county. N. Y., and they have one child, Eugene. Mr. White is independent 
in polities. He is a member of Jenks Lodge. I. (). O. V . of Marienville. 

BARNETT TOWNSHIP. 

A. COOK, lumber manufacturer and merchant, Cooksburg, was born in 
Venango county. I Vim., in 1S"_!4. a son of John and Susan (Helpman) Cook. 
The father was born east of the Alleghany mountains, and eventually settled in 
that pari of Jefferson (now Forest) county, where he entered a tract of hand 
and built a saw mill. Running the lumber down the river to Pittsburgh on 
these tups (which lie made in a canoe), he would bring back provisions for his 
family. His tirst wife dying in 1881). he married, for his second. Mrs. Ritter, 
who died in 1S7'_!. John Cook belonged to the old Whig party, and tilled man] 
of the early offices of the county. He died in 1858. Hon. A. Cook, who was 
one in a family of eleven children, was educated in the schools of the period, 
and when young, began to a-sist his father in his business. In ls(li he started 
in the lumber business for himself, and has since been one of the extensive 
dealers in the county: by hard work and good judgment, his firm has become 
one of the wealthiest in the county. He owns large tracts of timber land, a 
large mill at Pittsburgh and the mill at Cooksburg. which town was principally 
built by him. and is named in honor of him. Mr. Cook married, in 1849, Miss 
i Vim. daughter of John Mays, of Forest county, and they have reared 
six children : J. W. (at home), A. W. (attending to the Pittsburgh branch of 
the business), and .lake. Ida May. liurt and Hatlie. all ai h »me. Mr. Cook has 
always been identified with tie' Republican party. In 1S70 he wa- elected 
associate judge of the county, serving live years. He has also tilled the offices 
of county auditor, county commissioner, and all other local offices. He litis 

l n a stockholder and officer in the Second National Bank of clarion. Penn., 

since its formation, and for the past three years it- president. He is a believer 
in the I niversalisi doctrine. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. \)b 1 

G. W. ELDER, proprietor of the Shields House, Clarington, was born in 
Clarion county, Penn., May 28, 1832, a son of William and Mary (Barr) Elder, 
natives of Centre county, Penn. He received his education in Clarion county, 
and has since followed lumbering and farming. In 1880 he came to Claring 
ton, and engaged in boat building, which he still follows. In 1884 he took 
possession of his present hotel. He married, in 1858, Miss Alvina Shaffer, 
daughter of Charles Shaffer, of Venango county, and they have nine children: 
Charles, in Venango county; John A. and L. S., in Barnett township; G. B., 
at home; Emma, wife of Dr. H. Simming, in Barnett township; Ida, wife of 
Isaac Payne, in Gilfoyle, Penn'. ; W. S., in Barnett township; Jennie and J. K., 
at home. Mr. Elder is a Democrat; he sent a substitute to the war of the 
Rebellion. Mrs. Elder is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

JOSEPH HALL, farmer and lumberman, P. O. Redelyffe, was born in 
Butler county, Penn., May 23, 1845, a son of Cornelius and Susan (Slater) 
Hall, former of whom was born in Crawford county, Penn., of Prussian and 
French parentage, latter being a native of Clarion county, same State. They 
were farmers by occupation, and prominent members of the Methodist Episco- 
pal Church. Cornelius Hall was a Democrat in politics, and tilled various 
township offices; he died in Butler county, Penn., in 1874; his widow yet sur- 
vives. Their family consisted of thirteen children, twelve of whom arc si ill 
living: John H. (in Clarion county), Joseph, Samuel J. (in Oklahoma), Susan 
(wife of August P. VonSlyke, in Wisconsin), Jerry M., Cornelius W. (in Red- 
elyffe), Nancy A. (wife of John Stevenson, in Butler county), Mary J. (wife of 
Lewis Stevenson, also in Butler county). Thomas A. (in St. Louis), Melinda 
(wife of Henry Youne'. in Redelyffe), Melvin A. and William C. (also in Red- 
elyffe). Joseph Hall was reared and educated in Butler county, Penn., and 
has been principally engaged in lumbering in Clarion. Elk and Forest counties, 
settling in Barnett township, this county, in 1866. He married, in 1867, Miss 
Harriet, daughter of Robert Huling, and they have had seven children: Sarah 
O. (Mrs. J. B. Work, in Jenks township), Cora A. (Mrs. E. L. Sutton, in Red- 
elyffe), Lewis R., Mary E-, Matilda S., Alice (deceased) and Hattie. Mr, 
Hall in politics is a Republican. He has been auditor, and is now school di- 
rector of the township. He has been steward and exhort er in the United 
Brethren Church. 

CORNELIUS W. HALL, farmer, P. O. Redelyffe, was born in Butler 
county, Penn., January 31, 1854. He has been principally engaged in farm- 
ing and lumbering, settling in Barnett township, Forest county, in 1885. He 
married, in 1885, Miss Aurissa, daughter of John H. Love, of Forest county, 
and they have two children: Benjamin Melvin and Bessie A. Mr. Hall is a 
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church; in politics an adherent of the 
Republican party. 

ROBERT HULING (deceased) was born at Lock Haven, Penn., Decern 
ber 25, 1809, a son of William and Jane (Chatham) Huling, natives of that 
place. In 1820 they moved to Clarion county, Penil., where Robert received 
an ordinary education. He learned the blacksmith's trade, which he followed 
for some years, and in 1839 he moved to Jefferson county, where he worked at 
his trade and also cleared a farm. In 1S57 he came to Forest county, and 
here settled upon his late farm in Barnett township. Mr. Huling married, in 
1837. Miss Mary Mays, daughter of John Mays, of Forest county, and they 
reared eight children, four of whom are living: Albert and John (in Red- 
elyffe), Louisa (wife of Emanuel Cook, in Jefferson county) and Harriet (wife 
of Joseph Hall, also in Redelyffe). Mr. Huling died July 2, 1888, a promi 
nent member of the United Brethren Church. Politically he has always been 
identified with the Republican party, and rilled various township offices. 



962 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

WILLIAM SHIELDS, retired. Clarington, was born in North London- 
derry, Ireland, August 9, 18'2(), and is a 6on of William and Margaret (Dong- 
lass) Shields. He was educated in Ireland, and in 1847 came to America, re- 
maining in New York City for some time, then went to Putnam county, N. Y.. 
where he obtained employment in the blacksmith department of the West 
Point Foundry, remaining there three years. In 1850 he moved to Jefferson 
county. Penn., and obtained employment in the lumber woods. May 1, 1851, 
he came to Clarington, and for five years worked for Mr. Armstrong. He then 
purchased the hotel known as the Shields House, which he conducted for 
twenty-one years, and since then he has been engaged in farming. Mr. Shields 
married, Octol nr 13, L851, Miss Nancy Winlaek, of Jefferson county, Penn., 
and they have reared three children: W. D. and S. H. , merchants in Clar- 
ington, and Jennie, living at home. .Mr. Shields is a member of the Demo- 
cratic party, and served live years as justice of the peace. 

WILLIAM D. SHIELDS, lumber manufacturer and merchant, Claring- 
ton, a son of William and Nancy (Winlaek) Shields, was born at Clarington, 
Forest Co.. Penn., May IS. 1S5S. He was educated at the township schools. 
and Iron City Commercial College, at Pittsburgh, and has since been engaged 
in lumbering, boat-building, etc., in connection with his brother, S. H. Shields, 
under the linn name of W. D. & S. H. Shields. They also conduct a general 
mercantile business, which was established in 1881. Our subject was married. 
in L884, to Miss Edith, daughter of Henry L. Van Horn, of Indiana county. 
Penn., and thej have one child. Van S. Mr. Shields i- identified with the 
Democratic party: was elected county commissioner in 1884, and is now serv 
ing his second term; has also tilled various township offices. He is a member 
of Mingo Lodge, No. 502, I. O. O. F., of Clarion county, and of the K. of P., 
No. 177, of Brookville. Jefferson county 

HOWE TOWNSHIP. 

T. W. CORAH, merchant, Balltown, was born in Leicestershire, En 
January 29, L848, a son of John and Annie M. (Dawson) Corah, who came to 
America in 1853, Incited in Herkimer county, X. Y.. and engaged in Farming. 
The father died there in 1856; the mother remarried, and now resides in Erie 
county, N. Y. She had four children by her first husband. One son. Henry, 
was a member of the One Hundredth New York Volunteer Regiment, and 
.Ihd in the Baltimore Hospital. T. W. Corah was educated in Erie county. 
X. Y . and in 1868 moved to theoil country, where lie went through the whole 

field as laborer, producer, etc. In ISM he located in Balltown, where he has 
since been proprietor of the Balltown House, and in 1887 he established a gen 
eral mercantile business. He married, in 1876, Miss Jennie Valentine, dangh 
ter of lleinan Valentine, of Warren county. Penn., and they have six children: 
May. Edgar, Edward Milton, Viola O, Edna Blanche and Lena. Mr. 
Corab is a Democrat in politics, and served the county as auditor three years; 
also tilled ether township offices. He is a member of Tionesta Lodge, N 
F. & A. M. 

WILLIAM H. FROST, lumber manufacturer, V. 0. Pigeon, was born in 
Brockwayville, Jefferson Co., Penn., November 6, 1843, a son of Abial and 
Mary Ann (Wilson) frost, natives of New Yorl; Stale (the former born in 
L80y), and early settlers in Jefferson county. His father, who was a sawyer, 

operated , >l' the first mill-- in tie- county, and afterward settled upon a 

farm, becoming one of the prominent men of the county, and enjoying a repu 
tation for uprightness and integrity. He was identified with tin' Democratic 
party, and tilled various township offices; he was a prominent member of the 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 963 

Methodist Episcopal Church for many years. He died February 12. 1889, his 
wife having died in 1857. Four of their children are still living: Elizabeth 
(wife of Justice Gage, in Brockwayville), John W. (on the homestead in Jeffer- 
son county), William H. and Hiram (in Brockwayville). William H. Frost 
received an ordinary education, and has been engaged in the lumber business 
since he was eighteen years of age. He served in the war of the Rebellion 
under Capt. N. M. Brockway, and helped to capture Morgan in Ohio. In 
December, 1880, he came to Forest county, first locating in Jenks township, 
where he has since been engaged in manufacturing lumber, under the firm 
names of W. H. Frost and Damon & Frost and W. H. Frost & Co., etc. 
December 25, 1863, he married Miss Annice Powell, daughter of Reuben and 
Angeline Powell, of Brockwayville, Penn., and they have six children: Eliza- 
beth, Mary, Annie, Wilson, Angeline and Raymond. Mr. Frost is inde- 
pendent in politics, an advocate of prohibition, and served as postmaster at 
Pigeon for seven years. In 1882 he established a small store at that place, 
and his business increased until he was obliged to erect a new building. He 
is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

J. L. SAXTON, merchant, Balltown, was born in Chautauqua county. N. 
Y., March 10, 1836, a son of Charles and Samantha (Howe) Saxton. He 
received an ordinary education, and engaged in farming. For twelve years he 
followed the oil fields in different kinds of labor, and in 1883 located at Ball- 
town, where he established his present business. In 1857 he married Miss 
Angeline, daughter of Peter Schofield, of Chautauqua county, N. Y. She 
died in 1877, leaving six children: Riley and Rosetta (in Chautauqua county), 
George, Ada (now Mrs. Simon Freer, in Kansas City, Mo.), Alonzo (at Sheffield 
Junction, Penn.). and Maude (now Mrs. Henry Odell, in Derrick City, Penn.). 
Mr. Saxton, afterward married, in 1880, Mrs. Lacell. He affiliates with the 
Republican party, and has served as overseer of the poor, and in various local 
offices. He is class leader in the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

KINGSLET TOWNSHIP. 

R. R. ANDREWS, merchant, Kellettville, was born in Newburg. N. Y. , 
October 25, 1845, a son of Ransom and Julia (Barnes) Andrews, natives of 
Chenango county, N. Y. His father was a printer by trade, and edited the 
Arus, of Binghampton, N. Y., for a number of years, and was afterward con- 
nected in business with Horace Greeley, in New York City. He now resides in 
Canada. R. R. Andrews received an ordinary education, and in 1865 enlisted 
in the Twentieth New York Battery, serving until the close of the war. after 
which he engaged in the extract business, at Painted Post, N. Y., Trout Run, 
Lycoming Co., Penn., and Smethport, McKean Co., Penn. In 1882 he 
came to Kellettville, and took charge of the extract works for W. W. Kellett 
until 1884, when he established his present mercantile busiuess. After 
leaving Trout Run Mr. Andrews traveled in Europe, making London, 
England, his headquarters, his family stopping at South Kensington, Lon- 
don, for one year. After making the second trip, he traveled through the 
Southwestern States for the same man, N. Spencer Thomas, of Elmira, X. 
Y. , and in the spring of 1889 he took a trip through Oregon and Washing 
ton Territories, returning by way of California and Salt Lake. Mr. Andrews 
married, in 1N7S. Mss Maria Rarick. of New York State, and they have one 
child, Charles. Our subject is identified with the Republican party, and was 
appointed postmaster in 1887. Mr. and Mrs. Andrews are members of the 
Free Methodist Church. 



964 HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

E. BERLIN, merchant and farmei Whig Hill, was born in Clarion 
county. Penn., January 11, 1835, a son en ''aul and Nancy (Toman) Berlin, 
former a native of Westmoreland county. nn., and the latter of Clarion 
county, Penn. Jacob Berlin, tin- grandfathi if the subject of this sketch, 

was one of the early settlers of Clarion county. He was in the war of l s !'_'. 

and died at the age of ninety-eighl years, l'au Berlin was reared and mar- 
ried in Clarion county, and became one of the promt -nt farmers of the vicinity. 
He came to Fores! county in the spring of 1855, and settled on the present 
farm of E. Berlin. He was a Democrat in politics, and a member of tin* 
Lutheran Church. He died in lsTo. and his widow in l^Tt'i. They reared 
children: Lavina (Mis. Jacob Myers, in Olean, N. V. i. Elizabeth (Mrs. 
William Reed, in Clarion county. Penn. i. F, . Jacob (who was killed by an 
accidenl in 1885), Annie (Mrs. Joseph Swailes, in Pittsburgh, Penn.), Sarah 
(Mrs. Wesley Whitehill, in Kingsley township), John H. (also in King-ley 
township), Lucy (.Mrs. Raymond ( Ira ham. also in Kingsley township) Nancy E. 
(Mrs. William Bailey, in Warren county. Penn.). Mr. Berlin came with his 
parents to Forest county, Penn., and has since resided on the homestead. He 
married,' in 1859, Miss Hannah Neil, daughter of Robert, Neil, of Venango 
county. Penn., and bj tier has seven children: J. E. (a merchant in Maybnrg), 
Elizabeth (Mrs. Thomas Flynn, in Green township), Ida (Mrs. Thomas Bruce, 
in Warren county), Derilla J. (Mrs. John Shank, in Kingsley township), 
Robert Adelbert Edith and Mabel. Mr. Berlin has been extensively engaged 
in lumbering in connection with farming. In lSxo he established hi- present 
mercantile business at Whig Hill. He is a Democrat in politics: Las served 
as county commissioner for seven years, also filled various township offices. 
He was appointed postmaster in 1884, and still holds that office. The family 
attend the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

JOHN H. BERLIN, farmer. P. (). Whig Hill, a son of Paul and Nancy 
(Toman) Berlin, was bun in Clarion county. Penn.. January 1 •">, L840, and 
was reared and educated in his native county. In August. 1862, he enlisted 
in Company Gr, Eighty-third Pennsylvania Volunteer-, and served until the 
close of the war. He was wounded at the battle of Laurel Hill, taken pris- 
oner and confined in Richmond Hospital, and for two weeks in Libby Prison. 
After tic close of the war. he came lo Foresl county, and engaged in lumber- 
ing. He married, in 1868, Miss Lavina L. Beck, daughter of Jacob Beck, 
of King-ley township. Forest county, and they have since resided on his pres 
eut fari^i. He has live children : Miry May (Mrs. Richard Flynn), Ida Catb 
erine (Mrs. Charles Hoover). Jacob L . Clemor H. and Ludia Elizabeth, all at 
home. Mr. Berlin is a Democrat in politics, ami is a member of Tionesta I'o-t. 
No. 274, G. A. II. He isa trustee in the Evangelical Church. 

WILLIAM A. DUSENBDRY, merchant and lumber manufacturer, of the 
firm of Dusenbury & Wheeler. Newtown Mills, was born in Cattaraugus county. 
N, V.. September IT. L838, a son of Henry and Caroline (Butler) 1' isenbury, 
of Delaware county. X. V. He was reared in hi- native county, was educated 
in the town-hip school-, and has always followed the lumber business Oc 
tolier 1, 1867, he came to Eorest county, and located at Newtown Mills, where 
he has since resided. He manufactures an average of 3,000,000 I 
lumber per year; al a tanner) and mill al Wesl Hickory. In 1878 

he in hi I'd Miss II I ! i tale, daughter of Hiram Truesdale, a native of 
Warren county, N. V. luow deceased), and Helen (Camero tale, and 

they have two children: William .V. and Edgar Truesdale. Mr. He 

itified with the Republican party, and has held the office of justice of 

I other township offices. He has I' i postmaster at N 

Mills since 1868. He i- a member of the Presbyterian Church. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 9G5 

C. F. GILLESPIE, farmer, P. O. Whig Hill, was born in Kittanning, 
Armstrong Co., Penn., March 31, 1827, a son of David and Rebecca (Hayse) 
Gillespie, of Scotch-Irish nativity. When he was eleven years of age he re- 
moved to Sandy Lake, Penn., where he assisted his father in clearing a farm. 
At the age of nineteen years, he went to Franklin, Penn. , where he learned 
the puddler's trade, and worked in the iron works at that place. In 1849 he 
came to Forest county, and worked at plastering and painting in Tionesta, 
and then for thirteen years manufactured lumber for H. Stowe. Ho removed to 
his farm in Whig Hill, in October, 1865, and here he has since resided. Mr. 
Gillespie married, September 23, 1853, Miss Catherine E., daughter of Henry 
and Dorothy Zuendel,and to them have been born five sons and one daughter: 
Frank, R. Z., H. E., W. S., F. W. and Katie E. 

GEORGE S. HINDMAN, farmer, P. O. Whig Hill, was born in Armstrong 
county, Penn., October 15, 1834, a son of William and Mary (Long) Hind- 
man, natives of that county. He came to Forest county in 1859, and fol- 
lowed lumbering at Newtown Mills until 1861, when he enlisted in Company 
G, Eighty-third P. V. I., being honorably discharged in 1863. He then en- 
gaged in lumbering until 1867, in which year he settled on his present farm. 
He married, in 1864, Miss Matilda J. Manross, daughter of William Manross, 
of Venango county, and they have four children: William, Mary (Mrs. L. H. 
Barnes, of Kingsley township), Frank and Irene. Mr. Hindman is a Demo- 
crat, and has filled various township offices. He is a member of Tionesta Post, 
No. 274, G. A. R., and of the Evangelical Church, in which he is steward. 

CHARLES A. HOWE, superintendent of the Tionesta Tanning Company, 
Tionesta, was born in New Bedford, Mass., December 16, 1832, a son of 
Roswell and Sylvia (Freeman) Howe, of Plymouth county, Mass., and 
Windham county, Vt., respectively. Mr. Howe was reared in his native 
county, until twelve years of age. He secured his education by his own efforts, 
and entered a mercantile store as clerk, where he obtained a good business 
training. He afterward served an apprenticeship to the tanning business, 
under his uncle, after which he had charge of tanneries in New Hampshire and 
Vermont. In April, 1886, he came to Tionesta, and built the present tannery 
at Kellettville for the Tionesta Tanning Company, and has since acted as 
general superintendent of the same, having full charge of the business. July 
3, 1871, he married Miss Lucy A. Bazin, daughter of John Bazin, of New 
Market, N. H. , and by her has two children: Charles Roswell and Benjamin 
Freeman. Mr. Howe is identified with the Republican party. He is a member 
of King Solomon's Lodge, No. 43, F. &A. M., of Bellows Falls, Vt. 

JOHN R. OSGOOD, lumber jobber and justice of the peace, Newtown 
Mills, was born at Newtown Mills, Penn., July 28, 1858, a son of Hiram and 
Christiana (Shelns) Osgood. John Osgood, the grandfather of John R. and 
who was a miller by occupation, settled in Kingsley township, Forest Co. , 
Penn., about the year 1834. Hiram Osgood, who was a lumberman and 
farmer, died in January, 1880; his widow still survives him. John R. Osgood 
was educated at the township schools, and has always been engaged in jobbing 
lumber. He married, September 6, 1883, Miss Annie, daughter of Seibert 
Burhen, of Kingsley township, and they have one child, Katie May. Polit- 
ically, Mr. Osgood is a Republican, and has filled various township offices. In 
February, 1889, he was elected justice of the peace. He is a member of Tio- 
nesta Lodge, No. 369, I. O. O. F. 

JONAS SHUNK, farmer, P. O. Whig Hill, was bom in Centre county, 
Penn., January 22, 1833, a son of John and Lydia (Breune) Shunk, of that 
county. In 1848 he moved to Venango county, and afterward settled in For- 



966 HISTORY OF FOREST CO0NTY. 

est county, locating on his present farm in 1875. He married, in 1855, Miss 
Susanna Young, daughter of Joseph Young, of Clarion county, and they have 
six children: Isaac (in Ohio), John (in Kingsley township, married to Rilda 
Berlin, and has one child, Gertrude), Ida (Mrs. I. C. Delo, also in Kingsley 
township), Minnie, Durie and Nellie. In 1803 Mr. Shunk enlisted in Com- 
pany K, Seventy-sixth P. V. I., serving until the close of the war; he was 
wounded at Petersburg, July 30, 1864. Mr. Shunk is a member of Tionesta 
Post, No. 274, G. A. R. He is a steward in the Methodist Episcopal Church; 
in politics a Republican. 

WILLIAM TOBE Y, lumber manufacturer, Kellettville, Penn., was born 
in Chautauqua county, N. Y., August 9, 1825, a son of Alden and Bloomey 
(Rugg) Tobey, of Vermont. Mr. Tobey remained on the homestead until thirty 
years of age, when he engaged in lumbering in Cattaraugus and adjoining 
counties. In April, 1856, he went to McKean county, Penn., and acted as 
superintendent for a lumber firm, for five years, and afterward went to Warren 
county, where he remained four years, and from there he came to ISalltown. 
Forest county, where he operated the lumber-mill for Howe & Co. In 1867 
he settled upon his present homestead, and has since had charge of the Buck 
mills. Mr, Tobey was first married in 1849. to Jane Mason, of Cattaraugus 
county, N. Y., by whom he had four children: Darius, pastor of the Free Meth 
odist Church in Franklin, Penn.; Kate, Mrs. Jas. T. Brennan, in Tionesta; 
Nettie, Mrs. Pat. Normill, in Tionesta, Penn., and Hattie L. In ISST .Mr. 
Tobey was again married, on this occasion, to Mrs. Mary Ann Catlin. He 
affiliates with the Democratic party, and has filled various township offices. 
He is a member of Tionesta Lodge, No. 369, I. O. O. F. 

H. A. ZUENDEL, farmer, P. O. Starr, was born in Germany in 1821, a 
son of Henry and Dorothy Zueudel, who emigrated to America in 1840, and 
first located in Nebraska, Penn. In 1841 they settled on Dutch hill, on the 
farm now owned by Henry Kizer, which they cleared and improved. Henry 
Zuendel was an elder in the German Reformed Church, and helped build 
the first church on the hill. In 1865 he moved to Erie county, Penn., where 
he died in 1872; his widow still lives in that county. They reared six children: 
Conrad, in- Erie county; John Adams, in Kingsley township; H. A.; Annie 
(Mrs. William White, in Kansas): Eva Elizabeth (Mrs. A. B. Root, in the 
State of Washington) and Kate Elizabeth (Mrs. C. F. Gillespie, of Whig 
Hill). H. A. Zuendel was educated in Germany, and has followed the oc- 
cupation of farming and lumbering, settling on his present farm in 1853. 
He married, in 1847, Miss Annie Christina Zuendel. daughter of Adam Zueudel, 
of Green township, and they have reared seven children: Elizabeth: George, 
in Green township; John fl., in Kingsley township; Conrad; Ernest E., 
in Hickory township; John M. and Mary E. Mr. Zuendel was formerly a 
Democrat, but is now a supporter of the Prohibition party; for three years he 
served as county auditor, and three years as county commissioner; was school 
director for nineteen years, and filled various other township offices. He is 
class leader in the Evangelical Church, and has a local license to preach. 

GREEN TOWNSHIP. 

F. E. ALLISON, of East Hickory, was born in Clinton county, Penn.. about 
five miles from the city of Lock Haven. His grandfather, Archibald Allison, 
who was of Scotch-Irish descent, born in 171s, was married to Mary Kennedy, 
third daughter of John Kennedy, a native of the shire of Galloway, and parish 
of Kirkmaddon, Scotland, November 1, 1730. They landed in America June 
IS. 1773, the family consisting of four sons: David. Mathew, Archibald, Jr., 
and James — and three daughters: Catherine, Jane and Eleanor. Archibald, 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 967 

Jr., was about six feet three inches in height, weighing about 190 pounds, 
" cordy as an elk, and swift as a reindeer." He was an expert with the rifle 
in his day, and was a chosen scout of Lee and Washington. [See history of the 
early settlement in the eastern counties, also, history of Dauphin and Cumber- 
land counties. ] His brother, Mathew (the father of the subject of our sketch), 
was born September 15, 1756. He enlisted in the Revolutionary army, at the 
age of nineteen, and at the close of the war he received his pay in what was 
called "Continental money," which afterward proved to be worthless. He 
married Sarah Mahaffy, of Cumberland county, Penn. , and to them were born 
four children: William, Margaret, Mary and Sarah. Removing from Cumber- 
land to Nittany Valley, Mathew there purchased 200 acres of land, where he 
opened up a farm. In 1800 he was appointed by the governor of Pennsylvania 
to ran the boundary line for a new county which he named "Centre County," 
and for many terms served as commissioner of the same. After the death of 
his wife, Sarah, he married Miss Catherine Lamb, who bore him eight 
children: Samuel L. (who in turn enlisted and served during the war of 
1812-13, under Gen. Win. Harrison, grandfather of our present chief magis- 
trate), Archibald, James, David, John, Jane, Catherine and Nellie. John 
removed to Ohio, married a Miss Mary Williams, and became the father of 
William B. Allison, the present United States senator from Dubuque, Iowa; 
Jane married William Goodfellow, of Wayne county, Ohio; Nellie married James 
Moore, of Seneca county, Ohio, and Catherine married Hugh McManigal, of 
Big Valley, Centre Co., Penn. Mr. Allison was again married, to a Miss 
Sarah Baine, a Quakeress of Philadelphia, and to this union were born live 
children: Mathew Jackson Allison, of Enterprise, Warren county, Penn. ; Mary 
Ann (now Mrs. George Rishel, of Clinton county), Robert C. Allison (a 
Presbyterian minister, graduate of Amherst College), died in Southerlaud, 
Mass., A. D. 1886; Thomas J. Allison (removed to Freeport, 111., in 1846), 
died May 22, 1850. Their father died February 9, 1828. F. E. Allison was 
reared in Clinton county, in the small village of Salona, until he was eighteen 
years of age. When a youth he was the " village chore-boy," earning and receiv- 
ing small sums of money for doing errands, chopping stove wood, etc., which 
money he invested in books, and tallow candles to enable him to study by 
night. Having obtained a fair education by his owu efforts, he came to 
Venango county, and engaged in school teaching, but soon abandoned the 
profession as $13 were the highest monthly wages paid by the school 
boards; and it might be added here that he boarded around with the 
scholars, and occasionally "aired the spare bed." He was employed as 
superintendent of an iron furnace by James Hughes, Myers & Hunter, 
for several years, and again accepted a similar position with William Cross, 
in Hickory township, where subsequently he engaged in the mercantile and 
lumber businesses. Mr. Allison was married in August, 1851, to Barbara 
A. Smith, and to them were born nine children, viz.: Orlando I., Josephine 
A., William Forest. Mary, Ann, Susan Almyra (now Mrs. I. L. Klienstiver), 
Emma Jane (now Mrs. N. G. Cole), Lucy Elvernon and Irvine Holbrook. 
Mrs. Allison died on November 17, 1885. He has also an adopted 
daughter, Ellen C. , who married James K. Green, now of Harmony. (The 
oldest son was blown up by the premature explosion of nitroglycerine, near 
the mouth of Scrubgrass, in Venango county; he had a wife and three 
children — two boys and one girl). Josephine A. was thrown from a carriage 
near Plummer, Venango county, and killed, on the 4th of July, 1854. 
Politically Mr. Allison was one of the first Republicans in northern Venango 
county (now Forest), but is now among the prominent leaders of the Prohibi- 
tion party. He is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 



yt5» HISTORY OF FOREST COUNTY. 

JAMES GILFILLAN, millwright, P. O. Nebraska, was born August 22, 
1838, at the Albion mines. Nova Scotia, a son of Rev. James and Jane (Rob- 
ertson) Gilfillan, natives of Scotland, who came fco the United States when 
each was about thirteen years of age. They resided in Schuykill county, 
Penn., and were there married and had two children; they then removed to 
Nova Scotia, where the subject of these lines was born, and when he was two 
years old the family returned to Schuykill county, Peuu. From there, when 
.lames. Jr., was a boy of six years, they came to Clarion county, Penn., where 
they settled on a piece of wild land and cleared up a farm. The father was au 
ordained minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and died in Ohio, in 186-4, 
while in active work. The subject of our sketch resided on the farm in Clarion 
county until he was in his eighteenth year, when he moved to Venango county , 
Penn., and was there apprenticed to learn the joiner's trade, afterward carry- 
ing on that business in the same county where he put up numerous buildings. 
Subsequently he took up the trade of millwright, building several mills in 
Venango (now Forest) county and vicinity, among them the large one owned 
by Collins, Darrah & Co., at Nebraska: and since 1864 Mr. Gilfillan ba 
of the time more or less been identified with mills. He came to Forest county 
when it was a part of Venango county, and when the county seat was established 
at Tionesta. In 1863 he was united in marriage with Hannah I. Siggins, of 
West Hickory, Forest Co., Penn., who bore him four children: Alba J., 
Genevieve (Mrs. Charles Smith, of Warren, Penn.) Gertrude and Rachel D. 
Mr. Gilfillan is a member of the Methodist Church, and has served as class- 
leader for a number of years. In politics he is a Democrat ; has held the office 
of jury commissioner, and for three terms was justice of the peace. He has 
two brothers who served in the Union army during the Civil war — Thomas, of 
Indiana, who participated in every battle the army of the Potomac was en 
gaged in, being wounded in the last one, and John R., of Tidioute, Perm., who 
was with Sherman's army during the last year of the war, and was discharged 
at the end of the struggle. 

HENRY RISER farmer. P. O. Tionesta, was born in Germany. April 
23, 1836, a son of Frederick and Sophia (Klompermeyer) Ki.^er. former of 
whom, a carpenter by trade, came to America in L841, and died about three 
years after his arrival. His widow afterward married Frederick Coapman, 
who came to America with her family in L848, Locating at Pittsburgh. Conrad, 
the brother of Henry, enlisted at Pittsburgh, in the Mexican war, and has 
never since been heard from. Henry Riser was educated in Germany, and. 
after coming to America, found employment in McKee's glass works for three 
years. In 1851 he came to Forest county. Penn., and. for several years fol-, 
lowed lumbering, settling on his present farm in isijii. He married, in L858, 
Miss Martha, daughter of Nicholas Matha, of Green township, this county, and 
they have reared nine children: Edward, in Green township; Catherine, wife 
of Ai-cha Puffinberg, in Kingsley township; Mary, wife of Oliver Laird, in 
Allegheny City, Penn., Annie, Eva, Emma, Harvey, Florence and Raphael. 
Mr. Riser is a Republican, and the family are members of the Lutheran 
Church. 

GEORGE KLINESTIVER, blacksmith, Nebraska, was born in Germany, 
.Inly 3, L836, a son of Henry and Catherine (IRssi Clinestiver, who i 
America in isis. located in Tionesta, and afterward on Ross run. where 
they engaged in farming. They reared four children: Christina (Mrs. Pete] 
Wolf, in Tionesta township), George, Catherine (wife of William Maty, in Illi- 
nois) and Mary Ann (wife of Sidney Smith, in Hickory. Penn. i. .Mr. Klinestiver 
received an ordinary education, ami learned the blacksmith's trade, which he 
has since followed. In 1857 he married Miss Dorcas Lawrence, who died in 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 969 

1869, leaving five children: William (in Golinza), Jacob, Charles, Henry and 
Florence. He was again married in 1871, this time to Miss Fredericka Baum 
gardner, by whom he has three children: Emma, George and Frederick. Mr. 
Klinestiver is identified with the Republican party, and is a member of the 
German Reformed Church. 

FRANK X. KREITLER, merchant and lumberman, of the firm of Collins 
& Kreitler, Nebraska, Penn. , was born in Germany, December 4, 1842, a son 
of Barnhart and Mary Kreitler. He came to America in 1859, and remained 
three years in New Rochelle, N. Y., where he learned the barber's trade. In 
1863 he moved to Brookville, Jefferson Co., Penn., where he conducted a bar- 
ber shop for twenty-five years, and also engaged to some extent in lumbering. 
In 1869 he married Miss Eliza Knieriemen, of New Rochelle, N. Y. In 1886 
he purchased an interest in the firm of Collins, Darrah & Co., and in 1887 
located at Nebraska, where he has since had charge of a mercantile business, 
and is also a member of the lumber firm of Collins, Darrah & Co. In 1864 he 
enlisted in Company B, Two Hundred and Eleventh Regiment, Pennsylvania 
Volunteers, and served till the close of the war. He is past master of Hobah 
Lodge, No. 276, F. & A. M. , and a member of Jefferson Chapter, No. 225, of 
Brookville; member of Brookville Post, No. 242, G. A. R., and of the Method- 
ist Episcopal Chinch. Politically he is a Republican. 

GEORGE J. LACY (deceased), late of the firm of G. J. & F. C. Lacy, 
lumber manufacturers, Golinza, was born in Nebraska, Forest Co., Penn , Feb- 
ruary 28, 1852. His father, George S. Lacy, was born in Penn Yan, Yates 
Co., N. Y. , and about 1848 came to Forest county, where he purchased 7,000 
acres of land, and carried on lumbering until 1864. In 1848 he married Miss 
Caroline Ford, whose father, John Ford, was the original purchaser of the 
land, and also the lands now owned by D. T. Collins & Co., and a good share 
of German Hill. In 1865 George S. Lacy moved to Philadelphia, and then in 
1876 to Pittsburgh, where he now conducts a lumber yard and planing-mill. 
His wife died May 4, 1888. Their family consisted of three children: Mary 
C. (Mrs. Dr. C. W. Stranahan, in Erie. Penn.), G. J., and F. C. (in Pitts- 
burgh). George J. Lacy, at the age of twelve years, went to New Brighton to 
school, and completed his education at Philadelphia. In business he was 
always engaged in the lumber trade, and, in 1872, in connection with his 
brother, F. C, took charge of the business which was carried on under the 
firm name of G. J. & F. C. Lacy, at Golinza. On June 15, 1880, he married 
Miss Martha Klies, daughter of the well-known Dr. George Klies, of Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., and to this union were born two children: George S. and Caro- 
line M. Mr. Lacy died at noon, October 24, 1889, and was buried at Erie on 
the following Sunday, being laid at rest beside his mother. He was one of the 
most active Democrats of the county, and filled various important offices. As 
a general business man he was unexcelled, and as a lumberman, especially, he 
had not his peer in this part of the country, his ability in that line having 
never been questioned, on one occasion being attested to by affidavits bear- 
ing the signatures of over thirty gentlemen eminently qualified to judge 
of his superiority and unquestionable business sagacity and acumen. Mr. 
Lacy was a man of very superior literary attainments, also, at all times impress- 
ing his hearers with his wonderful intellect and amazing retentive memory of 
things he had read. He could quote from the best ancient and modern writers, 
as time and place required, and was a most pleasing, instructive and graceful 
conversationalist. His library was pronounced by all to be the largest and 
best selected in Forest and adjoining counties, some well-known connoisseurs 
judging it to be the most complete in the western part of Pennsylvania. The 
library is still in Mrs. Lacy's possession, with the addition, since his death, of 



970 HISTORY OF FOliEST COUNTY. 

a few rare books selected from a list he had made out to purchase just before 
his decease. Mr. Lacy's researches for the truth were in rare and ancient 
manuscripts, not trusting to the interpretations of others. At his funeral the 
feeling of the prominent citizens who were present was that a good man had 
been removed, and that the community had lost one who could not well be 
spared. Allusions were made to his learning, his searches for the truth, and 
his kindness of heart. Mr. Lacy will ever be remembered by his friends as a 
scholar, whose labors were indefatigable, and, although at his death only 
thirty-seven years old, few have his mastery of book lore. 

WILLIAM THASE, farmer, P. O. Starr, was born in Prussia, September 

25, 1820, and came to America in 1847, locating in Allegheny City. Perm. 
He married, in 1849, Miss Minnie Zagelhurst, a native of Hanover, Germany. 
by whom he had one child, Sophia, wife of Henry W. Ledebur, ofH ickory 
township. He was again married, in 1851, to Miss Dora Diekrager, who was 
born in Germany, May 21, 1820. January 1, 1866, he settled upon his pres- 
ent farm, in Green township, and he has cleared and improved the same. Mr. 
Thase is a stanch Republican, and cast his first vote for Fremont. He is an 
elder in the Lutheran Church. 

GEORGE B. WALTERS, farmer, P. O. Newmansville, Clarion Co., Penn., 
was born in Westmoreland county, Penn., in 1826, a son of David and Mary 
(Nealy) Walters, natives of that county, who moved to Clarion county in 1832. 
The grandfather of George B. was in the war of 1812; he afterward cleared 
a farm, and kept a hotel for a number of years. The parents of Mr. Walters 
reared eleven children; those living are George B. , James. Daniel (of Tionesta), 
Henry and Josephine (on the homestead). Mr. Walters received but a limited 
education, aiding his father in clearing the land and other duties, which deprived 
him of study. At the age of twenty-two he began lumbering, which he con- 
tinued until 1872, when he purchased his present farm. He married, in 1874, 
Mi-- Annie, daughter of Michael Hoy, and they have two children: David 
and Daniel. Politically Mr. Walters is a Democrat, and has filled several 
township offices. The Walters family were among the first settlers in this sic 
tion of the country, and by hard work and perseverance have transformed the 
forest into fine cultured farms. 

PETER YOUNGK, farmer, P. O. Nebraska, was born in Hesse-Cassel, 
Germany. February 6, 1834, aud is a son of John W. and Catherine E. (Trab- 
ing) Youngk. He was reared in Rahrda, where he was educated and served 
an apprenticeship of three years at the shoemaker's trade. In September, 
1 S T> 4 , he came to America, and located in Tionesta, Penn., where he worked 
at his trade until February, 1855, then removed to Nebraska, in Green town 
ship, and worked at his trade there, two months; he afterward worked at 
lumbering, for nine years, principally as a jobber. In 1861 he settled on the 
farm he now occupies in Green township, most of which he cleared and 
improved, and where he has since resided. He married. August 1. 1855, Eva 
Catherine Wiegand, a native of Rahrda, Hesse-Cassel, Germany, born October 

26, L838, daughter of Dietrich and Mary (Kleinsteiber) Wiegand, early Bettlers 
of Green township, and who came to America in IMS. By this union there 
are ten children: Martha E. (Mrs. Willis Kerr), Fred W.. Mary i. Mrs. Charles 
Schraeder), John, Edward, Louisa, Henry. Kate, and Charles and Albert 
(twins). Mr. Youngk and family are members of Mount /ion Lutheran Church. 
Politically he is a Democrat, and has held the office of township treasurer ten 
years, school director twelve years, and overseer of the poor ten years. 



fiD-70 



